Liverpool are believed to be targeting a new player who is similar in style to a recent Arsenal signing once they wrap up the signature of Hugo Ekitike, according to transfer expert Graeme Bailey.
Liverpool closing in on Ekitike
The Reds are closing in on the addition of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, and it is seemingly a matter of time until he is confirmed as the Premier League champions’ latest signing for an initial fee of £69m.
That doesn’t mean that Liverpool are done yet, however, with Arne Slot and his players departing for their tour of Asia, ahead of one pre-season game apiece in Hong Kong and Japan, against AC Milan and Yokohama FM respectively.
Hugo Ekitike.
While Newcastle United are remaining stubborn in their efforts to keep hold of Alexander Isak this summer, the Reds are still making it clear that they would like to sign the Swede, even though they have already broken the British transfer record for Florian Wirtz.
While attacking reinforcements are the order of the day for Liverpool currently, it looks as though their focus will move elsewhere as the window goes on, with funds available to spend and depth required in certain areas.
Liverpool want Mosquera-like signing
Speaking to The Boot Room, Bailey claimed that Liverpool will target a new centre-back this summer – one who is similar to imminent Arsenal signing Cristhian Mosquera, having shown an interest in him.
“Liverpool are not finished even with Ekitike, far from it. Even with Ekitike and Wirtz, they want more in the last third but they are happy with how things are going. Nunez and Diaz leaving will free up space, and, if as expected they both depart, expect to see another wide forward too, if not another central option.
“That aside, they are still working on a central defender – irrespective of the Konate situation. They did like (Cristhian) Mosquera before Arsenal launched their bid for him. I believe they will sign someone of similar stature to him – someone who can learn from Van Dijk and Konate.”
Van Dijk and Marc Guehi
Bringing in a central defender is vital for Liverpool, especially following Jarell Quansah’s move to Bayer Leverkusen, and former Valencia man Mosquera would have been a strong option, having been lauded as “elite” by analyst Harvey Diamonds.
Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi arguably stands out as the best choice for Liverpool currently, amid links with him this summer, with the England international knowing the Premier League extremely well and still a relatively young player.
Appearances
34
37
Starts
34
37
Minutes played
3060
3320
Clearances per game
4.6
3.3
Aerial duel wins per game
2.0
1.1
Tackles per game
1.8
1.5
Pass completion rate
84.1%
91.2%
Goals
3
1
Assists
2
0
Admittedly, he would be an expensive signing, with the Eagles demanding big money for a prized asset, but he could be an ideal alternative to Mosquera.
This summer has felt like a whirlwind for Arsenal.
During the first few weeks of the transfer window, it looked like the club were standing still and allowing their rivals to get further ahead of them, but over the last few weeks, everything has changed.
For example, the club have already announced the signings of Martin Zubimendi, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard, and Noni Madueke, and it’s just a matter of time until they announce the arrival of Cristhian Mosquera.
Arsenal manager MikelArtetaduring a lap of appreciation after the match
Add to that the imminent arrival of goalscoring extraordinaire Viktor Gyokeres and the persistent links to Eberechi Eze and Mikel Arteta’s side could be competing on all fronts next year.
Yet, there is another international ace heavily linked with a move to the Emirates, someone who’d be a more exciting signing than the Crystal Palace star.
Arsenal target international star
Eze has long been on Arsenal’s radar, with stories touting his return to the club emerging as far back as last summer.
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Those stories have returned in a big way this summer, with the current state of play seeming to be that club have spoken to the player, want to bring him to the Emirates, but do not want to pay his entire £68m release clause.
The 27-year-old star would be a great addition to the squad, but the Gunners might need to get a move on if they really want him, as London rivals Chelsea have also been credited with concrete interest in him.
Crystal Palace's EberechiEzeposes with the player of the match trophy
With that said, Arteta and Co might have gone cold on the whole deal, as it now looks like the club are looking towards another, more exciting winger.
At least that is according to a recent report from Caught Offside, which claims Arsenal are still incredibly interested in Rodrygo.
In fact, the report goes a step further, revealing that the North Londoners are now preparing to test the waters with an offer of around €80m, which is about £69m.
However, while Real Madrid are willing to let the Brazilian leave this summer, they would only do so for a fee of around €100m, which is about £87m.
It could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but Rodrygo would be worth it, and a more exciting signing than Eze at that.
Why Rodrygo would be more exciting than Eze
The first thing to note is that both players are incredibly talented and would make for truly exciting signings this summer.
However, in Arsenal’s case, there are a few reasons why Rodrygo would be that bit more appealing.
Real Madrid's Rodrygo
Firstly, while Eze has Premier League experience and played a key role in Palace’s FA Cup triumph last season, the Brazilian has significantly more experience playing at the very top of the game, in the Champions League.
For example, in his 64 appearances in the competition, totalling 3883 minutes, the former “world-class superstar,” as dubbed by Luka Modrić, has scored 25 goals and provided 14 assists.
Appearances
64
Starts
43
Minutes
3883
Goals
25
Assists
14
Goal Involvements per Match
0.60
Minutes per Goal Involvement
99.56′
That comes out to a goal involvement every 1.64 games, or every 99.56 minutes in the most prestigious competition in club football.
Moreover, he hasn’t just been statpadding in meaningless games either, as of his 25 goals, eight have been game-winning and eight have come in the knockout rounds.
In other words, he is just the sort of player this Arsenal team need to really get over the final hurdle and win the major honours, and we can’t say for certain that the Eagles ace could be the same.
Add to all of that the fact he’s three years younger than the former QPR star, and it’s scary, or exciting, to think about how good he could be when he hits his peak a few years from now.
Finally, there is also the superficial, but unavoidable, argument that signing a star from Real Madrid is simply always going to be more exciting than signing one from Palace.
Ultimately, if Arsenal can get both players, they should, but if they cannot, then it makes more sense to splash the cash on the younger but more experienced top-level international in Rodrygo, who’d be a far more exciting addition.
Madueke upgrade: Arsenal set to start talks to sign "world-class" £43m star
Manchester United are on the lookout for high-profile reinforcements this summer and could now have an opportunity to strengthen their forward line, according to reports.
Manchester United's revolving door of offensive options
Bryan Mbeumo is the name on everyone’s lips at Manchester United and everyone will be desperate for a deal to be done despite the Bees knocking back two separate bids for the 25-year-old, the latter said to be worth £62.5 million.
Keith Andrews is set to hold out for around £70 million before parting ways with his star man, who could join Matheus Cunha in forming the Red Devils’ new-look attack. The Red Devils are also set to part ways with several of their current offensive assets.
Manchester United's AlejandroGarnachoand Joshua Zirkzee celebrate after the match
Taking to social media platform X, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Marcus Rashford, Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, Tyrell Malacia, Jadon Sancho have all asked to leave Old Trafford and will return to pre-season later in the month.
He explained: “Marcus Rashford, Antony, Alejandro Garnacho, Tyrell Malacia, Jadon Sancho have all informed Manchester United they wish to leave. Man Utd have delayed their return date until later in July to allow them time to explore solutions further.”
In light of this news, Manchester United have made an approach for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins, potentially adding some proven Premier League experience through the middle amid Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund’s struggles.
He's better than Watkins: Man Utd in talks to sign "world-class" £26m star
Manchester United appear to be making moves to land a new striker this summer.
1 ByEthan Lamb Jul 4, 2025
There is a healthy appetite from supporters to see a new man installed to spearhead the Red Devils to glory in 2025/26. Still, FFP parameters and missing out on European qualification will make it tougher for Ruben Amorim to push deals over the line.
Nevertheless, he now has a clinical forward in his sights that could provide the edge needed to take Manchester United to the next level.
Manchester United considering move for Ivan Toney
According to Football Insider in conversation with former scout Mick Brown, Manchester United are interested in bringing Ivan Toney back to the Premier League after he left Brentford to join Al-Ahli last summer.
The England international is eyeing a return to his homeland, but he would have to take a pay cut in light of his exorbitant £400,000 weekly wage packet in the Gulf region.
How has Ivan Toney got on since joining Al-Ahli?
Appearances
44
Goals
30
Assists
6
Adding some context, Brown stated: “Man United have been watching him, my sources tell me, and they think he is still capable of playing at the top level, plus he’s not even 30 yet so he’s got years left in him.”
He added: “From what I’m told, he would be interested in a return to the Premier League. He might have to take a cut from what he’s getting paid out there, but he wants to play at the highest level and United could give him that chance.”
While he may be an upgrade in the centre-forward position, questions would linger over the tax complications involved in any proposed move to Old Trafford, though you suspect that is a bridge Manchester United would cross later down the line.
There is no secret that a new forward is needed at Old Trafford and Toney, with 36 goals and 85 appearances worth of Premier League experience, may just be the man for the job.
It wasn’t exactly a well-kept secret this summer that Birmingham City were interested in landing Peterborough United superstar Kwame Poku.
Unfortunately, the Blues’ drawn-out pursuit of the entertaining Ghanaian has seemingly gone cold now, as the likes of Russell Martin’s Rangers accelerate to the front of the queue for his coveted services instead.
Kwame Poku for Peteborough.
This would have been a knock to Chris Davies and Co.’s confidence as they navigate up to the Championship, but it hasn’t stopped them from pressing on with other attacking targets, as the ambitious Blues look to close in on another statement addition up top.
Birmingham close in on statement reunion
As per a recent report from journalist Alan Nixon, the newly promoted outfit look to be edging ever closer to bringing former star Demarai Gray back to their ranks 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.
Much like their chase for Poku, it had been well publicised that the Blues wanted to make such a stunning reunion happen.
Now, it might well become a reality, with both Sunderland and Fiorentina, who had also been looking at signing the experienced Jamaica international in an £8m deal, left in Birmingham’s dust to seal the sublime move.
Whilst the Rangers-bound attacker had been viewed as the flavour of the month in the EFL after a sensational season on the books of Posh, landing Gray might well be an even more exciting pick-up than the 23-year-old.
Why Gray would be a more exciting signing than Poku
If Birmingham are deadly serious about going after back-to-back promotions, Gray joining will undoubtedly help them to pull off such an arduous feat, with the former Blues prodigy going on to have a lengthy career at the very top after waving St. Andrew’s goodbye in 2016.
Indeed, Gray is likely more well-known in English football now for being a Premier League regular on the books of Leicester City and Everton, than a one-time academy product emerging up the Blues ranks.
In total, the Birmingham-born forward has amassed over 200 Premier League appearances for the likes of the Foxes and the Toffees, with an impressive 19 goals and 14 assists coming his way from those contests, on top of a Premier League title astoundingly being lifted when situated at the King Power Stadium.
Leicester
169
13
14
Birmingham
78
8
4
Everton
75
12
6
Al-Ettifaq
50
4
5
Bayer Leverkusen
12
1
2
Poku might well have a certain level of freshness on his side – considering he has just tallied up a blistering 12 goals and 11 assists for Darren Ferguson’s men last campaign – but the table above really does speak for itself when judging the 28-year-old’s pedigree alone, with a season even under his belt in the Bundesliga when lining up for Bayer Leverkusen.
Moreover, whilst Poku was a breakout success for Posh last season, he has never actually bagged a goal in the Championship, despite ripping up the third-tier, with just a meagre two goal contributions next to his name at the difficult level from 20 clashes.
An “electric” attacker on his day – in the words of journalist Scott Saunders – his first major steps in the senior game did actually come in the Championship with his hometown club, notably netting a memorable hat-trick above three of the eight strikes he has managed in the division when donning Birmingham blue.
It will now be up to Gray to roll back the years on his expected return, with more Premier League appearances perhaps coming his way down the line.
Whilst Poku is the talk of the town as an up-and-coming ace, Gray has already cemented himself as a Championship-capable talent and beyond across his vast playing days, with another chapter soon to be added to his packed story when hopefully starring for Davies and Co.
Birmingham want to sign "fantastic" £8m ace who scored in St Andrew's win
Newcastle United, like every other Premier League side, found out their fate with the new fixtures getting released on Wednesday morning.
The Magpies will be hoping to start the campaign strongly, looking to build momentum heading into their Champions League campaign and get themselves into the top four.
It will not be an easy start for Eddie Howe’s side. They face Aston Villa away from home, followed by a visit from champions Liverpool as their first game at St James’ Park. To end August, the North East outfit have a trip to Elland Road to face Leeds United.
Howe will need his biggest players to step up and perform at the start of the season, and they might well be adding someone to the squad this summer who can help with that.
Newcastle’s latest transfer target
It is no secret that the Magpies are looking for a new attacker this summer, due to a need to strengthen and a lack of clarity on Anthony Gordon’s future. One Liverpool insider recently revealed that the Reds are ‘in active contact’ with the winger over a move.
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Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Names like Brighton’s Joao Pedro and Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga have both been touted but Newcastle could actually look to bring a Manchester United attacker to St James’ Park instead.
Caught Offside report that Marcus Rashford is ‘being eyed up’ by Howe’s side. The Toon side are said to be ‘names to watch in the Premier League’ as the race for Rashford’s signature goes on.
It remains unclear whether this will be a loan deal or a permanent move. Aston Villa, one of the other sides interested in Rashford, had a £40m buy option in his loan contract, so he may well be valued at the same price by United. Other interested parties included Tottenham Hotspur and European giants Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Inter Milan.
Why Rashford would be a good signing
After a tough first half of the 2024/25 campaign for Rashford, he really made a strong end to the season during his short stint at Villa Park. The 27-year-old reminded the world why he is such a deadly attacker.
In 17 games for the Villans, the England international scored four times and grabbed six assists. What makes that even more impressive is the fact that he played just 940 minutes, the equivalent of 10.4 full 90-minute games, leaving him with a rate of almost one goal involvement per game.
Of course, let’s not forget the sensational career Rashford has had at Old Trafford. The Wythenshawe-born superstar scored 138 goals and registered 79 assists in 426 games for his boyhood club.
Man United forwardMarcus Rashford
The winger was once described as a “big-game player” by Statman Dave. That is good news for Newcastle, who need that kind of quality with the start to the season they have. They have been on the receiving end of it too. He scored against the Magpies in the 2023 Carabao Cup final.
If the Magpies do sign Rashford, he would arguably be a perfect replacement for Gordon. The Newcastle star scored and assisted 16 goals in 42 games last season, fewer than Rashford’s 20 in 41 games for both United and Villa.
Last season, there were several standout moments for the winger, who could soon depart to Anfield, it seems. He scored in both legs of their Carabao Cup semi-final against Arsenal, but did miss the final against Liverpool, after a red card in the Premier League.
Their numbers on FBref stack up well with each other, too. For example, Rashford last season averaged 3.55 shot-creating actions per game, compared to Gordon’s 3.74. This shows that both wingers are constantly involved in chances, even if they don’t end up being the one who has the shot, which is a good trait for an attacker to have.
Goals and assists
0.57
0.41
Expected goals
0.3
0.3
Key passes
1.77
1.89
Take-ons completed
1.14
1.41
Shot-creating actions
3.55
3.74
Losing Gordon would be a huge blow for Newcastle, but if they were to sign Rashford as his replacement, he’d be the perfect alternative. The goals and assist numbers from the United star were better last season, and he would keep the same level of directness Gordon offers.
Whether this is a £40m move or a loan deal, it could be the type of signing that keeps Howe’s side as true competitors across all competitions.
He'd be a dream for Isak: Newcastle likely to see bid accepted for £50m ace
Eddie Howe has his sights on a current Premier League winger for Newcastle.
Sheffield United are now keen on signing an “excellent” forward who is soon to be a free agent, according to Sky Sports.
Blades weigh up Chris Wilder’s future
Before a ball was kicked in the 2024/25 campaign, the Blades were expected to be one of the three sides to gain promotion to the Premier League, despite the fact they suffered a points deduction. The Yorkshire side lived up to those expectations to a degree, but the brutal reality is the season will be looked at as a failure.
3 strikers Chris Wilder could sign to replace Moore at Sheffield United
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The last-minute defeat to Sunderland in the play-off final not only means the Blades remain in the Championship, but questions are now being asked of Chris Wilder. Football Insider reported at the end of last week that United are going to decide in the next week whether to sack Wilder or not.
Club chiefs are said to be assessing his position as manager, and the club’s new owners, American-based consortium COH Sports, are considering letting Wilder leave, despite his current deal running until the summer of 2028.
Sheffield United keen on Emil Riis
Despite Wilder’s future at Bramall Lane being up in the air, the club are still actively looking at ways of improving the team for next season. According to Sky Sports’ Anthony Joseph, Sheffield United are interested in signing Preston North End striker Emil Riis Jakobsen on a free transfer.
The 26-year-old is coming to the end of his contract at Deepdale, and it looks as though he could be on the move this summer. The Blades are not the only team chasing the forward, as Frank Lampard’s Coventry City are also keen on the Dane. Joseph reports that Riis Jakobsen wants to join a team with ambitions to gain promotion to the Premier League, which both of these clubs will be looking to do.
Riis Jakobsen, who was once dubbed “excellent” by former Preston boss Ryan Lowe, has been at Deepdale since October 2020. During that time, the forward has been a regular contributor in front of goal, netting 12 goals in 45 Championship games last season.
Apps
172
Goals
41
Assists
11
That tally has only been beaten once since moving to England, and that was in the 2021/22 season, when he scored 16 goals. The Blades do already have Kieffer Moore, Rhian Brewster, Tyrese Campbell, and Tom Cannon up top, so there will be plenty of competition for a starting spot.
And the uncertainty over Wilder’s future could disrupt their pursuit of the forward, as Riis Jakobsen is going to want some guarantees about playing time before he makes his decision on where to play next.
Bruno Fernandes is staying. Matheus Cunha is joining. Bryan Mbeumo could be next. The future of Manchester United could perhaps be a brighter one…
Of course, Red Devils supporters have been down this road before, with ‘winning the window’ rarely translating into on-field success – just look back to 2021 and the statement signings of Jadon Sancho, Raphael Varane and Cristiano Ronaldo.
The difference this time, however, is that Ruben Amorim and co appear to be ready to raid the Premier League for ready-made solutions, hence their pursuit of Cunha and Mbeumo, with the club having far too often looked abroad for reinforcements over the last decade or so.
As the MEN’s George Smith noted, amid Cunha’s arrival, United had not signed a proven top-flight attacker since prising Alexis Sanchez from Arsenal in 2018, with Romelu Lukaku having joined from Everton a few months earlier.
Those deals aren’t exactly shining examples, although in the case of Lukaku, his return of 42 goals in 96 games has certainly aged well, not least considering Rasmus Hojlund has scored just 26 times in 95 outings in all competitions.
Rasmus Hojlund
Hopefully, both Cunha and Mbeumo – should the latter sign – can replicate and exceed the Belgian’s return at Old Trafford, with United wise to be continuing this approach of looking closer to home for new additions.
Man Utd keen on signing another Premier League star
The bombshell news that Mbeumo is keen to join Amorim’s side came following the news that United had lost the race for Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, with the Englishman opting to reunite with former Manchester City youth coach, Enzo Maresca, at Chelsea.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Amid that potential setback, The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell has reported that the club are considering centre-forward alternatives, namely Viktor Gyokeres, Victor Osimhen and Antoine Semenyo, with Amorim also keen on acquiring an ‘athletic No.8’, while a new wing-back could also be ‘on the agenda’.
The search for new options on the flanks may have seen United turn toward another top-flight talent, in the form of Brighton and Hove Albion’s Pervis Estupinan, with reports in Spain indicating that the Ecuadorian has emerged as a ‘priority’ target.
The belief is that while the 27-year-old is attracting interest from a long list of suitors, it is the Red Devils who are showing the ‘strongest interest’ at present, having ‘set their sights’ on the full-back.
This comes amid prior reports which suggested that INEOS had actually held talks over a move for the £15m defender, with any potential deal ensuring Amorim could land an immediate upgrade on January arrival, Patrick Dorgu.
How Estupinan compares to Dorgu
It is undoubtedly still early days in Dorgu’s United journey, having signed from Lecce on a £30m deal in January, although it hasn’t exactly been plain sailing, not least when considering the 20-year-old’s red card against Ipswich Town in February.
There have been notable bright moments – including winning a penalty in the 4-1 thrashing of Real Sociedad at Old Trafford – yet the promising Dane is yet to truly convince, with club legend Gary Neville including him among those who are “not good enough” among the current crop.
The addition of Estupinan to bolster that left flank could then represent the perfect upgrade, with the experienced star recognised as “one of the best left-backs in the Premier League” by manager Fabian Hurzeler.
While the 2024/25 campaign ended in the attack-minded full-back providing just one goal and one assist in the league, he had previously registered 15 goal involvements in the two seasons prior to that, across all competitions.
For comparison, the young Dorgu has so far registered no goals and just a solitary assist during his brief time in Manchester, after previously racking up only five goals and two assists in 57 games in Italy.
While the winter signing’s age must be factored in, it is also worth noting that Dorgu did actually play as a winger on occasion in Serie A, with it yet to be seen if he can provide that much-needed end product.
Games (starts)
12 (10)
30 (26)
Goals
0
1
Assists
0
1
Big chances created
1
5
Key passes*
1.0
0.9
Pass accuracy*
86%
88%
Tackles & interceptions*
2.9
3.4
Balls recovered*
3.1
4.9
Successful dribbles*
0.3
0.6
Errors leading to goal
2
0
As indicated above, while the current United man is certainly not too far behind across a string of metrics, it is Estupinan who comes out on top in numerous key areas, including tackles and interceptions, ball recoveries, successful dribbles and pass accuracy, emphasising his quality at both ends of the pitch.
It’s not to say that Dorgu should simply be cast off so soon into his time in English football, yet at just 20, the jury is out on whether he can be a consistent, regular performer at Premier League level.
As journalist Samuel Luckhurst suggested after the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, the left-footer arguably looked ‘out of his depth’.
With that in mind, a rival or competitor to the Denmark international is certainly needed this summer – by signing the Seagulls star, Amorim may even be getting himself an immediate upgrade.
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Manchester United are preparing a move for a star who could thrive at Old Trafford.
When Robin van Persie left Arsenal behind in 2012, he did so in controversial circumstances.
The biggest rival to Arsene Wenger during his time in English football was the great Sir Alex Ferguson, yet the striker had been lured away by the legendary Scot, in turn ruining his relationship with millions of Arsenal fans.
His reasons for leaving the Emirates Stadium were fair enough. The Gunners were not winning trophies and at United, he had a far greater chance of winning silverware.
So, after netting 132 goals in an Arsenal shirt, he quickly became a revelation at Old Trafford, helping Sir Alex win yet another Premier League title.
Since the Dutchman’s departure, Arsenal have only ever had one truly prolific centre forward in the shape of Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang.
That, however, could be set to change this summer.
The latest on Arsenal’s hunt for a new striker
Alexander Isak remains the dream target for Mikel Arteta and Co this summer but a move looks nigh on impossible now due to two reasons.
Firstly, Newcastle United would demand in excess of £150m according to reports and secondly, the Toon have secured Champions League football for next season.
Newcastle United's AlexanderIsakcelebrates scoring their first goal
So, Andrea Berta needs to source an alternative and he has two in his crosshairs.
The first option is believed to be Sporting sensation Viktor Gyokeres, with Arsenal even said to have sealed a verbal agreement with the player ahead of a possible move 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 second option is RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. The Gunners wanted to sign the Slovenian last summer but a deal collapsed when the forward agreed to stay in Germany.
A year on and a move could finally come to fruition with Fabrizio Romano revealing last week that initial talks had started between Leipzig and Arsenal.
Sky Sports Germany shared further details on those talks over the weekend noting that Berta ‘held a secret meeting’ in London with his RB Leipzig counterpart Marcel Schafer to discuss the conditions of a deal.
Payment terms and structure were said to be the focus of the meeting with a release clause of around £70m revealed.
Goals
13
39
Expected Goals (xG)
9.89
30.95
Big chances missed
10
23
Assists
5
10
Successful dribbles *
1.2
1.8
Ground duels won *
2.0
4.4
Aerial duels won *
2.1
1.1
Sky further reported that Sesko is personally keen on moving to a club that can compete for their domestic league title and the Champions League.
Why Sesko could be Arsenal’s new Van Persie
One thing Van Persie was known for was his ability to strike a football.
Possessing a slightly languid play style, the Netherlands star wasn’t exactly blessed with lots of pace but he made up for that with his all-around game and technical ability.
His technique was second to none and although Sesko does actually possess pace and the ability to get in behind, there is a likeness.
Described as “the new Erling Haaland” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Sesko has a similarly languid play style and swagger to his game.
First and foremost, he’s got a cannon of a shot, much in the same way Van Persie had.
Remember that ridiculous volley against Charlton or his volley against Everton after being played in over the top by Alexander Song? Whenever the ball was on his favoured left foot, he could beat the goalkeeper from anywhere.
Right-footed, Sesko possesses a similar trait, with the goal below showcasing exactly what he can do when given time and space to lash home an effort.
As it happens, he’s pretty good on his left peg too and he’s already got the Van Persie gene of scoring a ridiculous volley.
The goal below, scored while playing for Slovenia, demonstrates exactly what we mean in this regard.
Combine that brute force when it comes to finishing a chance with his clever movement inside the area and there’s another similarity to sink your teeth into.
He’s a penalty box poacher, just as Van Persie was, and that’s what Arsenal have been missing over the last few years.
Kai Havertz has caught the eye as a centre forward but he’s more of box-crashing midfielder, thus meaning he’s not always in the right area to receive a dangerous cross from Bukayo Saka.
Sesko, on the other hand, certainly would be in the right place, with ten of his 13 Bundesliga goals this term coming from inside the area. Seven of his goals came in and around the penalty spot too, showcasing his ability to pop up where it really matters.
Furthermore, according to Understat, he only missed 11 shots from inside the box, seeing a further 12 attempts at goal saved. Contrast that with Havertz and we do see a difference in their poacher ability.
The German missed 18 shots inside the box and saw 11 shots denied by the goalkeeper. On this evidence, it won’t come as a surprise to learn that Sesko overperformed on his xG by 2.16 and Havertz underperformed by 2.83 throughout their individual league campaigns.
What this goes to show is that Sesko, like Van Persie was in his prime, is more clinical. That’s what Arsenal need this summer and they must find a way to snap up the Slovenian sensation.
Ultimately, there are some key differences. Van Persie was more of an artist, someone who relied on technical ability. Sesko does share some similar traits but as the aforementioned Haaland comparison indicates, he’s a bulldozer.
Regardless of his play style, he scores goals and that’s what Arteta needs more than anything else in the summer market.
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Liverpool opened their eyes to a new way of life last summer, with Arne Slot replacing Jurgen Klopp in the hot seat, tasked with driving a new era toward titles.
Well, he’s proven himself the perfect pick – and then some. Slot’s dominance in the Premier League this term has been as such that Liverpool have been sighted across Easterly holiday destinations this week, partying ahead of Sunday’s fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion at the AMEX.
It’s been almost three weeks since Virgil van Dijk led the celebrations following the 5-1 thrashing of Tottenham Hotspur, almost three weeks since Liverpool put themselves back on their perch and levelled with Manchester United as England’s most successful top-flight club.
1.
Liverpool
20
2.
Man United
20
3.
Arsenal
13
4.
Man City
10
5.
Everton
9
Now that the top place on the podium has been secured, FSG need to back Slot in the transfer market and strengthen ahead of next year’s title defence. One of the biggest names around is already being lined up.
The latest on Liverpool's pursuit of Florian Wirtz
When David Ornstein speaks on a transfer rumour, it usually means such chatter has a concrete foundation. The Athletic correspondent has confirmed Liverpool have made contact with Florian Wirtz’s representatives as the fight for the in-demand playmaker heats up.
Wirtz is anticipated to leave Bayer Leverkusen this season and reports from Germany have sought to tilt the narrative toward Bayern Munich, and while the nation’s restored champions remain favourites at this stage, it’s thought that negotiations are not so advanced as has hitherto been believed.
Of course, Manchester City also reported have a vested interest and have met with the 22-year-old to discuss a potential summer move. Pep Guardiola needs a successor in the shape of Kevin De Bruyne, and they have the financial means to secure the £126m-rated superstar.
Having plundered 69 goal contributions across the past two campaigns for Die Werkself, Wirtz is clearly of the elite class. However, he’s not the only attacking player Liverpool need to sign. In fact, with Darwin Nunez expected to depart, signing a new centre-forward may be even more important.
Liverpool chasing new forward
According to The Telegraph’s Sam Dean, Liverpool have registered their interest in Brighton forward Joao Pedro, though they face stiff competition from Arsenal and Chelsea.
The Seagulls star has been a prolific success on the south coast over the past two years, signing from Watford in June 2023 for just shy of £30m.
Brighton striker Joao Pedro
Reports from earlier in the season suggested the Reds would need to fork out a record-breaking £100m fee to sign the Brazilian, and it goes without saying that sporting director Richard Hughes will be tasked with whittling that figure down, should interest form something more substantial.
How Pedro would fit in alongside Wirtz
Joao Pedro has scored 18 penalties for Brighton, a considerable chunk of his 30-strike haul across 70 appearances for his blue-and-white outfit.
Still, he’s a talented and dynamic striker with a combative approach which could see him slot right in on Merseyside as Nunez’s successor.
As per FBref, the top 9% for assists and shot-creating actions, the top 8% for passes attempted, the top 6% for progressive passes, the top 4% for progressive carries and the top 10% for successful take-ons per 90.
Sure, he could do more in front of goal, but the 23-year-old has a certain completeness that Slot could make good use of, especially with Wirtz installed into the playmaking spot behind him.
Liverpool are all about data, and they have clearly been coloured impressed by the underlying metrics. Given that journalist Gerard Struber has hailed Wirtz for his “world-class” playmaking skills, it feels like he could be the man to take Joao Pedro to the next level.
Indeed, the German international has created 17 big chances in the Bundesliga this season, starting only 24 matches. He’s also averaged 1.9 key passes, 2.7 dribbles and 5.3 successful duels per fixture, as per Sofascore, underscoring not just creative pedigree but boundless energy and high-level athleticism too.
Could Joao Pedro wish for a better supplier behind him, threading a constant source of support with artful flair and mechanical efficiency?
Brighton & Hove Albion'sJoaoPedroin action with Manchester City's Ruben Dias and Abdukodir Khusanov
The dynamic forward, who plays slightly from the left, arcing right so too maximise his shooting potential, has actually only missed 16 big chances in the Premier League across his two campaigns for Brighton too, as per Sofascore, scoring 19 goals.
This is a curious metric, one which reveals a natural clinical sense, if also a map for improvement in finding golden opportunities to score.
Mind, Slot has already demonstrated his ability to take interesting up-and-coming profiles and shape them into something special. Joao Pedro’s natural-born accuracy differentiates him from Nunez, and with Wirtz there, threading surgical passes from every which way, he has everything he needs to maximise his potential at Anfield, a veritable hothouse for player development.
Liverpool manager ArneSlotcelebrates after winning the Premier League
The South American forward has already been hailed for his “really magical” ability on the ball by Bundesliga commentator Kevin Hatchard, and he now just needs to marry the floating elements of his skill set into a coherent whole. He needs to join Liverpool and hit the top of the ceiling.
Liverpool have put themselves back on the map as one of the continent’s most fearsome outfits, and if FSG can get it right in the market this summer, Slot could create a dynasty to connect up with Klopp’s.
With Wirtz and Joao Pedro in the mix, Slot could surely consolidate his Liverpool side’s position at the top of the table and move for greater riches, an embarrassment of riches, eclipsing Arsenal and Manchester City and all the rest and striking fear into the hearts of the club’s opposition.
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Wolverhampton Wanderers are enjoying a strong finish to the season and could make an early summer move that would signal their intent under Vitor Pereira, according to reports.
Wolves in new dawn under Vitor Pereira
Not so long ago, Wolves looked destined to appear in a relegation dogfight and found their Premier League status under threat. Vitor Pereira wasn’t a universally popular appointment when he arrived at Molineux, but ten top-flight victories and two draws out of 19 matches have more than secured his side’s survival for another season.
Last weekend, a narrow loss to Manchester City brought a run of six straight Premier League wins to an end, though they really should’ve taken something from a tight encounter at the Etihad Stadium.
Looking forward, the landscape is a positive one for Wolves as they look to make improvements on the market. Sunderland’s Dennis Cirkin could be one of their first additions at Molineux should the Black Cats fail to win promotion.
Nicolas Pepe has emerged as a surprise target for Wolves following his career revival at Ligue 1 outfit Nice, though he also has interest in his services from Saudi Arabia.
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Despite rescuing their season after a poor start, the Old Gold will be conscious that they cannot afford to be slow off the mark next term once divisional rivals have a chance to bolster their squads in the market. Strength in depth is needed to solidify their Premier League credentials, but Pereira has already shown that he can maximise the output of key assets, which is likely to breed confidence.
Now, Wolves have began to accelerate in a move to sign a talented midfielder that is also wanted by one of Europe’s giants, per reports.
Wolves want to sign Genoa midfielder Morten Frendrup
According to Football Transfers, Wolves have positioned themselves to sign Genoa midfielder Morten Frendrup, who is also attracting interest from the likes of Fiorentina and AC Milan.
West Ham United are also in pursuit of the Denmark international after a season that has seen him win more tackles and make more ball recoveries than anyone else in Serie A this season, setting a trend.
Morten Frendrup’s impressive season for Genoa – Serie A
Tackles won
60
Duels won
170
Recoveries
175
Pass accuracy
85.6%
Successful dribbles
10
Possession won in final third
20
Labelled “very impressive” by scout/writer Jacek Kulig, Frendrup has scored twice in 35 appearances across all competitions this campaign.
The outlet state that he could be available for a bargain price of £16.9 million, representing value for money in a modern-day market that rarely throws up inexpensive opportunities to pounce.
With rival suitors beginning to circle for his signature, Wolves need to put forward a convincing proposal in the hope that he will opt to move to Molineux once the window finally opens.