All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Celtic have made a habit of bringing back former players in recent times and could now be set to repeat the trick in surprise fashion, according to a report.

Celtic look to kickstart summer transfer business

Brendan Rodgers has enjoyed another supremely successful season at Parkhead and stands only one game off completing a domestic treble, coming against Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup final.

The Bhoys have already won the Premier Sports Cup and Scottish Premiership title, setting the scene for a summer that could see some exciting arrivals at Parkhead.

Club icon Kieran Tierney will return to Celtic on a free transfer once his Arsenal contract expires next month, completing a whirlwind comeback after leaving for the Gunners back in 2019.

With Jota set to miss up to nine months of action, the Bhoys could also look to bring in Stoke City winger Million Manhoef. However, the Dutch star may cost around £10 million to prize away from the bet365 Stadium.

Scottish talent Lennon Miller is also on Celtic’s radar and is set for a summer of speculation following a fine couple of years at Motherwell, even if the Scottish Premiership champions are likely to be one of a number of clubs interested in his services.

Celtic could sign a perfect £7m Jota replacement this summer

Celtic may be in the market for a new winger after they lost Jota to a long-term injury.

ByDan Emery May 5, 2025

In a global marketplace, homegrown signings are important for the Bhoys to ensure they can meet squad quotas for European competitions.

Ultimately, Scottish players have always formed a strong part of Celtic’s backbone and club culture. Callum McGregor and James Forrest are shining examples, though they are rare examples from the academy set-up in recent years.

Now, the Hoops could be set to turn to one of their former youth graduates in a surprise move, per recent developments.

Celtic eye surprise move for Aberdeen goalkeeper Ross Doohan

According to The Herald, Celtic are lining up a surprise move for Aberdeen goalkeeper Ross Doohan, who spent seven years coming through the ranks at Lennoxtown before signing for Tranmere Rovers in 2022. Since then, the 27-year-old has featured for Forest Green Rovers before pitching up at Pittodrie, where he has filled in at times for Dimitar Mitov this campaign.

Ross Doohan’s season at Aberdeen – all competitions

Appearances

18

Goals conceded

27

Clean sheets

5

Labelled “brilliant” by Aberdeen captain Graeme Shinnie, his final match with the Dons could come against Celtic in the Scottish Cup final before a move if the scenario were to materialise. Third-choice Hoops stopper Scott Bain could leave with only a year on his deal left, opening up a slot for Doohan to make his way back to Glasgow as he features on a list of potential alternatives.

Celtic are required to have four club-trained players and the former Scotland Under-21 fits the bill, making it easier for Rodgers to piece together his final 25-man squad for whatever European league phase his side end up in.

Admittedly, Doohan wouldn’t be a signing that would attract much fanfare, but his arrival could be beneficial in light of quota requirements.

Everton are on the verge of entering a new era and could be closing in on one of their first signings to grace the turf of Bramley Moore Dock, according to reports in the player’s homeland.

Everton gear up for an exciting summer under David Moyes

Everton’s spirits weren’t dampened too much despite surrendering a two-goal lead to Ipswich Town in their penultimate fixture at Goodison Park. Evidently, there is still a fragility that remains within David Moyes’ group of players, but there is plenty of optimism that the Scot can rectify any lingering problems in the summer transfer window.

Internally, Carlos Alcaraz is poised to sign for Everton permanently following his loan spell from Flamengo. Evaluating their situation, he will be far from the only one recruited to bolster squad depth.

Moyes has identified Sheffield United’s Gustavo Hamer as a priority target to add another dimension in midfield, with implementing a greater level of creativity set to be one of his main aims moving forward.

Traditionally, Everton are a hard-working outfit who have the steel needed for the cut and thrust of the Premier League. Still, a little stardust could help them reach a higher level.

He may be better than Branthwaite: Everton chasing deal for £47m "diamond"

Everton are looking to sign defenders in the transfer market this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 3, 2025

Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy may also join the Toffees on a free transfer if they can find a way to meet his wage demands amid his current pay packet every week sitting at £140,000.

Finding solutions across several positions is likely to be on their agenda, and Everton could now swoop for a long-term successor to right-back duo Seamus Coleman and Ashley Young if reports are to be believed.

Everton in advanced talks to sign Georgios Vagiannidis

According to Greek show Athletic Sunday, Everton are in advanced talks to sign Panathinaikos right-back Georgios Vagiannidis after putting forward their opening proposal to sign the 23-year-old. Veteran pair Coleman and Young are out of contract at the club, while Nathan Patterson has been far from a mainstay this season, amplifying the need for a replacement.

Georgios Vagiannidis’ statistics in 2024/25 – Greek Super League

Chances created

21

Successful dribbles

33

Successful crosses

11

Tackles won

24

Recoveries

100

Aerial duels won

36

Enjoying a fine campaign, Vagiannidis has registered one goal and three assists in 38 appearances this campaign as Panathanaikos look to secure continental qualification.

Labelled “complete” by scout/writer Jacek Kulig, who also likened the Greece international to Kyle Walker, he is also attracting interest from Brighton & Hove Albion as competition for his signature begins to heat up.

Jake O’Brien has been a major asset for Everton since taking a step to the right, but it is clear that more help is needed to provide adequate depth on that side of the defence.

Crucially, the Toffees should have the funds to do so courtesy of The Friedkin Group, making for an exciting few months once deals begin to be pushed over the line.

It’s been challenging to find the positives for Tottenham Hotspur this season.

Across all competitions, the North Londoners have lost 22 games, only one fewer than they’ve won, and if they don’t get to the Europa League final next month, it could go down as their worst campaign in a generation – or two.

However, there are, in fact, reasons to be optimistic for the Lilywhites faithful, as they have a collection of seriously exciting youngsters already in the senior side and the academy.

In fact, one youngster in particular looks like he could be a real world-beater, even in Tottenham’s answer to Lamine Yamal, if you will.

Spurs' most exciting youngsters

Before we get to the prospect in question, let’s take a look at some of the other sensational talents Spurs have on the books, including one teenager who is already playing senior football, just not in England: Luka Vušković.

In The Pipeline

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

The Croatian wonderkid is one of the most exciting centre-backs around at the moment, as, on top of being labelled a “monster” for his defensive efforts by respected analyst Ben Mattinson, he’s also a serious goal threat.

For example, in just 32 appearances, he has already scored seven goals and provided two assists, which comes out to a frankly staggering average – for a centre-back – of a goal involvement every 3.55 games.

A talent far closer to home but no less exciting is Tyrese Hall.

The 19-year-old prospect is enjoying a stellar season in the academy this year and has amassed a tally of six goals and five assists in only 28 appearances.

That means the teenage phenomenon, who Jermain Defoe claims has a “Luka Modric vibe” is currently averaging a goal involvement every 2.54 games, which is certainly encouraging.

However, there is another youngster who is even more exciting, someone who could be the club’s answer to Yamal.

Spurs' answer to Yamal

So, while some of you may be thinking of the incredibly promising Mikey Moore, you’d be mistaken, as the academy gem in question is actually a year younger.

Despite being just 16 years old, Luca Williams Barnett has been causing quite a stir this season, as every week, regardless of the opposition, he seems to deliver.

For example, in just 18 appearances, totalling 1465 minutes, the Luton-born prodigy has scored a whopping 19 goals and provided nine assists.

Appearances

18

Minutes

1465′

Goals

19

Assists

9

Goal Involvements per Match

1.55

Minutes per Goal Involvement

52.32′

That means he is currently maintaining an otherworldly average of 1.55 goal involvements every single game, or in other words, he produces one every 52.32 minutes.

It is this simply sensational rate of return, combined with the kind of hype that has seen Mattinson describe him as “one of England’s best talents,” that makes comparisons to Yamal seem so easy.

After all, the young Spaniard earned his first start for Barcelona when he was 16 years old, and if the Lilywhites’ new superstar in the making continues to put up the numbers he is now, then we see no reason why he couldn’t get his first start next season, also at just 16 years old.

Finally, on top of being a pure output machine, the teenager has also played in several positions on top of his natural attacking midfield role before, including left-midfield, left and right-wing and even up top, which lends credence to Spurs’ expert John Wenham’s description of him as a “cheat-code.”

Ultimately, while it’s still very early in his hopefully long career, Williams-Barnett looks like he has everything needed to be a genuine superstar in the future. Who knows, maybe he’ll be talked about in the same way Yamal is now in a few years.

He'd be perfect under Iraola: Spurs line up move for "unplayable" £40m star

Spurs could combine Andoni Iraola with an “unplayable” £40m signing.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Apr 23, 2025

Manchester United are now working on a deal to hijack Newcastle United and sign a £25 million ace this summer, according to a new report.

Man Utd stepping up transfer plans as horror form continues

The Red Devils have all eyes on the Europa League, as that competition is all that is left for United in terms of bringing some sort of success to this dismal campaign. Given how bad the season has gone for United, this summer is huge in terms of moving forward under Ruben Amorim. The Portuguese knows how big of a job this is, and to make it slightly easier, he is going to want his own types of players at the club.

The new Casemiro: Amorim must axe 3/10 Man Utd dud who looked "so anxious"

Manchester United may have uncovered their next Casemiro.

1 ByMatt Dawson Apr 14, 2025

It already appears that INEOS are trying to get ahead of the game and make some expensive purchases. According to a report from Africa Foot, per Sports Witness, United have already begun working on a deal to sign Jonas Adjetey from Swiss side FC Basel. The centre-back is only 21 years old, and the Premier League side believe he is “one of Europe’s most promising defenders”.

It doesn’t stop there for United, as INEOS are now willing to make a £70 million offer to sign Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa. The Englishman has been outstanding for the Midlands side this season, and his performances have now made him a ‘top target’ for United, and they are looking to do everything they can to secure an agreement.

Man Utd and INEOS now looking to hijack Newcastle move for Luis Henrique

The arrivals at Old Trafford are not expected to stop there, as according to TBR Football, Man United are now keeping an eye on Marseille’s Luis Henrique ahead of making a move in the summer transfer window.

The report states that United are already doing work on a potential deal for the Brazilian but face stiff competition, as Newcastle United have opened talks to sign Henrique. Nottingham Forest are also very keen on a potential transfer, and Serie A champions Inter Milan have been public about their interest in the attacker.

Despite the heavy interest, United and INEOS have still opted to join the race, as they are keen to bolster their options for Amorim ahead of next season. The 23-year-old, who can play on either the left or right-hand side of the attack, is seen as a player who could possibly play in the right wing-back spot at United under Amorim, despite the Magpies wanting him as a winger, where he has played this term.

Apps

29

Starts

26

Goals

7

Goal conversion rate

26%

Assists

5

Big chances created

9

Key passes per game

1.7

Tackles per game

0.5

Successful dribbles per game

1.6 (58%)

Henrique is under contract in France until the summer of 2028, and it’s been reported that it could cost as much as £25 million to get him out of France, as Marseille may need to sell the player to balance their books. His potential arrival would bring a goal threat to United’s right-hand side, as he’s netted seven goals in Ligue 1 this season.

Manchester United are now plotting a move to sign a £50 million star quickly and make him their first signing of the summer transfer window, according to a new report.

Man Utd cast eyes over two goalkeepers as replacements for Onana

Given how this season has gone for United before and after Ruben Amorim arrived at Old Trafford, there are a number of positions the Portuguese would like to strengthen this summer. Signing a new goalkeeper was probably not going to be a discussion for the Red Devils, given Andre Onana has not long been at the club, but given his inconsistency this season, Amorim appears to be in the market for a new number one.

Free transfer: Man Utd eyeing move to sign "fantastic" ex-Newcastle player

He could earn Premier League redemption.

ByTom Cunningham Apr 7, 2025

It was reported last week that United were progressing in talks to sign Mike Maignan from AC Milan. The France international is considered to be a ‘top priority’ for United, and negotiations between the player and the Premier League side are said to have advanced.

The next step is for the Red Devils to make contact with the Italian giants, who could demand as much as £67 million for Maignan, which may be a stumbling block, given how United’s budget will look this summer.

Therefore, United may have to consider cheaper alternatives, and according to Alan Nixon, United are keeping an eye on Freddie Woodman, who currently plays for Preston North End. The 28-year-old looks set to become a free agent this summer, and the Red Devils have been keeping an eye on his performances before he suffered his recent ankle injury.

Man Utd want to beat Arsenal to £50m Brentford star Mbeumo

Signing a goalkeeper is not the first priority for United, as according to a report from Spain, Man United are looking to act fast and make Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo their first signing of the summer transfer window.

The report states that United chiefs are already putting plans in place to make additions to their attack this summer, and Mbeumo is seen as a player who can offer immediate solutions to their team and fits into Amorim’s system. Furthermore, the fact that Mbeumo is out of contract in 2026 means United could sign the forward on a cut-price deal.

Brentford are believed to be aware of the interest in their striker, and it is considered quite ‘inevitable’ that he leaves the club. Therefore, the Red Devils are looking to secure a transfer and, most importantly, act quickly, as they want to beat other potential teams who are also keen on Mbeumo and make him their first signing of the summer.

Apps

129

Goals

38

Assists

26

Arsenal have also been heavily linked with a move to sign the 25-year-old, who has scored 16 goals in 31 league games this season, and it’s been reported that the Gunners are ready to revisit a move for Mbeumo this summer, as Brentford look to get around £50 million for their star player.

Mikel Arteta wanted to sign Mbeumo last summer but missed out, and United will hope the same happens again, as they believe he will fit into what Amorim wants from his attacking players at Old Trafford.

Sometimes a game is just that for a club; other times, it feels far more consequential, and for Chelsea, their draw against Arsenal on Sunday evening falls into the latter category.

Enzo Maresca’s side went into the top-of-the-table clash with a point to prove, and while they didn’t win, they certainly proved it.

The Blues were all over the Premier League leaders from minute one, and even with a man down, continued to go toe to toe with the Gunners.

However, while most of the team put in stellar performances and more than secured their places in the starting lineup for the next game, there was one Chelsea star who had a middling day at the office.

The Chelsea stars who cemented their places in the team

As if there was ever really any doubt anyway, Reece James once again demonstrated that he has to start every game he is fit for, be that at right-back or in midfield.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

On top of providing the assist for the Blues’ goal, the unplayable captain also won 11 of 12 duels, played two key passes, won four fouls and completed three of four crosses.

In all, as presenter Olivia Buzaglo put it, it was a “gargantuan” performance from the Cobham graduate.

Speaking of academy graduates, another player who now has to be one of the first names on Maresca’s team sheets is Trevoh Chalobah.

The 26-year-old once-capped international was monstrous at the back against the Gunners, won 100% of his tackles, made six clearances, recovered the ball four times, won five of seven duels and didn’t get dribbled past once.

As if that wasn’t enough, he also rose to meet James’ corner and head it home early in the second half.

Staying at the back, Robert Sanchez again proved that he’s transformed from a liability between the sticks into one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League.

Finally, while he didn’t get a goal or assist, Pedro Neto was undoubtedly the West Londoners’ best attacker on the night.

On top of doing his best to help out in defence, he was a constant threat on the counter and provided his side with a vital outball to relieve pressure towards the end of the game.

However, while most of the team should be starting the next game based on their performances, there was one Chelsea star who probably played himself out of the side.

The Chelsea player Maresca must axe

It seems harsh given the teams’ performance and the fact they held on with ten men, but there was one Chelsea player who underwhelmed on Sunday evening: Joao Pedro.

Now, there is absolutely no denying the Brazilian’s immense talent, nor the fact that, come the end of the season, fans will probably be more than happy with his efforts.

However, what is equally true is that, against Arsenal, the former Brighton & Hove Albion gem was really quite disappointing.

Even before the hosts went a man down, he offered little in attack, and when he was presented with a golden opportunity in the first half, he couldn’t sort his feet out in time. Joao Pedro

Then in the second 45, it quickly became clear that he was not holding the ball well enough for his faster teammates to counterattack, and he was therefore replaced by Liam Delap, who was far better at that.

Unsurprisingly, the watching press were not all that impressed with what they saw. For example, football.london’s Bobby Vincent gave him a 4/10 match rating and wrote that it ‘just wasn’t his day.’

That may sound a little harsh, but the 24-year-old’s match statistics prove it’s not.

Minutes

55′

Expected Goals

0.24

Goals

0

Total Shots

1

Big Chances Missed

1

Touches

21

Lost Possession

8

Total Passes

6/8

Ground Duels (Won)

5 (2)

Aerial Duels (Won)

3 (2)

Fouls

1

In his 55 minutes, the Brazilian took just a single shot, missed a big chance, took 21 touches – 43 fewer than Sanchez -, lost the ball eight times, failed in two of three dribbles and completed just six passes.

Ultimately, while Pedo is an excellent player, he was really quite disappointing against Arsenal and with Delap ready to step in, he should be dropped for Wednesday’s game.

Chelsea star who saved Caicedo is their "most underappreciated player"

The underrated Chelsea ace made sure Caicedo’s red card didn’t cost Enzo Maresca’s men against Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 30, 2025

Manchester City are now frontrunners in the race to sign a “world-class” £80m star, who Pep Guardiola has called “extraordinary”.

Man City eyeing new forward after Bayer Leverkusen defeat

Guardiola rung the changes on Tuesday evening, making 10 alterations to the side that lost 2-1 at Newcastle United at the weekend, and Bayer Leverkusen made them pay, emerging as 2-0 winners at the Etihad Stadium.

City did manage to create some chances, with Nathan Ake, Savinho and second-half substitute Erling Haaland all squandering big opportunities, but they weren’t clinical enough on the night, and the German side emerged as surprise winners.

Pep would’ve been hoping that his attackers would step up in the absence of Haaland, with Omar Marmoush being given the nod ahead of the Norwegian at centre-forward, but it was a subpar performance from the Egyptian, who received a 6.2 SofaScore match rating, the lowest of any player.

The defeat arguably underlined the need for the Blues to bring in another forward to support Haaland in the January transfer window, and there has now been a positive update on their interest in Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr.

According to a report from Football Insider, Man City are now frontrunners in the race to sign Vinicius, alongside Premier League rivals Chelsea, with the forward’s future at the Santiago Bernabeu in doubt, following a fallout with manager Xabi Alonso.

Talks over a contract extension have stalled, meaning the Brazilian could be set to depart the Spanish club, and City would have the financial muscle to get a deal over the line, with his current employers looking to receive £80m.

Should Madrid decide to cash-in this summer, with the 25-year-old’s current deal set to expire in 2027, a number of Saudi Pro League clubs would also join the Blues in the race, so there could be stiff competition for his signature.

"World-class" Vinicius could elevate Man City's forward line

With the likes of Savinho, Marmoush and Oscar Bobb failing to deliver against Leverkusen, Pep may be keen to bring in a forward who is already proven at the top level, and he is known to be a keen admirer of the Real Madrid star.

The City boss lauded the Brazil international as “extraordinary” last year, while he has also received high praise from Jurgen Klopp, who described the winger as “world-class” and a Real Madrid “legend”.

The former Flamengo man has been one of Madrid’s most important players for several years now, and he remained potent in front of goal right across the 2024-25 campaign, weighing in with 41 goal contributions in all competitions.

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There has been a new update on the Blues’ pursuit of a new defender.

ByDominic Lund Nov 27, 2025

As such, should Vinicius Jr become available, Man City should undoubtedly make a move, and £80m would be reasonable fee for a forward who is still young, and regarded as one of the best wingers in the world.

There has now been a major injury update on West Ham United star Crysencio Summerville ahead of the Premier League fixture against Liverpool this Sunday.

West Ham had to make do without the winger for the trip to AFC Bournemouth at the weekend, with Nuno’s side taking a point at the Vitality Stadium, although they will be frustrated they were unable to take more from the game.

The Hammers raced into a 2-0 lead against the Cherries, courtesy of a Callum Wilson brace before half-time, but Bournemouth fought back to earn a point, with Marcus Tavernier and Enes Unal getting on the scoresheet.

With Leeds United falling to a 2-1 defeat at home against Aston Villa, the Irons remain outside the relegation zone on goal difference, but they will need all the help they can get in the coming weeks, as there are some tricky fixtures on the horizon.

West Ham United’s upcoming fixtures

Date

Liverpool (h)

November 30th

Manchester United (a)

December 4th

Brighton & Hove Albion (a)

December 7th

Aston Villa (h)

December 14th

Manchester City (a)

December 20th

Injury update on West Ham's Crysencio Summerville ahead of Liverpool

As reported by The Standard, Nuno has now been handed a boost heading into this weekend’s fixture against Liverpool, with Summerville expected to return to training this week, having seemingly made strides towards recovering from a calf strain.

The 24-year-old is set to be in contention for the game against Arne Slot’s side, which will be welcome news for West Ham, given that Niclas Fullkrug is out due to a thigh issue, and they are keen not to overuse Wilson, despite the striker bagging a brace last time out.

Former Leeds United U23 manager Andrew Taylor has waxed lyrical about the Dutchman in the past, saying: “Everything going forward he’s fantastic at, but he doesn’t just stop there, he does the defensive work as well, he works really hard.”

Since moving to the London Stadium, however, the Rotterdam-born winger’s progress has been hampered by a number of injuries, having spent large parts of the 2024-25 campaign on the sidelines due to a hamstring issue.

That said, the former Leeds man has exhibited some promising signs this season, having already registered two assists in the Premier League, albeit both came in the 3-0 win at Nottingham Forest at the end of August.

Summerville still retains the backing of Nuno, however, who said last month: “I think he can be really important. Against Brentford, he started really well and, in terms of distance, in terms of work rate, it was a good 90 minutes for him.

“So we expect, as time goes by, to elevate his fitness, because to produce all of the actions he has to be on his top level.

The West Ham boss will be hoping for a similar performance this weekend, with his side taking on Liverpool at a good time, given that they have lost six of their last seven Premier League games.

West Ham could bring in academy star if Crysencio Summerville isn't fit in time for Liverpool Forget Guilherme: Nuno can fix Summerville blow with West Ham academy star

Nuno might already have the perfect solution to West Ham’s Summerville problem.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 25, 2025

The international break is something of a blessing and a curse for Arsenal.

On the one hand, it gives the club respite from their current injury crisis, but on the other, they have to wait two weeks to make amends for the draw away to Sunderland.

However, even though they saw their lead cut on Sunday evening, Mikel Arteta’s side are in a great spot in the Premier League.

Moreover, despite injuries, the side is full to bursting with talent, including one player who’s starting to look like another Myles Lewis-Skelly.

The latest on Lewis-Skelly's future at Arsenal

It would be fair to say that, aside from their run in the Champions League, last season was something of a disappointment for Arsenal.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

However, there were at least a couple of positives to come from it, such as the emergence of Ethan Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly.

The latter was more of a surprise to most, and yet over the course of the campaign, he became a far more significant part of the side, effectively becoming Arteta’s first-choice left-back.

In fact, by the end of the season, the 19-year-old had made 39 first-team appearances, totalling 2306 minutes, and even made his full debut for England, during which he scored.

However, so far this season has been a totally different story for the youngster, as while he has still made 12 appearances, only four of those have been starts, and overall, he has played just 463 minutes of action.

During the last international break, Thomas Tuchel said that this lack of game time could result in him not picking the Islington-born ace.

Unfortunately, that’s what’s happened this international break.

Appearances

39

12

Starts

26

4

Minutes

2306′

463′

Goals

1

0

Assists

2

3

Unsurprisingly, this has led to reports that other Premier League clubs are now interested in signing the youngster in the winter transfer window.

However, the same reports make it clear that Arteta and Co are keen to keep the Hale Ender at the club, and that they expect him to play more minutes as the season progresses.

With that said, if Arsenal do decide to cash in, they do have another youngster in the side who is showing shades of Lewis-Skelly in his game.

Arsenal's new Lewis-Skelly

Even though Riccardo Calafiori and Pieiro Hincapie are his competition at left-back, the Arsenal player who is showing shades of Lewis-Skelly in his game this season is Cristhian Mosquera.

Now, that might sound like a leap to begin with, but “similarly to Lewis-Skelly,” per analyst Ben Mattinson, the Spaniard has shown an immense level of “physical maturity for his age.”

More than that, though, the 21-year-old has also shown a remarkable mental maturity, which was on full display when he came on and played almost the whole game away to Liverpool, and then started the club’s opening Champions League game against Athletic Bilbao.

While he may have been described as a “monster” by Gunners insider Hand of Arsenal, where most young defenders would need their hand held by a senior teammate or go crashing into ridiculous challenges, the former Valencia gem is thoughtful about when he goes in for a tackle or block.

However, that’s not to say he is adverse to the more physical side of the game, as, just like Lewis-Skelly, he is someone who “loves to battle with physical attackers,” according to Mattinson.

Moreover, while most fans and pundits alike expected the exciting youngster to play a minor role this season, the Valencia-born titan is following in the Hale Ender’s footsteps from last season and playing a far more significant role than most predicted.

For example, he has already made 12 appearances, five of which have been starts, totalling 597 minutes.

Finally, like the Englishman, he is not solely limited to playing a single position, as in addition to playing at centre-back, he can do a job at right-back.

Ultimately, there are some differences between them, but in terms of mentality, raw ability, and attitude, there are plenty of similarities between Mosquera and Lewis-Skelly.

After Dowman: Hale End has given Arsenal a future star who's "like Vieira"

The incredible prospect could be another Max Dowman-style star for Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 12, 2025

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has a grand plan for striker Dominic Solanke once he returns from injury, contrary to other reports.

In the last few days, Spurs’ club-record signing has actually been linked with the January exit door.

The 28-year-old’s last appearance came during a brief cameo in Tottenham’s 2-0 win away to Man City at the very start of the campaign, but he’s been sidelined with a niggling ankle problem ever since.

Dejan Kulusevski

Knee

22/11/2025

James Maddison

ACL

01/06/2026

Radu Dragusin

Knee

22/11/2025

Ben Davies

Thigh

23/11/2025

Kota Takai

Ankle/Foot

08/11/2025

Yves Bissouma

Ankle/Foot

08/11/2025

Wilson Odobert

Abdominal

01/11/2025

Cristian Romero

Groin

01/11/2025

Destiny Udogie

Knee

08/11/2025

Dominic Solanke

Ankle

08/11/2025

Archie Gray

Calf/Shin/Heel

06/11/2025

via Premier Injuries

Solanke underwent minor surgery to fix the issue, with Frank’s forward still working his way back to full fitness ahead of a tough run of fixtures.

Despite playing just 49 minutes in total under Spurs’ new boss, reports have surprisingly suggested that Frank isn’t particularly impressed by Solanke and could look to sell the England international.

Solanke’s inconsistency and fitness issues have raised some doubts among supporters about his suitability as Tottenham’s long-term first-choice striker, with Juventus striker Dušan Vlahović reportedly emerging as a prime alternative as the Serbian’s contract expires at the end of this season.

Links to Vlahovic could raise some questions about Solanke’s future in N17, but according to reporter Dean Jones, the former Bournemouth star shouldn’t be too worried about his place.

Thomas Frank's grand plan for Dominic Solanke at Tottenham

Jones, writing for TEAMtalk, says that Frank is preparing to make Solanke the focal point of his attack once the striker returns from injury, with growing “inside” belief that he can add a fresh and “new” dimension to their attacking play.

Despite Solanke’s challenges, there’s a clear sense among Tottenham’s coaching staff and insiders that he has the qualities to lead the line effectively.

The return of Solanke is eagerly anticipated by Frank, with hopes that he will elevate Tottenham’s attacking threat in crucial matches.

The delay in his comeback may also be put down to Spurs adopting a more cautious approach with the number nine’s overall fitness as they look to avoid any setbacks.

Mathys Tel, bar his goal away to Leeds United, has struggled to replace Solanke overall, while Richarlison endured another night to forget during Tottenham’s 2-0 defeat at Newcastle in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday.

Last season, Solanke proved his worth by scoring 16 goals across all competitions, finishing as Spurs’ second top scorer behind Brennan Johnson. This goal tally underscores his importance to the team’s attack and highlights the threat he poses when fully fit.

Solanke’s presence allows Frank to build the attack around a proven goalscorer, providing a sense of stability to the entire forward line.

The ‘underrated’ forward’s ability to deliver crucial goals will be vital, especially in tight games where a clinical finish can make all the difference.

Jamie O'Hara takes aim at "non league" Tottenham player in defeat to Newcastle