All posts by z3u9t.icu

There is no hiding away from the fact that Glasgow Rangers have had a horrendous start to the 2025/26 campaign, domestically and in Europe, under Russell Martin.

The Light Blues swooped to appoint the former Scotland international, who had been out of work since being sacked by Southampton last season, but he has failed to win the supporters over yet.

It has been the worst start for the club in the Scottish Premiership in 47 years, with four draws and one loss in five games, after the 2-0 loss to Hearts on Saturday.

Lawrence Shankland, who was a reported target for Rangers last year, scored both of the goals for the Jam Tarts, as the Light Blues failed to offer a threat of their own at the other end of the pitch.

The Ibrox giants made 14 additions to their first-team squad during the summer transfer window, which means that there does need to be a degree of patience with some individuals as they get up to speed in a difficult environment, created by the team’s performances.

Rangers have seen it plenty of times in recent years when a player has a slow start to life at Ibrox before exploding into life. Malik Tillman is one notable example of that.

Rangers hit the jackpot with Malik Tillman

The Light Blues swooped to sign the USA international from German giants Bayern Munich on a season-long loan in the summer of 2022 to bolster their options at the top end of the pitch.

At the time of the announcement, Giovanni van Bronckhorst said: “He is an exciting young talent who will further add to our attacking options and myself and the coaching staff are looking forward to working with him.”

The Dutch head coach made it clear that he was a ‘young talent’ whom the coaching staff would work with, which is why it was not a surprise when he had a fairly slow start to life at Ibrox.

Tillman managed two goals and one assist in his first 12 appearances in all competitions for the Light Blues, as he struggled for consistency early on in his Glasgow career, per Sofascore.

However, the German-born star went on to end the campaign with 12 goals and five assists in 43 outings for the Scottish giants, which shows that he improved his output at the top end of the pitch as the season went on.

xG

6.35

Top 9%

xG on target

6.59

Top 8%

Goals

10

Top 6%

xA

4.60

Top 15%

Assists

4

Top 33%

Chances created

46

Top 9%

Successful dribbles

43

Top 9%

As you can see in the table above, Tillman ended up being one of the most impressive attacking midfielders in the Premiership in the 2022/23 campaign, as he ranked highly as a scorer, a creator, and as a dribbler.

This shows that the Gers hit the jackpot with the USMNT talent because they were willing to be patient with him as a loan player, which is something to keep in mind when judging the current squad.

Chalkboard

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

Whilst you may jump to Thelo Aasgaard as a direct comparison to Tillman, given that he is also an attacking midfielder and has failed to deliver a goal or an assist in his first three outings in the Premiership.

However, Martin is brewing the club’s next version of Tillman at Ibrox in a different underperforming Light Blues attacking signing – Mikey Moore.

Why Mikey Moore is the next Malik Tillman for Rangers

Unlike Aasgaard, Moore is similar to the former Rangers star in the sense that he is also a loan player from a big European club, Tottenham Hotspur instead of Bayern Munich, and is a young and inexperienced player.

Whereas Aasgaard is 23 and played 163 first-team matches for Wigan, as well as 17 for Luton Town, before his permanent move to Ibrox during the summer transfer window.

Moore arrived in Glasgow this summer with just three league starts in first-team football under his belt during his time with Spurs, as this is his first loan move away from the Europa League champions.

This is why it should not be a surprise to anyone that the 18-year-old talent has had a slow start at Rangers, despite his claim that he would like to be one of the best players in the world.

Moore has delivered no goals and one assist in five appearances in all competitions for the Light Blues so far this season, per Transfermarkt, assisting Nedim Bajrami for the opener in the 4-2 win over Alloa Athletic in the League Cup.

All of the teenage talent’s appearances for the Light Blues so far this season have come on the left wing, per Transfermarkt, but his career statistics suggest that he should be used more centrally.

Left wing (18)

4

6

Attacking midfield (8)

6

4

Centre-forward (7)

11

4

Right wing (6)

1

0

Left midfield (3)

0

1

As you can see in the table above, Moore has scored 17 goals and delivered eight assists in 15 outings as an attacking midfielder or striker, compared to five goals and seven assists in 27 games as a winger, on the right and left combined.

These statistics suggest that the English whiz, who was described as “fearless” by teammate James Maddison, would be far more effective for the Gers if Martin utilised him as an attacking midfielder or perhaps as a second striker behind Bojan Miovski or Youssef Chermiti.

Moore has looked a little lost on the left wing in the Premiership, completing 17% of his attempted dribbles this season per Sofascore, and playing him centrally could help to simplify his game and allow him to concentrate on making an impact in the box, rather than trying to beat three or four players with the ball.

Rangers had "athletic beast" on trial, now he's worth more than Chermiti

Rangers had a star on trial in 2023 who is now worth £7m more than Youssef Chermiti.

ByDan Emery Sep 12, 2025

Therefore, there needs to be a degree of patience with Moore whilst he finds his feet at Ibrox and Martin finds out how best to utilise his talent within the team, because his statistics in central positions suggest that he has the potential to explode in the same way that Tillman did.

Arsenal’s summer transfer window once again blended big-money investment with their long-standing faith in youth.

After finishing second in the Premier League last season, and reaching the Champions League semi-finals, the club doubled down on its squad rebuild.

Major arrivals included Martin Zubimendi, Viktor Gyökeres, Noni Madueke, Eberechi Eze, Cristhian Mosquera, Christian Nørgaard and Kepa Arrizabalaga.

Departures such as Jakub Kiwior, Oleksandr Zinchenko, and Reiss Nelson cleared space in the squad, while Arsenal also leaned heavily on their Hale End academy graduates.

Ethan Nwaneri, now 18, continues to develop after becoming the Premier League’s youngest-ever debutant in 2022.

Myles Lewis-Skelly enjoyed a breakout season, and Max Dowman, still only 15, made his senior bow against Leeds.

That commitment to the academy has become a central pillar of Arsenal’s squad-building philosophy under Mikel Arteta.

Yet while several young prospects have been integrated, others have slipped away.

The balance between spending heavily and nurturing talent is once again at the heart of Arsenal’s defensive planning.

Who is Piero Hincapié, and Why Did Arsenal Sign Him?

When Arsenal announced the arrival of Piero Hincapié from Bayer Leverkusen on loan with a £45m option to buy, it was framed as a major upgrade on the left side of their defence.

At 23, the Ecuadorian international already brings European pedigree, with 32 Bundesliga appearances last season, contributing two goals and two assists.

Hincapié has been on Arsenal’s radar for years, valued for his ability to operate at both left centre-back and left-back.

With Gabriel undergoing hamstring surgery at the end of last season and Riccardo Calafiori struggling with fitness, versatility is essential.

Sporting Director Andrea Berta emphasised Hincapié’s tactical flexibility, and Arteta believes he is not simply cover but a genuine competitor for a starting role. His statistical profile backs up the excitement.

Matches Played

32

Progressive Carries

52

Progressive Passes

152

Tackles

52

Blocks

40

Aerials Won

65

Compared to positional peers, Hincapié ranked in the 96th percentile for progressive carries (1.69 per 90), underlining his comfort driving forward with the ball.

He also sat in the 86th percentile for progressive passes (4.94 per 90) and an eye-catching 94th percentile for key passes (0.54 per 90) – numbers that show how he can help Arsenal’s build-up from deep.

Defensively, he impressed in the 89th percentile for tackles won (1.29 per 90) and the 86th percentile for passes blocked (0.72 per 90).

This blend of defensive solidity and forward-thinking distribution makes him a natural fit for Arteta’s system, where centre-backs are expected to initiate attacks as much as they are to shut them down.

His arrival represents a continuation of Arsenal’s recent strategy: recruit players with multi-positional value while retaining the ability to progress possession.

Ayden Heaven could have been Hincapie 2.0

As Arsenal commit to potentially spending £45m next summer to make Hincapié’s move permanent, questions linger over whether they let a homegrown option slip through their fingers.

Ayden Heaven, once considered one of the Hale End academy’s brightest defensive prospects, departed for Manchester United in February for a fee of just £1m.

His departure came after limited opportunities at the Emirates despite being highly rated within the club. Analyst Ben Mattinson once described Heaven as “highly unique,” and he has quickly shown why.

Drafted into United’s first-team picture earlier than expected after Lisandro Martínez’s season-ending injury, the 18-year-old has already made eight appearances for the Red Devils.

He has looked composed in possession, comfortable carrying the ball out from defence, and tactically assured despite his age.

United moved quickly to secure him on a long-term deal running until 2029, amid reported interest from Barcelona, Frankfurt and Marseille.

Heaven’s profile, a left-footed defender who is confident on the ball, is precisely the type of player Arsenal are now looking to integrate through Hincapié.

The irony is hard to miss.

Where Hincapié ranks among Europe’s best for progressive actions, Heaven has showcased similar traits in his early United outings.

His poise on the ball and ability to step into midfield mirrors the qualities Arteta demands from his defenders.

For a club that has prided itself on giving opportunities to youth, losing Heaven for such a modest fee may come to be seen as a misstep.

The comparison is not to suggest Hincapié is the wrong signing – his experience and proven metrics make him a high-level addition.

But for a side that has successfully nurtured Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly, the case of Heaven highlights the fine margins of squad planning.

Arsenal could soon pay £45m for a defender to fill the very role that a Hale End graduate, now at a Premier League rival, may have slotted into seamlessly.

Sold by Wenger: Arsenal had their own Rodrygo in £312k-p/w "future legend"

The incredibly successful international would have been a superstar at Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Sep 5, 2025

Chelsea are just two wins away from capturing the Club World Cup title following their win over Palmeiras in the quarter-final.

The draw has opened up kindly for Enzo Maresca’s side, as Manchester City were knocked out at the last 16 stage.

They were made to work hard for the victory against the Brazilian side. Their goal came courtesy of Estevao, the youngster who will join Chelsea in the next few weeks.

Given his performance, the Blues may have hit the jackpot.

Chelsea's plan for Estevao

The 18-year-old is well on his way to becoming the next big thing in Brazilian football. Neymar even hailed the winger as a “genius” in January 2024.

A tally of 27 goals and 15 assists across just 83 senior games suggests Estevao has the potential to be a truly magnificent signing for Chelsea.

Playing in an attacking midfield role against the Blues, Estevao looked bright throughout the clash. His equaliser came just after half-time, latching on to a pass before slotting home an excellent finish from a tight angle.

He tended to drift over to his natural position on the right and was a handful for the Chelsea backline during the game.

Maresca has a plethora of forwards to choose from ahead of the 2025/26 season, especially with the signings of Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens.

That being said, there could still be a role for the teenager at Stamford Bridge next season, with The Telegraph reporting that he is not expected to follow the recent trend of heading out on loan to the likes of Strasbourg, part of the BlueCo group.

Excitement is building over finally seeing Estevao in a Chelsea shirt, although could Maresca even make a move for someone who might turn out to be a bigger talent than the Brazilian?

Chelsea showing interest in Premier League starlet

Despite the depth of their attacking options, it appears as though the Stamford Bridge outfit are seeking to lure all the finest talent to London.

Transfer Focus

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

While winning the Club World Cup remains Maresca’s main aim over the next week, it is evident that he is still looking to build a squad capable of challenging for the Premier League and Champions League next season.

A surprising name has been linked with a shock move across London recently, however, and if a deal goes through, it would signal a real statement of intent.

Indeed, Fabrizio Romano has shared news regarding Arsenal talent Ethan Nwaneri, and it looks as though Chelsea are lurking in the shadows in the hope that he doesn’t sign a new deal with Arsenal.

As Romano said on X, the Blues are potentially ready to pounce to sign the teenager, with Nwaneri seeking guarantees over his game time at the Emirates, prior to committing his future to the club.

The youngster is in discussions with the Gunners regarding a new deal as his current one expires next summer, leaving the door open for a potential move away from North London.

If a move did go through, where does this leave Estevao? And is Nwaneri an even bigger talent than the Brazilian?

Why Chelsea must sign Ethan Nwaneri

Estevao is just a month younger than Nwaneri, but he already has five appearances for Brazil at international level. The Arsenal starlet has yet to make his national team debut, however, but there is no doubt that the 18-year-old will take the next step up sooner rather than later.

Both have played plenty of games in their respective top-flight leagues, while also making appearances in the Copa Libertadores and Champions League.

As such, what separates them? Like Estevao, Nwaneri has been touted as being the next big thing to emerge from his nation.

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig even lauded his rise in May 2024, saying that the Arsenal gem was “one of Hale End & England’s biggest jewels” after a stunning season at youth level for the Gunners.

While the Palmeiras youngster has shone in his homeland, there is no guarantee that he will adapt to English football upon making the move to Chelsea. Maresca will give him plenty of opportunities to showcase his talents, no doubt about that, but he must hit the ground running.

Metric

Premier League

Champions League

Goals

4

2

Assists

2

0

Big chances created

1

1

Key passes per game

0.6

0.3

Successful dribbles per game

1.4

1

Nwaneri, on the other hand, played 26 top-flight matches for the North Londoners last term, scoring four times and grabbing two assists.

When compared via their domestic statistics from last term, the English teen not only registered more goals and assists (six vs three), but he also recorded more shots per 90 (2.41 vs 2.06), a higher percentage of successful take-ons (59.7% vs 31.8%), took more touches in the opposition penalty area (339 vs 257) and even won a higher percentage of aerial duels (33.3% vs 20%).

Given his performances in the Premier League, Nwaneri should be able to settle into this Chelsea side with ease should a move be secured in the coming weeks.

Estevao would have to work harder to make himself a success in England, despite all that he has achieved in his homeland.

Nwaneri even scored twice in the Champions League last term and Mikel Arteta was full of praise for his teen sensation after his first goal against Girona.

“That’s what we love about him – he’s very aggressive. Before that [goal], he had another action where he made the right choice, he went for it,” gushed the Spaniard.

“He never [looks nervous], he’s so composed, calm and confident in his ability. At 17, scoring a really important goal in the Champions League is not very common.”

If the door is ajar for Chelsea to make a move, Maresca must seize the chance.

Salah repeat: Chelsea's "unbelievable" £55m star is now "open" to leaving

Chelsea could regret selling the dynamic attacker.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 5, 2025

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

Sheffield United are on the lookout for reinforcements to put themselves in a position to claim promotion and two Tottenham Hotspur stars are now said to be on their radar.

Sheffield United close to finalising Chris Wilder's replacement

Despite achieving 92 points last season, the Blades are set to relieve Chris Wilder of his duties, and the search for his replacement is firmly in the works at Bramall Lane.

Wasting no time, Sheffield United are in advanced talks with Ruben Selles, and he is expected to become the new man in charge following his spell at fellow EFL Championship outfit Hull City.

Showing his frustration at events, BBC reporter Andy Giddings believes sacking Wilder is a decision that shows ‘naivety’ in light of his respectable points tally and record across two spells in Yorkshire.

He explained: “The delay in holding these talks over his future and the time it’s taken to resolve the situation shows a lack of respect to Wilder, in my opinion, a lack of clarity at the top of the club, and a naivety in offering him a new three-year deal in January, when it was known significant changes to the club’s methods of recruitment were coming.”

With their managerial vacancy set to be filled, the Blades will now turn their attention to potential incoming after a heartbreaking playoff final loss to Sunderland.

Chris Wilder’s record in charge at Sheffield United

Matches in charge

305

Wins

140

Draws

57

Losses

108

Trophies/promotions

EFL League One title in 2016/17 EFL Championship runners-up in 2018/19

Looking to the division below, Sheffield United have reportedly made contact with Leyton Orient over Ethan Galbraith, and his versatility could offer a sense of variation for Selles, given he can feature at right-back, in midfield or on either flank.

Nevertheless, the club’s hierarchy could actually be set to raid the Premier League for two rising stars amid recent developments.

Sheffield United want to sign Tottenham Hotspur duo

According to the Sheffield Star, Sheffield United want to sign Tottenham due Ashley Phillips and Alfie Devine to help their promotion push next campaign.

Defender Phillips spent last season on loan at Stoke City and made 39 appearances across all competitions. Meanwhile, the latter racked up six strikes and a solitary assist in 32 outings in midfield for K.V.C Westerlo in Belgium.

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

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

ByBrett Worthington Jun 5, 2025

Labelled “outstanding” by former Port Vale boss Andy Crosby, Devine is highly rated within the corridors of the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and they may feel a move to Yorkshire could be advantageous regarding his development.

In the case of Phillips, it isn’t explicitly clear whether any move for him would be a loan agreement or on a permanent basis. Either way, Anel Ahmedhodzic and Jack Robinson are the only senior central defenders on the books at Bramall Lane right now, signifying a need for cover.

Chelsea’s recruitment drive has been pretty exciting over the last week, with numerous talks ongoing behind-the-scenes after they sealed a deal for Liam Delap.

Chelsea attempting to confirm more signings before Club World Cup

Delap officially signed a six-year contract at Stamford Bridge earlier this week and will don the number nine shirt, with the Blues deciding to pay his £30 million release clause.

Chelsea push to sign second ex-Man City gem after Delap amid £20m discount

The Blues could add to their ex-City contingent again.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 5, 2025

The now-former Ipswich Town star is eligible to take part in Chelsea’s Club World Cup campaign, giving Enzo Maresca a classic out-and-out number nine to work with ahead of the potentially lucrative tournament, which could yield £97 million in prize money.

BlueCo are by no means slowing down in the market after the confirmed arrival of Delap, with Chelsea at work to strengthen numerous other areas of Maresca’s squad before the mini-window shuts on June 10.

Ipswich Town 2-0 Chelsea

8.08

Bournemouth 1-2 Ipswich Town

8.05

Ipswich Town 2-2 Aston Villa

8.04

Ipswich Town 1-2 Southampton

7.83

Fulham 2-2 Ipswich Town

7.55

via WhoScored

Chelsea are still reportedly pushing to sign Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund, as his price tag apparently drops to around £30 million, and they’ve been in discussions with AC Milan about a deal for French international goalkeeper AC Milan.

However, despite Chelsea holding talks over Maignan, as first revealed by Fabrizio Romano, there remains a considerable gap in valuation between the clubs.

With Chelsea also reportedly in negotiations over signing Ajax starlet Jorrel Hato in their pursuit of a new centre-back, not to mention a move for Eintracht Frankfurt sensation Hugo Ekitike, it is clear that Maresca’s side are pulling no punches as they attempt to reinforce the squad.

There’s actually been an interesting update on the latter, who appears likely to leave Eintracht after just one full season in the Bundesliga.

Hugo Ekitike clear he wants to join Chelsea with "positive talks" held

According to a report by journalist Simon Phillips, via his Substack, Ekitike has communicated his desire to join Chelsea behind-the-scenes – following the 6 foot 3 striker’s excellent campaign of 22 goals and 12 assists in all competitions.

However, the move remains complicated, with price proving to be a major sticking point.

“More positive talks yesterday and this one has been progressing. However, as with Maignan, Chelsea are not paying their asking price. Games are being played here too,” said Phillips.

“The player wants the move and has communicated that. Frankfurt know they are selling him, so Chelsea once again are taking the tough stance here and know they are in a strong position.

“Chelsea have mooted players to Frankfurt as a make-weight on the deal, and they are interested. I don’t know which players, but it is rumoured to be a couple from Strasbourg, so it would have to be unofficial favour for a favour ‘swap’ deals here.

“I see this one dragging on a bit to be honest because the gap in valuation is too big. But as I said, there has been positive progress on this over the last week. By the way, there is no way Chelsea should be paying £80m for Ekitike so I back this stance here, I just don’t back it for Maignan.”

Tottenham Hotspur could sign a “unique” and “exciting” forward at a bargain price this summer as his contract expires in December, with the player himself privately considering a move to north London.

Tottenham eye free agents with significant names available

The free agent market could still be a fruitful talent pool for Spurs and chairman Daniel Levy, even if they’re set for a significant financial windfall after their Champions League qualification.

Tottenham hold negotiations over signing 6 foot 5 defender in last few days

The Europa League champions are making their first moves of the transfer window.

1 ByEmilio Galantini May 26, 2025

Some prestigious names, and players who are also proven at the top level, are up for grabs at zero transfer cost, with the Lilywhites said to be expressing an interest in some of them ahead of their contracts expiring.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

According to some reports in France, Tottenham have held talks with the representatives of Lille star Jonathan David, with the Canada international set to become one of the biggest bargain deals of this summer after nearly five years of free-scoring for the club.

“I wanted to tell you myself that after so many years at the club, it’s time to say goodbye,” said David in an emotional goodbye post on social media.

“I’ve had five wonderful seasons here. I know that it hasn’t always been easy but I hope that with my goals and celebrations, that I’ve managed to bring you some joy.”

Tottenham are also said to be one of the main contenders for Lille midfielder Angel Gomes, who will also depart Bruno Genesio’s side on a free transfer, so Levy and technical director Johan Lange could seemingly raid the Ligue 1 outfit for talent.

The England midfielder would provide Ange Postecoglou, or any new manager, with a solid technician and alternative to the likes of Yves Bissouma, Rodrigo Bentancur, Pape Sarr, Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray.

Bayern Munich star Leroy Sane is also a reported option for Tottenham, following botched new deal talks with the Bavarians.

Roony Bardghji "prepared" to join Tottenham this summer

While not a free agent this summer, but out of contract at the end of the year, FC Copenhagen starlet Roony Bardghji could still be available for a very meagre fee of around £10 million.

That is according to GiveMeSport, who also state Bardghji is privately indicating that he’s prepared to join Tottenham this summer as a viable Premier League destination.

The 19-year-old burst into the spotlight with his heroics against Man United in the Champions League, scoring a stunning winner against the Red Devils in a 4-3 group stage victory back in November 2023.

The Swede has had injury problems since then, but his reputation as a rising star has never left Bardghji’s side.

Called one of the most “exciting” talents in Europe by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Danish journalist Nicklas Degn likened his playing style to that of Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah, all the while stating he’s destined for a big move to England.

“He will go to a great Premier League club,” said Degn.

“He would suit a team that dominates the ball, like Manchester City, or Liverpool because he has very similar characteristics to Mohamed Salah.

“When Copenhagen have to come up with something brilliant or unlock a team, it is Roony they look to. He has this unique talent.”

Given his cheap price tag, this seems like a very tempting, low-risk move for Levy.

Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy, following the club’s historic Europa League celebrations, now has some key decisions to make ahead of the summer transfer window, discounting the obvious debate surrounding Ange Postecoglou.

Tottenham celebrate first major trophy in 17 years after Europa League triumph

Amid a dismal domestic campaign, where Spurs have recorded 21 Premier League defeats and counting, Postecoglou finally gave supporters something to smile about on Wednesday evening.

Postecoglou sack stance after Levy holds fresh Tottenham boardroom talks

The Australian is now a history-maker.

3 ByEmilio Galantini May 24, 2025

After a tense battle with Man United, the Australian and his team ended Tottenham’s 17-year wait for a piece of major silverware, with Brennan Johnson’s scrappy winning goal proving the decider on a historic night in Bilbao.

Postecoglou did wonders to transform the narrative surrounding the club’s ‘Spursy’ tag, having long suffered from a reputation of being the ‘nearly team’, and he’s given Levy something to seriously think about in terms of a potential dismissal.

Player

Rating

Guglielmo Vicario

7.7

Yves Bissouma

7.6

Cristian Romero

7.4

Bruno Fernandes

7.4

Destiny Udogie

7.2

While David Ornstein suggests that Tottenham are still leaning in the direction of sacking Postecoglou, the emotion of such a momentous occasion, and the promise of Champions League football next season, makes you wonder whether the 59-year-old should be given a third season.

Injury problems took their toll on a ravaged Spurs squad, and it would be interesting to see if Postecoglou could have better luck next term, especially after a summer transfer window boosted by their place in Europe’s most prestigious competition for 2025/26.

“As much as you try to understand what a trophy would mean to these people, seeing them out there today, is why we do what we do,” said Postecoglou in a rousing speech during their Europa League trophy parade.

“That’s the priceless bit, for this feeling. I’m super pleased that these boys could deliver. All good things come through hard work, toil, perseverance and belief. This group have that in spades, and I’m so pleased that we could crack that stone and now everyone can enjoy it.

“We had to dig deep, for sure, but what the history books will say is that we’re the Europa Cup winners, and it doesn’t say how we did it, just that we did it.”

Cristian Romero informs Daniel Levy of decision to leave Tottenham

Beyond Postecoglou’s long-term future in the dugout, Levy also has some key calls to think about when it comes to £165,000-per-week defender Cristian Romero.

He was crowned the Europa League’s Player of the Season and put in a match-winning performance against United earlier this week, proving integral to Spurs’ trophy glory, but it is believed Atlético Madrid are seriously pursuing a summer move for the Argentinian.

There are even some suggestions that Diego Simeone is personally pushing for Atletico to sign Romero, with Spanish newspaper Marca sharing another update on his future.

The outlet reports that Romero has informed Levy of his desire to leave Tottenham and join Atlético, and this stance hasn’t changed, despite their victory at the Estadio de San Mamés.

As has been the theme of this developing story, there is still a gap in valuation for the player. Spurs ideally want nearly £60 million for Romero, and will categorically refuse to go lower than £44 million. Atlético’s wish is to “significantly” lower Romero’s asking price, but Simeone’s side still need to invest a lot in his signature.

“Underrated? Cristian Romero. Top, top centre-back,” said teammate James Maddison on TikTok when asked about Spurs’ most underrated player.

“For some reason in England, I feel like he has the perception of being a hot head who gets a lot of red cards and isn’t disciplined, but it’s the opposite, he’s a World Cup winner and he’s a top player.”

Chelsea have now held talks over a deal for the “new Erling Haaland”, but a deal will not be cheap, with his current employers set to hold out for a fee of £71m, according to a report.

Blues set sights on Haaland-esque striker

Crystal Palace’s shock FA Cup final victory on Saturday ensured that Haaland is set for his first trophyless season since arriving at Manchester City, with Eberechi Eze scoring the only goal in a game that had no shortage of controversy.

The decision not to show Dean Henderson a red card for handling the ball outside the box has raised eyebrows, while there was also bemusement over the fact that Haaland opted to let Omar Marmoush take his side’s penalty, which was saved.

That said, the Norwegian’s goal record since arriving at the Etihad Stadium remains stellar, having reached the 30-goal mark in all competitions for the third season on the spin.

Season

Appearances

Goals (all competitions)

2022-23

53

52

2023-24

45

38

2024-25

42

30

As such, almost any club from across Europe would be interested in signing a striker capable of emulating the 24-year-old, and Chelsea may now have found one, with a report from Spain revealing they are locked in a thrilling battle to sign RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.

The Blues are fighting it out for Sesko with Premier League rivals Liverpool, but a deal will not be cheap, with the German side set to hold out for a fee of €84m (£71m), which could be a potential stumbling block, as neither English club are willing to fork out a fee in that ballpark.

The report also states that negotiations have not been easy up to this point, which suggests that talks have already been held, but it remains to be seen whether the two parties are able to come to an agreement.

New target: Chelsea now hatch plan to sign "powerful" PSG defender for £0

The Blues are aiming to sign a Paris Saint-Germain player on a free transfer this summer.

ByDominic Lund May 18, 2025 Sesko could be the "new Erling Haaland"

Such is the 21-year-old’s potential, there have been suggestions that he could progress in a similar way to the Man City star, with scout Jacek Kulig claiming he may be the “new Erling Haaland.”

While the Slovenian is yet to be as prolific as Haaland once was in the Bundesliga, he enjoyed a solid 2024-25 campaign with Leipzig, picking up 13 goals and five assists in 33 league appearances, while also impressing in the 2023-24 season.

At the moment, Chelsea seem to be some way off striking an agreement for Sesko, but should the German side be willing to lower their asking price, there are plenty of signs he could be a fantastic long-term addition for Enzo Maresca.

Crystal Palace now want to appoint an “unbelievable” 4-2-3-1 manager should Oliver Glasner leave Selhurst Park, according to Sky Sports.

Crystal Palace stretch unbeaten run to four games with Forest draw

The Eagles looked like they were on course to make it back-to-back wins in the Premier League on Monday after going 1-0 up against Forest thanks to Eberechi Eze’s penalty. However, the away side soon got back on level terms, and that is how the game finished, meaning Palace picked up another point as they aim to finish in the top half of the Premier League.

"Dynamic" Crystal Palace teenager has at least 3 offers to leave the club

Ajax are among those in the mix to snap him up.

ByHenry Jackson May 6, 2025

Palace’s priority will be the upcoming FA Cup final, which they play in under two weeks against Manchester City. But despite not much being on the game against Forest, Glasner was pleased with his side’s performance and said the desire to win was “unbelievable”.

Glasner told BBC Match of the Day: “It was pretty even. After taking the lead, the equaliser was too quick. It was a set-play and a deflected ball. I really liked how the players wanted to win this game. I’m really pleased. The desire to win was unbelievable.

“We had many situations in the 60 or 70 minutes to come from the wing, but our crosses were not good enough. We got the penalty. We found the rhythm, and we had set-plays. You always have to be aware of the transitions – but we did well. We weren’t as efficient as in other games.”

Glasner also went on to provide an update on midfielder Adam Wharton, who had to come off after suffering an injury. He said: “It doesn’t look like it’s really serious. It was more precaution.”

Sky Sports: Crystal Palace now want 4-2-3-1 manager should Glasner leave

As the Eagles prepare for their Wembley final and look ahead to the future under Glasner, Palace, and by extension chariman Steve Parish, are also preparing for the worse when it comes to the future of their manager.

According to Sky Sports German reporter Philipp Hinze, Crystal Palace are interested in appointing Danny Rohl should Glasner decide to leave the club.

Hinze reports that Rohl, who has been dubbed “unbelievable” by Josh Windass, looks set to leave Sheffield Wednesday this summer. The German has a small exit fee in his contract, and that has alerted Palace as well as Fulham, as Glasner and Marco Silva are being linked with potential exits.

Leicester City and Southampton are also interested in appointing Rohl, who likes to play a 4-2-3-1 formation as a manager, as well as teams from the Bundesliga, but it looks as though he is likely to remain in England.

Sheffield Wednesday was the 36-year-old’s first managerial job, and after guiding the club away from relegation trouble last season, he guided the Owls to a mid-table finish this time around, comfortably away from relegation trouble but not enough to be in the race for the play-offs.

Games

89

Won

34

Drawn

19

Lost

36

Points per game

1.36

Palace’s interest in Rohl comes as the Austrian has been linked heavily with a move to RB Leipzig, as they look for a new manager, while Glasner has also emerged on Tottenham Hotspur’s radar as they look for candidates to replace Ange Postecoglou.