Celtic Can Find Unplayable O’Riley Partner In 5 ft 10 Dynamo

Brendan Rodgers arrived at Celtic for his second spell at Parkhead last month and has been able to officially complete two signings so far.

The summer transfer window officially opened for business in June but the Hoops still have just under two weeks before their first competitive match of the season rolls around.

Who have Celtic signed this summer?

Rodgers has swooped to sign Norwegian midfielder Odin Thiago Holm from Valerenga and Australian winger Marco Tilio from Melbourne City on permanent deals to bolster his squad.

However, more arrivals do appear to be on the horizon for the Scottish giants. Polish central defender Maik Nawrocki completed his medical on Saturday and is set to join in a deal worth around €5m (£4.3m) from Legia Warsaw.

The Bhoys are also reportedly expected to complete the signings of South Korean duo Hyun-jun Yang and Hyeok-kyu Kwon from Gangwon and Busan IPark respectively.

That may not be the end of their business, though, as journalist Anthony Joseph recently claimed that the club have contacted Future FC over a possible swoop for central midfielder Mohamed Reda.

How good is Mohamed Reda?

The 22-year-old dynamo has showcased his attacking quality from a central midfield position over the last 12 months and could form an unplayable partnership with ex-MK Dons star Matt O'Riley for the Hoops.

Reda racked up four goals and four assists in 20 league starts for Future throughout the 2022/23 campaign, which works out as an average of one goal contribution every 2.5 starts.

His team, who were formerly known as Coca-Cola FC, finished fourth in their league and only scored 34 goals in 34 matches. The Egypt international was, therefore, involved in 23.5% of their strikes, which shows that he was able to thrive as an attacking midfield option in spite of the side's lacklustre output.

Celtic midfielder Matt O'Riley.

O'Riley, meanwhile, produced three goals and set up 12 in 32 Scottish Premiership starts for Celtic. This means that the Denmark international managed a goal or assist every 2.13 starts on average for Ange Postecoglou last term – the best return of any midfielder with ten or more starts within the squad.

The Hoops plundered a staggering 114 goals in 38 league outings throughout the 2022/23 season, which shows that they were far more prolific as a team than Future were in the Egyptian top-flight.

Reda, therefore, could increase his output in the final third as part of a better attacking unit. 23.5% of Celtic's goal tally last season would work out as roughly 27 direct involvements, which is more than any Hoops midfielder managed.

The 5 foot 10 gem, who analyst Ben Griffis described as "raw" with "so much potential", may not be able to replicate those standards in Scotland but the statistics illustrate how impressive his return in front of goal was in comparison to the team's overall record.

Therefore, Rodgers could unearth a supremely talented midfield option in Reda. The Northern Irish boss could offer him the chance to showcase his attacking quality as part of a thriving Hoops side, which could make him unplayable for opposition defences alongside O'Riley next term.

Man United Eye Rashford 2.0 In "Dream" £155k-p/w Gem

Manchester United’s summer business hasn’t exactly gone to plan, making just one signing so far, that of Mason Mount, who arrived from Chelsea.

Erik ten Hag knows there are a few areas which will need to be improved, particularly in the goalkeeping department and across the frontline. Andre Onana looks close to joining the Old Trafford side in a move which would certainly give United a solid option between the posts, yet their attacking options are looking sparse.

With this in mind, the Red Devils have been linked with a move for Atletico Madrid forward João Félix according to Spanish newspaper ABC (via Sport Witness) as they look to rival fellow Premier League sides Aston Villa and Newcastle United for his signature this summer.

The La Liga side have placed a staggering €140m (£120m) price tag on the player if any club is aiming to sign him during the transfer window, and this could prove to be a potential stumbling block for Ten Hag.

The Portuguese star spent the second half of last season on loan at Chelsea, registering just four goals across 20 appearances for the Blues, which suggests that Atletico may need to lower their demands if they wish to move him on before the window slams shut.

Could João Félix join Manchester United?

It is certainly a possibility, especially with the nature of the transfer window, and with United clearly needing some strength added to their faltering attack – scoring just 58 league goals last season – they could test the resolve of the Spanish side with a bid.

If they did secure the signature of the £195k-per-week star – who can play either as a centre-forward or out on the wing – they won't just be getting a player who has shone in the Champions League previously, but also a forward who is similar to Marcus Rashford.

The Englishman enjoyed a stunning campaign during 2022/23, scoring 30 times and grabbing 11 assists too as he proved to Ten Hag that he could be counted on as United’s main source of goals, and it certainly isn’t a bad comparison for Felix to have, with FBref establishing the current Atletico gem as the third-most comparable player to Rashford.

Indeed, last season domestically, the duo shared similar statistics across attacking metrics such as shots per 90 (4.07 to 3.38), shot-creating actions per 90 (3.39 to 3.06), goal-creating actions per 90 (0.34 to 0.44) and crosses delivered (27 to 24), suggesting that the duo both pose a significant attacking danger in the final third.

Former teammate Alvaro Morata praised Felix for being “special” while U23 scout Antonio Mango has hailed the 23-year-old as a “dream” earlier this year and when he is on form, there is no doubt he is one of the finest attacking players on the continent.

Could Ten Hag get Felix back to his best however? Alongside Rashford he could be excellent, especially as the youngster is similar to the United talisman in many ways.

£120m may be too much, but if the Red Devils can negotiate a cheaper fee, it would be a smart move.

Everton Hold "Interest" In £16m Star Who Wowed Frank Lampard

Everton are interested in Leeds United winger Jack Harrison as Sean Dyche looks to ramp up his transfer activity at Goodison Park, according to Daily Express journalist Ryan Taylor.

How much is Jack Harrison's release clause worth and how does that affect Everton?

Harrison is reportedly available for just £16 million this summer due to having a release clause that is now in play following Leeds United's relegation to the Sky Bet Championship, as per Football Insider.

The report states that Everton have 'set their sights' on bringing Harrison to Goodison Park and his teammate Wilfried Gnonto has also been linked with a move to the Toffees.

FootballTransfers claim that 'ongoing talks' have been held with Harrison and Gnonto and the former is believed to be open to a transfer to Everton as he has family in the North West.

Ainsley Maitland-Niles, who is a free agent after leaving Arsenal upon his contract expiring in north London is another player that Everton are 'keeping an eye' on as the window progresses.

Leeds United are said to be 'preparing for the departure' of Harrison due to their relegation, with Aston Villa and West Ham United being another two clubs that have expressed their interest in offering him an Elland Road escape route, according to talkSPORT.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Daily Express journalist Taylor has signalled that Everton could raid Leeds United for several of their prize assets this window.

Taylor stated: "There's a lot of interest from Everton, in particular, in a lot of their players. Gnonto, Rodrigo, there's Jack Harrison. There's one more as well, Crysencio Summerville.

"I think these are the players that probably need to be moved on. They're probably not going to be there next season and once they go, there'll be a clearer sort of transfer budget. So I think departures should be the priority at this moment in time [for Leeds]."

Is Jack Harrison a player Everton should be looking to buy?

Harrison, who was hailed as Leeds' "standout player" in a game between the Whites and Tottenham towards the end of last season, would be a bargain signing for Everton who has already proved that he has the mettle to handle the rigours of the Premier League life and would be an astute signing by Dyche at Goodison Park. This is the opinion we are sure Frank Lampard would share after praising the winger for his performance against Everton back in 2022.

Last term, the 26-year-old made 40 appearances in all competitions for Leeds United, recording six goals and ten assists, as per Transfermarkt.

Chance provision is one key element of Harrison's game and he was a shining light for Leeds United last season despite their relegation, successfully performing 141 shot-creating actions in the Premier League, as shown on FBRef.

The former New York City attacker also pitched in with 1.5 key passes and 1.3 completed dribbles per match in the English top flight, demonstrating his capacity to cause danger at will on the pitch, as per WhoScored.

Leeds United look like they will have to part ways with Harrison this window, which is something that has played nicely into Everton's hands as Dyche looks to add some desperately needed quality in the wide areas.

Nevertheless, the Toffees find themselves in hot water with the Premier League authorities due to recording losses exceeding £370 million over the last three years and their financial situation is likely to dictate the sort of business the club decide to conduct between now and the close of play.

Newcastle Make First Move For "Sensational" £52m Star

Newcastle United have already made their first move for Juventus attacker Federico Chiesa, however the Italian club are set to hold out for a fee of €60m (£52m), according to reports.

What's the latest Newcastle transfer news?

Newcastle have already shelled out £52m on a new signing this summer, with Sandro Tonali's arrival from AC Milan now confirmed, and reporter Mark McAdam believes the midfielder is a real statement signing.

Speaking on Sky Sports, McAdam said: “How many times do you get Newcastle United signing the best player from AC Milan? He’s at the right age, he’s not late 20’s, he’s not a teenager, he’s about to enter his prime.”

Having already spent big to bolster his squad ahead of the 2023-24 campaign, Eddie Howe has no plans to stop there, and the St. James' Park outfit are now preparing an offer for Eintracht Frankfurt attacking midfielder Jesper Lindstrom.

Leeds United duo Tyler Adams and Brendan Aaronson have previously been linked with a move to Newcastle, following their side's relegation from the Premier League, however there are now indications that Howe could dip back into the Serie A market.

According to a report from Corriera dello Sport (via Sport Witness), the Magpies have already made their move to sign Chiesa, who could be allowed to leave this summer, having fallen out of favour somewhat under manager Max Allegri.

The 25-year-old does not fit into Allegri's 3-5-2 system, as he is unable to play in his favoured inverted winger role down the right, and with contract talks not progressing, he would be open to a move abroad.

Newcastle have made an enquiry about the Italian's availability, but they are not the only Premier League club to have made that move, with Liverpool and Aston Villa also "at the window".

At the moment, Juventus want to hold out for €60m (£52m), however the interested clubs are only willing to spend a little over €40m (£34m), without going any further.

Are Newcastle signing Federico Chiesa?

Currently, Juventus' asking price is far more than Newcastle are willing to pay, however the Italian club could change their stance in the latter stages of the transfer window, if the £153k-per-week attacker makes it clear he wants to leave.

Should the Magpies win the race for the Italy international, they will be adding another top-quality playmaker to their ranks, given that he ranks in the 96th percentile for assists per 90 in the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

Chiesa Liverpool target

Hailed as "sensational" by members of the media, the former Fiorentina man also ranks in the 87th percentile for tackles per 90, displaying his willingness to pitch in with the defensive side of the game.

Although he did not hit the heights expected of him in front of goal last season, Chiesa has found the back of the net regularly in the Serie A in the past, notching ten goals for Fiorentina in the 2019-20 campaign. As such, it is exciting news that Newcastle have made their interest clear.

West Ham Eye "Unplayable" Antonio Heir In £25m Swoop At London Stadium

West Ham United will surely be heading into the 2023/2024 campaign full of confidence having not only won a major European trophy, but also guaranteeing another season of continental football due to their Europa Conference League success.

David Moyes will be hoping to juggle the demands of European and Premier League football better than he did last term, as the Hammers struggled throughout the domestic season, eventually finishing 14th in the table, winning just 11 matches, five fewer than the previous campaign.

With this in mind, Moyes may wish to improve the depth of his squad to better cope with the hectic schedule which is likely to follow during 2023/2024 and with Declan Rice certain to move on, he will surely have plenty of funds to play with.

The club have recently been linked with a move for Coventry City striker Viktor Gyokeres and Fabrizio Romano has claimed that the club are “ready to push” in order to bring him to London this summer.

He has been valued at £25m by the Sky Blues and this shouldn’t represent a problem for Moyes, especially considering he could be an ideal Michail Antonio heir.

Could Viktor Gyokeres join West Ham United?

A move is certainly a possibility considering that the club will be playing European football once again next term and the Swede may see this as a major incentive.

Having scored 14 goals across all competitions last term, Antonio was the highest scorer in the squad, showing that he is still clearly important to Moyes.

With just one year on his current deal however and the fact he is 33 years old, the striker is closer to the end of his career than the start and this indicates that the club should be targeting a player who could take over from him, with Gyokeres clearly the ideal choice.

Last season, the Sky Blues goal machine netted 22 times and also registered 12 assists across all competitions, scoring eight more times than Antonio, and he has a ruthless nature in front of goal.

Indeed, across 2022/2023, Gyokeres not only registered more goals and assists domestically than Antonio (32 to ten), but he also had more shots on target per 90 (1.19 to 0.84), generated more shot-creating actions per 90 (4.27 to 1.92) and managed more carries into the penalty area (105 to 26), suggesting that he was a lot more clinical in front of goal whilst being able to take the ball into the opposition box on a more regular basis in order to create more chances.

The “unplayable” talent – as once dubbed by teammate Maxime Biamou – has demonstrated his goal-scoring credentials in the second tier and the statistics suggest he outshone Antonio in range of attacking metrics last term.

viktor-gyokeres-everton-premier-league-transfers

Although untested in the Premier League, Moyes had success by luring Jarrod Bowen from Hull City to West Ham in 2020, and he has been repaid handsomely, with the Englishman registering 71 goal contributions in just two and a half seasons and the Swede could follow in the same footsteps.

For a fee of £25m, Gyokeres could exceed all expectations should he join the Irons this summer while becoming the perfect heir to Antonio in the process.

West Ham: £50m "Monster" Could Be Ideal Onana Alternative

David Moyes appears to have made Amadou Onana one of his top targets to replace Arsenal-bound Declan Rice, but there could be a better alternative out there for West Ham United at a cheaper price.

Who should West Ham sign to replace Rice?

Money is not an issue for West Ham this summer given they are about to land £105m through the sale of Rice to Arsenal, a deal that is close to being officially announced.

That is not to say the Hammers want to overpay for any player, but it seems unlikely Everton will budge on their reported £55m valuation of Onana, who impressed in his debut Premier League campaign.

Not only that, Chelsea are also supposedly eyeing up the Belgium international should they be unable to land their own top target in Brighton and Hove Albion's Moises Caicedo.

West Ham should not worry too much about the prospect of missing out on Onana, though, as The Sun claims the Europa Conference League winners are also interested in signing Scott McTominay from Manchester United.

Would Scott McTominay be a good signing for West Ham?

McTominay featured 24 times for United in the Premier League last season, but the imminent arrival of Mason Mount from Chelsea will push the Scotsman further down the midfield pecking order.

The 26-year-old has been praised and criticised in equal measure across his six seasons as a United regular, but there is no doubt he is good enough for a side outside of the top six.

Everton midfielder Amadou Onana.

Indeed, on the basis of his performances over the past 12 months, FBref's player comparison model ranks Onana as the player second-most like McTominay from midfielders in the English top flight.

The pair have an identical return of 0.17 goals per shots on target, while also attempting an identical number of passes (33.5 per 90), with Onana ever so slightly ahead in terms of passing accuracy (83.3% v 82.2%).

While Onana also has a slightly better figure in terms of tackles won per 90 (1.56 v 1.47), McTominay ranks better when it comes to aerial challenges won (2.64 v 2.17) and ball recoveries (6.05 v 5.43).

Described in December 2020 as a "physical monster" by then-United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, and someone who "can do everything", it would not be harsh to suggest McTominay's Old Trafford career has not quite taken off in the way many may have hoped.

But valued at a slightly smaller fee than Onana at £50m, according to the Daily Star, and with the midfielder recently adding more goals to his game, it may be a move worth pursuing for Moyes to kick-start to post-Rice era.

Spurs: Levy set to hold talks over "outstanding" star

Tottenham Hotspur are set to hold talks with Barcelona "in the next few days", with a view to signing Clement Lenglet on a permanent deal, according to journalist Rudy Galetti.

Is Clement Lenglet signing for Tottenham?

Daniel Levy appears to be closing in on a rather exciting signing in the form of James Maddison after successful talks, but that's not all that's going on as Spurs look to strengthen in another area this summer.

Tottenham have been negotiating a deal for Lenglet for quite some time now, with Barcelona recently proposing a swap deal including Giovani Lo Celso, who is not viewed as an "essential" player at N17.

However, Spurs were reportedly not keen on a deal of that nature, and they have instead come to the table with a bid of around €5m (£4.3m), with Barca hoping to have the transfer wrapped up by June 30th.

Not only are the La Liga club keen to conclude negotiations, the Lilywhites are also hoping for progress to be made in the near future, or they may end up moving on to other targets.

In an interview with GiveMeSport, Galetti confirmed Tottenham may consider alternative options at centre-back, should the upcoming discussions not prove to be worthwhile, saying:

"The talks will also continue in the next few days, even if Tottenham Hotspur have no intention of holding long negotiation as they do have other possible names on their list of centre-backs."

Should Tottenham sign Lenglet?

The Frenchman had a mixed season on loan last season, having been hailed as "outstanding" by members of the media early on in the campaign, after making three clearances and blocking one shot in a 2-1 victory against Fulham.

As the season went on, however, the 28-year-old did put in some very poor performances, receiving a 4.6 match rating in the 4-2 loss against Manchester City in January, after making an error that led to a goal.

That said, the former Sevilla man is a vastly experienced player at the top level, making a total of 50 appearances in the Champions League, while he has also received 15 caps for France.

clement-lenglet-tottenham-hotspur-brooklyn-lyons-foster

If Spurs are able to sign Lenglet for a fee of just £4.3m, then he could be a solid addition to the squad, at least as a back-up option, however they should not be held to ransom by Barca if they demand a higher fee.

There are plenty of alternative options available, including Fulham's Tosin Adarabioyo, who may also be available for a cut-price fee this summer, having recently made it clear he wants to leave, while Edmond Tapsoba at the "top of the list" of targets.

Leeds Could Sign "Special" £25m-rated Maestro

Leeds United will be desperate to ensure that this stay in the Championship is not as long as their last, given the 16-year absence from the Premier League following their initial relegation back in 2004.

Fortunately for the club and the new ownership, the Whites do not find themselves in nearly the same level of financial peril that culminated in their brief entry into League One during that period.

The 49ers will seek an instant return to the top flight and thus could look at the other success stories from teams who bounced straight back after such a demotion.

One such example was Newcastle United, who were relegated in 2016 but saw an immediate upturn the season following. The secret to their success was shrouded in their ability to purchase the division's top players, easily cruising back to the big time.

They brought in Matt Ritchie, Grant Hanley, Dwight Gayle, Ciaran Clark and more, and finished first with 94 points.

It seems that the Whites are beginning their stroll down the same path, seeking to bolster their ranks with the stars of the most recent term.

This explains their reported interest from May in James McAtee, a young £25m-rated midfielder who spent a stellar loan spell at Sheffield United, who went up automatically in second place.

Would James McAtee be a success at Leeds United?

The 20-year-old, who has mustered up six senior appearances for his parent club Manchester City, enjoyed his first full season in senior football last campaign at Bramall Lane.

Posting 43 appearances across all competitions, in the league the Citizens loanee scored nine imperative goals and assisted a further three, outlining his offensive impetus from deep.

The left-footed maestro was omnipresent during their promotion campaign, as a relentless presence in the engine room with that touch of class needed to truly shine. As such, his 6.89 average rating in the league was upheld through a 77% pass accuracy, 57% dribble success rate, 0.9 key passes and 0.8 tackles per game, via Sofascore.

To place this kind of youthful energy into the Whites' midfield could be a masterstroke for the 49ers, who are yet to even name their new manager following the exit of Sam Allardyce and have recently released Adam Forshaw, albeit with the intention to take another look at him in pre-season.

It is a testament to the bright future that this youngster boasts, that Pep Guardiola was so keen to praise him after turning down one loan spell in 2022: "Maybe it happened because he's a special player."

leeds-united-relegation

To sign a proven talent at this level, who has a future likely way beyond this division, would not only be a statement of intent that they are not planning on staying in the Championship for long but also that they have one eye on once again battling the best from top flight too; whoever takes the dugout.

McAtee could be integral in achieving both of these goals, as a dynamic midfield magician liable to propel them back into the Premier League at the first time of asking.

New Defensive Target Could Emerge For Man United

Manchester United may set their sights on trying to bring Nice defender Jean-Clair Todibo to Old Trafford in the transfer window, according to journalist Dean Jones.

What's the latest transfer news involving Jean-Clair Todibo?

Last month, acclaimed transfer guru Fabrizio Romano gave an insight into Todibo's situation heading into the summer, stating on Twitter: "Understand Newcastle, Manchester Utd and Liverpool scouts were in attendance at Nice-Rennes game to monitor Jean-Clair Todibo. French centre back could get top club move in the summer — with price tag understood to be around €45m."

L'Equipe via Get French Football News also echo a similar story, claiming that Manchester United, Liverpool and Newcastle United want to sign the 23-year-old defender, who is also being tracked by clubs around Europe, including Serie A giants Napoli and Juventus.

The £21k-a-week ace is said to be open to a new challenge next season and is mulling over his options before deciding his next career move.

Nice-Matin have revealed that Paris Saint-Germain also hold an attraction towards the former Barcelona defender, who has considerable levels of interest in his services in the off-season.

Manchester United have also been linked with other defenders recently, namely Napoli defender Kim Min-jae and Monaco star Axel Disasi, with Erik Ten Hag believed to be keen to strengthen his backline.

Speaking to Give Me Sport, journalist Jones has signified that Todibo could 'come into the equation' at Old Trafford this summer.

Jones told FFC when asked about Manchester United's interest in Todibo, Kim and Disasi: "Both players that have been scouted throughout the season [Kim Min-jae and Axel Disasi], I think Todibo as well in Ligue 1 has been looked at, so there's another name that potentially could come into the equation."

Would Jean-Clair Todibo be a good signing for Manchester United?

Todibo has enjoyed a solid campaign over in France at Ligue 1 outfit Nice and looks primed to test himself this summer by securing himself a move to an elite-level side.

In 2022/23, the Cayenne-born made 46 appearances in all competitions for Nice in a season where he was almost ever-present for his current employers, as per Transfermarkt.

Jean-Clair Todibo for Nice

WhoScored also shows that Todibo has excellent awareness of dangerous attacking situations and managed to complete an average of 3.1 clearances per match in the French top-flight this term.

The 23-year-old, who received massive praise from German legend Lothar Matthaus, who stated: "Todibo is the best centre back I’ve seen in a long time.”, was also solid in the tackle across the campaign and obtained an impressive challenge success ratio of 72.3%, according to FBRef.

Manchester United boss Ten Hag will be keen to boost his side's defensive abilities looking ahead to 2023/24 and Todibo is an addition that would excite the Old Trafford faithful due to his consistency and room to blossom further in the next few years.

Everton’s £40m "Leader" Receives Approach From PL Admirers

Everton have been approached by Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur regarding a deal for Jordan Pickford, according to reports.

Is Jordan Pickford leaving Everton?

Pickford has firmly established himself as Sean Dyche’s number one between the sticks having started 37 of the 38 top-flight games last season, and whilst coming close to relegation, he was a standout performer on Merseyside.

The England international only signed a new contract back in February which keeps him at the club until at least 2027, but there had been prior speculation that he could have been set to depart if the Toffees had dropped to the Championship.

Writing in his column for CaughtOffside, CBS reporter and journalist Ben Jacobs claimed that there was an informal agreement in place that the 29-year-old could leave if relegated, with Spurs the “frontrunner” to secure his services having held a long-term interest, and that is something that they appear to have stepped up despite him surviving the drop.

Are Tottenham signing Pickford?

According to Football Transfers, Everton have been “contacted” by Tottenham to enquire about the possibility of a summer swoop for Pickford. The Lilywhites have been tracking the goalkeeper for “several months” and have now “started to make moves” for the 6 foot star.

The Goodison Park outfit have been approached by Spurs to “establish a dialogue”, and there have also already been “discussions” held between the player’s representatives and his admirers in N17.

The Blues have placed a £40m price tag on his head, but it’s claimed that before joining, he wants “reassurances” over who their new manager is going to be as well as if Harry Kane will remain in the capital beyond the upcoming window.

Everton goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.

Should Everton sell Pickford?

Pickford has been dubbed Everton’s “leader” by journalist Josh Bunting having captained Dyche’s side on several occasions last season, and considering the positive impact he has on the club, the board should do everything they can to retain his services for the 2023/24 campaign.

The World Cup participant kept eight clean sheets in the top-flight during the previous term which saw him receive two man-of-the-match awards, not to mention that he made a total of 123 saves from 181 shots on target against, giving him a save success percentage of 71.3%, as per FBRef.

Toffees supporters also clearly hold a lot of admiration for Pickford having voted him the Player of the Year twice, first in 2017/18 and second in 2021/22, and the thought of losing him would be a huge blow which is why he needs to remain in the net on Merseyside.

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