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Sheffield United will not be forced into selling Sander Berge for a reduced price this summer.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to a report by the Sheffield Star, who claimed that the Blades will demand a fee of around £35m in order to part with the defensive midfielder in the upcoming transfer window, despite suffering relegation to the Championship this season.

The report added that Arsenal are thought to be monitoring the Norway international’s situation ahead of a potential move in the coming months, but, Sheffield United’s firm stance over the 23-year-old’s valuation could deter Mikel Arteta’s side from making a move.

Fans will be buzzing

While Berge – whom Chris Wilder dubbed an “outstanding” player – was by no means in the best form of his life this season, something which was most probably a result of spending a long spell on the sidelines due to injury, that the Blades appear to be standing strong over the midfielder’s potential sale this summer is likely to have fans of the club buzzing.

Indeed, after joining Sheffield United from Genk in a £19.8m deal back in January of 2020, Berge impressed over his 14 Premier League appearances in the club’s 2019/20 campaign, scoring one goal, providing one assist and creating one big chance for his teammates, in addition to averaging 0.7 interceptions, 1.6 tackles and winning 5.5 duels per game – with these metrics culminating in a seasonal SofaScore match rating of 6.90.

As such, if Berge can rediscover such form for Slavisa Jokanovic’s side in their Championship campaign next season, it should considerably boost the Blades’ chances of making an immediate return to the Premier League under their new manager.

With the £16.2m-rated man’s asking price appearing likely to deter a number of clubs from making a move for the £38,000-per-week 23-year-old this summer, which subsequently increases the chances of him remaining at Bramall Lane ahead of next season, this would appear to be very good news indeed for both Jokanovic and fans of the club.

In other news: Jokanovic can amend key SUFC issue with summer swoop for “outstanding” beast

Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch could look to bring Manchester United assistant Chris Armas to Elland Road this summer, according to Phil Hay.

The Lowdown: Armas profiled

The 49-year-old worked under Marsch at New York Red Bulls, serving as his assistant for 151 games.

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Armas, labelled as a ‘winner’ with ‘infectious positivity’, has since gone on to manage Toronto and has been at Old Trafford under Ralf Rangnick since December.

His services in Manchester may no longer be needed after Erik ten Hag was announced as Manchester United’s new manager, and it looks as if Marsch could take full advantage ahead of his first full season in charge.

The Latest: Hay’s claim

Hay shared a story on The Athletic on Saturday morning, looking at Leeds’ U23s following a record PL2 attendance at Elland Road on Friday night.

Within his report, he claimed that Marsch looks set to make further alterations to his backroom staff this summer, revealing Armas is under consideration for a permanent post.

The Verdict: Makes sense

The pair know each other well following their time back in the USA and Marsch is clearly a fan of Armas, so a reunion in Yorkshire appears to be a shrewd move.

Marsch has already brought Franz Schiemer and Cameron Toshack to Thorp Arch, while Mark Jackson has been promoted from the U23s, so Amas could be the missing piece in the backroom staff jigsaw.

Hopefully, Leeds will be preparing for a first full season under the American as a Premier League side, which could persuade Armas to remain in England.

In other news: Phil Hay: Marsch now eyeing Leeds move for ‘quality’ rising star alongside Aaronson. 

Are we finally reaching some sort of verdict in Celtic’s hunt to replace Neil Lennon? Rather amazingly, that could be the case.

It has now been two months to the day since the Northern Irishman departed the scene, but the Bhoys still only have a temporary manager in charge.

What’s the word?

Celtic have been after two very different men so far – Roy Keane and Eddie Howe.

However, after some dramatic words from Hoops pundit Frank McAvennie, they may have to focus on the former, with Howe apparently not so keen on the job as it first appeared.

The 43-year-old was in advanced discussions but a number of issues have since plagued negotiations. As a result, it would be a surprise if he did end up in the Parkhead dugout next term.

Speaking to Football Insider, a man with well-placed contacts shared a vital opinion on the matter.

McAvennie commented: “I’m hoping he’s not given up because he’d be great. I know he’s not won trophies but he has a chance to do that and raise his profile up here.

“He did so well at Bournemouth, taking them from the fourth division right through to the Premier League. I don’t know what’s going on but in my opinion, he doesn’t want it any more. If he did then he’d be here.”

Desmond should be fuming

It has now been 24 days since news emerged that Celtic were in advanced talks with Howe and, since that moment, he has only crept further and further away from them.

There have been a number of setbacks in that time, with the likes of Brighton and Crystal Palace both monitoring his situation, while the manager’s agent hasn’t played a particularly good role in this from a Hoops perspective either.

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Howe’s representative revealed that the 43-year-old didn’t want to return to management until the summer before a claim came to light from the same source that they were trying to convince him he could still get a job in the Premier League.

There have also been issues relating to his backroom staff, namely Richard Hughes. Celtic are trying to tie down the landmark appointment of a director of football but, despite having a deal 90% completed for Fergal Harkin, it was suggested that Howe wanted Hughes instead.

There have also been other backroom requests from the former Bournemouth boss which sources suggest the Bhoys have refused as well.

With all that in mind, to hear that Howe now doesn’t want the job is news which should leave the club’s majority shareholder Dermot Desmond enraged.

AND in other news, Forget Harkin: Celtic could find their new Van Dijk by appointing title-winning 39 y/o…

An update has emerged on Sunderland and their interest in signing Cardiff City defender Aden Flint in the January transfer window…

What’s the talk?

According to Football League World, the Black Cats are eyeing up a swoop for the centre-back as Lee Johnson looks to improve his squad at the Stadium of Light.

The report does not reveal whether they are looking into a loan or permanent switch for the giant enforcer, or whether or not Cardiff are willing to part ways with the 32-year-old.

Imagine him & Doyle

Johnson must ensure that he is able to get a deal over the line for Flint, as he could seal a dream partnership for Sunderland by starting him alongside youngster Callum Doyle at the back.

The Cardiff monster is as experienced as they come in the EFL and has been playing in the Championship for a number of seasons. He has racked up 242 appearances in the second tier, having played 112 times in League One prior to getting his chance higher up the leagues.

Last year, former Bluebirds boss Mick McCarthy heaped praise on the player, saying: “He has been great, hasn’t he? I always admired him and thought he was a top defender when he got his moves. I was kind of surprised that he had been out on loan. But I had a word with him, the first week I was in and he has been brilliant. I am amazed at his resilience, how he has come back, having been three months off with a hamstring. He has been brilliant.”

He has a career average WhoScored rating of 7.12, winning an impressive 5.7 aerial battles per game throughout his playing days. This suggests that McCarthy’s comments are accurate, as Flint has proven with his performances that he is a top defender at Championship and League One level.

By contrast, Doyle is at the other end of his career and still learning his trade as a defender. The 18-year-old has started 24 games for Sunderland this season and averaged a SofaScore rating of 6.79. This shows that the Manchester City loanee has had a strong start to life at senior level, and playing next to an experienced head in the form of Flint could further aid his development.

This means that they could be the perfect pairing, as Johnson would be mixing Flint’s experience and guile with Doyle’s youthfulness and ability on the ball. They could complement each other well and the latter could benefit greatly from having such an established EFL player alongside him in the second half of the campaign.

AND in other news, Sunderland plotting swoop for 72-goal machine who’s a “real threat”, Johnson would love him…

Sky Sports reporter Rob Dorsett has addressed the links regarding Aston Villa captain Jack Grealish and a potential move to Manchester City live on TV.

The Lowdown: £100m bid

Reports emerged on Friday lunchtime from The Telegraph’s John Percy that City have offered Villa £100m for the attacking midfielder.

The reliable journalist stated that City have finally put a huge bid on the table and are hopeful of striking an agreement over the coming days.

However, Dorsett doesn’t believe a formal offer has been made, as of Friday.

The Latest: Sky Sports claim

Sky Sports’ Dorsett was speaking live on TV on Friday, cited by Football Daily, sharing his in-depth thoughts on Grealish to City.

He said that ‘we’re very aware of Manchester City’s admiration for Grealish’ and ‘it looks like’ Pep Guardiola’s side are making him their number one transfer target this summer.

However, Dorsett then went on to claim that although talks began a few days ago, City ‘are yet to make a formal bid as far as we understand it’.

The Verdict: Next few days key

Although there are contradicting reports going around, it certainly seems as if City are extremely keen on Grealish, so the next few days appear to be crucial.

He’s set to return to Villa training on Monday following his break after the Euros, and you’d expect a move to the Etihad could be discussed between the 25-year-old and Villa chiefs fairly swiftly at Bodymoor Heath.

Should he wish to leave, Villa may have to reluctantly grant his wish and make sure he is replaced, with Gregg Evans believing two creative players could be signed to replace Grealish.

In other news: ‘Exactly what I wanted’ – Many AVFC fans buzz as ‘excellent’ exit news is confirmed. 

Charlton Athletic have been dealt a major injury blow ahead of their crucial League One fixture this Sunday.

What’s the latest?

According to a statement on the club’s official website, Jake Forster-Caskey will miss the remainder of the Addicks’ season after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury in the recent 3-1 win over Lincoln City.

The midfielder was withdrawn after just 38 minutes on Tuesday due to the injury and will now miss the club’s must-win showdown against Hull City on Sunday, as well as their potential play-off fixtures.

Regarding the 27-year-old’s knock, Nigel Adkins said: “Jake has had a fantastic season and has been a really important part of our team. He has begun rehabilitation and will be provided with excellent medical care and attention throughout his recovery.”

Huge blow

With Charlton knowing that nothing but a win against Hull will do in their quest to finish in a play-off place come the end of the season, the news of Forster-Caskey’s injury will undoubtedly leave Adkins furious.

The midfielder has been one of the 56-year-old’s most influential players over his 34 league appearances for the Addicks this season, scoring six goals and registering two assists, in addition to averaging 1.6 interceptions, 2.2 tackles and 1.4 key passes per game, earning an average SofaScore match rating of 7.26 – ranking him as the club’s best performer in League One.

However, Charlton must now attempt to forget about the absence of Forster-Caskey ahead of Sunday’s game, despite the magnitude of his absence, as any distraction could well cost them their shot at a top-six finish – something which already relies on the Addicks securing a win while hoping that results elsewhere go their way.

In other news: Lost possession 15x: Charlton passenger who committed 6 fouls let Adkins down vs Imps – opinion

Southampton fans have been reacting to the news that they are leading the race to sign Adam Armstrong from Blackburn Rovers this summer.

The Saints are preparing for the upcoming 2021/22 season after what was a mixed previous campaign – they finished 15th in the Premier League table but did also reach an F.A Cup semi-final. As they look to improve, they are likely to be looking to bring in new players, and it seems they may be targetting a new striker.

According to The Telegraph, the Saints are leading the race for Armstrong, who currently plays for Blackburn in the Championship. Last term, he enjoyed a fantastic campaign, scoring 29 goals in all competitions (Transfermarkt), and this latest report has suggested he will be moving to a club in the Premier League during this transfer window.

The news was shared on Twitter by @SaintsExtra, and it attracted plenty of attention from the supporters. They took to the social media platform to share their thoughts.

Let’s see what the fans had to say about the Armstrong news below

“Will it happen tho”

Credit: @Farmadelic

“No chance”

Credit: @redsaints106

“this makes me very happy”

Credit: @vestergodSFC

“We’ll probably trip over on the finish line.”

Credit: @wes_cox

“Unless the quoted fee is 8m then I Have more chance of building a rocket and blasting off to venus”

Credit: @MashySaint49

“Saints are in the chase for loads of players and land very few. Getting sick of people crying wolf.”

Credit: @jgj1972

In other news, Southampton are interested in this Euro 2020 man.

Gabriel Agbonlahor has offered his thoughts on an interesting statistic regarding Rangers veteran Allan McGregor and his form at Ibrox.

What’s the talk?

Former Premier League forward Agbonlahor has admitted that Rangers will need to take the rough with the smooth when it comes to McGregor’s performances this season.

Reacting to the statistic that McGregor has the joint-worst save percentage (50%) in the Scottish Premiership, the pundit said it is to be expected.

He told Football Insider: “That’s going to happen, you’re going to be rotated.

“At McGregor’s age, you’re going to get those moments when you’re in and out of the team. He’s been a great servant to the game, a great servant to Rangers.

“So, I’m sure that he’ll play his fair share of games for Rangers and they’ll still get some good performances out of him.”

Time’s up

The time has come for Steven Gerrard to make a ruthless decision over McGregor’s future. He is out of contract at the end of the season and Rangers need to cut the chord with him to refresh their goalkeeping department for the 2021/22 campaign.

His main competition in the first-team is Jon McLaughlin, who is 34 and also out of contract in 2022. We published an article explaining why he deserves a new contract and should be the number one for Gerrard in all competitions next season, hinting at McGregor’s departure.

The 39-year-old, as Agbonlahor said, has been a sublime player for Rangers throughout his career. He has racked up 401 first-team appearances for the club during two spells, keeping an impressive 186 clean sheets and conceding 313 goals.

McGregor, who is on £13k-per-week, has not been in the best of form this term and his best days could be behind him as he heads towards his 40th birthday. It could be the right time for him to depart from Ibrox and see out his days elsewhere or retire and potentially join the coaching department at the club if Gerrard is willing to take him on to bolster the ranks behind the scenes.

Last season, he saved 85.3% of the shots he faced and looked like he could continue playing for years to come. However, his 50% save rate – the worst in the division – suggests that his time may be up.

He has been beaten by every other shot on target and Gerrard cannot afford to have a liability between the sticks. That’s why he must axe McGregor next summer if the player does not decide to hang up his gloves on his own accord.

AND in other news, Rangers hit the jackpot with “phenomenal” gem whose value has soared 697% in 2 years…

Many Southampton fans want to sign Matthew Hoppe this summer after the Saints were linked with a move for the American starlet.

The Saints were hit by a bombshell earlier in this transfer window when Danny Ings turned down a new four-year contract at the club (Sky Sports). As such, Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side may be on the lookout for a new striker this summer.

According to 90min.de, that man could be Schalke 04’s Hoppe. The Gelsenkirchen club had one of the worst seasons in their history last time out as they were relegated to the 2. Bundesliga and won just three league games (Sky Sports), but 20-year-old Hoppe was one of their few bright sparks as he netted six times in 22 Bundesliga matches (Transfermarkt).

The news was shared on Twitter by @SaintsExtra and it attracted plenty of attention from the supporters. These Southampton fans took to the social media platform to share their thoughts, with one hailing the American’s “insane potential”.

Let’s see what these fans had to say about Hoppe

“Please, I would love an American Saint. Plus we all know how badly the last transfer rumour about an American from Schalke hurt us.”

Credit: @Ingsanity

“Nice”

Credit: @StarksJosh

“He has insane potential”

Credit: @saints_josh2

“He has a lot of potential. I hope this is as well as Armstrong rather than instead of though.”

Credit: @JordanPoole13

“If we get both him and Armstrong I don’t see why not. Especially if Obafemi and Ndlundulu go out on loan and Long moves on. Won’t hurt to have a little depth.”

Credit: @ArmondDeBeste

“he’d be a good fit for Ralph’s system and v cheap. like a young Gabbi, but puts in a shift pressing”

Credit: @yourboyandy8

In other news, many Southampton fans loved this club reveal.

Celtic have been linked with a move for Watford striker Troy Deeney with just days remaining of the window, The Sunday Mirror (29/8; page 66) report.  

The Lowdown: Lennon considered bid

Celtic look set to add to their attacking ranks in the final days of the window by signing VVV-Venlo’s Georgios Giakoumakis.

However, it seems as if the Hoops have a long-standing interest in Deeney, with former manager Neil Lennon recently admitting he wanted to sign the forward during his first stint as Celtic boss.

Deeney, on £77,000-a-week at Vicarage Road, hasn’t started a game this season and it seems as if a move could be on the cards.

The Latest: Celtic linked again

Watford released a statement on Friday regarding Deeney. The Hornets revealed that the club and Deeney are in discussions over his future, with the 33-year-old into the final 12 months of his contract.

The Sunday Mirror (29/8; page 66), cited by The Boot Room, admitted that Celtic are one of the sides keen on the forward, who, according to Nigel Pearson, ‘embraces pressure’.

The Verdict: Avoid

Dominic McKay and Ange Postecoglou appear to be building for the future with seven of the club’s nine signings so far 26 years of age or under.

Should Celtic land Giakoumakis, as expected, and possibly move on Odsonne Edouard and Leigh Griffiths, who have been linked with moves away, they should still have enough without Deeney.

Giakoumakis, Kyogo Furuhashi and Albian Ajeti could be the three options in a central role, so Celtic should avoid bringing Deeney to Parkhead in the final few days.

In other news: Pundit tips ‘composed’ ace to re-join Celtic in late activity.