Tottenham Hotspur won the Europa League last season, in case you didn’t know.

It saved Ange Postecoglou’s season, if not his job, and ensured that Tottenham will compete in the new term’s Champions League.

The baton has been passed to Thomas Frank, who has done such fine work in west London with Brentford. The Danish manager has overseen the £55m signing of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham United.

With Joao Palhinha set to arrive imminently from Bayern Munich, things are starting to take shape down N17, but more might be needed in the attacking department.

Especially as captain Heung-min Son has announced that he will be leaving the club this summer.

Why Son is leaving Spurs

Son has been at Tottenham for a decade, joining from Bayer Leverkusen for £22m in 2015.

Across his 454 appearances at the club, the South Korean forward has scored 173 goals and has provided 101 assists.

To have won the Europa League in his final competitive month at the club, ending 17 years of searching for silverware at Spurs, marks a wonderful sense of poetic justice. Son is one of the finest wingers of his generation, after all.

But the 33-year-old has deteriorated over the past couple of years. Still a winger of high quality, he has made the decision to close this door amid talks with LAFC over the pond.

And he’s earned the right to make such a call. But if Son does leave, Frank and Daniel Levy must come together to sign a successor in the next month, even having already landed Kudus.

Spurs getting confident about signing Son heir

As per Spanish sources, Tottenham’s chances of signing Rodrygo this summer are growing, with the Real Madrid forward anticipated to join a new club this summer.

Arsenal, Liverpool and Paris Saint-Germain have been named as suitors in recent months, but it’s understood that such clubs’ intrigue is cool, whereas Levy is engaged in promising talks with the Brazilian’s entourage.

Rodrygo, 24, has fallen out of favour in the Spanish capital, but he remains one of the most talented forwards in world football, and Los Blancos know it. He carries the weight of a £69m initial price tag.

Why Spurs should sign Rodrygo

The 2024/25 campaign left something to be desired for Rodrygo, no doubt. However, this shouldn’t dissuade the Tottenham faithful: he is “the most gifted and the most talented player” at Real Madrid, says Jude Bellingham.

Furthermore, Rodrygo has spent more time with the Spaniards on the right flank than on the left, which, as a goalscoring right-footer, is his preferred wing.

As you can see below, his return of six goals and six assists from just 12 matches as a left winger in 2024/25 illustrates his potential. Vinicius Junior’s presence precludes him from playing there with regularity.

Rodrygo – Real Madrid Stats by Position (24/25)

Position

Apps

Goals

Assists

Right winger

31

8

5

Left winger

12

6

6

Centre-forward

10

–

–

Data via Transfermarkt

At times, Rodrygo’s goalscoring numbers leave something to be desired, but he’s a prolific player all the same, having missed just one big chance in La Liga last season, as per Sofascore. Albeit he scored just six goals.

In this way, the Brazil international could be the perfect replacement for a player like Son, who, according to xG (expected goals), has been the most clinical finisher in the world since 2014.

Kudus, conversely, lacks composure and accuracy with his ball striking.

Described by former teammate Luka Modric as being a “world-class” and versatile forward, Tottenham must surely throw the kitchen sink at signing Rodrygo, if they truly wish to turn a corner and challenge at the forefront of domestic and European football with consistency.

Looking at how the South American compares to Son over the past year (having routinely been fielded out of position), you begin to see why he’s so highly coveted, balanced in his output, strong on the ball, electric when charging forward.

Rodrygo vs Heung-min Son (past 365 days)

Stats (per 90)

Rodrygo

Son

Goals

0.35

0.32

Assists

0.22

0.32

Shots taken

2.54

2.46

Shot-creating actions

4.56

4.89

Pass completion

85.7%

78%

Touches (att pen)

5.84

4.70

Progressive passes

4.69

4.28

Progressive carries

5.07

5.41

Successful take-ons

2.15

1.59

Data via FBref

Rodrygo carries himself in a similar tactical fashion to Spurs’ soon-to-depart skipper, and it’s interesting to note that he still chalked up 14 goals and 11 assists across all competitions last year in spite of his woes, going 17 La Liga matches before the close of play without a single goal involvement.

But he’s also crisper and more athletic than the ageing great, understandably so. Aged 24, Rodrygo’s best years are surely ahead of him, and given what the two-time Champions League winner has accomplished thus far, it’s an exciting thought to think he could don a new shade of white over the coming years.

Moreover, Rodrygo’s pedigree in the Champions League speaks for itself, and what finer way to take strong steps back onto Europe’s elite stage than by signing one of its superstars?

With Dominic Solanke leading a frontline that does have its range of quality, adding a player like Rodrygo feels like it could complete the set.

An industrious and, as Bellingham says, ‘gifted’ winger with an eye for goal, the pieces could come together with this one, to be sure.

This might be the end of the line for a Tottenham great, but Frank has his wits about him and could ensure that an exciting upgrade is signed if Levy is convinced to go all out for Real Madrid’s Rodrygo.

Related Their best CF since Kane: Spurs enter talks for "extremely dangerous" star

Tottenham Hotspur are starting to make a move for a forward who could follow in Harry Kane’s footsteps.

Posts ByEthan Lamb Aug 2, 2025

Remarkably, Liverpool’s incredible summer of spending has yet to leave Arne Slot’s squad with an air of completeness.

Particularly, Virgil van Dijk’s central defence is rather light, especially now that Joe Gomez has suffered a minor Achilles injury following the £35m sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen.

Then turn your head toward the frontline. The incredible additions of rising superstars such as Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike suggest that Liverpool are shaping up to have one of the deadliest frontlines in the game (if they didn’t already).

However, Luis Diaz left for Bayern Munich last month, and now, Darwin Nunez is on the verge of completing a permanent transfer to Al Hilal in the Saudi Pro League.

With Federico Chiesa and Harvey Elliott both mooted to be off, it’s not desirable but imperative that Liverpool add another attacker to their mix, and FSG appear to have one or two show-stopping names in mind.

Liverpool chasing another forward

The dream transfer target is, of course, Alexander Isak. You might have heard that Liverpool are interested in signing the Newcastle United striker, and rumour has it he’s rather keen on the journey toward Anfield too.

Unfortunately, Newcastle’s transfer market has been a pitiful thing, with Eddie Howe no doubt feeling hot under the collar. Any number of top targets have been missed on Tyneside, and with Benjamin Sesko now hoping to sign for Manchester United, Isak’s sale is less certain, for a reliable replacement must be signed, else he will not leave.

Last month’s initial £69m signing of Hugo Ekitike has tempered Liverpool’s need for the Premier League superstar, but it would still be a stunning signing.

However, sporting director Richard Hughes is a man of deep nous, and he hasn’t placed all his eggs in one basket. Liverpool are emerging as contenders for Paris Saint-Germain winger Bradley Barcola, though completing a summer deal will be difficult indeed.

If neither move comes to fruition, there’s another option waiting in the wings who might be perfect for Slot’s system.

Liverpool in for for Barcola upgrade

According to L’Equipe, Liverpool are in the race to sign Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, who has also attracted interest from Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.

Rodrygo, 24, has been anticipated to leave the Santiago Bernabeu this summer, having struggled for form last year and slid down the early pecking order as the Xabi Alonso era shapes up.

Liverpool’s interest in Barcola might have just become public, but their admiration for Rodrygo also has substance, and the South American’s suspected price tag has been reported to fall into the region of £78m.

Why Liverpool want to sign Rodrygo

Rodrygo came under fire for his performances with Los Blancos last season. Such is his level; such are the expectations at Real Madrid.

His 25-goal contribution return still matched that of Diaz and Cody Gakpo at Liverpool, perhaps illustrating the calibre of forward Slot would add to his ranks, on par with the Reds crop yet capable of so much more.

And given that he would likely play as a left-sided forward, a rare experience in recent years at Real Madrid, Rodrygo’s desire to move to Anfield, should he move at all, is understandable, for he notched six goals and six assists from only 12 games as a left winger last year.

Even though Real Madrid’s selfless superstar had been played out of position for the majority of the recent season, he still managed to impress, with former teammate Luka Modric even claiming he is one of the club’s “world-class superstars.”

When collating his seasonal data with Barcola’s, you perhaps begin to see that his underlying quality suggests he would rise to a higher level than Barcola could.

Goals

0.35

0.47

Assists

0.22

0.39

Shots taken

2.54

2.89

Shot-creating actions

4.56

4.24

Pass completion

85.7%

81.9%

Touches (att pen)

5.84

8.95

Progressive passes

4.69

3.33

Progressive carries

5.07

5.45

Successful take-ons

2.15

1.74

There’s no denying that Barcola has enjoyed the better season, winning the quadruple with PSG and notching 42 goal contributions across all competitions.

But when digging deeper, it becomes clear that Rodrygo is the superior player of the two, and given that they both fall into a similar financial ballpark, is the one Liverpool must push for.

For example, the French winger is regarded as a silky, high-speed dribbler, but he averaged only one dribble per match in Ligue 1 last year and, more concerningly, at a success rate of just 27%, as per Sofascore.

In fact, FBref also record that he ranked among the bottom 4% of attacking midfielders and wingers across all of Europe last season for take-on success rate, underscoring the amount of failed efforts to drive the ball forward.

That’s not to negate his quality; Barcola has just played an instrumental role in a Champions League-winning campaign after all. However, Rodrygo knows his way around Europe’s elite competition, a two-time champion and a force to be reckoned with at the business end too.

Barcola, moreover, has yet to polish his shooting boots. Though he scored 17 goals across PSG’s Ligue 1 and Champions League campaigns, he also missed a whopping 33 big chances.

Conversely, Rodrygo only missed three big chances, albeit he also netted just 11 times across his disappointing season. Still, that makes a strong comment on his prolific ability.

When he’s on his A-game, the Brazil international is “unstoppable”, so says Madrid columnist Kiyan Sobhani.

Ultimately, the fact that Liverpool fans are mulling over whether they fancy Barcola or Rodrygo as potential alternatives to Isak, having already signed Wirtz, Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and Giorgi Mamardashvili, illustrates just how far this club has come.

The Premier League champions are in the most enviable of positions, but if given the pick of the bunch, Hughes might want to move for Rodrygo over Barcola.

Dream Elliott replacement: Liverpool in race to sign "exceptional" £35m gem

Liverpool are reportedly in the race to sign a star who would be a dream replacement for Harvey Elliott.

ByDan Emery Aug 7, 2025

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.

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.”

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.

Renegades were 48 for 5 before a record-breaking recovery but Stars pushed hard late in their chase

AAP and ESPNcricinfo staff15-Nov-2024Nicole Faltum’s career-best innings and Sarah Coyte’s ice-cool bowling at the death steered Melbourne Renegades to an important nine-run WBBL win over local rivals Melbourne Stars.Faltum blasted an unbeaten 66 from 42 balls to lift the Renegades to 170 for 6 in the second game of Friday’s double-header at the MCG.The wicketkeeper then stumped Stars opener Yastika Bhatia off left-armer Charis Bekker as the Renegades restricted their opponents to 161 for 8 although it became close in the closing stages.Related

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Renegades strangled the Stars early in their run chase, with Hayley Matthews and Deandra Dottin playing a key role. But Rhys McKenna and Tess Flintoff threatened to pull off a fightback with some quick scoring before Coyte removed both Stars batters in the penultimate over. It left Stars with 18 to win off the last six balls and Matthews closed it out.The result gave Renegades a positive 5-3 record in second spot on the ladder, while Stars are in danger of missing the finals at 2-4.Faltum walked to the crease with the Renegades struggling at 48 for 5 in the eighth over and put on 67 for the sixth wicket with Georgia Wareham. She added another 55 from just 22 balls with Georgia Prestwidge. It set a new WBBL record for runs added after the fall of the fifth wicket.Those efforts helped Renegades pull off another impressive win just four days after reaching a target of 186 away to Adelaide Strikers.”There is just this belief amongst the group that we can win from anywhere,” Faltum said. “We didn’t win our first two games but we still believed that we were right on task. Once you win the belief comes, but I think we had it before then. We’re just really hoping that we can go all the way.”

But he could be considered for the ODIs in the West Indies and later the Champions Trophy

Mohammad Isam31-Oct-2024

Shakib Al Hasan last played an ODI in the World Cup last year•AFP/Getty Images

The BCB president Faruque Ahmed has said that Shakib Al Hasan is unlikely to play in the three-match ODI series against Afghanistan in Sharjah. Faruque stated it was Shakib’s decision to opt out of the Afghanistan ODIs, while also hinting of an emotional element about his failure to play what was supposed to be his farewell Test in Dhaka against South Africa from October 21.Shakib has not played any cricket in nearly a month since the second Test in India and it is expected he will feature in the Abu Dhabi T10 League for Bangla Tigers to get some game time before the Caribbean tour.After the three ODIs against Afghanistan, Bangladesh will leave for the West Indies for two Tests, three ODIs and three T20Is. Shakib has retired from Tests and T20Is so he will be available for the ODIs in the Caribbean and later the Champions Trophy in February 2025. Shakib hasn’t played ODIs since the World Cup in India last year.Related

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“After Shakib couldn’t come to play his (farewell) Test, he wasn’t doing much practice,” Faruque said at a press conference on Thursday. “I think he needs some time to regroup. We haven’t taken a final decision but he looks unlikely to play the next series (against Afghanistan). He is likely to miss the series. He could be playing a T10 tournament soon. I feel he can still play for Bangladesh in the 50-over format. There are three ODIs against West Indies before the Champions Trophy.”Faruque, however, said that the board will consider Shakib for the rest of the ODIs this season, if the selectors feel that his training and franchise tournament is sufficient preparation. “Shakib has played for 17 years and he is part of the generation that plays a lot of franchise cricket. They know the drill. They play, sleep maybe a few hours and turn up for training. So he is geared for such situations.”It is the definitely the best possible thing to train with the team but we will consider him if the selection committee thinks that he can still deliver by training or playing tournaments abroad.”The national selectors haven’t yet announced the Bangladesh squad for the ODIs against Afghanistan starting November 6, as the board president is also going to hold a meeting with Najmul Hossain Shanto who recently expressed his reluctance to lead the side.Meawhile, Faruque said that the decision for Shakib to skip the Dhaka Test last week came from the government, with the BCB not part of the decision-making process.”The BCB wasn’t a part of the decision of Shakib not coming to Bangladesh,” he said. “Our sports adviser informed the media at the time that there’s a problem if he comes. I didn’t have to make a statement. I heard that there was security till 3 or 4pm, and then there were clashes between the two sides.”

أعلن مدرب نادي برشلونة، هانز فليك، تشكيل فريقه لمواجهة ريال أوفييدو، ضمن منافسات بطولة الدوري الإسباني الممتاز.

برشلونة يحل ضيفًا على نظيره ريال أوفييدو مساء اليوم الخميس، ضمن مباريات الجولة السادسة من بطولة الدوري الإسباني.

ويسعى برشلونة إلى تحقيق الانتصار على ريال أوفييدو، حيث حقق البلوجرانا عددًا من الانتصارات المتتالية خلال الفترة الأخيرة من هذا الموسم.

طالع .. بعد إصابة جافي.. برشلونة يحسم موقفه من ضم لاعب بديل

ولم يشهد تشكيل برشلونة مفاجآت كثيرة، حيث استمر غياب كل من أليخاندرو بالدي ، ولامين يامال، وجافي للإصابة.

ويعد جافي هو الغائب الأبرز عن صفوف برشلونة، حيث تبين أن إصابة اللاعب في غضروف الركبة أخطر مما كان متوقعًا وسوف يغيب لعدة أشهر عن الملاعب.

وعاد ماركوس راشفورد للتواجد بشكل أساسي في تشكيلة برشلونة، بعدما بقى الدولي الإنجليزي كبديل أمام خيتافي ونزل في الشوط الثاني.

ويتواجد فيران توريس بشكل أساسي في تشكيلة برشلونة على حساب روبرت ليفاندوفسكي، والذي بقي بديلًا. تشكيل برشلونة لمواجهة ريال أوفييدو في الدوري الإسباني

حراسة المرمى: خوان جارسيا.

خط الدفاع: إريك جارسيا، رونالد أراوخو، باو كوبارسي، جيرارد مارتن.

خط الوسط: فرينكي دي يونج، بيدري.

خط الوسط الهجومي: داني أولمو، رافينها دياز، ماركوس راشفورد.

خط الهجوم: فيران توريس.

ويجلس على مقاعد بدلاء برشلونة كلًا من: مارك كاسادو، روني بردجي، أندرياس كريستنسن، فويتشيك تشيزني، دييجو كوشين، جول كوندي، جوفري تورنتس، توني فيرنانديز، مارك بيرنال.

🚨 BARÇA XI 🚨 pic.twitter.com/4YJC2z6uiR — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) September 25, 2025

 

Sunderland have finally concluded a deal for Granit Xhaka, but they are far from done this summer with notable additions.

Up next, it looks as if Robin Roefs will join the building from NEC Nijmegen as the Black Cats’ brand new goalkeeper for the Premier League, having kept a promising ten clean sheets in Eredivisie action last season.

From that point on, it’s anybody’s guess as to who will be following the Dutchman in through the door, as the rumour mill continues to be active on Wearside.

Sunderland agree deal to sign new striker

Regis Le Bris and Co could well be diving straight back into the options at their disposal at Bayer Leverkusen, with Amine Adli a name that keeps popping up from the German giants.

Reports suggest that the Black Cats, West Ham United, and Wolverhampton Wanderers are all locked into a race to try and snap up the Moroccan winger, who is valued around the £26m price range.

Elsewhere, meanwhile, it was reported by Sky Sports’ Keith Downie that Sunderland had opened talks to snap up Chelsea hotshot Marc Guiu on a loan deal, having approached the 19-year-old who has previously been linked with Leeds United.

Fabrizio Romano has since followed that up by revealing that a deal has been agreed for the youngster, with Guiu set to join on a temporary move, with no option to buy for the Black Cats.

The Spanish teenager is yet to get up and running in the Premier League with the Blues, but it’s clear that he is seen as a gem for the future, with Danny Welbeck once viewed in the same light when he arrived to the Stadium of Light in 2010, only then to get his top-flight career off the ground on Wearside.

Why Guiu could be Sunderland's new Welbeck

Heading into his formative stint with the Black Cats, Welbeck only had three senior strikes to shout about, having been previously loaned out to Preston North End in the Championship away from parent side Manchester United.

Guiu can boast double that amount for Enzo Maresca’s men already, but it’s clear that he needs more consistent minutes in the top-flight, away from wreaking havoc in the much-maligned Conference League.

Sunderland could now be willing to give him that opportunity, much like when they extended their hand out to a far more raw Welbeck 15 years ago.

The now well-established 34-year-old would first make a name for himself donning Sunderland red and white, with the ex-Black Cats number 17 even getting in on the goalscoring act during his solitary season with the club, when downing Chelsea 3-0 in a surprise away win.

In total, Welbeck would bag a promising six strikes from 26 games before then going on to become a first-teamer at Old Trafford, with the Premier League veteran now up to 77 goals in the testing division when featuring for the likes of Arsenal, Watford, and Brighton and Hove Albion, away from the Red Devils and the Stadium of Light.

Welbeck’s heroics for Sunderland would help them to secure a comfortable tenth-place finish in the final top-flight standings, with Guiu hopeful he can be that same spark that makes survival a breeze, having already made quite an impression on the Stamford Bridge masses from limited starts.

Indeed, despite making just four starts overall for Maresca’s side, the ex-Barcelona youth product has a blistering six strikes next to his name, leading to Guiu being dubbed a “nightmare” to come up against by football talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Further showing off his ice-cold finishing ability on the international stage with Spain when powering home 11 goals for the U17s and U19s, on top of even having two senior Barca strikes next to his name, it’s no shock that one of his former youth coaches, Jose Lana, has stated that Guiu can “score goals from nowhere.”

It might be a tall order for Guiu to instantly break into the first-team fold, however.

But when he is unleashed into the action, the 19-year-old will surely be eager to make an impact, knowing full well that an electric loan stint on Wearside could finally kickstart his Premier League journey in style.

Bigger talent than Adingra: Sunderland race to sign "outstanding" £26m star

Sunderland could be about to win themselves a bigger talent than Simon Adingra by signing this £26m ace.

ByKelan Sarson Jul 31, 2025

Manchester United’s forward line has had somewhat of an overhaul during the summer transfer window, unsurprisingly so given their lack of goals in 2024/25.

The Red Devils only managed a tally of 44 goals in the Premier League, an average of 1.15 goals per 90 – a tally no way near good enough for a side of their stature.

Ruben Amorim has taken measures to improve such a situation, securing the signatures of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha – with the pair setting the hierarchy back over £130m.

The pair netted 35 top-flight goals between them last season, potentially forming a deadly partnership with soon-to-be new addition Benjamin Sesko, who has agreed a £74m deal with the club in recent days.

There’s no denying that the trio could cause many sides endless troubles throughout 2025/26, with other areas of the pitch needing similar investment between now and the end of the window.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

Carlos Baleba has emerged as a shock option for United in the midfield department, with the Brighton star’s agents in talks with the Red Devils over a move to Old Trafford.

The 21-year-old could well be out of the club’s price range this summer, with Fabian Hurzeler’s side slapping a £100m price tag on his head to fend off any interest in his services.

However, the middle of the park isn’t the only area which could also be strengthened, with United making a move to land Fiorentina centre-back Pietro Comuzzo, according to Firenzeviola.

They claim that Amorim’s side have been spotted scouting the 20-year-old during pre-season, with the club able to get a closer look at the talent in the clash against the Italian outfit this weekend.

The report also states that Sunderland and Bournemouth have also been keeping a close eye on his progress, but any deal could cost any interested party a fee in the region of €40m (£35m).

Why United’s £35m target could be their next Yoro

Leny Yoro was a huge addition to the United squad last summer, joining the club in a staggering £59m in a move to bolster the side in the immediate and long-term future.

The Frenchman had to bide his time during the early stages of the 2024/25 season, but after Amorim’s arrival, he cemented his place in the side and demonstrated signs of being a great buy from INEOS.

He managed to register a total of 33 appearances across all competitions, scoring his first goal against Lyon in the Europa League – helping the side secure their place in the final.

Yoro also ended his debut year at Old Trafford with a tally of 1.7 aerials won per 90, along with a 93% pass completion rate – showcasing his superb ability to be a ball-playing option in the club’s backline.

However, a move for current target Comuzzo could see them land another young, talented defender, with the Italian producing numerous top-tier stats despite his tender age of just 20 years.

When comparing his stats to those of Yoro from the 2024/25 campaign, the Italian managed to outperform him in numerous key areas, showcasing how he can follow in the teenager’s footsteps at Old Trafford.

Comuzzo, who’s been labelled “incredible” by former boss Raffaele Palladino, made more key passes per 90 last season, showcasing his excellent ability to pick out a teammate in possession.

How Comuzzo & Yoro compare throughout 2024/25

Statistics (per 90)

Comuzzo

Yoro

Games played

33

21

Minutes played

2200

1165

Key passes made

0.4

0.1

Tackles won

0.9

0.8

Blocks made

1.4

0.3

Clearances made

4.6

3.3

% of tackles won

79%

68%

Aerials won

2.6

1.2

Aerial success rate

59%

50%

Stats via FBref

He also managed to win more of the tackles he entered last season, whilst making more blocks and clearances per 90, handing Amorim the added defensive talent he needs ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The 20-year-old’s dominance is further reflected in his tally of aerials won per 90, potentially offering the side an added threat at both ends of the pitch – something which has been greatly lacking in recent months.

Whilst competition for his signature is fierce, the club are building an exciting project which any young player may prove to be tempted by in the near future.

£35m for a player of his calibre could prove to be excellent business, potentially seeing Comuzzo strike an excellent partnership with fellow youngster Yoro in the years ahead.

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In what would be their signing of the summer so far, Everton have reportedly launched an opening offer to welcome a midfield star ahead of Premier League rivals.

Latest on Everton's potential incomings

After already signing Thierno Barry and Mark Travers whilst also welcoming Carlos Alcaraz on a permanent deal following a successful loan spell, Everton have now reportedly turned towards fresh targets. The Friedkin Group, clearly out to make a statement in their first summer at the helm, have also reportedly set their sights on the likes of Samuel Lino from Atletico Madrid and Aston Villa’s Jacob Ramsey.

Ramsey would particularly be one to watch if he arrived at The Hill Dickinson Stadium ahead of next season, but it remains to be seen whether Everton can win the race for his signature. Despite his clear talent, the midfielder is likely to be an affordable option amid Aston Villa’s PSR problems – allowing the Toffees to come swooping in.

Premier League stats 24/25 (via FBref)	Jacob Ramsey	James Garner
Minutes	1,623	1,594
Goals	1	0
Key Passes	21	13
Ball Recoveries	83	73

Going forward, Ramsey would be a particular upgrade on James Garner in the middle of David Moyes’ side. At just 24 years old too, the Aston Villa man is about to enter his prime years, making now the best time to move in for his signature.

That said, it’s not just Ramsey that the Toffees have set their sights on. Midfield seems to be the area of focus currently and names such as Tomas Soucek has also been mentioned as a result.

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Reports have even gone as far as to suggest that Everton are set to submit an imminent £12m bid to sign the West Ham United star and hand Moyes a reunion with the midfielder.

The same, meanwhile, can be said about another transfer target, with Everton now reportedly launching their opening offer for his signature.

Everton launch first Douglas Luiz offer

According to TeamTalk, Everton have launched an opening offer to sign Douglas Luiz from Juventus in a loan-to-buy deal. The Brazilian is reportedly open to a return to the Premier League just one year on from his decision to swap Aston Villa for Turin. And as Juventus look to show him the door, it’s the Toffees who are primed to take full advantage.

The midfielder would be an impressive coup, given his Premier League experience and reports that former club Aston Villa are interested in a swift reunion this summer.

Juventus are reportedly hoping for a package worth €35m (£30m) for Luiz this summer, but it remains to be seen whether Everton’s opening offer has reached that price.

Even after struggling in Serie A though, there’s no doubt that the Brazilian would be worth splashing out on. Aston Villa sporting director, Monchi, has been one of many to share praise for Luiz in recent years – telling reporters last season: “He’s playing less than we all expected, but we’re talking about a strong player.”

Chelsea’s summer business has been impressive to say the least. Enzo Maresca has wasted little time in building a team which he believes can go far in both the Premier League and Champions League this season.

Expectations have certainly been heightened after the club won the inaugural Club World Cup stateside earlier this month.

The Blues weren’t expected to cause much of an upset against PSG in the final, but a Cole Palmer double and a Joao Pedro effort ensured the trophy would be heading to London.

If the Stamford Bridge side get off to a good start this season, they will be a force to be reckoned with. Maresca still has plenty of work to do in the transfer window to make sure his squad is exactly the way he wants it.

That means there will likely be another few incomings over the coming weeks. More importantly, however, is the need for the manager to move on several players who don’t feature in his plans this season.

Let’s take a deep dive into all the latest transfer news surrounding the club, shall we?

Latest Chelsea transfer news

Firstly, Maresca is still keen on bolstering his attacking options. Despite having signed Jamie Gittens, Pedro and Liam Delap, the Italian isn’t stopping there.

According to ESPN, Chelsea have shown interest in Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak amid the news he wants to leave the Magpies this summer.

Chelsea’s 2025 summer signings so far
Player	Club signed from
Jamie Gittens	Borussia Dortmund
Liam Delap	Ipswich Town
Joao Pedro	Brighton
Mamadou Sarr	Strasbourg
Estevao	Palmeiras
Dario Essugo	Sporting CP
Via Transfermarkt

Liverpool appear to be frontrunners for his signature, but should the Blues somehow convince Isak that his future lies at Stamford Bridge, it would eclipse any of the club’s transfers this summer.

Elsewhere, Maresca is still keen on bringing Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho to the club.

The Telegraph state that the Blues are monitoring the situation with the Argentinian winger at Old Trafford as his future looks in doubt.

Garnacho could be available for a fee in the region of £40m should Maresca make a concrete move for the player. Given his age and Premier League experience, this type of fee makes a deal much more appealing.

Regarding outgoings, Chelsea haven’t sold many of their wantaway stars just yet. João Félix is attracting interest from his former club Benfica, although if a deal were to happen, it would mean a significant loss for the Premier League side.

Indeed, the Portuguese outfit wants to acquire 50% of Félix’s rights for a fee of around €25m (£21.7m).

Christopher Nkunku is another player that Maresca is looking to get rid of before the league season gets underway. Both Nottingham Forest and Man United have joined the race for the French attacking midfielder.

The Blues have set his asking price at £43m, which could tempt various clubs to come in and make an offer for the former RB Leipzig star.

As for incomings, one deal that looks close to completion is that of Xavi Simons. The Dutchman has been a key target recently, and it finally looks as though Maresca has his man.

Chelsea close to agreeing personal terms

Fabrizio Romano shared an update regarding the club’s progress on a move for the Leipzig sensation.

“Understand Chelsea and RB Leipzig are now in advanced talks for Xavi Simons.” Said Romano on X.

Transfer Focus

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

“Negotiations club to club progressing well, still work to do but heading positive direction. Xavi, keen on Chelsea project with personal terms talks also advanced.”

No concrete transfer fee has been mentioned as yet, but barring any last-minute hitches, this deal should be over the line sooner rather than later.

That means Chelsea have yet another young, hungry attacking prospect ready to showcase their talents in the Premier League.

Can Simons become Chelsea’s very own Florian Wirtz?

Why Chelsea want to sign Xavi Simons

Liverpool made their own statement of intent by splashing out around £116m to sign Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. If all works out, he could be the signing of the summer.

Simons won’t cost that much – having been touted at around £56m – but the two players are similar in style, being able to operate as an attacking midfielder.

Indeed, throughout the 2024/25 Bundesliga campaign, Wirtz was the fourth-most comparable player to Simons due to their likeness as players.

Not only that, but the pair also registered similar statistics across a range of metrics, including goals and assists (16 vs 22), shots per 90 (2.09 vs 2.83), shot-creating actions per 90 (4.52 vs 5.66), carries into the final third (72 vs 72) and crosses delivered into the opposition penalty area (79 vs 101) during the Bundesliga last term.

Both Simons and Wirtz have strengths including key passes, dribbling and through balls, according to WhoScored. The duo also both love to dribble, counting this as a key skill set, while they both like to provide layoffs to teammates.

As such, making a move for Simons this summer would allow Maresca to have someone who is just like Wirtz in his squad, for a fraction of the price.

Ahead of the 2024 European Championship, analyst Ben Mattinson lavished plenty of praise on Simons, saying that he is “destined for greatness”, while describing him as a “superstar” who can become “one of the best in the world in the future.”

During that tournament, he scored once and provided three assists as the Netherlands reached the semi-finals.

Simons has starred on the big stage for club and country over the previous three years and should he seal his move to Chelsea, Maresca may just have the final piece of his attacking jigsaw.

Aged just 22, the Dutch starlet is ready to take the next step-up in his career and what better club to do it at than Chelsea.

Wirtz may have made the headlines, but Simons could certainly match his displays next season. Watch this space.

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