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Newcastle United are expected to table an offer for an exciting attacking player this summer, with a £39m bid from another club having already been rejected.

Newcastle preparing for Man Utd clash

The Magpies are back in Premier League action this weekend after their comfortable 3-0 win away to Leicester City on Monday, hosting Manchester United at St James’ Park.

For Newcastle, it is another important game in their quest to qualify for next season’s Champions League, and with their opponents having one eye on the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final clash with Lyon next week, Eddie Howe’s side will be the favourites to prevail.

Jason Tindall is excepted to take charge of the Magpies, with Howe unwell and spending the weekend in hospital.

There are injury problems going into the Man Utd game, which is far from ideal, with a late call set to be made on Anthony Gordon and his chances of starting. However, Alexander Isak is “expected to be fit”, as reported by Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

Newcastle set to make offer for £39m ace

According to an update from Vamos Mi Sevilla FC (via Sport Witness), Newcastle are set to make an offer for Sevilla winger Dodi Lukebakio, seeing him as a strong summer target.

The likes of Juventus and Napoli are also credited with interest in the 27-year-old, while Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr saw a €45m (£39m) approach turned down by the player in January.

Newcastle’s chances of signing Lukebakio have seemingly been improved by Sevilla’s apparent stance, with reports claiming that the La Liga side are keen to boost their finances and that a high fee could be accepted.

Lukebakio could be an astute purchase by Newcastle in the summer transfer window, with the Belgian becoming an influential performer for Sevilla.

This season, he has scored 11 goals in 30 starts in La Liga, showing that he can provide reliable end product in his right-sided role as Newcastle look to find a replacement for Miguel Almiron, as well as an upgrade on Jacob Murphy.

While Murphy has enjoyed an impressive campaign for the Magpies, not least through registering 16 goal contributions in the Premier League, he is now 30 years of age and may not hit this level again moving forward.

Newcastle now set to join race for £87m striker with as many goals as Isak

He could replace the Swede.

By
Tom Cunningham

Apr 10, 2025

In Lukebakio, Newcastle have a strong option to bring in and provide competition for the Englishman, with the Sevilla ace a 25-cap Belgium international, which is no mean feat.

After defeating Real Madrid in the Champions League last week, it’s safe to say Arsenal have demonstrated they are capable of battling with Europe’s elite.

Mikel Arteta has transformed the side after taking the reins in December 2020, overseeing a transition that has taken them back to Premier League title challengers in recent seasons.

However, the Spaniard is yet to complete the job of winning the title, desperately needing to push for such an achievement in 2025/26 to cement his legacy at the Emirates.

If the 43-year-old is to go one better and end their two-decade wait for a title triumph, he will need the hierarchy to support him in the transfer market to allow him to have the best chance of success.

With the summer rapidly approaching, rumours have already been swirling over potential targets, with most of the links being in the same area of the pitch.

An update on Arsenal’s pursuit of new forwards

Over the last couple of days, Arsenal have received a huge boost in their pursuit of landing a new striker, with an update provided on the future of Sporting CP talisman Viktor Gyokeres.

New sporting director Andrea Berta has wasted no time in making the Swede his number one target after previously holding talks with his representatives over a move to North London.

However, the latest update has confirmed that he’s not interested in a move to fellow English side Chelsea, potentially putting the Gunners in pole position for his signature in the coming months.

He’s not the only attacker touted with a move, with the likes of Kingsley Coman and Nico Williams also hugely admired ahead of the summer window.

According to one Spanish outlet, the Gunners are already in advanced talks to land the Athletic Club star and are more than willing to trigger his £50m release clause in the coming months.

Why the £50m star could be Arteta’s very own Vini Jr

Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has been one of Europe’s most deadly forwards in recent years, notching a tally of 45 goals across his last two seasons under Carlo Ancelotti.

Many thought he would win the Ballon d’Or for 2024, but was pipped to the post by Manchester City’s Rodri, with his standing in such an award highlighting how threatening he has been in Madrid.

However, in the recent Champions League clashes with the LaLiga giants, Arsenal managed to silence the Brazilian for large spells, only managing to get on the scoresheet after a mistake within the backline.

There’s no denying he is a hugely talented player, with Arteta able to land his version of the superstar this summer should they complete a deal for Williams.

The Spaniard has been labelled as a similar player to Vini Jr by FBref based upon their respective figures from 2024/25, showcasing how impressive the transfer target has been.

When delving into the stats, the 22-year-old has managed to match or better the Madrid star in numerous key areas, with any move undoubtedly improving the forward line in North London.

Williams, who’s been labelled “unbelievable” by Eduardo Hagn, may have registered fewer combined goals and assists, but has notched a higher shot-on target accuracy rate – highlighting his clinical nature in the final third.

He’s also managed to win more of the aerial duels he’s entered, whilst also attempting more take-ons per 90, offering Arteta a real all-round threat within the final third should he join the club.

If the Gunners are to finally end their drought without a league title, it’s pivotal that the hierarchy back the manager with the right additions to help him in his quest.

The Athletic Club star ticks all the boxes with his pace, constant attacking threat, and his end product, with the £50m fee touted a potential bargain should he get anywhere near the levels produced by Vini Jr in recent years.

Their own Yamal: Arsenal hold talks for £25m "future Ballon D'or winner"

The simply sensational talent could be a game-changer for Arsenal.

1

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Apr 19, 2025

Manchester United are now in advanced talks to sign a midfielder who’s “out of this world”, but there could be competition for his signature from rivals Manchester City, according to a report.

Man Utd planning summer rebuild

Man United are on course for their lowest-ever Premier League finish, sitting in 14th place with just six games left to play, and Roy Keane was extremely critical of the players’ mentality after the 4-1 defeat against Newcastle United.

Andre Onana’s performances have been a cause for concern, with the Cameroonian being dropped in favour of Altay Bayindir against Newcastle, while Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have just six Premier League goals between them this season.

As such, Ruben Amorim is planning a serious rebuild this summer, with FC Porto’s Diogo Costa and Angers’ Yahia Fofana among the targets between the sticks, while Premier League duo Liam Delap and Matheus Cunha have been identified as potential options at striker.

Sky Sports: Man Utd now in contact over deal for "incredible" £26m striker

The Red Devils have made the first move to sign a forward, who is keen on a move to the Premier League.

By
Dominic Lund

Apr 16, 2025

According to a report from Spain, Amorim may also be keen to strengthen in midfield this summer, with it being revealed Man United are now in advanced talks with the agents of Atalanta star Ederson, although there may be competition for his signature from Man City.

Doubts over the futures of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen mean United have now stepped up their pursuit of the Atalanta midfielder, and they are ahead of their rivals in the race, but he will not come cheap.

The Italian club could hold out for a fee of €60 (£52m), given his importance to the side, and they are in no rush to sanction the Brazilian’s departure.

"Out of this world" Ederson impressing for Atalanta

It is little wonder two of England’s biggest clubs are now keen on the 25-year-old, given that he has been impressing for Atalanta for quite some time, making 12 appearances en-route to their Europa League triumph in the 2023-24 campaign.

Fabio Capello also singled the Brazil international out for particularly high praise earlier this season, saying: “He is out of this world for his ability to combine running, physicality, technique and intelligence”.

With doubt over Casemiro’s future, it could be important for United to bring in a defensively adept midfielder this summer, and the Atalanta maestro certainly fits the bill in that regard, given that his tackling ability was regularly on display last season.

Ederson could be the perfect heir to Casemiro, who is now in the twilight years of his career at 33-years-old, so it is exciting news that Man United are in advanced talks with his agents.

Tottenham Hotspur are serious contenders to sign an “unbelievable” Premier League forward this summer, and his club are now willing to listen to offers, according to a report.

Spurs looking to strengthen in attack

Tottenham’s Premier League campaign has been nothing short of a disaster, but bizarrely, they still stand a good chance of making this season one to remember, given that Ange Postecoglou’s side are a two-legged tie with Bodo/Glimt away from the Europa League final.

That said, the underperformance in the Premier League suggests new additions will be needed this summer, and Spurs are particularly keen on strengthening in attacking areas, with AFC Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo among the targets.

The Lilywhites are plotting a move for Semenyo to bolster their wide options, while the same report reveals they are also in the race for Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Matheus Cunha, who has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United in recent days.

Tottenham hold internal talks over hiring ex-Liverpool manager worth £39m

It would be quite the move.

1

By
Emilio Galantini

Apr 26, 2025

Semenyo and Cunha have shone in the Premier League this season, but Tottenham are also interested in signing a player who hasn’t been at his best, with a report from Caught Offside revealing they are now serious contenders to sign Manchester City’s Jack Grealish.

Man City are now willing to cash-in on Grealish this summer, and they will entertain offers of £38m – £43m, meaning they are set to make a huge £50m+ loss on the £100m they paid to sign him from Aston Villa in 2021.

Villa are among the rival suitors for their former player, while Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest and West Ham United are also named as potential suitors, so there is no shortage of interest from within the Premier League.

"Unbelievable" Grealish needs fresh start

The Englishman has enjoyed a great deal of success during his time at the Etihad Stadium, and he played a major role in City’s treble-winning 2022-23 campaign, picking up five goals and seven assists in the Premier League.

Perhaps most crucially, the former Villa man scored at the Emirates Stadium to help give his side a major advantage over Arsenal in the title race.

However, it would probably be a wise decision for the 29-year-old to move on this summer, given that he has fallen down the pecking order considerably, often being limited to appearances as a substitute.

The winger is clearly a talented player, having previously been lauded as “unbelievable” by members of the media, and his ability is underlined by the fact he ranks highly across some key attacking metrics over the past year.

At 29-years-old, Grealish needs to receive regular minutes on the pitch, so it would make sense to move on this summer, and a move to Tottenham would likely be of interest, should they manage to win the Europa League.

A former Premier League manager, who once did “fabulously well” in the top flight, now wants to replace Michael Carrick as Middlesbrough boss, according to a report.

Carrick's future in doubt after missing out on play-offs

Boro were well-positioned to reach the play-offs for large parts of the campaign, but a poor finish to the season ultimately ended up costing them, winning just one of their last six Championship games, meaning they ended up in 10th place.

Those at the Riverside Stadium had been hoping to end their eight-year exile from the Premier League, but having missed out on a shot at promotion, questions are inevitably going to be asked about Carrick’s future.

After the 2-0 final-day defeat against Coventry City, the 43-year-old insisted he expects to remain in the role next season, saying: “I’m carrying on. We’ve got a good squad. My focus is carrying on to what I can say to the boys today, tomorrow, moving forward to get ready for another good season.”

Middlesbrough lead race to sign "outstanding" Blackburn star on free deal

Boro are looking to win the race.

By
Sean Markus Clifford

May 5, 2025

However, according to a report from EFL Analysis, the manager’s future is now in doubt, given that his side were too inconsistent throughout the campaign, and former Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Gary O’Neil is interested in replacing Carrick in the Boro dugout.

O’Neil has thrown his name into the ring and made it clear he would be keen on taking over, with Boro chief Steve Gibson set to assess Carrick’s future over the course of the coming days and weeks, having already considered replacing him mid-season.

At that time, Steve Cooper was among the main options on the shortlist, and Middlesbrough are still interested in the former Leicester City boss, alongside England U21 coach Lee Carsley.

O'Neil did "fabulously well" in the Premier League

The 41-year-old’s time at Wolves did not end the way he would’ve liked, being sacked with his side in 19th place, but his impact after originally taking over at Molineux suggests he could still have a lot left to give as a manager.

Rio Ferdinand was left particularly impressed by the former Wolves boss last season, saying: “I think Gary O’Neil [has stood out], I had Wolves as relegation candidates at the beginning of the season. I think O’Neil has come in and done fabulously well, him and Shaun Derry have been brilliant and changed things around there.”

The English manager, whose preferred formation is 3-4-2-1, also led AFC Bournemouth to Premier League safety in the 2022-23 campaign, and his experience in the top flight could serve him well as Middlesbrough manager.

That said, O’Neil has no experience managing a team with aspirations of fighting for promotion, so it would be a gamble for Boro to appoint him this summer, especially considering Cooper, who led Nottingham Forest to the Premier League, is also available.

Celtic have the chance to win the domestic treble for the second time in three seasons when they travel to Hampden Park to take on Aberdeen in the final of the SFA Cup this weekend.

The Hoops have already won the Scottish Premiership title and won the League Cup, beating Rangers on penalties, in the first half of the campaign, which means that a win on Saturday would clinch the treble.

Brendan Rodgers is seemingly not satisfied with that, though, as the Scottish giants are already eyeing up players to come in and bolster the squad in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Motherwell central midfielder Lennon Miller has been linked with a cross-Scotland switch to Glasgow, whilst Peterborough star Kwame Poku was recently linked with a move to the club.

The Scottish giants have, however, already wrapped up one signing before the summer transfer window even opens for business, as Kieran Tierney will be joining the club on a free transfer at the end of June.

Why Kieran Tierney is an exciting signing for Celtic

The Scotland international’s contract with Arsenal is due to expire this summer, and it has already been confirmed that the defender will be returning to Parkhead for a second spell in Glasgow.

This is an exciting signing for the Hoops for multiple reasons, not least because of the emotional backdrop to it. Tierney came up through the academy system and made his breakthrough in the first-team before starring for many years.

As you can see in the graphic above, the defender made 170 appearances for the club before his £25m move to Arsenal in the summer of 2019, and won five Scottish Premiership titles in that time.

He came up through the academy as a Celtic boy and achieved great success with the team, which is why his return could be an emotional one for him and the supporters heading into next season.

It could also be an exciting signing because of the quality that Tierney can provide from a left-back position, as shown in the impressive highlights package above.

The flying full-back scored eight goals and provided 37 assists during his first spell at the club, which shows that he is a defender who likes to burst forward to make an impact at the top end of the pitch.

This means that he could provide Rodgers with another attacking outlet down the left side, due to his ability to score and create goals from a left-back role, to support the winger ahead of him.

However, it is also worth pointing out that the 27-year-old is due to return to Celtic with a concerning injury history that suggests that he could miss a lot of matches for the Hoops.

As you can see in the table above, Tierney has been absent for at least 16 games in seven of the last nine seasons of his career for Arsenal, Real Sociedad, and Celtic combined.

This means that there may also be a degree of concern over the move, as his injury history suggests that the defender may not be a consistent performer, due to a lack of availability, for Rodgers.

With this in mind, Celtic could land an even more exciting signing than Tierney by swooping for Blackburn Rovers attacker Tyrhys Dolan on a free transfer, having been linked with an interest in the English forward.

Why Dolan would be more exciting than Tierney for Celtic

Whilst the Championship winger would not arrive at Parkhead with the same emotional connection with the supporters that Tierney has, Dolan could be a more exciting signing for Rodgers and the Hoops for footballing reasons.

Transfer Focus

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

Firstly, at the age of 23, the English star would be more of a long-term signing for the Hoops because he is four years younger than the Scottish dynamo. This means that he could be a part of Rodgers’ team for many, many, more years to come, making him an exciting signing for the future, as well as the present.

Dolan would also arrive as a durable and dependable performer from a physical perspective, as he has not had any notable injuries that have kept him out for significant periods, unlike Tierney.

This suggests that the Blackburn star, described as “absolutely terrific” by journalist Elliott Jackson, would be far more likely to be available week-in-week-out during the season, which is backed up by his statistics for the English side in the 2024/25 campaign.

As you can see in the table above, Dolan featured in 44 of their 46 league matches in the Championship, and contributed with 14 goals and ‘big chances’ created combined.

Whilst that return in front of goal may not be hugely exciting on paper, it is worth taking into account that Blackburn averaged 49.1% possession per game and only racked up 51.7 xG in 46 matches, the 16th lowest amount in the division.

This means that Dolan has not been playing in a dominant, successful, and attacking side with Blackburn, which is why his personal numbers are not particularly amazing.

Now, the thought of a player who can score seven goals and create seven ‘big chances’ in a defensive Blackburn team playing in a dominant, front-footed, Rodgers-coached Celtic side is an exciting thought, as he would have far more opportunities to showcase his ability at the top end of the pitch.

This is another reason why the 23-year-old star could be an even more exciting signing than Tierney for Celtic, because of the untapped potential that the Northern Irish boss could get out of the winger.

Dolan would arrive as a young talent with huge potential and an encouraging injury record, rather than an experienced head with a concerning availability record, and it is now down to the club to strike a deal for his services.

Worse than Scales: Rodgers must axe Celtic flop for the cup final

Rodgers must drop this Celtic flop who was even worse than Liam Scales.

By
Dan Emery

May 17, 2025

It would be fair to say that this season was a real slog for Arsenal and their fans.

Mikel Arteta’s side came into the campaign with the express intention of winning the Premier League at the third time of trying, but as we all know, it wasn’t to be.

Instead, the North Londoners had to deal with a number of bizarre sending-offs, then a cascade of injuries and a general lack of cutting edge throughout the side.

Things can only get better next season, right? Well, while it’s impossible to be sure, the Gunners can certainly help their cause and finally get over the line next year by going out and making a real splash in the transfer market this summer.

Fortunately, while the club are yet to officially announce any new additions, there have been plenty of links, and it’s not too difficult to work out what Arteta’s dream lineup for the start of the 25/26 season may look like.

1

GK – David Raya

While there has been talk of a new goalkeeper signing this summer, it would be astounding if it wasn’t David Raya who started between the sticks on the first day of the 25/26 season.

The Spaniard won his second Golden Glove in successive seasons last week and has more than cemented his place in Arteta’s squad, thanks in part to his brilliant agility and reflexes, which have seen him pull off more than his fair share of doubles saves this year.

2

RB – Jurrien Timber

We come to our first position, which could be up for debate, as both Ben White and Jurrien Timber bring different qualities to the right-back position.

However, so long as the latter has recovered from his recent surgery in time, we reckon he’ll keep his place in the starting lineup, as the solidity and tenacity he adds there is crucial to the team’s brilliant defensive record.

3

CB – Gabriel Magalhaes

The first centre-back in the team is another player who missed the end of this season due to surgery: Gabriel Magalhaes.

The club are hopeful he’ll be back to full fitness for the start of next season, and if that’s the case, we cannot see anyone starting ahead of him, as the Brazilian international was superb for most of this year.

On top of his impressive ability to get on the end of set-pieces, the “absolutely unstoppable” colossus, as talent scout Jacek Kulig described him, is a rock at the back.

4

CB – William Saliba

Partnering Gabriel at the back will be none other than the incredible William Saliba.

The French international has now made 134 appearances for the North Londoners, 100 of which have come in the Premier League, and while he wasn’t quite at his best this season, his immense talent and potential is undeniable.

5

LB – Myles Lewis-Skelly

The final defender in the starting lineup is the outrageously gifted Myles Lewis-Skelly.

Now, there is certainly an argument that it could and perhaps should be Riccardo Calafiori, but the Hale Ender has come on leaps and bounds since making his debut last year, and he looks to have cemented himself in the manager’s preferred lineup.

It’s easy to see why as well, as on top of being far sting and more defensively secure than any 18-year-old academy prospect has any right to be, the youngster is also a real outlet, and as we saw against Manchester City, has an eye for goal.

6

DM – Martin Zubimendi

We’ve made it to the first new face in the team: Martin Zubimendi.

The Spanish international, who is set to cost the club around £51m, might not officially be an Arsenal player just yet, but it’s been pretty widely reported that he’s a medical away from it all being confirmed.

It’s easy to see why Arteta and Co have been so keen to sign the 26-year-old as well, as he’s got an abundance of experience marshalling the midfield for Real Sociedad.

Moreover, he was dubbed one of the “best central midfielders in the world” by Spain manager Luis de la Fuente about seven months before he helped the country win their fourth European Championships against England.

7

CM – Declan Rice

Starting just ahead of Zubimendi in the left-eight will be Arsenal’s £105m man, Declan Rice.

The former West Ham United captain might have started this season a little slowly, but after Christmas, he was frankly superb.

He truly announced himself on the biggest stage against Real Madrid in the Champions League, scoring two sensational free-kicks in the first leg and then putting in a midfield masterclass away in the second.

8

CM – Martin Odegaard

The most attacking of the midfield three will be Martin Odegaard.

It’s undoubtedly true that the club captain’s return of six goals and 12 assists in 45 games this year has been seriously underwhelming, but it’s also true that he’s been the team’s player of the year twice since joining on a permanent deal in August 2021.

Therefore, there is every chance that following a summer of rest, the midfield maestro could be back to his mercurial best for the start of next season.

9

RW – Bukayo Saka

Was it ever going to be anyone else?

Starting off the right for Arsenal next season, and likely for many seasons after, will be Bukayo Saka.

The Hale End icon is undoubtedly the club’s most important and best player, and he once again showed us that this season.

For example, even though he missed over three months of football due to a hamstring injury and surgery, the “legend in the making,” as dubbed by Kulig, racked up a brilliant haul of 12 goals and 14 assists in 2619 minutes across 37 appearances.

That means the talismanic winger averaged a goal involvement every 1.42 games, or every 100.73 minutes for the team this season.

10

LW – Rodrygo

We come to the second and arguably most ambitious signing in the team: Rodrygo.

The Real Madrid superstar, whom journalist Sam Tighe described as “terrifyingly good,” lost his guaranteed starting spot in the Spanish capital this season and, as such, has been touted for a move away, with Arsenal being one of the more prominent destinations.

It could end up costing the Gunners around £85m to get done, but given his brilliant record of 118 goal involvements in 267 games for the club, he’d be more than worth the outlay.

Moreover, with two Champions Leagues and three La Liga titles under his belt, the 24-year-old would bring a serious winning mentality to N5.

Sometimes in football, things are just meant to be. Despite not picking up a single victory in their last six standard Championship games, Sunderland rallied and came up through the play-offs in dramatic circumstances.

As they weaved their way through the most lottery system in world football, they must have thought the gods were with them when Dan Ballard powered home an injury-time goal in the semi-finals against Coventry.

The gods were shining down on them again last weekend when Tom Watson, soon to be of Brighton, slid the ball home in the dying embers to send the Black Cats up.

Sunderland have been through hell and back since their exit from the top-flight several years ago, so you can’t say they don’t deserve to be back.

But, what lies in store now? Well, a move for Jordan Henderson could be on the cards.

The latest on Jordan Henderson's future

A Premier League and Champions League winner, Henderson left Liverpool behind in search of luxurious riches in Saudi Arabia.

However, his move to the Pro League wasn’t exactly filled with success. He left after a matter of months, heading to Ajax.

A European titan, his spell in the Netherlands hasn’t been too pleasing either. He’s been attacked by reporters for showing an alleged disrespect to the club amid talk he could leave, while the Amsterdam club lost the Eredivisie title on the season’s final day to PSV.

Still, there has been some solace for Henderson who, after Thomas Tuchel was appointed England manager, is now back in the Three Lions setup.

To top things off, he could also return to his boyhood club. That’s according to talkSPORT, who revealed earlier this week that the Mackems are ‘contemplating’ a move to bring the midfielder back to the Stadium of Light.

Henderson first left Sunderland behind back in 2011, having played 79 times for the club.

Would he be a good signing? Well, speaking exclusively to Football FanCast on behalf of BetVictor Casino, former Black Cats defender Wes Brown seemed to think so.

“Jordan Henderson going back to Sunderland would make sense. He’d understand that he might not play every week, but when needed, definitely show the heart,” Brown began.

Sunderland’s squad boasts some fabulous young players from Jobe Bellingham to Chris Rigg, but Brown thinks adding some experience to the squad now they’ve been promoted would be a fine idea.

The former Manchester United star said: “You do need a few experienced players in the squad, to settle the ship. We all know it’s not going to be perfect next year and there are going to be games where it’s not a good day. There has to be people in the squad to pick the other players back up. You see it year after year, how teams that come up, they can’t quite get back up from a defeat and their heads go down, everyone’s nervous.”

Concluding why the 34-year-old should head back to the northeast, Brown commented: “You need players to bring the life back into the team and Jordan would definitely be a player that would easily help do that. It’s his boyhood club as well. He would try everything to help the team.”

While Henderson’s arrival would be noteworthy, so would a potential exit for Bellingham.

Brown provides verdict on Jobe Bellingham's future

With a name like Bellingham, you’re always going to attract the attention of elsewhere and it looks like the younger brother of Jude could follow in his footsteps this summer by heading to Germany.

Sky Sports Germany reported this week that the attacking midfielder has been in talks over a move to sign for Bundesliga outfit Eintracht Frankfurt.

What does Brown make of the young Sunderland star?

He told FFC: “I like Jobe Bellingham, he’s not his brother but he’s a solid player, still young. I can tell you, I played in the Championship, it’s a tough league to get out of, it’s horrible. You could be sitting pretty one minute, you lose two games on the bounce and you’re back in tenth, and you don’t know what’s going on. He’s got a great mindset, determination and they seem like a great bunch of lads.”

Brown concluded: “He’s fitted into that team fantastically and there’s a lot of people who will be looking forward to seeing what Jobe can do in the Premier League.”

While the 19-year-old’s numbers were not jaw-dropping this season, scoring four and assisting three, it’s clear he’s got immense potential and losing him just as they earn promotion would undoubtedly be a big blow.

Big O'Nien upgrade: Sunderland targeting move for "freak" £20m "monster"

Sunderland might look to upgrade on Luke O’Nien when venturing up to the Premier League.

By
Kelan Sarson

May 30, 2025

Glasgow Rangers manager Russell Martin has a massive task ahead of him, there is no doubt.

His first few interviews since being unveiled as the new Ibrox boss have been positive, and it is clear the former Southampton manager has a distinct style of play.

This is something that the club have lacked under previous managers, including Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Philippe Clement. Those two set up teams well in Europe, but domestically was a different story.

It may well be the opposite in Martin’s case. But given how poor the Gers have been in the Premiership since winning the title in 2021, this could well be a sacrifice many of the supporters are willing to make.

Martin will need every department to click at the start of next season, as a good start is imperative.

He needs his defence to be solid and reliable. A midfield full of players simultaneously able to win the ball back and move it forwards into the final third, and a front three able to get the better of a low block and take their chances.

In that regard, having someone of Alfredo Morelos’ ability would work wonders next season, especially as he would shine in Martin’s system.

Alfredo Morelos’ Rangers statistics

The Colombian talisman was a scourge for defenders, both domestically and in Europe, across his five years at Ibrox.

Between 2018 and 2023, he played 269 matches for the Light Blues, scoring an impressive tally of 124 goals for the club. Add in another 57 assists, and it is clear that Morelos was not only a clinical finisher, but he was also able to link play with those alongside and behind him.

Not since he departed have Rangers been able to call on a player with these abilities. Sure, Cyriel Dessers may have scored 51 times in just over 100 games, but the Nigerian striker often takes two or three chances to get on the scoresheet.

Morelos refined his game after a productive opening few seasons at Ibrox. Indeed, when the club won the domestic title during 2020/21, Morelos ‘only’ scored 11 league goals.

He played slightly deeper than in previous seasons, linking up with the likes of Ianis Hagi, Joe Aribo and Ryan Kent in order to create chances for them too.

Danilo has shown glimpses of his deep-lying abilities when given a chance, but the Brazilian hasn’t enjoyed a consistent run in the team to make a proper difference.

In Morelos, Rangers had a striker who established himself as a cult icon during his spell at Ibrox.

If Martin wishes to get the fans onside quickly, signing a player who is similar in style and stature to Morelos might be a good start.

He could well have some money to spend this summer thanks to the 49ers investment. This should allow the new manager to bring in several transfer targets, which will bolster the squad.

Could his first signing be a young striker who is ready to take the next step in his career?

Rangers search for a new striker

While Dessers, Danilo and Hamza Igamane are all options for Martin, it is likely one is sold this summer.

Now, according to the Daily Record, Rangers have made Maccabi Tel Aviv centre-forward Dor Turgeman their number one target 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.

The youngster could be available for a fee in the region of £4m, and reports from Israel claim that the Glasgow side have already opened talks with the player regarding a move to Scotland.

Getting deals done over the line quickly will be key for Martin, especially as the Gers face a Champions League qualifier in six weeks.

Could Turgeman be a dream first signing? He certainly has all the tools required to succeed in Europe.

Why Rangers must sign Dor Turgeman

Last season, the highest scorer for the club was Dessers with 29 goals across all competitions. The next best tally from a striker was 16 by Igamane. While Danilo could only muster six goals through another injury-ravaged campaign.

Adding in another player who has the ability to score 20 or more goals next season is vital, especially if Martin wishes to challenge for the league title.

On that note, Turgeman would be an ideal signing this summer. The 2024/25 campaign was arguably his breakout for the Israeli side. Across 44 matches, the 21-year-old netted 20 goals and grabbed six assists for his club side.

He was praised by analyst Kai Watson as far back as February 2024, who said: “He’s played mostly as a striker but can definitely do a job on the wing. He’s quick, agile and has brilliant balance when driving with the ball.

“A very exciting player to watch and one that would have fans off of their seats.”

Last season certainly proved exactly what he can do and now is the chance for him to make a move and perform at a club like Rangers.

The club needs players who are willing to fight for every ball and win every duel. His manager, Zarko Lazetić, claimed that Turgeman was a “beast on the pitch”, and this sort of profile fits in with Martin’s style.

Like Morelos, the Israeli striker is capable of dropping deeper and generating chances for his team. Indeed, in the top flight last term, Turgeman created ten big chances for Maccabi, while he also recorded three assists and averaged 0.7 key passes per game.

For a fee of £4m, it is evident that Rangers would be getting a striker who closely resembles Morelos, perhaps without the disciplinary issues.

By selling Dessers in the coming weeks, Martin will be able to clear room for the youngster, who will be hoping to make his mark on Scottish football.

If the new owners and manager are serious about taking Rangers back to the summit of Scottish football, signing Turgeman should be a priority. That’s a certainty.

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Chelsea must win their final Club World Cup group stage game against ES Tunis to reach the knockout rounds.

Following a straightforward 2-0 win over LAFC in their opening match, Enzo Maresca’s side shipped three goals in the final 30 minutes to eventually lose 3-1.

Nicolas Jackson, who came on as a second-half substitute for Liam Delap, was sent off just four minutes into his cameo following a dreadful challenge on Ayrton Lucas.

With the Senegal international suspended, Delap will be trusted to lead the line against the African side on Wednesday, and he has played well.

The youngster grabbed an assist in his first-ever match for the Blues and looked like a real handful against Flamengo before being brought off.

If he maintains this form, Maresca may have landed himself a bargain as the Englishman will only continue to get better and better.

Another player who has impressed at the Club World Cup is Pedro Neto. He enjoyed a solid first season at Stamford Bridge, but can this tournament give him the platform to emerge as a key player under the Italian next season?

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Pedro Neto's Club World Cup statistics

The Portuguese winger was given a start against LAFC in the opening group stage match, and he certainly delivered.

Neto scored the opener against the MLS side with a well-taken finish after running onto a through ball.

The winger also completed 92% of his passes, made four key passes, succeeded with five of his seven dribbles and created a big chance.

He was arguably the club’s best player during the match, and he continued this form into the next game, despite Chelsea suffering a defeat.

Once again, the former Wolverhampton Wanderers winger opened the scoring for the Blues, capitalising on some poor defending from the opposition to race away and slot home his second goal of the tournament.

Aside from his goal, he also created a big chance, made one key pass and attempted seven dribbles throughout the encounter.

These statistics prove that Neto has been the most dangerous player on the Chelsea side so far, and Maresca will need him to perform in a similar fashion against ES Tunis.

If so, the Stamford Bridge side will ease into the last 16. While Neto is shining stateside, it hasn’t stopped the manager from turning to the transfer market in order to bolster his wide options.

Indeed, one player who has been linked with a move to London might even be a more exciting prospect than Neto, that’s for sure.

Chelsea's search for a new winger

It isn’t a secret that the club are keen on bringing in another winger or two this summer. Players such as Mohammed Kudus, Tyler Dibling and Malick Fofana have been linked with the Blues of late.

While all three would make solid signings, with the latter two wonderful prospects for the future, it is Jamie Gittens who Maresca is desperate to sign 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.

The club had a bid of around £42m rejected by Borussia Dortmund a few weeks ago, as the German side were holding out for a much higher fee.

Although it looked as though they were the frontrunners in the race to sign the English talent, it now looks as though a European heavyweight are ready to rival Chelsea.

According to German outlet Kicker, Bayern Munich have now joined the race for Gittens, and they are reportedly in talks with the current Dortmund sensation.

This is a blow for Maresca, but the report does note that the Blues are still in ‘negotiations’ to bring the English forward to Stamford Bridge with a bid of £51m ‘on the table’.

Why Chelsea must sign Jamie Gittens

Neto has impressed so far during the Club World Cup, showing the promise that made the Blues splash out to sign him last summer.

Going into next season, he should have the right wing position sorted, especially as Noni Madueke’s future is uncertain.

That said, Gittens is still only 20 and no doubt a much more exciting prospect for the Blues on the opposite flank. He may have struggled to impress under Niko Kovac and his tactical system, but his spell at Dortmund has been a huge success.

Across 107 matches in all competitions, he has registered 31 goal contributions – 17 goals and 14 assists – with seven coming in the Champions League.

His performances last season led journalist Dougie Critchley to heap plenty of praise on the youngster, saying: “He’s only 20, and this is his breakout campaign, but some of his finishing has been absolutely world-class. Crucially, he’s already making decisive contributions in the BIGGEST games (Real, Bayern, Leverkusen, Frankfurt).”

There is absolutely no doubt that Gittens has an incredible future in the game. A fresh start is required, however, especially with Kovac looking like he will be at Dortmund for the long haul.

Such is his impact over the previous 365 days, Gittens ranks highly among his positional peers across several attacking metrics.

Not only does the winger rank in the top 15% for non-penalty goals (0.41) per 90, but he also ranks in the top 9% for progressive carries (5.51) and in the top 1% for successful take-ons (3.57) per 90 across Europe’s top five leagues.

In comparison, over the same period, Neto fails to even rank in the top 70% for non-penalty goals per 90 and in the top 60% for successful take-ons per 90, proving that Gittens is certainly the most exciting talent.

How much is Maresca willing to spend on Gittens, though? That is the question the supporters will hopefully find out the answer to sooner rather than later.

He could be a fantastic addition to the Chelsea side. With Bayern interested, however, will this prove to be Chelsea’s undoing? Or can they beat the six-time European Cup winners to the prodigious talent? Only time will tell.

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