All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Aston Villa have a lot of work to do before their Premier League season gets underway next month with a home tie against Newcastle United.

Several summer departures will likely take place, with Emiliano Martinez reportedly keen on a move to Manchester United, while Jacob Ramsey is attracting interest from Nottingham Forest. But, with their PSR concerns now a thing of the past, plenty of new signings could also arrive through the door soon.

In particular, some confidence-boosting attacking additions look to be a priority, particularly if Ollie Watkins ends up joining Martinez as another first-team face to have left the building.

Aston Villa considering move for £60m striker

Watkins does look to have an embarrassment of riches when it comes to who he could pick as his next club after Villa, with it being reported that Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Manchester United are all keen on adding the England international to their respective sides.

Losing Watkins would be a notable blow, but Villa could begin to repair their depleted attack by adding reported target Alejandro Garnacho to their camp from the aforementioned Red Devils, alongside raiding Enzo Maresca’s men when going after a fresh centre-forward purchase.

An update from journalist Ben Jacobs via X indicates that Villa are in the running to land hot-and-cold Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson this summer, with Villa considering his name as they hunt down some more personnel up top.

It’s revealed that Chelsea won’t be pushing the ex-Villarreal attacker out the door – despite his hit-and-miss finishing ability – but they would consider bids if some are forthcoming, with Jackson reportedly available for around the £60m mark.

Transfer Focus

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

How Jackson could be Villa's next Duran

It would be an almighty gamble on Villa’s end to splash out some significant bucks on such an inconsistent performer but there are similarities, not just in the way they arrived in the country, but in their play styles too.

Indeed, the Villans took a risk when they landed Jhon Duran for £18m back in January of 2023, only to be immediately vindicated when he became a clinical hero for Unai Emery and Co.

After all, Duran didn’t dive into the English game boasting the most mind-blowing numbers for Chicago Fire, with only eight goals coming his way from 28 appearances in the Windy City.

Yet, he instantly became a favourite in the West Midlands for his high-octane performances in attack, culminating in a huge chunk of his 20 goals for Villa coming last season when he bagged 12 strikes from just 29 outings.

Goals

7

3

Assists

0

0

Goal conversion percentage

23%

21%

Goal frequency (minutes)

89

79

Shots per game

1.6

2

Chelsea purchased Jackson for around the £32m mark in the same year the Colombian arrived in England, knowing plenty more could come from the 24-year-old in his new location, with Villa already on the receiving end of Jackson’s lethal bursts when he headed home this effort against them during his debut campaign in West London.

Indeed, Jackson fired home a promising 13 strikes in Spain before embarking on this daunting adventure with the Blues, and whilst there have been plenty of grumbles at Stamford Bridge over his wastefulness, he has shown in spells that he can be a deadly and impactful presence on his day, just as Duran has.

Amazingly, despite squandering a costly 43 big chances across his two top-flight seasons at Chelsea, Jackson does still have more strikes next to his name in the Premier League alone than Duran mustered up across his entire Villa Park stint, with 24 goals in 64 league clashes.

Despite that, there are stylistic similarities between the pair, as the numbers showcase.

Shots

3.08

4.27

Shots on target

1.38

1.93

Completed passes

12.3

16.2

Progressive passes

1.54

1.83

Shot-creating actions

2.97

2.54

Successful take-ons

0.73

0.42

Analysing the data, we get a sense that neither are particularly involved in the play in large spells, registering fewer than 20 passes per game.

Likewise, neither striker particularly grabs the ball and takes a player on, completing fewer than one dribble per 90 minutes. Crucially, they both possess the ability to play on the shoulder of the last man and have a gangly playstyle associated with their height. Duran is 6 foot 1, while Jackson is 6 foot 2.

The 24-year-old Jackson might well welcome a fresh opportunity at Villa, particularly when taking in Emery’s transformative powers that worked wonders on the likes of Marcus Rashford last season. He had experienced an equally challenging time at Manchester United before bouncing back well with the Villans, amassing a blistering four goals and six assists in claret and blue.

Moreover, it’s even clearer from the Spaniard’s track record with Duran that he could be the manager to get even more out of a scapegoated Jackson, with the Senegal international once being labelled as a “special” talent by journalist Rahman Osman.

Of course, this move might well backfire if the 24-year-old’s wasteful displays rear their ugly head once more in the West Midlands. But, much like with Duran, it feels like a shot in the dark worth taking.

Better than Ramsey: Aston Villa register interest in £40m "superstar"

Aston Villa could soon win an attacking superstar who is better than Jacob Ramsey.

ByKelan Sarson Jul 17, 2025

Already closing in on a deal to sign James Trafford, Newcastle United are now reportedly eyeing a move to sign a towering midfield star who their scouts have already seen in person.

Newcastle "closing in" on James Trafford

It has been far from routine, but Newcastle look set to welcome their second signing of the summer following Antonio Cordero’s earlier arrival. As reported by Fabrizio Romano, the Magpies are “closing in” on securing Trafford’s signature in a deal that will see those at St James’ Park land a long-term target at long last.

Following an incredibly impressive season in the Championship, in which he played a key role in Burnley’s promotion, Trafford looks destined to become Newcastle’s new No.1 ahead of Nick Pope in the coming months.

The England international, who is still just 22 years old, represents an instant upgrade on the ageing Pope and will hand Eddie Howe one of the most promising young goalkeepers that European football has to offer.

It’s not just upgrades between the sticks that Newcastle are targeting this summer, however. Having already missed out on Joao Pedro and given up on their pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo amid his preference for Manchester United, the Magpies have set their sights on some fresh names.

That reportedly includes Anthony Elanga. The Nottingham Forest man instantly entered Newcastle’s radar following Mbeumo’s rejection and they’ve since had an offer rejected by those in the Midlands for his signature. Even after that rejection though, a deal could still take place with those in Tyneside expected to return with an improved offer.

That said, it’s not just Elanga on the shortlist with reports now suggesting that Newcastle have set their sights on signing a towering midfield star this summer.

Newcastle considering Amir Richardson move

According to NUFC Blog, PIF are now considering a move to sign Amir Richardson after Newcastle completed their scouting mission on the Fiorentina midfielder.

A player with a “freak athletic profile” according to analyst Ben Mattinson, Richardson stands at a staggering 6’5 yet remains an impressive technical player and one that Newcastle should push to sign.

Next Ben Arfa: Newcastle set to bid £50m for "electric" Elanga alternative

As Newcastle chase Anthony Elanga, should they instead go for an “electric” winger, one who is reminiscent of former fan’s favourite Hatem Ben Arfa?

ByBen Gray Jul 3, 2025

At just 23 years old, the Fiorentina star would be making his biggest move yet by swapping Italy for the Premier League and St James’ Park. Whether he would sink or swim is the big question, but all signs are pointing towards a player full of potential. As Newcastle look to add depth to Howe’s squad, Richardson could be one to watch this summer.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have now made direct contact over a deal for an “amazing” defender, who could be tempted by a move to Molineux this summer, according to a report.

Summer rebuild needed at Molineux

The departures of Rayan Ait-Nouri and Matheus Cunha have left Vitor Pereira with work to do in the summer transfer market, but Steve Bull believes his former club could be capable of taking major strides next season.

Bull said: “Pereira had to pick up the pieces last season from Gary O’Neil and he guided us to safety.

“I am not sure he wants to do that this year. I think he wants to sell himself and get us at least in the top half of the table this season.”

Achieving a top-half finish after losing Ait-Nouri and Cunha would be a major achievement for Pereira, which would be sure to attract the attention of some top clubs, but a summer rebuild will be needed in order to make that goal a reality.

Wolves make first approach to sign £34m Club World Cup goalscorer

He’s been in excellent form at the Club World Cup.

ByTom Cunningham Jun 27, 2025

One of the main reasons the Old Gold were drawn into a relegation battle last season was their very poor defensive record, shipping 69 goals in the Premier League, the highest number of any club outside the relegation zone.

As such, it is little wonder Wolves are looking at bringing in a new centre-back, and they have now held direct talks with Brighton & Hove Albion’s Igor Julio, according to El Diario Vasco (via Sport Witness).

Indeed, the Old Gold have called Igor over a potential move to Molineux, which could be of great appeal, given that Pereira’s squad is full of Brazilian and Portuguese players.

However, the Brazilian is currently prioritising a move to Real Sociedad, as he is keen to seal a move away from England this summer, and believes the La Liga side could be a good fit.

Julio could be "amazing" signing for Wolves

Wolves will be hoping the defender’s head can be turned, despite the interest from Sociedad, as he impressed considerably for Brighton last season, being singled out for praise by manager Fabian Hürzeler.

Hürzeler said: “He played now a good game against Newcastle. And I wasn’t surprised by this because I see him every training session and he’s an amazing professional player.

“He always wants to give the best. He always wants to be the best version of himself and that’s very impressive.”

The 27-year-old, who signed for Brighton for €17m (£15m) in 2023, also ranks in the 99th percentile for blocks per 90 over the past year, when compared to other centre-backs, and the 88th percentile for his pass-completion rate.

Having proven himself in the Premier League, Igor could be exactly the type of signing to help Wolves kick on and push for a top-half finish, but the interest from Real Sociedad could pose a major problem.

Wolverhampton Wanderers have agreed terms with a new “number 10” who could become Matheus Cunha’s replacement at Molineux.

Wolves aiming to replace Cunha after Man Utd transfer

The Old Gold are in need of a summer rebuild following a disappointing 24/25 Premier League season coupled with the fact they have already lost two of their star players in the transfer market.

The first to leave was Cunha, with Manchester United triggering the Brazilian’s £62.5m release clause in the opening days of the window.

Then, just before the first transfer window was set to shut, Manchester City announced a deal for Rayan Ait-Nouri, with the left-back being named in Pep Guardiola’s squad for the Club World Cup.

As a result, Vitor Pereira should have some money to spend, and they have been linked with numerous players in June. In attack, Wolves are thought to be showing an interest in FC St Gallen striker Willem Geubbels, who is valued at just £8.5m.

Meanwhile, when it comes to full-back signings, Wolves are keen on Vladimir Coufal, who has left West Ham United after five seasons and is available on a free transfer.

Wolves' most expensive signings of all time

Football FanCast takes a detailed look at Wolves’ 10 most expensive signings of all time.

ByCharlie Smith Sep 5, 2025

Pereira will be hoping the club can get some players through the door before the end of the month ahead of pre-season in July, and it looks as if Wolves have made a breakthrough in regards to an attacking addition.

Wolves agree terms with Celta Vigo’s Fer Lopez

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Wolves have agreed terms with Celta Vigo attacker Fer Lopez. A long-term deal has been agreed between the Old Gold and Lopez, and Wolves now just need to shake hands on a fee with Celta Vigo.

Interestingly, Lopez, who shares the same Gestifute agency as Jose Sa and other Wolves players, was spotted away on holiday with Wolves striker Jorgen Strand-Larsen, with the pair knowing each other from their time with the La Liga side.

Should Lopez join Larsen in the Midlands, Wolves would be getting a versatile left footed attacker. Capable of playing on the wing or as an attacking midfielder, ESPN editor David Cartlidge even described Lopez as a “unicorn”.

After coming through the Celta Vigo academy, Lopez, still just 21 years of age, has only made 20 senior appearances for his current employers, scoring four goals. However, a move to England with Wolves looks like it could be on the cards following the breakthrough on personal terms.

Newcastle United have accepted that a move for long-time transfer target Bryan Mbeumo may not work out this summer, with the Brentford forward reportedly preferring to sign for Manchester United.

Whether that will happen is another matter, and no longer the Magpies’ concern, for Eddie Howe and the powers that be have turned their attention to alternative options, Anthony Elanga and Mohammed Kudus among the targeted.

While Newcastle are in talks with Callum Wilson for a new contract, the ageing striker failed to register a goal contribution in the Premier League last season as he battled through injury problems, and some extra firepower to complement Alexander Isak wouldn’t go amiss.

Newcastle plotting to sign new striker

Brighton & Hove Albion’s Joao Pedro is right at the top of the shopping list, but Newcastle may well be plotting to sign an even more exciting centre-forward.

Transfer Focus

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

According to Football Insider, Newcastle are considering an official move for Porto’s Samu Aghehowa in the coming months, having been keeping tabs on the prolific striker.

Though the 21-year-old has an £82.5m release clause in his contract, he could be sold for considerably less, with a fee of £63m mooted.

Manchester United are also interested as they search for an upgrade on Rasmus Hojlund, and the Premier League competitors may well battle it out for the number nine.

What Samu Omorodion would bring to Newcastle

Tall, powerful and blessed with swift pace, Aghehowa has the fundamental skills to become a fearsome marksman in the Premier League, more still a perfect counterpoint to ther breezy dynamism of Isak.

He might not be the finished article, but this wouldn’t actually be a negative: Aghehowa would join a Newcastle team blessed with “the best striker in the Premier League” in Isak, as has been said by pundit Jamie Carragher, and Wilson, an experienced poacher.

It’s a fantastic mix, and one which could see Aghehowa springboard into the ascendency. Who knows, he might even prove an even bigger star than Pedro with some careful man-management over the coming years.

Though Pedro has impressed since joining Brighton from Watford in a deal worth around £30m two years ago, scoring 30 goals and providing ten assists across 70 matches, 18 of those strikes have come from the penalty spot.

Aghehowa’s ceiling is higher.

Joining Porto from Atletico Madrid last summer just weeks after a move to Chelsea collapsed, Omorodion has thrived in Portugal, scoring 25 goals across 42 matches in all competitions, including a six-goal haul in the Europa League that saw him fire two past Man United.

Pedro

Matches (starts)

30 (23)

27 (23)

Goals

19

10

Assists

3

6

Shots (on target)*

2.7 (1.1)

1.7 (0.7)

Big chances missed

18

7

Pass completion

79%

75%

Big chances created

5

11

Key passes*

0.6

1.1

Dribbles*

0.4

1.1

Duels won*

3.3

4.9

Hailed as a “monster in the making” with a “complete profile” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Aghehowa has the mark of an elite-level goalscorer, and while Brighton’s Brazilian forward is more creative and dynamic, Newcastle must invest their chips in the man who could become one of the deadliest number nines in the business.

The dream XI Newcastle can build: No Gordon; Joao Pedro & £120m trio sign

Newcastle are looking to make sweeping changes as they step back into the Champions League.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 10, 2025

Leeds United are tooling up for a return to the Premier League and could now be closer to making their first signing of the summer window, according to reports.

Leeds United look towards Premier League comeback

Following playoff heartbreak against Southampton, Daniel Farke finally led his side to the Championship title this time around and will now focus on navigating the challenges top-flight football has to offer.

The Whites could have a transfer budget of over £100 million to play with this summer, which may go a long way to securing the survival that the 48-year-old craves in charge at Elland Road.

Ipswich Town act as an example that capital spent doesn’t necessarily guarantee a sustained place among England’s footballing elite, but there are valuable lessons to learn from promoted sides’ ill-fortune over the past few years.

Looking to buck that trend, Leeds are eyeing a statement move for former star Kalvin Phillips and have held internal talks to hatch a plan that could tempt him back to Yorkshire from Manchester City.

Evan Ferguson is another potential Whites signing with Premier League credentials that could thrive in the correct surroundings. Admittedly, he has stalled since his injury troubles, though his age may work in his favour if a deal were to be agreed.

Big upgrade on Piroe: Leeds in the race to sign £34m "monster"

Leeds United would land themselves a Joel Piroe upgrade if they successfully signed this goalscoring monster.

1 ByKelan Sarson Jun 1, 2025

Callum Wilson and Jamie Vardy have been mentioned as free agent options to bolster Farke’s frontline. Again, any possibility of a swoop would depend on whether they would fit the wage bracket at Elland Road.

Focusing on the foil behind the main men, Leeds and the 49ers have now stepped up their pursuit of a talented attacking midfielder to support their pool of centre-forward options.

Leeds United hold talks over Emiliano Buendia move

According to TBR’s Graeme Bailey, Leeds have now held talks to sign Aston Villa’s Emiliano Buendia. Having spent the second half of the campaign on loan at Bayer Leverkusen, the former Norwich City man is “open” to a move to Yorkshire and is someone who Farke trusts as his side look to retain their Premier League status.

Five most similar players to Emiliano Buendia (FBRef)

Eliesse Ben Seghir

Monaco

Enzo Millot

Stuttgart

Facundo Buonanotte

Leicester City

Jude Bellingham

Real Madrid

Xavi Simons

RB Leipzig

Labelled “delightful” by Dean Smith, Buendia registered five goals in 34 appearances across all competitions at his parent club and in Germany, though it is clear he needs to find a platform to gain regular minutes after a series of injury troubles.

Now, it remains to be seen if Leeds can pull off what would be regarded as a bit of a coup should they come to an agreement on a deal with the 28-year-old.

Buendia was regarded as one of the Premier League’s most talented stars outside the ‘Big Six’ not too long ago, so there is every chance Farke could reignite the Mar del Plata-born man.

Earlier this week, the Whites were said to be preparing a £16.8 million offer for the man in question, indicating there could be something in the water.

An “unbelievable” Newcastle United player is “unsettled” at the club amid doubts over his St James’ Park future, according to a fresh claim from journalist Graeme Bailey.

Newcastle players linked with summer exit

The Magpies will know the importance of signing some stellar players in the summer transfer window, but keeping hold of key men is equally as vital for Eddie Howe, as they look to become a force in the Premier League and Champions League.

Various Newcastle stars are being linked with moves away from St James’, including Anthony Gordon, who is reportedly once again the subject of interest from Liverpool. The 24-year-old was considered an option for the new Premier League champions last summer, but he ended up staying put.

Retaining the services of Alexander Isak is arguably more important than anything for the Magpies, with the Swede also linked with a summer switch to the Reds, as well as some other top clubs.

There is no indication that he wants to leave, and Newcastle will demand an eye-watering amount of money for him, but it is still a concern for supporters. Now, a new update has emerged regarding one of those players mentioned above.

"Unbelievable" Newcastle player is "unsettled"

According to The Boot Room‘s Bailey on X, Gordon is “unsettled” at Newcastle, with Howe doing his best to persuade him to stay at the club:

“TBR Football understands Anthony Gordon is attracting interest from several Premier League clubs ahead of the summer transfer window. Gordon is unsettled – but Eddie Howe wants him to fight for his place at Newcastle.”

Losing the £150,000-a-week Gordon would be an undoubted setback for Newcastle, considering what a dangerous attacking player he is, providing strong end product since arriving from Everton.

Newcastle hold serious chance of signing 20 y/o "difference-maker" for £50m

What a superb signing he could prove to be.

ByHenry Jackson May 24, 2025

The England international has chipped in with 17 goals and 15 assists in the Premier League over the past two seasons, and Bruno Guimaraes absolutely loves his Magpies teammate, saying of him:

“He has been amazing, he is so quick, and when we get the ball to him, we know he is going to do something special. No one at the club deserves to be in the England squad more than him.

“He has been unbelievable, always scoring and giving some assists. He is a lovely guy as well, I am very happy for him and hope he can get some minutes for England.”

Hopefully, Gordon realises that Newcastle are the perfect club for him moving forward, especially if they can offer him Champions League football next season, helping him develop into a regular starter for England.

There is no getting away from it: this season has been one big disappointment after another for Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta’s side crashed out of both domestic cups, couldn’t get past Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League, and are so far behind Liverpool in the Premier League that it would be hard to say they were even in a title race.

However, while this has not been a campaign to remember for the North Londoners, there have at least been a few positives, such as the form of Declan Rice.

The Englishman has been one of the team’s best players and currently has a tally of 18 goal involvements in 50 games, so fans should be excited about recent reports linking the club to someone who could be their next Rice.

Arsenal's hunt for a new midfielder

Before getting to the player in question, it’s worth reviewing some of the other midfielders linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks, like Martin Zubimendi and Hugo Larsson.

Transfer Focus

The former’s proposed £51m move to the Emirates actually got the ‘here we go’ treatment from Fabrizio Romano on Saturday morning, and with Spain manager Luis de la Fuente previously describing him as one of the “best central midfielders in the world,” fans should be excited.

Interestingly, Larsson would also reportedly cost just as much this summer, but as he’s still just 20 years old, his move would likely be one for the future, and if Arteta and Co want to sign an up-and-coming central midfielder, they’d be better served acting on their supposed interest in Adam Wharton.

Yes, according to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are one of several sides keen on the Crystal Palace star.

Alongside the Gunners, the report revealed that Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, Manchester City, Aston Villa and Newcastle United are interested in the young Englishman.

A potential price tag is not mentioned in the story, but another report from earlier this month claimed that it would take a massive fee of around £80m to get the midfielder out of Selhurst Park this summer.

It would be an incredibly complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Wharton’s ability and potential, it’s one worth fighting for, especially as he could be their next Rice.

Why Wharton could be Arsenal's new Rice

The first thing to say is that we aren’t claiming Wharton is on the same level as Rice at the moment, but there are enough similarities to suggest he could develop into someone just as brilliant.

One of the key similarities is their position and style of play, as, just like the Arsenal star, the young Palace ace started his career and primarily still plays in defensive midfield but is now incredibly influencing things at the sharp end of the pitch while maintaining his defensive output.

For example, FBref has placed him in the top 6% of midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues for ball recoveries, the top 7% for progressive passes, shot-creating actions and dribblers challenged, the top 10% for crosses into the penalty area, the top 11% for expected assisted goals, the top 12% for goal-creating actions and more, all per 90.

Ball Recoveries

6.73

Top 6%

Progressive Passes

7.76

Top 7%

Shot-Creating Actions

3.91

Top 7%

Dribbles Challenged

2.95

Top 7%

Crosses into Penalty Area

0.32

Top 10%

Inswinging Corner Kicks

1.22

Top 10%

Expected Assisted Goals

0.19

Top 11%

Goal-Creating Actions

0.45

Top 12%

Key Passes

1.67

Top 14%

Passes into Penalty Area

1.28

Top 14%

On top of that, just like the former West Ham United captain, the young “generational talent,” as dubbed by members of the media, would be moving to the club from a fellow London-based Premier League side in Palace.

Finally, just like the Gunners’ number 41, the up-and-coming Eagles star earned his first England cap at 20 years old and under the management of Gareth Southgate.

Ultimately, while Wharton still has a lot of developing to do, he already looks like a special player, and if Arsenal have a chance to sign him, they should take it, as they may just be getting another Rice in the making.

Their answer to Salah: Arsenal make offer for £63m CF who's outscoring Isak

The dazzling striker could be the one to lead Arsenal to glory next year.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 14, 2025

Will Brandan Rodgers’ Celtic secure a sixth treble in just nine seasons this month?

On Saturday, the Hoops secured a fourth successive Scottish Premiership title, winning 5-0, with both Nicolas Kühn and Adam Idah bagging braces.

Victory over Aberdeen at the end of the month will rubber stamp yet another treble, with the Bhoys having now equalled Rangers’ record of 55 top division titles.

However, that victory at Tannadice did come at a cost, so should Rodgers replace Jota with Celtic’s “absolutely brilliant” youngster?

The latest on Jota injury at Celtic

Jota played a key role in Celtic’s opener on Saturday, ultimately going down as a Ryan Strain own goal, however, just five minutes later, the Portuguese winger was hobbling off, and that could be the last we see of him for a while.

A report by the Scottish Sun claims Jota will be sidelined ‘for several months’, potentially even missing the start of next season, having been spotted on crutches and in a knee brace at the title celebrations.

Rodgers is yet to officially reveal any prognosis, stating “he just felt his knee… we’re looking at whether his meniscus is a little bit sore… we’ll see in the next couple of days.”

This would obviously be a blow, although Celtic have found scoring goals no great difficulty this season, as the table below outlines.

2024/25*

148

2.86

102

12

2023/24

115

2.3

95

4

2022/23

147

2.77

114

7

2021/22

137

2.28

92

4

2020/21

100

1.96

78

4

2019/20**

147

2.67

89

8

2018/19

121

1.92

77

5

2017/18

126

2.07

73

5

2016/17

150

2.54

106

9

Just two more goals this season, which you’d have to be confident that Celtic will score, would make this their highest-scoring campaign since Rodgers’ first year in charge, already their best in terms of goals-per-game of the 21st century.

So, with the Premiership title already wrapped up, now is surely the time for Rodgers to experiment, thereby giving his “absolutely brilliant” youngster an opportunity?

Celtic's next young sensation

Johnny Kenny joined Celtic from Sligo Rovers back in January 2022 but, to date, has made just five appearances for the club, totalling 66 minutes, still yet to start.

However, he has gained plenty of first-team experience out on loan, as the table below outlines.

Celtic

5

66

0

0

Shamrock Rovers

7

4,230

26

8

Queen’s Park

12

305

0

0

Sligo Rovers

34

2,053

12

2

Kenny spent the last two calendar years on loan back in the League of Ireland with Shamrock Rovers, scoring 26 times for the Hoops, 20 of which came during a very productive 2024, notably bagging five in six Conference League outings, helping the Irish side reach the knockout phase.

He was named the club’s young player of the year twice, while Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout described his form for the Dublin-based outfit as “superb”.

Following Shamrock Rovers’ win over Borac Banja Luka in December, Kenny confirmed he would return to Celtic, hoping to “show Brendan in training” what he is capable of.

After making his debut against Ross County a month later, Rodgers described him as “absolutely brilliant”, although the 21-year-old has barely been seen since, an unused substitute on nine occasions.

Thus, with the Premiership title secured and Jota sidelined, what better time for Rodgers to find out whether or not Kenny could be a useful asset to his team?

Rodgers could land Celtic's next Maeda with move for "quality" £2.5m star

Having secured a fourth successive Premiership title, Celtic are stepping up their interest in a “quality” winger who could be the next Daizen Maeda.

ByBen Gray Apr 30, 2025

Arsenal beat Crystal Palace on Wednesday night, so the champagne remained corked in Liverpool’s internal quarters, with the Reds squad convened to celebrate if their closest rivals tripped up.

But they didn’t, and now Anfield has the chance to erupt into a frenzy when Liverpool host Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday afternoon, with three points enough to seal Arne Slot the Premier League title in his first season at the helm.

Having only swallowed two defeats in the top flight this season, Liverpool will be deserving, dominant winners. Much has been made of the purportedly low quality pervading across the division this year, but this is nonsense, with the Reds in need of 11 points from 15 remaining to cross the 90-point threshold.

Liverpool have been great, but now they must begin preparations for the 2025/26 campaign, defending their expected title while challenging across tournamental fronts too.

With Darwin Nunez set to leave, a centre-forward will be needed. However, Liverpool also need defenders, with Dean Huijsen identified as the perfect player to reinforce a title-bound rearguard.

Liverpool's interest in Dean Huijsen

Huijsen joined Bournemouth last summer in a deal which could reach £15m, leaving Juventus after graduating from the Serie A giants’ academy.

The centre-half has been immense, one of the standout players in Andoni Iraola’s high-flying team, sitting eighth in the Premier League, which will secure a European spot next year if Crystal Palace fail to win the FA Cup.

With a £50m release clause, the 20-year-old Huijsen is “the most in-demand centre-back in the world” right now, according to analyst Ben Mattinson.

Liverpool are very much in the mix for the defender, as per Fabrizio Romano, with sporting director Richard Hughes looking to secure his signature and add to Slot’s rich backline.

However, it does seem that Chelsea lead the race at this current stage.

If Stamford Bridge adds the Spain international to their mix, Liverpool will endure, turn their attention to another central defender.

Huijsen, indeed, isn’t the only defender from the Vitality on FSG’s mind.

Liverpool leading race for PL sensation

As per GIVEMESPORT, Liverpool do have the lead in the race for another Bournemouth talent, with FSG preparing to intensify efforts to sign left-back Milos Kerkez.

In with a shout for a place in the Premier League Team of the Season after a stellar year, Kerkez, 21, would be available for around £40m this summer, with Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City all interested too.

However, Liverpool’s groundwork and the Hungarian’s friendship with Dominik Szoboszlai could hold sway in negotiations.

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Liverpool would love both Cherries defenders, but getting the Kerkez deal over the line will prove the more important piece to shift toward Merseyside.

Why Liverpool should prioritise Kerkez

Kerkez has started every Premier League fixture for Bournemouth this season, with performances leading talent scout Antonio Mango to describe him as “one of the best young full-backs in football.”

Born in Serbia, Kerkez brings a fascinating blend of athleticism and power, capable of driving upfield and making things happen in the final third while adding security and width to the backline during defensive phases, with his ball-playing ability also allowing his side to calmly play their way out of danger.

Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher has even hailed him as a “revelation for Bournemouth,” so important for one of the division’s most exciting, attack-tailored outfits.

It’s clear that he’s got what it takes to star for Liverpool, potentially even swiping Andy Robertson’s usual place in Slot’s starting line-up from the get-go.

Matches (starts)

33 (33)

30 (26)

Goals

2

0

Assists

5

0

Touches*

59.1

63.9

Pass completion

80%

89%

Big chances created

6

6

Key passes*

0.9

1.3

Succ. dribbles

0.6 (56%)

0.2 (41%)

Ball recoveries*

4.5

3.0

Tackles + interceptions*

2.7

2.0

Clearances*

2.8

1.3

Ground duels (won)*

3.4 (60%

1.7 (53%)

Liverpool may covet Huijsen, but Robertson’s declining output and solidity in defence suggest that Kerkez would be the more vital piece to add to the machine. The Bournemouth man is more active, mobile and confident in the duel, albeit not so crisp in possession, though this is in large part down to the players’ respective assigned roles.

Not only this, but Kerkez also ranks among the top 18% of full-backs in the Premier League this season, as per FBref, for assists, the top 11% for successful crosses and the top 13% for both progressive carries and touches in the attacking penalty area per 90.

He’s got a natural potency, one which has deserted Robertson after so many years of service on Merseyside. This new spark of creativity could prove to be so important for a Liverpool side braced for the departure of Trent Alexander-Arnold at the end of his contract, with Real Madrid confident they will secure his signature.

No doubt, FSG would love to sign both Kerkez and Huijsen this summer, but Kerkez’s signature carries with it the more pressing urgency for those of a Liverpool persuasion.

If Liverpool have the means, which in this case some might consider a synonymical word for ‘ambition’, then they will move to sign both of Bournemouth’s left-sided defenders this summer.

It would be a statement of intent, all right, and one which might leave a lasting imprint on Slot’s legacy at Anfield. However, given the need for balance and impetus down the left flank, Kerkez should be the priority.

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