All posts by h716a5.icu

Liverpool are marching their way through the summer transfer window, picking up any number of talented recruits to add to Arne Slot’s Premier League-winning squad.

With Milos Kerkez’s £40m move from Bournemouth to Anfield now sealed, sporting director Richard Hughes may well take a breather and ponder whether to target any final brush-ups so Liverpool can remain competitive at the very highest level once again.

With Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong brought over from Bayer Leverkusen, goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili arriving to replace Caoimhin Kelleher, you’d think that this might be the case.

Let’s not forget, though, the Reds have had to swallow some degree of setback, with Trent Alexander-Arnold opting against renewing his contract and instead signing for Real Madrid at the end of his contract.

Moreover, interest in Luis Diaz’s signature is rife, and FSG may have to consider signing a replacement this summer.

The latest on Luis Diaz's future

While The Athletic’s David Ornstein has stressed that Liverpool are willing to keep onto Diaz, 28, even if it means running down his contract, Barcelona and further suitors in Saudi Arabia are keen, and the latter might be willing to pay a handsome figure.

Coming off the back of his best season in a Liverpool shirt, the versatile Diaz has proved invaluable for Slot’s side, scoring 17 goals and supplying eight assists across the past campaign.

But he’s not without his flaws, and the Anfield side has lined up long-term target Anthony Gordon as a potential replacement, although he has been priced in the £75m ballpark.

Gordon, to be sure, is a good winger, but Newcastle would want silly money for his sale and an exciting alternative may well have been earmarked by Hughes and co.

Liverpool enquire for Gordon alternative

As per BBC Sport’s Sami Mokbel, Liverpool are one of the clubs to have lodged an official enquiry for West Ham United winger Mohammed Kudus, who is anticipated to be leaving East London this summer.

Transfer Focus

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

Speaking on the Latte Firm Arsenal podcast, he said: “My information is that all of the top six in the Premier League have checked in on the conditions of that deal. He’s got an £85m release clause for Premier League clubs but I think West Ham would be willing to go below that.

“They wouldn’t take masses below that but they would be open to a negotiation. There is a long-term interest there [from Arsenal] and as I understand that, there has been an enquiry from the Premier League’s top six.”

The Ghanaian star struggled to find his finest form throughout a turbulent season for the Hammers, and, as such, it would not be a huge surprise to see West Ham accept a reduced fee, although the exact figure is undetermined.

While Arsenal have been reported to have had a long-standing interest in the 24-year-old, if Diaz does go, Kudus could be a great fit.

What Mohammed Kudus would bring to Liverpool

West Ham signed Kudus from Ajax for around £38m in August 2023, and he has since posted 19 goals and 13 assists from 80 matches. Despite his incredible quality, however, Kudus has suffered from second-season syndrome.

Five goals and three assists in the Premier League last season hardly denote elite-level output, but then Kudus’ skill set is an incredible thing, boasting power and movement that most wingers can only dream of.

He would need to make prolific improvements next year, but then he surely would in Liverpool’s team, playing alongside Wirtz, Mohamed Salah and the rest.

Given that Gordon only scored six top-flight goals, laying on five more assists, there’s certainly no guarantee that the England international would prove the tonic for which the hole left by Diaz’s absence could be healed.

Curiously, both Kudus and Gordon dipped somewhat in 2024/25 after previously thriving in the Premier League. Both are talented and proven wingers, dynamic and versatile, explosive and electric.

Let’s have a look at their statistics across 2023/24 and how they compare when both are firing on all cylinders.

Matches (starts)

35 (34)

33 (27)

Goals

11

8

Assists

10

6

Touches*

2.3 (0.9)

2.0 (0.5)

Pass completion

82%

84%

Key passes*

1.6

0.8

Big chances created

16

5

Dribbles*

1.5

3.8

Ball recoveries*

3.6

6.4

Tackles + interceptions*

1.8

2.3

Duels

5.3

8.5

Gordon certainly has the advantage in terms of output, and he’s more refined in his underlying playmaking too.

However, Kudus’ fleet-footedness and strength have turned him into something of a duel monster, outfoxing his opponents with blistering speed and sharp shimmies to drive the ball into the danger area.

Is it any wonder journalist Gary Al-Smith has hailed him a “generational talent”? Indeed, even though he flattered to deceive at times in 2024/25, Kudus still recorded the second-highest dribble count across the Premier League term, behind only Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku.

Just imagine this kind of explosiveness in Slot’s system. Diaz, while blessed with such suitable properties, ranked only among the top 39% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues last season for progressive carries and the top 19% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref.

Gordon, meanwhile, ranked among the top 22% and 46% for the same metrics. What about the Irons speedster? He ranked among the top 3% for successful take-ons, and a glance up at his dribble average across his first Premier League term tells you all you need to know about his capacity as a ball carrier.

If any coach across Europe is capable of getting a tune out of the African sensation’s clinical potential, it’s Slot. Moreover, the Dutch tactician will know exactly how to best utilise Kudus’ talents on the athletic front, using them in conjunction with the creative artistry of the aforementioned Liverpool stars.

It’s a different kind of profile, more unrelenting and chaotic than Diaz’s and indeed Gordon’s.

Given the finances involved in pulling Gordon away from St. James’ Park, Liverpool might want to invest their energy into signing Kudus, especially as he is set to be available for a reduced fee.

He'd be Wirtz 2.0: Liverpool stand a "chance" of signing the "next Mbappe"

Liverpool believe they have a good chance to sign a star who would be a Florian Wirtz repeat.

1 ByDan Emery Jun 26, 2025

After agreeing a deal to sign Zepiqueno Redmond on a free transfer, Aston Villa have now reportedly made an offer to sign a Serie A champion who is tempted to complete a move to the Midlands.

Aston Villa set to sign Redmond

Kicking off their summer business as early as possible, the Villans are reportedly set to sign Redmond from Feyenoord when his current contract comes to an end at the end of the month. At just 18 years old, the Dutchman very much reflects the future of Aston Villa’s frontline and could provide Unai Emery with a replacement for Jhon Duran that he has needed at times.

When it comes to first-team experience, the young forward has already received a taste of Eredivisie action at Feyenoord and even featured in the Champions League last season. Now, Redmond will be keen to add some Premier League experience to a portfolio that only looks likely to grow more and more impressive as the years go on.

Despite their PSR concerns, Redmond could yet be the first of a few fresh faces in the Midlands if reports are anything to go by. Recent rumours have mentioned names such as Jack Grealish in recent weeks and there’s no doubt that his return would cause quite the stir.

Having been shown the door at Manchester City, Grealish could yet complete a sensational Villa comeback and one that would need to see him get fans back onside as quickly as possible.

Meanwhile, away from Grealish, the Villans have also reportedly submitted an offer to sign a Serie A champion this summer.

Aston Villa submit offer to sign Rrahmani

According to Il Mattino, as relayed by CalcioNapoli, Aston Villa have now submitted an offer to sign Amir Rrahmani from Napoli this summer and whilst he is not desperate to leave the Italian club, he is reportedly tempted by the offer from the Midlands.

Emery loves him: Aston Villa now one to watch in race for £300k-a-week star

The Villans are in the race for an “unbelievable” player, with Unai Emery thought to be a keen admirer.

ByDominic Lund Jun 10, 2025

Villa aren’t alone in their pursuit, however, with Tottenham Hotspur also reportedly chasing a deal to sign the experienced centre-back. And that interest should come as no surprise. The 31-year-old enjoyed an excellent campaign as part of Napoli’s Serie A-winning side, starting in all 38 games, and has done more than enough to attract impressive admirers.

Starts

38

23

Progressive Passes

4.97

4.33

Tackles Won

0.82

0.67

Ball Recoveries

3.57

2.77

Given how highly those in the Midlands rate Pau Torres, the fact that Rrahmani outperformed the Spaniard in several areas proves just how impressive an addition he would be.

A deal may be easier said than done, however, especially if Antonio Conte has his say. The Napoli boss was full of praise for his defender last season, describing him as “hardworking” and like a “solider” in his title-winning side.

A “fantastic” Leeds United player is now believed to have reached an agreement over a £7.2m exit, as his Elland Road career edges towards its conclusion.

Players who could leave Leeds this summer

While much focus is on the shiny new signings who could join the Whites in the summer transfer window, there are current players who are expected to move on to pastures new in the coming weeks and months.

There is no guarantee that Illan Meslier will still be a Leeds player come the opening game of next season, for example, following a 2024/25 campaign that included some dreadful mistakes.

Elsewhere, left-back Junior Firpo is heading to La Liga outfit Real Betis, following four years with the Whites. He played there prior to his move to Barcelona back in 2019.

Mateo Joseph is another player who reportedly wants to leave Leeds this summer, following a frustrating 2024/25 season for him, in terms of playing time. Only 11 starts came his way in the Championship, and he may feel that now is the right time for a new challenge.

"Fantastic" Leeds ace reaches agreement over £7.2m move

Speaking to LeedsUnited.News, journalist Gramae Bailey has claimed that Leeds youngster Joseph is now also heading to Betis in an initial £7.2m move this summer, with an agreement reached.

“Leeds have agreed to let him leave. I am told the overall deal could be around the €10m [£8.5m] mark including add-ons. There were a few teams keen, but the player made it clear he wanted Betis. It has moved on from that point. Leeds would have been more than happy for him to fight for his place, but Joseph wanted the move back to Spain.”

It would be a shame to see Leeds lose Joseph, considering what a talented young player he is, with scout Jacek Kulig describing him as “fantastic” in the past.

As mentioned, the attacker has struggled to be a genuine key starter under Daniel Farke, and while he has still featured lots from the substitutes’ bench, he may see his playing time further limited in the Premier League next season.

For that reason, there is clear sense in allowing Joseph to leave Leeds in the summer window, and the fact that they have a sell-on clause included in the contract acts as a positive.

He'd be Farke's own Jansson: Leeds preparing bid for "monstrous" talent

Leeds United are set to make a move for a star who could become a fan favourite at Elland Road.

2 ByEthan Lamb Jun 13, 2025

There is a risk in the Whites allowing him to move on, given his potential – he has scored eight goals in just 11 caps for Spain’s Under-21s – but at this point, it is understandable why he would want to be a star man elsewhere.

Arsenal could now make an opening bid for a Gabriel and William Saliba “hybrid” in the coming days, according to a report.

Gunners eyeing new centre-back amid Saliba uncertainty

Gabriel has recently reaffirmed his commitment to Mikel Arteta’s project by agreeing a new deal, but Saliba is yet to sign a new contract, amid widespread reports that Real Madrid are interested in signing the Frenchman.

Despite signing AFC Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen, Madrid retain an interest in Saliba, with the 24-year-old thought to be a dream signing, and they remain attentive to his contract situation.

As such, while Arteta will surely be determined to keep hold of the centre-back, it may be a wise move to start thinking about potential replacements, and the north Londoners could soon make an opening bid for a Liga Portugal star.

Twist: "Extraordinary" £60m+ star now plans to snub Man Utd to join Arsenal

The Gunners have received a boost in their pursuit of a forward, who Andrea Berta has already held talks to sign.

1 ByDominic Lund Jun 8, 2025

Indeed, according to a report from A Bola (via Arsenal News), the Gunners may submit a proposal for Sporting CP defender Ousmane Diomande in the coming days, having recently learned that he will be available for a fee below his release clause.

Although Diomande has a £67m release clause in his contract, Sporting recently informed Crystal Palace they would be willing to sanction a departure for £51m, but there are a number of other top clubs in the race for his signature.

Liverpool, Manchester United and Bayern Munich also said to be ‘very attentive’ to the 21-year-old’s situation, highlighting just how highly he is regarded.

Diomande could be a Gabriel and Saliba "hybrid"

Gabriel and Saliba have struck up quite the partnership at the heart of the Arsenal defence, although Jamie Carragher has suggested the France international is not the same when playing alongside Jakub Kiwior.

Carragher said: “I think Saliba is the better player but Gabriel is the better leader, and he needs to bring that to his game if he wants to get to the levels of Virgil van Dijk. Saliba needs Gabriel. Since Gabriel has come out of the team, that’s not the same Saliba I’m watching.”

Given that the two defenders complement each other, it should be exciting news that the Gunners are in the race for Diomande, as he has been described as a “hybrid between Gabriel and Saliba” by data analyst Ben Mattinson.

Despite being just 21-years-old, the Ivorian already has 101 first-team appearances to his name for Sporting, indicating he could slot right into Arteta’s backline, while journalist Zach Lowy has been left very impressed by his performances in the past.

Of course, Arsenal fans will be hoping that Saliba commits his future to the club, but there is no doubt that Diomande could be an exciting long-term heir.

With a big summer ahead, Aston Villa have reportedly made their first approach and opened talks to sign an impressive Champions League star in the event that Emiliano Martinez departs.

Emi Martinez could leave Aston Villa

As Aston Villa look to comply with profit and sustainability rules, one player they may sacrifice is Martinez. The talented shot-stopper seemed to be saying his goodbyes to Villa Park last Friday in Unai Emery’s side’s final home game of the season. Clearly emotional in what could have been his final farewell, the rumours around the Argentine’s future have been coming thick and fast ever since.

Martinez has instantly become a wanted man in the transfer market, with reports indicating that Barcelona, Manchester United and Atletico Madrid are all interested in his signature ahead of the summer transfer window.

Villa will, of course, be keen to avoid selling to a rival club which may well open the door for both Atletico Madrid and Barcelona to come swooping in. Meanwhile, those in the Midlands will need to find themselves a new No.1.

To that end, a number of names have already threatened to steal the headlines. The main name mentioned has so far been Joan Garcia. The Espanyol goalkeeper has enjoyed an excellent season in La Liga and now looks destined for the Premier League.

Whether Villa decide to go all out for his signature remains to be seen, however. Instead, amid fresh reports, sporting director Monchi could choose to sign a Champions League star who is full of potential.

Aston Villa open Chevalier talks

According to Sky Sports’ Sacha Tavolieri, Monchi has now opened talks to sign Lucas Chevalier from LOSC Lille for Aston Villa in the event that Martinez departs this summer. Having made their first approach, Villa will be hoping to sign one of the most talented young goalkeepers that European football has to offer and instantly ease their Martinez concerns in the process.

Starts

34

36

Saves per 90

2.68

2.60

Save Percentage

74.6%

67.9%

Clean Sheets

11

8

Outperforming Martinez in several departments, it could even be argued that Aston Villa would be landing an impressive upgrade by signing Chevalier this summer. At just 23 years old, the Lille shot-stopper still has his best years to come too, which could yet take place in the Midlands.

Unsurprisingly earning a lot of praise over the last year, scout Jacek Kulig described Chevalier as an “excellent young goalkeeper” back in March as he continued a solid campaign in Ligue 1.

Aston Villa in pole position after talks to sign "powerful" 18 y/o sensation

He’s a rising star.

ByTom Cunningham May 22, 2025

As Martinez potentially heads for the exit door, Aston Villa should go all out to sign the Chevalier in this summer’s transfer window, with all signs pointing towards the very top for the Lille star.

Irrespective of whether or not Manchester United beat Tottenham Hotspur to win the Europa League this week, it has been a disastrous season for the Red Devils.

Ruben Amorim’s side are 16th in the Premier League table and have lost 18 of their 37 matches to date, which illustrates how poorly the campaign has gone.

The Portuguese head coach, who joined the club from Sporting earlier this season, will look to bolster his squad in the upcoming summer transfer window in order to bounce back in the 2025/26 campaign.

It was recently reported that Manchester United are closing in on a deal to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Matheus Cunha, for example, to improve their attacking options.

The Brazil international is seemingly set to join Amorim’s squad ahead of next season and he could provide them with the attacking quality that they have lacked at times this season, given that he has already proven his quality in the Premier League.

What Matheus Cunha could bring to Man Utd

Cunha would arrive as a proven quantity in the English top-flight because he has already showcased his ability at the top end of the pitch in the last two seasons at the Molineux.

The former Atletico Madrid magician racked up 12 goals and seven assists in the Premier League during the 2023/24 campaign in the Midlands, along with two goals in two FA Cup matches.

Cunha has kicked on in the current campaign under Vitor Pereira to deliver even more goals in the division, with 15 strikes in 31 appearances to date.

Crucially, the 25-year-old star has also been playing as one of two number 10s behind a central striker for Wolves, which is akin to the attacking system that Amorim regularly plays at Manchester United. This suggests that he could slot straight into the team without having to learn a new way of playing.

Appearances

31

xG

8.04

Goals

15

Big chances missed

2

Big chances created

13

Key passes per game

1.8

Assists

6

As you can see in the table above, Cunha has delivered quality in the final third on a regular basis for the Old Gold in the Premier League this term, with 28 goals and ‘big chances’ created combined in 31 matches.

Meanwhile, no Manchester United player has scored more than eight goals in the top-flight this season, which suggests that the Wolves star would come in to add a much-needed goal threat for Amorim’s side in the 2025/26 campaign..

Cunha may not be the only proven Premier League star who joins the Red Devils in the coming months, however, as the club are reportedly lining up a move for another player who has already showcased their talents in the division.

Man Utd submit bid for Premier League star

According to a report from Spain, Manchester United have submitted a bid to sign Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The report claims that the Red Devils have officially made an offer worth around £55m to sign the Cameroon international ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Transfer Focus

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

This means that INEOS are in talks with Brentford over a deal to bring the left-footed attacker to Old Trafford, although the report does not reveal whether or not the Bees are prepared to accept a fee of £55m for their star forward.

It does show, however, that Manchester United are serious about a deal for the 25-year-old attacker, as they want to bolster their attacking options, as they have gone as far as to submit an offer for him.

The club must, now, attempt to get a transfer over the line for the Brentford star in the coming weeks because he could be amazing alongside Cunha for Amorim, if United are able to snap both of them up.

Why Mbeumo could be amazing alongside Cunha

Whilst Mbeumo is more used to playing as a right-winger in a 4-3-3, rather than as a number ten as part of a two and a one up front, the forward could be an exciting partner for Cunha behind a starting striker next season.

The Brentford and Wolves stars could operate as the two number ten options behind a new centre-forward, which would provide Amorim with two proven goalscorers to deliver consistent quality at the top end of the pitch.

As aforementioned, Manchester United’s top scorer in the Premier League this season, Bruno Fernandes, has scored eight goals, which illustrates how much the Portuguese boss needs reinforcements who can find the back of the net on a regular basis.

In Mbeumo, who was once dubbed “unplayable” by Thomas Frank, the Red Devils would be signing another player who has proven that he can be a difference-maker at the top end of the pitch in the English top-flight.

The left-footed star delivered nine goals and six assists in the Premier League during the 2023/24 campaign, but he has taken his game to new heights in the current season.

As you can see in the graphic above, Mbeumo has been directly involved in 26 goals in 37 matches in the top-flight, and has scored more than twice as many goals as Manchester United’s top scorer.

This suggests that he would bring much-needed goals and assists to Amorim’s side, which is also the case with Cunha, because he has already proven his quality at the top end of the pitch at that level.

Therefore, Cunha and Mbeumo could be amazing together as Manchester United’s two number ten options in the 2025/26 campaign because they are both attacking midfielders or wide players who can find the back of the net at an exceptional rate in the Premier League.

Both aged 25, they are also heading into the prime years of their careers and could be key players for Amorim for many years to come, hopefully kickstarting a new era of glory for the Red Devils.

Man Utd lodge £113m bid to sign their new Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United will aim to snap up their next Bruno Fernandes with this stunning purchase.

ByKelan Sarson May 19, 2025

Right throughout Todd Boehly’s reign as owner, Chelsea have not held back on signing elite young talents.

It has been a clear transfer strategy at Stamford Bridge, with the Blues looking to bring players to the club regarded as some of the hottest prospects in world football.

Perhaps the best example of this is Brazilian wonderkid Estevao Willian, who will join Chelsea for £29m this summer. He was described as a “wonderkid” showing all the “signs of a top player” by football scout Antonio Mango. He is just one of the young talents the Blues have signed under Boehly’s ownership.

This summer, Chelsea could add Ajax defender Jorrel Hato to that list, if recent reports are to be believed.

The latest on Chelsea’s pursuit of Hato

It would be an excellent signing if Chelsea can bring Hato to Stamford Bridge this summer. According to a recent report from Sky Sports, the Blues are ‘seriously considering making a move’ for the Dutchman this summer, and have ‘longstanding’ interest in signing him.

However, they will face competition from two Premier League giants, with Sky Sports also suggesting that newly-crowned champions Liverpool, and Chelsea’s London rivals Arsenal are also interested.

In reality, it is not hard to see why the West Londoners are so keen to bring Hato to the club. At just 19 years of age, he is a full international with the Netherlands and has played 108 times for Ajax already.

Described as a “magnificent talent” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, Hato has played 28 times in the Eredivisie this season, scoring twice and grabbing six assists. He has also captained the club three times, a superb achievement at 19.

Chelsea do not have a clear path to signing Hato, and will face stiff competition from Liverpool and Arsenal if they are to do a deal.

However, if they are not able to sign the Dutchman, then an alternative may be hiding in plain sight in the academy.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast’s In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

Chelsea's in-house Hato alternative

If the Blues can’t sign Hato himself, then why not promote their very own “Hato alternative” from the academy? At least, that is what football analyst Ben Mattinson has coined Chelsea’s young defender Ishe Samuels-Smith.

The West Londoners poached Samuels-Smith from Premier League rivals Everton, for a reported £4m two seasons ago. The highly-rated youngster has recently renewed his deal at Stamford Bridge until 2031.

At just 18 years of age, Samuels-Smith is yet to have any kind of first-team involvement on the pitch. Yet, he has featured on the bench three times this term under Enzo Maresca, which included two games in the Premier League back in February.

For the U21s, the youngster has had a key role to play. Skippering the side on five different occasions, Samuels-Smith has featured 23 times this term, scoring two goals and grabbing four assists from full back.

In fact, that is one of the standout features of his game. Just like Hato, the Manchester-born defender can play anywhere across the back line, even slotting in a right-back this term despite being left-footed. He has also played further forward as a wing-back.

The 18-year-old has impressed in the EFL Trophy this season for the Blues, as the stats on Sofascore reflect. In three games in the competition, he put in 3.7 tackles, made two interceptions and won two aerial duels per game.

Passes completed

46

138

Long balls completed

2.7

8

Key passes

1.3

4

Tackles

3.7

11

Interceptions

2

6

Aerial duels won

2

6

It surely does not seem like a first-team debut for Samuels-Smith can be too far away. The Blues academy skipper is clearly a talented player, putting in some excellent performances this term and showing great versatility.

If they miss out on signing Hato, then there might not be a better alternative to the Dutchman than their talented academy star.

He's their new Drinkwater: Maresca must axe £30m Chelsea flop this summer

Chelsea have certainly signed plenty of players in recent transfer windows, but one player is very reminiscent of the Blues’ worst-ever signing.

ByBen Gray May 6, 2025

Leeds United have a huge summer ahead of them if they are to secure Premier League survival next season after claiming promotion from the Championship this time around.

Daniel Farke’s side claimed the league title on goal difference on the final day after Manor Solomon’s late effort against Plymouth Argyle on the final day secured all three points.

The Whites finished top of the pile alongside Burnley, with both clubs ending the year on 100 points, highlighting the strength of the sides at the top of the division.

Such an achievement is just the beginning for the German, desperately needing to halt the current trend of sides suffering an immediate return to the second tier after promotion.

If he is to manage such a feat over the next year at Elland Road, he desperately needs to be backed in the market to hand him the best possible chance of success in Yorkshire.

An update on Leeds’ pursuit of new additions this summer

After securing promotion, it would be a surprise to no one to see Leeds linked with numerous players to help bolster the first team squad ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Ipswich Town winger Omari Hutchinson has been one name touted with a switch to join the Whites after the Tractor Boys suffered relegation from the Premier League in recent weeks.

However, he’s not alone on their shortlist, with Leicester City talisman Jamie Vardy the latest player linked with a switch to link up with Farke’s side, according to Football Insider.

The report claims that the Whites are plotting a move for the 38-year-old after announcing he would be departing the King Power at the end of the current season – subsequently making him a free agent.

It also states that his experience and record in England’s top-flight have made him a key target for the club as they look to once again establish themselves in the top-flight after a two-year absence.

Why Leeds’ summer target could be Farke’s own Beckford

Centre-forward Jermaine Beckford arrived at Elland Road from non-league outfit Wealdstone in 2006 after impressing enough to earn himself a switch to a then-Championship club.

He would have to bide his time in Yorkshire, even being sent on two loan spells, before making a huge impact in the first-team squad, cementing his place as the side’s main talisman.

Beckford went on to score 85 goals and provided 11 assists in 141 appearances in all competitions across three seasons – before getting his own Premier League move to Everton back in 2010.

However, he gave the supporters numerous moments to remember, none more so than the winning goal in the FA Cup clash with rivals Manchester United at Old Trafford.

They could land their next version of the forward with a summer move for Vardy, with the pair possessing a similar playstyle given their desire to run in behind and cause defenders an issue.

The duo are also similar in the fact that they both came through the non-league ladder before making an impact at their respective clubs – with Leeds desperately needing to take a gamble on the experienced frontman.

Vardy, who’s been labelled “sensational” by former boss Brendan Rodgers, has still managed to impress this campaign despite the Foxes suffering relegation, posting numerous impressive figures in key areas.

Games played

33

Goals & assists

11

Shots taken

1.8

Pass accuracy

71%

Dribbles completed

47%

Aerials won

1.7

Aerial success rate

49%

He’s registered eight goals and three assists in his 33 appearances, ending the season as their top scorer, still having the skillset to impress within the final third should he move to Yorkshire.

The former Fleetwood Town ace has also won 1.7 aerial duels won per 90, having the ability to offer Farke an experienced and all-round option at the top end of Farke’s side.

If they are to buck the current trend, new additions are desperately needed this summer, with funds needing to be spent to help the manager in his quest.

Vardy may not be everyone’s first choice when it comes to signings this summer, but he could prove to be an excellent squad option, offering depth and quality in their pursuit of making themselves an established top-flight outfit.

Leeds can seal stunning Solomon repeat by signing £30m Premier League star

Leeds United could look to replicate the success of their Manor Solomon deal by signing this attacking star.

1 ByKelan Sarson May 6, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy is in the market for a potential new manager this summer, with Ange Postecoglou likely to leave after a disappointing season.

Ange Postecoglou facing Spurs exit regardless of Europa League

News sources across the British media, including Mirror journalist John Cross and The Telegraph’s Matt Law, have heard from their sources that Spurs could part company with Postecoglou, even if they win the Europa League.

Tottenham now "ready to sell" £50m-plus star and replace him with 24 y/o

Spurs are hatching a plan to reshape the squad.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 23, 2025

It would be quite a feat for the Australian to clinch Tottenham’s first piece of silverware in 17 years amid a campaign blighted by injuries, protests from supporters and potentially their worst ever Premier League season to date.

Liverpool (away)

April 27th

West Ham (away)

May 3rd

Crystal Palace (home)

May 10th

Aston Villa (away)

May 18th

Brighton (home)

May 25th

The Lilywhites face this year’s fairy-tale overachievers Bodo/Glimt in the Europa semi-finals, a side nobody expected to get this far, and Postecoglou’s men are the overwhelming favourites to reach this year’s final in Bilbao.

However, even in the event that Postecoglou keeps good on his promise by winning a major trophy during his second season in charge, something he confidently predicted right at the start of 2024/2025, Spurs’ torrid domestic form and lack of backing from fans could mean he still parts company.

Levy has the likes of Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, Fulham’s Marco Silva, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner and Brentford’s Thomas Frank on Spurs’ managerial shortlist to replace Postecoglou, according to reports,

Further abroad, reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano has previously shared news of Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi attracting admirers from within Spurs, but it will be very hard for Levy to prise the Nerazzurri boss away from Italy.

The dissatisfaction around N17 right now after this tepid campaign has caused tensions in the stands to reach boiling point, so Levy and ENIC are under real pressure to get this next appointment right, make smart investments into the squad and turn Tottenham’s fortunes around.

Tottenham now eyeing Burnley manager Scott Parker

As per The Mail and journalist Mike Keegan, a new name is now on Tottenham’s growing list of linked head coaches – Burnley boss Scott Parker.

The former Lilywhites and England midfielder amassed 63 appearances for Spurs during his playing days, and has since gone on to enjoy some successful stints during his managerial career – guiding both Fulham and Burnley to Premier League promotion.

Bar a failed stint at Jupiler Pro League side Club Brugge, the 44-year-old has showcased some promise in his early career as a tactician, and it is believed Tottenham are fans of Parker as a manager.

He’s also attracted praise from his peers, with Man City boss Pep Guardiola branding him one of English football’s new “innovative” coaches back in 2021, while former Tottenham left-back Ryan Sessegnon called Parker a “top coach” when he was linked with the hot seat four years ago.

“He’s a top guy, top man and a top coach. He’s just an all-round great guy,” explained Sessegnon.

“He obviously has a philosophy of play and sticks to it and all the players are buying into that. Recently, it hasn’t been so good for them in terms of results, but I think the performances and effort is still there.”

Rangers have been hit with a massive injury blow to an “immense” player, following an update from interim manager Barry Ferguson.

Rangers hold Bilbao in spirited display

The Gers produced an impressive performance at Ibrox on Thursday evening, drawing 0-0 at home to Athletic Bilbao in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final tie.

Robin Propper was shown a red card with only 13 minutes played, giving Rangers a huge uphill battle, but they held on in the end, with Liam Kelly saving an Alex Berenguer penalty in the second half, leading to scenes of joy inside the stadium.

While Ferguson’s side still have a huge amount of work to do to make the semi-finals ahead of their daunting trip to Bilbao next week, they still have a fair chance of progressing.

However, one of the few negatives for Rangers on the night was a serious-looking injury to Dujon Sterling, with the 25-year-old stretchered off, leading to concerns about the length of his absence.

Ferguson confirms huge Rangers injury blow

Speaking to reporters on Friday (via Sky Sports), Ferguson confirmed that Rangers defender Sterling suffered a long-term injury against Bilbao, with his season definitely over:

“I just got a bit of bad news about Dujon – he’s going to be out long-term. He’s had a serious one. I’m devastated for him for a few reasons.

“He’s come in and been immense for me at the back. He’s had his injury issues and now we need to suffer another lengthy spell on the sidelines, which I’m devastated about. We’ll get around him, he’s a popular member of the dressing room and has been a big player for me.

“We just need to get him back fit as quickly as we can. I don’t know exactly [how long he will be out for] but I mean long-term. I’m no medical expert, but I’ve spoken to the doctor, he’ll go for surgery on Monday and we’ll just need to wait and see how that surgery goes.”

This is a cruel blow for Sterling, who has been a solid performer since arriving from Chelsea back in 2023, making 70 appearances for Rangers to date.

This season, the Englishman has made 20 appearances in the Scottish Premiership, while Andy Halliday has shown his appreciation for him, saying:

“I’m sure I’m sitting here along with a lot of other people thinking, ‘Where’s Dujon Sterling been all season?’. For me, his two performances since he’s come into the team have been nothing short of incredible.”

Rangers messed up selling "mountain" who is better than Propper

Rangers sold a player last year who is better than Robin Propper.

ByRoss Kilvington Apr 11, 2025

Hopefully, Sterling returns the same player as before when he does eventually return – and at 25, that should be the case – but he will be a big loss for Rangers as an effective squad player, especially in the Europa League.