All posts by h79snht.top

Premier League champions Manchester City could make an offer to sign Arsenal star Bukayo Saka, according to recent reports.

The Lowdown: Sky Blue overhaul?

Three goals in five minutes sealed one of the most dramatic final day comebacks in English football history on a day where City retained their top flight crown ahead of new rivals Liverpool.

A memorable afternoon at a jubilant Etihad Stadium for Pep Guardiola’s side will live long in the memory of every Blue, but with the next campaign starting in August, it appears the club have wasted no time in shortlisting their next targets after Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez.

Sporting director Txiki Begiristain could oversee a real summer of change in east Manchester with Raheem Sterling, Riyad Mahrez, Ilkay Gundogan and Gabriel Jesus all heading into the final year of their deals.

There has been much talk over who could eventually succeed these long-serving mainstays, which include rumours surrounding Gunners sensation Saka.

The Latest: Man City ‘offer’ on the cards…

According to one journalist who writes for European newspaper Calcio In Pillole, Man City could make an ‘offer’ to sign the England international if he doesn’t put pen to paper on fresh terms at the Emirates.

City are ‘keeping an eye’ on Saka and his negotiations over a renewal.

The Verdict: Prepare to pounce?

We believe Saka, still very young and possessing bags of quality, would be the perfect Guardiola player – especially taking into account his versatility both defensively and further forward.

Called ‘unplayable’ by members of the English press (Connor Humm, Football365), City’s head coach himself has even branded Saka one of Arsenal’s ‘incredible’ young stars in the past (via football.london).

According to WhoScored, the 20-year-old finished last campaign as Arsenal’s best player by average match rating whilst also raking in their most goals and assists – leaving little wonder why Guardiola now wants him at Eastlands.

In other news: Pep personally eyeing ‘world class’ £60m star for Man City, he’s now in real danger of leaving…find out more here.

Manchester United have made contact with Borussia Monchengladbach over a move for midfielder Kouadio Kone.

The Lowdown: Kone profiled

Kone, described as an ‘interesting box-to-box’ midfielder, signed for Monchengladbach last year in a deal worth £8.1m. The 21-year-old is primarily a central midfielder who can also play in a defensive or attacking midfield role.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-man-utd-updates-2/” title=”Latest Man Utd updates!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

He’s valued at a career-high £13.5m by Transfermarkt and was a regular in the Bundesliga last season, making 27 appearances.

The Latest: United links

Sports Witness relayed an update from L’Equipe on Friday regarding Kone. They claim that United are one of three top clubs who have made ‘initial contact’ over a move for Kone.

The report adds that Ralf Rangnick has been tracking Kone for several years.

The Verdict: De Jong alternative?

Erik ten Hag is keen to bolster his midfield ranks at Old Trafford, with Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong seemingly a top target.

Recent reports have suggested that the Red Devils reached an agreement with Barcelona for De Jong, however, the midfielder is thought to be unconvinced over a move to United and has snubbed a reunion with Ten Hag.

Should that be the case, then Kone could well emerge as an alternative midfield target, and you’d like to think a move for the Frenchman would be a lot cheaper, which could help the club in their attempts to sign striker Darwin Nunez from Benfica.

In other news: Reliable journalist leaks Man Utd talks as Ten Hag now eyes ‘terrific’ Englishman. 

West Bromwich Albion were not the most dynamic attacking side in the Championship this season.

Throughout their recent campaign in the second tier, the Baggies could only find the net 52 times, which is fewer than the likes of Bristol City, Reading and Blackpool, all of whom finished 16th or lower.

Despite this rather underwhelming return, one man in the squad who chipped in with some goals and assists throughout the season was Callum Robinson.

In 43 league appearances, the attacker scored seven goals and delivered nine assists whilst playing in numerous positions at the top of the pitch, leaving only Karlan Grant with more goal contributions for Albion.

Now that the season has come to an end, the focus will switch to the next campaign and West Brom’s hopes for getting promoted.

In terms of what Steve Bruce’s squad could look like once the season kicks off, one rarely-seen figure who could end up being West Brom’s next version of Robinson is Callum Morton.

In January 2017, Morton joined West Brom’s under-18 side from Yeovil Town. Since then, he has gone on to make 54 appearances for the Midlands club across their under-18 and under-23 sides, scoring 14 goals and delivering six assists along the way, highlighting his attacking talent.

While still awaiting his senior Albion debut, the 22-year-old has also had numerous loan spells away from The Hawthorns with clubs such as Braintree Town, Northampton Town, Lincoln City, Fleetwood Town and most recently Peterborough United.

With 76 appearances under his belt for those clubs, Morton scored 23 goals in total, once again showing his attacking prowess and his ability to deliver with different teams.

Despite predominantly being a centre-forward, the 22-year-old has played on the left and right flanks on occasion, which suggests that his versatility could make him a useful squad option for Bruce and a potential next version of Robinson, who has also played across the front three.

Labelled a “confident” player by his former Northampton manager Keith Curle, Morton could now have a great chance to impress Bruce in pre-season and put himself in a good position to finally make his breakthrough in the first team at The Hawthorns.

Should the attacker get an opportunity to play regularly for the Baggies next season, he could be the spark that they need in their attack to mount a serious promotion charge.

In other news: Bruce can secure big Ajayi upgrade as WBA plot move for “special” £14k-p/w machine

Sky Sports journalist Rob Dorsett has now revealed some worrying Glasgow Rangers transfer news from Ibrox.

The Lowdown: Possible departures

Aside from the players that are going out of contract this summer, the Teddy Bears could also see departures for some of their key players as Premier League clubs circle the young stars at Ibrox.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/rangers-news-4/” title=”Rangers news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

The likes of Calvin Bassey and Ryan Kent have been linked with moves to the English top flight for big money, and so it may be difficult to keep them if big offers start to roll in.

The Latest: Dorsett update

Taking to Twitter, Dorsett has revealed that Aston Villa are just one of a number of clubs in the English top flight that have now made ‘enquiries’ over signing Bassey, with the Light Blues valuing him at over £25m:

“#avfc aren’t done yet, after stunning start to window, despite already committing £43m to 3 new signings.   

“Understand Villa are among a number of PL clubs who’ve made enquiries about defender Calvin Bassey – who #rangersfc value at £25m+.”

The Verdict: Worrying

It is certainly worrying to hear the amount of Premier League teams circulating around Bassey, especially Villa.

As Dorsett mentions, they have already signed three players for a combined £43m so early on in the window, which suggests that they could hold no qualms splashing the cash to wrap up another quick deal for the 22-year-old.

Nonetheless, Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side need to stay strong with their valuation, which would be a club-record sale, and not sell Bassey for a penny less.

Of course, the Dutchman will be hoping to keep hold of him anyway, ahead of what looks to be another busy season with added European football.

In other news, find out which ‘special’ talent Gers are now ‘interested’ in here!

Tottenham Hotspur manager Antonio Conte has demanded a new ‘absolute priority’ signing for the club this summer, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Big summer on the cards?

The Premier League top-four chasers could be facing a big transfer window at the end of the 2021/2022 season as Conte eyes a major transfer overhaul.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/tottenham-latest-developments-2/” title=”Tottenham latest developments!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

As many as six new additions are reportedly in their sights with a reserve goalkeeper, right-wing-back, central defender, two midfielders and a forward set to be targeted (The Telegraph).

The Athletic have also claimed that a centre-back is top of Conte’s wish-list as club chief Fabio Paratici and co draw up a list of candidates ahead of June 10.

The Latest: Conte demands new ‘absolute priority’ signing…

Now, according to reports out of Spain, the Lilywhites head coach has demanded Inter Milan defender and rumoured target Stefan de Vrij as his new ‘absolute priority’ signing.

Allegedly ‘by order’ of Conte, Spurs have officially joined the list of suitors for the Nerazzurri star as their manager green-lights a move for him – with the 52-year-old now prioritising his ‘arrival’ at N17.

The Verdict: Get it done?

De Vrij’s contract situation at the San Siro, with his current deal set to expire in 2023 as things stand, could mean the Serie A giants aren’t in the strongest of positions to demand a hefty fee for his services.

Reports have even suggested he could leave for as little as £15 million and we believe Spurs should take full advantage and back Conte with a summer bid.

The 30-year-old was a mainstay under Tottenham’s boss when he guided Inter to a 2020/2021 Scudetto title, playing the sixth-highest amount of minutes in the league and making more clearances per 90 than any of his teammates (WhoScored).

There’s no reason de Vrij couldn’t replicate this form in England with members of the media even branding the Netherlands international a would-be ‘unbelievable signing’ (Dean Jones).

Taking this into account, it’s hardly surprising Conte has put his former star top of the agenda.

In other news: ‘I’ve heard’…Sky Sports reporter hints £64m ‘nightmare’ could be open to joining Spurs! Find out more here.

West Ham United colossus Tomas Soucek has been praised by journalist Toby Cudworth during their clash with Premier League title contenders Manchester City this afternoon.

The Lowdown: West Ham hold City…

David Moyes’ side were seeking to disrupt the Sky Blues’ mission to retain their top-flight crown and took a sensational 2-0 lead before half-time courtesy of a brace from star winger Jarrod Bowen.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/west-ham-newest-updates/” title=”West Ham newest updates!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

Putting in a solid and tireless performance throughout, the Irons were undone over the second 45 minutes as City mounted a fightback. Jack Grealish halved the deficit and a Vladimir Coufal own goal gifted Pep Guardiola hope of an unbelievable comeback, and they could well have clinched one after being awarded a spot-kick late in the match.

However, Riyad Mahrez saw his resulting penalty saved by Lukasz Fabianski, denying the visitors all three points as both teams went on to share the spoils.

The Latest: Cudworth blown away…

Writing on Twitter, Cudworth has raved over Soucek’s role in this West Ham team despite him being ‘criticised’ at points over the season.

Drawing particular attention to the Czech midfielder’s involvement in Bowen’s second goal of the match, the journalist explained:

“Lovely to see Soucek play a big role in #WHUFC’s second goal – has been criticised of late but he adds huge value when he wins flick-ons and operates close to Antonio and Bowen. Way more important than many think.”

The Verdict: Underrated?

According to WhoScored, the Czech Republic international ranks in the top five West Ham players going by average match rating per 90 in the top flight this term.

Before today’s action, he had also won more aerial duels per 90 than any of his team-mates, with only mainstays Declan Rice and Lukasz Fabianski playing more league minutes this season (WhoScored).

He was quietly effective for the Irons today, winning five duels, making five clearances and getting in two blocks, as per Sofascore.

A colossal presence in the middle alongside Rice, Moyes’ faith in Soucek perhaps best sums up the 27-year-old’s quality, and it is little wonder that West Ham have been attempting talks over fresh contract terms.

In other news: ‘It is my understanding…’ – ExWHUemployee has exciting transfer news for West Ham supporters! Find out more here.

Newcastle United could look to replace Callum Wilson in the upcoming summer transfer window, according to former Premier League defender Danny Mills. 

The lowdown: Wilson’s fitness woes

Signed from Bournemouth for £20m (Sky Sports) in 2020, the England international has scored 18 times in 43 appearances for the Magpies.

Despite those exploits in front of goal, the 30-year-old has also missed 36 matches through a variety of injury issues since arriving at St James’ Park.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/newcastle-news-6/” title=”Newcastle news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

Currently nearing a return to full fitness following a lengthy period out with a calf problem, Mills believes that Eddie Howe may still be on the lookout for further reinforcements at the end of the season.

The latest: ‘Concern’ over Wilson’s Newcastle future

Speaking to Football Insider, regular talkSPORT contributor Mills suggested that neither Wilson nor January capture Chris Wood are able to lead the line for Newcastle in the long-term.

The former Leeds defender claimed: “I think he’s ahead of Chris Wood by some distance. It just depends on whether Newcastle decide he is fit enough to lead the line for the whole season.

“That’ll be the only reason they decide to move him well down the pecking order. Yes, they’ll be looking to strengthen – but if you can guarantee his fitness for the whole season, they’ll probably be looking for a backup.

“But he’s had his troubles with injury – and therefore I can see him finishing up as the backup for Newcastle next season.

“He isn’t going to be fit for a full season – and that’s the concern.”

The verdict: Signings needed

Whilst few could doubt the quality of Wilson – who was described as a ‘menace’ by Newcastle legend Alan Shearer following a 2-0 win against West Ham on his Magpies debut – a wretched run with fitness issues has shown no signs of relenting.

Capped four times by England, the £18m-valued ace would be the perfect foil for target man Wood in a two-pronged central attacking partnership.

However, with the New Zealand international struggling for goals following his mid-season arrival from Burnley and Wilson’s push for prolonged fitness, it seems that Howe will almost certainly be looking to add at least one striker in the summer.

In other news, NUFC are now eyeing a move for this former Sunderland ace

West Brom will be looking to pick up just their second win of the season when they face Birmingham City on Wednesday evening and Steve Bruce can give his side the best chance by unleashing Brandon Thomas-Asante.

The Baggies have drawn six of their opening eight fixtures in the second tier and are currently languishing just above the relegation spots in the Championship.

However, they are one of the top performers for expected goals for and against in the division, which suggests that the strikers have been letting the side down so far this season, as the Baggies have been nowhere near clinical enough in front of goal.

Therefore, Bruce should look toward his in-form players and Thomas-Asante represents a player who is brimming with confidence.

The 23-year-old started the season in sensational form with Salford in League Two, contributing four goals and two assists in six appearances, averaging a superb 7.64 rating from WhoScored for his performances.

He made the crucial difference in West Brom’s last game, coming off the bench to score a dramatic equaliser against Burnley on his debut for the Baggies, so it would be harsh to leave him out against Birmingham on Wednesday.

Following that goal, Express and Star journalist Lewis Cox praised the youngster’s footballing journey and his impact against Burnley.

He said:

“Unbelievable finale and unbelievable story. Some noise in this place when that went in. Could hardly have dreamed it better last night – from the fourth tier to instant Hawthorns goal hero.”

WhoScored suggests that Thomas-Asante’s main strengths include dribbling and, crucially, finishing – which is precisely what Bruce needs right now, as his side are clearly creating enough chances to win games.

Birmingham have endured a difficult start to the new season and, while it is early in the season to be dubbing games as ‘must win’, this feels like the ideal opportunity for the Baggies to kick start their season and push up the table.

Therefore, with Karlan Grant averaging a disappointing 6.54 rating for his performances so far this season, Bruce should hand Thomas-Asante his first Baggies start against Birmingham.

Alex Iwobi has undergone an impressive transformation in his Everton career, with Frank Lampard’s decision to make him a central midfielder seriously paying off.

The Nigeria international, who signed in a deal worth £35m from Arsenal in 2019, struggled in his first few years at Goodison Park and has contributed just seven goals and nine assists in 104 appearances for the Toffees.

He found life so difficult that after one game he was dubbed “embarrassing” by reporter David Prentice, who was rather damning of his performance level.

However, the £50k-per-week earner’s displays have drastically improved since Lampard came in and turned him into a central midfielder rather than a winger, as is evidenced by his stats from WhoScored.

Last season saw the 26-year-old average a less than impressive 6.58 rating for his performances as he only managed four goal involvements, while in six Premier League starts this season he has a 6.74 rating.

He has also averaged more key passes per game (1.8 vs 1.3), passes per game (40.7 vs 24.5) and a better pass accuracy percentage (82 vs 79.6) than last season, which suggests that he is far more involved and consistent in possession so far this campaign.

Only last year under Rafa Benitez, Michael Ball wrote this of Iwobi: “He just seems to do the basics all wrong.

“He’s got all the skills so he might stand out in training – that’s probably why he got the nod over [Anthony] Gordon – but on an eleven-a-side pitch in a full game, he seems to lack confidence doing the basics.”

However, he is clearly a much more confident player now he is getting regular football in the middle of the park for Everton, and emphasised this with a superb display in the 0-0 draw against Liverpool at the weekend.

Frank Lebouef said: “What I saw from Iwobi in the middle of the park was absolutely exceptional. That guy was replaced in another position but he was still outstanding.”

Iwobi already has two assists to his name in all competitions this season, which is the same as his tally from 2021/22, which suggests that he could have a much more impressive term when it comes to goals and assists.

The fact that Lampard has added Idrissa Gueye, Amadou Onana and James Garner to his midfield this summer, and yet Iwobi feels undroppable, goes to show how much his position change has turned him from zero to hero at Goodison Park.

Derby County interim boss Liam Rosenior has some ‘great’ player news as he shares an update on defender James Chester’s recovery from injury.

The Lowdown: Chester ruled out…

The former Stoke City defender, having signed for the Rams in July on a free transfer, put pen to paper on a two-year deal with the League One club but is yet to make a competitive appearance.

Chester comes with a plethora of top flight and international experience which could prove invaluable for Derby as they aim to fight their way back to England’s second tier.

The 33-year-old has been unavailable for selection since succumbing to injury in pre-season, having suffered from tendinopathy in one of his Achilles tendons.

The Latest: Rosenior shares positive news…

Speaking to the press (via Derbyshire Live), Rosenior has now provided a positive update as Chester returns to the grass and resumes full training.

While the defender will still take a few weeks to be fully fit to play again, the Derby boss described the 33-year-old’s training return as ‘great’ news.

Rosenior explained: “James is back training fully in the last few days, but because he got injured in pre-season, it’s going to take him a few weeks to get up to real speed.

“It’s great to have him in the group. I’m looking at my tactics board with the names on and it’s getting harder and harder to pick a team. That’s what I’ve wanted, it’s the first time in years that I’ve got this problem, if you want to call it that, where I’ve got players who expect to play or be on the bench, whereas before there wasn’t that competition.

“That’s really healthy for us a group because it means players know that if they don’t perform, they’ve got someone ready to come in and take their shirt off them.”

The Verdict: Positive…

Chester’s comeback to full training is one major step on his road to recovery, and Derby supporters could be happy that his full debut could be mere weeks away.

The defender could be real asset for Rosenior, especially going by his consistency.

Chester averaged a solid 6.95/10 match rating per 90 throughout his career at both international and club level, with the ex-Aston Villa defender coming as just the experienced centre-back figurehead who is needed amid months of uncertainty at Pride Park.