On Sunday, Arsenal defeated Newcastle United 1-0, and after the game, with it being their final home match of 2024/25, it gave the supporters a chance to say farewell to some players who are unlikely to be seen again in red and white.

Kieran Tierney will bow out of the Emirates Stadium, set to head back to Celtic, after a haul of 143 appearances for the north Londoners.

Jorginho, too, will depart at the end of his contract. While he perhaps won’t be remembered as fondly as Tierney, his ultimate professionalism across the two years he’s been at Arsenal has been a joy to behold.

It will be sad to see them go, but it certainly wasn’t as emotional as some farewells we’ve given in the modern era.

Arsene Wenger’s exit in 2018 will go down in history, while it’s hard to forget the tears a certain Aaron Ramsey shed when leaving under Unai Emery in 2019.

Since his exit, Arsenal haven’t had too many goalscoring midfielders. That said, they may well have found one now.

What made Aaron Ramsey so special

A winner of three FA Cups, a scorer of two cup final goals at Wembley, Ramsey will forever be remembered in these parts as a big game player, an icon who overcame so much adversity.

The way he entered the club rather set the tone for his dramatic time in the English capital. Manchester United had announced he was set to sign for them on their official website, only for the Welshman to pen terms with Arsenal instead.

Signed from Cardiff, it didn’t take Ramsey long to make an impression, but that horrific leg break against Stoke in February 2010 was a colossal setback.

After several months out, the Wales international fortunately went on to have a wonderful career in the game.

Who can forget that remarkable season in 2013/14? Ramsey scored the winner in extra time of the FA Cup final against Hull City, one of 16 goals in just 34 outings throughout the campaign.

A true box-to-box star, the Wales international became a master of arriving late in the penalty area and scoring from midfield.

Since then, however, Arsenal haven’t had too many players capable of finding the net from similar zones, ghosting into the area.

Perhaps the last was Granit Xhaka. In the Swiss’ final year with the Gunners, he scored on nine occasions and registered a further seven assists in 47 matches.

So, how have Arsenal gone about replacing the dynamic duo?

Arsenal's new Granit Xhaka and Aaron Ramsey

The form of Martin Odegaard a few years ago certainly suggested he could replace the pair. Indeed, during 2022/23, no midfielder scored more than the Norwegian’s 15 in the Premier League.

That being said, he isn’t a box-to-box midfielder. He presses hard, but he doesn’t do the dirty work further back in the field.

Instead, Mikel Arteta’s modern-day answer to Ramsey and Xhaka is a certain Declan Rice. Oh, where would the Gunners be without him this season?

Of course, you’ve got those two remarkable free-kicks against Real Madrid, but he’s also come up with some vital moments elsewhere.

He’s not just a master of free-kicks, but his corner delivery has been one of the best in Europe this season. We salute Nicolas Jover for putting the former West Ham man on set-pieces towards the back end of last season.

Funnily enough, Rice initially signed as a defensive midfielder but throughout 2024/25, he’s been largely selected as the left-sided 8 and it’s a position he’s made his own.

The difference was felt in the first leg of Arsenal’s Champions League semi-final tie with PSG. The £240k-per-week earner had destroyed Madrid across both legs from a more advanced role in midfield but due to Thomas Partey’s suspension, he had to play further back.

While Rice is certainly excellent at sitting in front of the defence, Arsenal couldn’t get up the pitch as quickly and they also lost one of their goal threats. That perhaps explains why the club reportedly want to bring in Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi this summer. More of a Jorginho type, the Spaniard would give Rice the keys to make that no.8 spot his permanent position in the team.

Chalkboard

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

So, why has he thrived so much? Well, like Xhaka, he’s got a terrific engine and his technique is first-class.

Meanwhile, like Ramsey, he’s becoming rather good at arriving late in the area or on the edge of the box to score a goal. In the words of Arsenal writer Connor Humm, he is a true “monster.”

We saw that first-hand against Newcastle on Sunday. Odegaard found the ball on the right-hand side and laid it into the path of Rice, who was ready and waiting on the edge of the penalty area to fizz the ball past Nick Pope.

That was the £105m signing’s ninth strike of the campaign, one that equalled Xhaka’s haul of two years ago. It also marked Rice’s best-ever goalscoring return in a single season. Not bad at all.

When Arsenal’s Player of the Season is announced in the forthcoming weeks, there are surely only two candidates: Gabriel and Rice. For that magical night against Madrid alone, Rice is our man.

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By
Matt Dawson

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Wolverhampton Wanderers have money to play with this summer and could now turn their attention to an exciting winger to add flair acrosss their forward line, according to reports.

Wolverhampton Wanderers kickstart summer transfer window

Matheus Cunha’s departure to Manchester United may have left a sour taste in the mouth for supporters of the Old Gold, but there was always an element of inevitability regarding his eventual fate.

Nonetheless, the picture appears to be bright in the West Midlands under Vitor Pereira, who will be given time and financial backing to shape his squad over the coming months.

Evaluating the immediate priority at Molineux, adding one or two quality attacking options in the face of Cunha no longer being in the building will become a popular topic among fans and pundits alike.

Millwall forward Mihailo Ivanovic has been targeted by the Old Gold to help provide some added prowess in the final third, and Alex Neil’s ringing endorsement that the 20-year-old is one of Europe’s top ten talents will likely create plenty of intrigue.

Further back, Nelson Semedo is mulling over a new deal at Wolves as his contract nears expiration, illustrating the importance of bringing a right-sided defender to the club should the Portugal international move on to tackle a fresh challenge.

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Sunderland’s Trai Hume may be the man the Old Gold are looking for to strike an adequate balance. Meanwhile, Rayan Ait-Nouri’s impending transfer to Manchester City leaves food for thought at left-back.

Transition may not be a bad thing for Wolves in light of big-money departures. Either way, they are now reportedly plotting a swoop for an exciting young winger.

Wolverhampton Wanderers plotting swoop for Roger Fernandes

According to Molineux News in conversation with Graeme Bailey, Wolves are keeping tabs on Braga winger Roger Fernandes and he expects the Old Gold to ‘explore’ the Primeira Liga for additions during the window.

Reports earlier this year claimed Manchester United, Manchester City, Brighton, Aston Villa and Newcastle United are also keen on Fernandes amid his rise to prominence in Portugal, which has led to a £25m price tag.

Referencing the situation, Bailey said: “I think the Portuguese league will be somewhere that they explore; it wouldn’t surprise me if they do look towards that league again. I’ve heard Roger Fernandes’ name linked to Wolves in recent weeks as well, wouldn’t surprise me if he was on the agenda.”

Roger Fernandes at Braga in 2024/25 – why are Wolves taking an interest? (FBRef)

Shot creating actions (Primeira Liga)

78

Shot creating actions (Europa League)

19

Progressive carries per 90 mins (Primeira Liga)

4.71

Progressive passes received per 90 mins (Primeira Liga)

9.94

Goal-creating actions (combining both competitions)

9

Likened to former Manchester United star Antonio Valencia by Foot The Ball, Fernandes has registered five goals and seven assists in 48 appearances for Braga this term and is capable of featuring on either flank.

Completing an average of 1.4 dribbles per league match, the Portugal youth international could go some way to filling the creative void left by Cunha, even if he is only one part of the solution.

Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze is fresh off the back of another fine season at Selhurst Park, and his stance on leaving this summer has now come to light amid interest from a host of London rivals.

Eze on a Crystal Palace high after FA Cup winner against Man City

Oliver Glasner guided Palace to their first ever major trophy at the end of 2024/2025, with Eze scoring the winning goal as they overcame Premier League heavyweights Man City at Wembley to lift the FA Cup.

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The ex-QPR star etched himself into club folklore with his deft one-touch finish from inside the penalty area, a side-footed volley which will live long in the memory of Palace supporters, and the Eagles are set to compete in Europe next year as a result.

He was a key man for Glasner throughout the last campaign – registering 25 goal contributions across 43 appearances in all competitions (14 goals, 11 assists) – and Eze’s presence undoubtedly played a major role in cementing the Austrian’s status as Palace’s most successful manager in recent memory.

Eagles chairman Steve Parish recently confirmed that Glasner will remain at Selhurst, at least until the end of his contract, which expires in 2026, as club chiefs work to negotiate an extension.

“He (Glasner) will stay here, for some period of time,” Parish told reporters at the FA Cup final (via The Athletic).

“What happens in the future, the summer transfer window, players, is for tomorrow, but he’ll be here next year and we’ll take it from there.

“Of course we want him to stay but things happen in football, clubs evolve and move on and I’d love him to stay but the club has to develop and show the ambition in terms of the things we have to do to move it forward for people to feel part of something. If that all aligns maybe it will.”

As Glasner prepares for his second full season at Palace, there is little doubt that he’d prefer to keep hold of his star players, especially Eze.

However, the England international’s contract does include a £68 million release clause, which allows clubs to bypass negotiations with Palace and head straight to the player himself to discuss personal terms.

Eberechi Eze's stance on Crystal Palace exit amid Arsenal and Tottenham interest

The final decision will rest with Palace’s star player, and the prospect of success at more traditionally-elite English sides is a worrying temptation.

According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal and Tottenham are expressing a serious interest, as are Man United, Newcastle United, Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa and Bayern Munich.

However, the outlet shares some good news for Palace, namely Eze’s stance when it comes to drawing the curtain on a glittering career in south London.

It is believed that Eze is reluctant to push for a Palace exit this summer and is currently content right where he is, so the 26-year-old is in no hurry to pack his bags, despite holding ambitions to compete and win more trophies.

It is ultimately the task of Glasner and Parish to convince Eze that they can build upon this year’s FA Cup win and provide the attacking midfielder with a platform to showcase his ability at the highest level, which is easier said than done considering Palace face losing other key players.

Star defender Marc Guehi is attracting interest from Tottenham again heading into the summer window, with his contract expiring in 2026, while mainstay left-back Tyrick Mitchell has attracted interest from Arsenal as his deal expires in 2027.

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.

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?

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.

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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Aston Villa are now one to watch in the race for an “unbelievable” player, with Unai Emery considered a big admirer, according to a report.

Emery may have to reshape Villa squad this summer

There have been widespread reports suggesting that Emiliano Martinez may leave Villa before the start of the new campaign, and the goalkeeper is not the only player who could move on, with Youri Tielemans recently admitting his future is up in the air.

Speaking on international duty, the Belgian said: “There’s nothing definitive or ruled out about whether I’ll stay or leave. But I feel good at Aston Villa; I feel a lot of confidence from the club and the manager.”

As such, Unai Emery could be tasked with bringing in a new central midfielder this summer, while the manager may also have to bolster his attacking options, given that Marcus Rashford’s loan spell at Villa Park has now come to an end.

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Rashford featured at both centre-forward and left-wing during his time with the Villans, who have now made an approach for FC Porto striker Samu Aghehowa, while they are also one to watch in the race for Manchester City winger Jack Grealish.

That is according to a report from TEAMtalk, which has revealed that Emery is a big admirer of Grealish, with the manager in the belief the Englishman would add some creativity to his forward line, but there may be competition for the former Villa man.

Everton are now ready to hold talks over a deal for the left-winger, although the Toffees would only be able to orchestrate a loan deal, and Man City would have to be willing to pay a large amount of his huge £300k-a-week wages.

Newcastle United and Napoli are also in the race for the 29-year-old, with City willing to sanction a departure on the right terms this summer.

"Unbelievable" Grealish could reignite career back at Villa

Villa Park was, of course, the place where the Birmingham-born forward made a name for himself, but while he played a key role in Man City’s historic treble in the 2022-23 season, the England international’s career has stalled in recent times.

The City ace picked up just two goal contributions in the Premier League last season, having arguably regressed since the two seasons he spent in the top flight with his boyhood club.

Season

PL appearances

Goals

Assists

2019-20

36

8

6

2020-21

26

6

12

While he has failed to deliver for City in recent times, Villa fans will be well-aware the winger can be a top player on his day, given his previous exploits, and he has been lauded as “unbelievable” by Pep Guardiola.

Heading back to Villa Park would surely be of great appeal to Grealish, given that European football is set to be on offer next season, and the move could reignite his career.

Leeds United are close to securing their first signing of the 2025 summer transfer window. The Whites are now back in the Premier League following promotion success in the 2024/25 campaign, and are now seemingly ready to splash the cash in order to survive, something that has been a struggle in recent seasons for newly-promoted sides.

Highly reputable journalist Fabrizio Romano gave his famous “here we go” tagline to Leeds’ move for Jaka Bijol.

The Slovenian centre-back will join the club for £18.7m from Italian side Udinese, as their first major signing of the summer.

Daniel Farke’s side are now lining up their next signing, who could prove to be an even better addition than their new centre-back.

Leeds' next signing after Bijol

It is certainly an early statement of intent from the Yorkshire side. Bijol is an “immense” player according to Sky Sports’ Dougiue Critchely, so for Leeds to have all but confirmed his move to Elland Road is a strong start to the window.

Transfer Focus

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

Things could be about to get even better for the 2024/25 Championship winners. TEAMtalk are now reporting that Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz is a target, with Leeds ‘ready to make a fresh push’ for the 24-year-old Brazilian.

However, this will not be an easy deal to do, with the report describing it as ‘difficult’.

The two clubs are some way apart in their valuation of the striker at this stage. Whilst the West Londoners want upwards of £50m, Leeds are hoping to do a deal around the £35m mark. Thus, ‘there remains lots of talking to be done’ in order for this transfer to progress.

Why Muniz would be a good signing

Bringing Muniz to Elland Road could be a huge addition for the Whites this summer. Crucially, he is a Premier League-proven player, with a track record of scoring goals in the English top flight during his two seasons at Craven Cottage.

Last term, the former Flamengo player found the back of the net on eight occasions in 31 appearances, grabbing an assist along the way, too.

He played just 950 minutes, the equivalent of ten full 90-minute games, meaning he was not far off a goal per game on average.

There is no doubt that Bijol is an excellent addition for the Whites. Pundits like Critchley rate him highly, and he helped keep eight clean sheets in 34 games last season for Udinese, captaining them at times, too.

He will certainly help to strengthen at the back at Elland Road, and will add some more leadership to Farke’s squad. That will be invaluable going into what will be a tough campaign in 2025/26, avoiding relegation.

However, perhaps there is a strong case to be made that Muniz will be an even better signing for Leeds, and for one reason. He is a proven Premier League goalscorer, having notched up nine in 2023/24 and, of course, eight last term.

In the last two seasons, all six newly-promoted sides have been relegated, and Leeds have a chance to buck that trend. Well, an experienced top-flight striker will count for lots. They will surely need his goals.

Of those six relegated sides, he was outscored by two Luton Town players in 2023/24, namely Carlton Morris and Elijah Adebayo, who scored 11 and 10, respectively. Last season, Liam Delap, now a Chelsea player, scored 12 goals, and the evergreen Jamie Vardy outscored him by one.

That said, Muniz was not always a regular starter and did actually score considerably more goals per 90 minutes which bodes well should he become Farke’s number one choice.

Liam Delap

Ipswich

12

0.42

Carlton Morris

Luton

11

0.35

Rodrigo Muniz (2023/24)

Fulham

9

0.51

Jamie Vardy

Leicester

9

0.29

Rodrigo Muniz (2024/25)

Fulham

8

0.75

Jacob Bruun Larsen

Burnley

6

0.33

Brereton Diaz/McBurnie

Sheffield United

6

0.25 & 0.42

Paul Onuachu

Southampton

4

0.34

Generally speaking, you need a top striker to regularly score goals and help keep you in the Premier League. Well, Muniz could be the guy for Leeds.

Not only did he score eight times in ten full 90-minute games last term, but his non-penalty expected goals of 0.75 per game as per FBref, was among the best 5% in the top flight.

He has the potential to explode if given a run of games by Farke. He could become a “revelation” in a Leeds shirt, a word football talent scout Jacek Kulig once used to describe him. £50m is a big investment, but it could be worth it if Leeds stay in the top flight.

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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.

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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1 ByMatt Dawson Jun 1, 2025

Manchester United are now racing to sign a £60m Bryan Mbeumo alternative, with Ruben Amorim believed to be a big fan, according to reports.

Man Utd well-positioned to seal deal for Mbeumo

Man United may have been concerned that losing the Europa League final would hinder their summer transfer business, but they are still in a strong position to win the race for Mbeumo, despite Tottenham Hotspur recently expressing an interest in the forward.

That is according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who said: “Mbeumo is waiting for Man United as a priority. Thomas Frank is close to Spurs so we will see what happens if he joins; but Mbeumo at the moment is waiting to see what happens with United.”

United are yet to agree a fee with Brentford, with their opening bid being knocked back, but an agreement has been reached on personal terms, clearing the path for a deal if they are willing to come back to the negotiating table with an offer of around £60m.

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Posts ByDominic Lund Jun 10, 2025

With the move for the Brentford star yet to be wrapped up, however, the Red Devils are still weighing up other potential options, and a report from Sky Sports has now revealed they remain interested in signing AFC Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo.

Tottenham are also in the race for Semenyo, having recently stepped up their interest, indicating that whichever club misses out on Mbeumo could pursue a move for the Bournemouth star, but a deal is likely to be on the expensive side.

There have been reports the Cherries could hold out for a fee of £60m for the Ghana international, who Amorim is believed to be a huge admirer of.

"Sensational" Semenyo could be ideal Mbeumo alternative

Hailed as “sensational” by members of the media last season, the former Bristol City man enjoyed a very impressive 2024-25 campaign, recording a total of 20 goal contributions for the Cherries across all competitions.

Competition

Appearances

Goals

Assists

Premier League

37

11

6

FA Cup

4

2

1

At 25-years-old, the winger is the same age as Mbeumo, and he has performed well from a defensive point of view over the past year too, placing in the 98th percentile for blocks per 90, the 85th for clearances, and 95th for aerials won.

Semenyo is clearly a well-rounded winger, and his versatility could also be of use to Amorim, having featured on both flanks, and through the middle on one occasion in the 2024-25 campaign.

That said, all the signs indicate that Mbeumo is still keen to move to Old Trafford, despite the interest from Tottenham, and Man United should look to seal a deal for the Brentford forward, considering he scored 20 goals in the Premier League alone last season.

Everton are “keen” on completing the signing of a Premier League player who has been called “phenomenal” and already has a full trophy case, according to Sky Sports.

Everton eyeing shock deal for Liverpool winger

David Moyes knows the importance of the Blues nailing their summer transfer business, at a time when the club needs to kick on in their new stadium and look to become a top-half Premier League team again.

Top-quality new signings are needed, ahead of what supporters hope will be a relatively free-spending window, and Liverpool winger Ben Doak is reportedly the subject of interest from Everton. No senior player has made the move between the two rivals since back in 2002, when Abel Xavier moved from the Blues to the Reds.

Meanwhile, Burnley midfielder Josh Brownhill has been linked with a move to Everton, with the 29-year-old enjoying a magnificent season for the Clarets, inspiring them to Championship promotion and registering 24 goal contributions (18 goals and six assists).

Midfield certainly looks like an area of the pitch that the Mersysiders are focusing on, with Rangers ace Mohamed Diomande also mentioned as an option for Moyes’ men. The 23-year-old could add energy and quality in the middle of the park, as well as being a long-term acquisition.

Everton want "phenomenal" Premier League maestro

According to Sky Sports on Monday, Everton are now also “keen” on signing Brighton attacking midfielder Matt O’Riley in the summer window, amid plenty of competition for his signature.

O’Riley could be exactly the type of player the Blues need this summer, possessing guile in attacking midfield areas and creating chances for the strikers.

The 2-cap Dane had a tough first year in a Brighton shirt, with a serious pre-season injury setting him back immediately, and he ended up being limited to only 11 starts in the league.

O’Riley is a class act with a beautiful left foot, though, and he excelled during his time at Celtic, winning four Scottish Premiership titles and being lauded by Brendan Rodgers.

“He has been absolutely phenomenal really in his consistency. I think if we lacked anything as a team, it was probably that. But from an individual perspective his goal return.

“I think someone said he had scored his first goal [of last season] in January of last year. So to look at his numbers now, it’s huge testament to himself because the work he puts in, the focus he puts in every single day at training to improve and be better, that’s clearly been rewarded by his team-mates and everyone else.”

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Everton should be an interesting proposition for potential signings, considering they are in a sparkly new stadium and Moyes has improved them greatly since coming in, so the hope is that O’Riley sees them as a leading option to move to.

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.

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.

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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.

He's outscored Mbeumo: Man Utd weighing up bid for £40m Delap upgrade

Manchester United are preparing a move for a star who could thrive at Old Trafford.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 4, 2025