Contact made: Chelsea enquire over deal for "world-class" £67m goalkeeper

Chelsea have now made contact to ask for information about a “world-class” player, ahead of a potential summer transfer swoop, according to a report.

Blues pushing for Champions League

Despite the drab 0-0 draw against Brentford at the weekend, the Blues remain in a strong position to end their two-year hiatus from the Champions League, sitting fourth in the Premier League table with just seven games left to play.

Should Enzo Maresca achieve his aim of Champions League qualification, the campaign will probably go down as a success, but there are still issues the manager will need to address in the summer transfer window.

One problem position has been goalkeeper, with Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen being used interchangeably, and there have been suggestions Maresca could bring Djordje Petrovic back into the fold next season.

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Petrovic has impressed on loan at Strasbourg, meaning he could also be given another chance at Stamford Bridge. Nonetheless, the option of bringing in a new goalkeeper from elsewhere remains on the table.

According to a report from Italy (via Chelsea Chronicle), Chelsea have now asked for information about AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan, ahead of a potential summer transfer swoop.

AC Milan's MikeMaignanreacts

Aston Villa and Manchester United have also been named as potential suitors for Maignan, whose future at the San Siro remains up in the air, given that he is yet to sign a new deal to extend his stay with the Italian club.

Reports have valued the goalkeeper at £67m, but there is a feeling he could be available for half that price, should he refuse to put pen to paper on a new deal, with his contract currently set to expire in 2026.

"World-class" Maignan could be real upgrade on Sanchez

Sanchez has been extremely error-prone for the Blues this season, making five mistakes which have directly led to goals in the Premier League, the joint-highest number of any player in the top flight.

As such, it is little wonder Chelsea are thinking about signing a replacement in the summer window, and there are indications Maignan could be a real upgrade on the Spaniard, considering he has been lauded as “world-class” by members of the Italian media.

Not only that, but the Frenchman could be well-suited to Maresca’s passing style of play, given that he has expressed a willingness to get on the ball over the past year, ranking in the 80th percentile for touches, when compared to his positional peers.

It is clear that Sanchez will need to be replaced this summer, and Maignan has proven he could be a solid replacement, although it may make more financial sense to give the nod to Petrovic, who has put in some very impressive displays in Ligue 1 this season.

A better signing than Kerkez: Liverpool in talks to sign "world-class" star

Liverpool’s summer transfer window will be crucial if they are to build on the success endured by Arne Slot in his first season in charge of the side at Anfield.

The Dutchman looks set to claim the Premier League title at the first attempt, but additions will be needed if he is to replicate such a feat in 2025/26.

Numerous players are expected to depart the Reds during the off-season, needing to provide added depth to the squad, whilst also upgrading players who remain on Merseyside.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot

Darwin Núñez and Harvey Elliott have both already been touted with a summer move, with any deals likely to hand the manager added funds to make improvements to his side.

It appears as though he’s wasted no time in targeting reinforcements, with one player emerging as a huge target ahead of the opening of the summer transfer window.

Liverpool make contact to land £50m PL star

According to The Athletic, Liverpool have made contact with Bournemouth ahead of a summer deal to land centre-back Dean Huijsen, but face serious competition for his signature.

Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Arsenal and Newcastle United are all in the race to land the 19-year-old who’s massively impressed for the Cherries in 2024/25.

He’s notched 25 Premier League appearances to date, registering two goals and one assist, playing a vital role in their ambitions of securing European football under Andoni Iraola.

The report claims that the Reds’ hierarchy have already held meetings with the defender’s representatives over a move to Merseyside, with the Spaniard having a £50m release clause in his current contract.

Whilst it may seem a hefty sum for such a young talent, it would be a worthwhile investment, allowing Slot to land a player who could star at the heart of the backline for many years to come.

Why Huijsen would be a better signing than Kerkez for Liverpool

Over the last few weeks, Huijsen hasn’t been the only Bournemouth player touted with a move to join Liverpool, with Milos Kerkez strongly linked with a move to Slot’s side.

The Hungarian left-back has been subject to interest over £40m move to join the Reds, but it remains to be seen whether a deal will be completed this summer.

His talent is there for all to see, scoring twice and registering five assists in the Premier League this campaign, being a key part of the Cherries’ success under Iraola this year.

However, a move for Huijsen would undeniably be a better signing than Kerkez, especially considering the other sides also in the race for his services this window.

The Spanish international would be a perfect partner to current centre-back Virgil van Dijk, with any move allowing him to learn off the Dutchman and become the club’s leading defensive star down the line.

AFC Bournemouth's DeanHuijsenduring the warm up before the match

He’s already showcased his talent on the South Coast, outperforming Van Dijk in numerous key areas, further highlighting why he would be a better addition than the full-back.

Huijsen, who’s been labelled “world-class” by one analyst, has registered more progressive carries per 90 – showcasing his impressive ability on the ball, subsequently being able to fit into Slot’s possession-based system.

Games played

25

31

Goals & assists

3

2

Progressive carries

1.5

0.5

Tackles won

1.1

0.5

Blocks made

1.5

0.7

Interceptions made

2.2

1.6

Clearances made

6.9

5.1

The youngster has also thrived defensively, winning more tackles per 90, along with more interceptions – outperforming Van Dijk despite his tender age, highlighting how much of an impressive addition he would be.

£50m would be a huge fee for such a young star, but in his short spell in England’s top flight, he’s shown how impressive he’s been, having all of the tools to improve further.

Given the vast amount of interest in his signature, the club’s hierarchy will have to work quickly to avoid missing out on him, undoubtedly making a huge mistake if they don’t pursue his services.

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Chelsea in "active talks" to sign forward with Jadon Sancho swap possible

Chelsea are in ongoing negotiations over the signing of an “incredible” forward, and it is believed winger Jadon Sancho could now be used as leverage to make a deal happen for the player.

Chelsea targeting new winger for Enzo Maresca this summer

A new winger is believed to be one of BlueCo’s main transfer priorities this summer.

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It would be a big decision.

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This year, there will be two separate windows for Chelsea to conduct transfer business, with one open from June 1st to June 10th. This will allow them to sign players before their Club World Cup campaign, which is seen as important by many, given the prize money available.

Liverpool (home)

May 4th

Newcastle (away)

May 11th

Man United (home)

May 16th

Nottingham Forest (away)

May 25th

Chelsea could obtain a £97 million windfall by winning all of their group stage games and the tournament itself, based on various factors, so it is clear to see why Stamford Bridge officials won’t be taking their participation lightly.

It could be very lucrative indeed for Enzo Maresca’s side, prompting reports that the west Londoners will be active when the pre-CWC transfer window opens.

One of the key items on their agenda is bringing in an exciting new wide player (Simon Phillips), with uncertainty surrounding the long-term futures of Mykhailo Mudryk, Noni Madueke and Sancho.

Chelsea's MykhailoMudryk

Mudryk is currently serving an on-field ban after testing positive for banned substances, while there are suggestions Chelsea are open to selling Madueke as Eddie Howe’s Newcastle and Aston Villa consider deals.

Chelsea are obliged to sign Sancho on a permanent deal from Man United, after triggering his £25 million clause, with the Blues now guaranteed to finish above 15th in the table.

Chelsea could still opt out of this by paying a £5 million penalty to United, but it now appears they could hatch a different plan for Sancho, involving top target and Borussia Dortmund sensation Jamie Gittens.

Chelsea could offer Jadon Sancho in "separate" swap deal for Jamie Gittens

Chelsea opened talks to sign Gittens earlier this week, as per Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, and now TEAMtalk have shared another update.

The outlet claims Chelsea are in “active talks” to sign Gittens, and preferably want a deal for the Englishman finalised before the CWC commences. While Gittens is valued at around £35 million, they have ways to bring the overall cost down.

Jamie Gittens for Borussia Dortmund.

Dortmund loanee Carney Chukwuemeka is also valued at £35m, and could head the other way permanently to cancel out the fee needed for Gittens. However, so soon after triggering his £25m clause, TT write that Chelsea could offer Sancho in a separate deal for Gittens as well.

While both transfers would be apart from one another on paper, this is essentially a swap deal, just not in the traditional sense, and it is a further example of just how common player-trading is becoming in the market now – as clubs seek to navigate their way around PSR.

Gittens has been a mainstay for Dortmund this term, despite his very young age, with the 20-year-old scoring 12 goals and assisting five others across 45 appearances in all competitions.

He could well be worth all of this effort, with ex-Dortmund boss Nuri Sahin describing him as an “incredible” one-v-one attacker.

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Chelsea's UCL push going down to the wire

Whilst there would have been plenty of relief around Nottingham Forest’s 2-0 defeat at the hands of Brentford in midweek, Chelsea still have it all to do in the race to secure Champions League qualification. Sat fifth on goal difference and in the last remaining Champions League spot, the Blues may need to win all four of their remaining games to finish above the chasing pack of Forest and Aston Villa.

With Premier League champions Liverpool to face this weekend too, it doesn’t get any easier for Chelsea who may be hoping to come up against a side in celebration rather than the ruthless Reds that English football has become accustomed to this season.

Blues boss Enzo Maresca recently had his say on the Champions League race, telling reporters: “How many times in the last two years has Chelsea been in the Champions League [places]? Zero.

“How many times this season? Almost all season. It is an improvement or not? It is already an improvement because we spend all season there. Now, we are going to try our best to finish there no doubt.

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“We want to finish there, no doubt. We are happy to finish there, yes. Is it enough? No, because we want to compete for titles. But compared to the past two years, I think it is quite clear that there is an improvement. Now, if you want to see it, you see it. If you don’t want to see it, you don’t see it. It depends which way. I see it.”

Meanwhile, should the London club go on and confirm their place among Europe’s elite this month, they could be well placed to welcome an impressive Premier League rival.

Chelsea ready to meet Watkins price tag

According to Football Transfers, Chelsea are now ready to match Ollie Watkins’ £60m valuation to welcome the Aston Villa striker this summer, having already made their first approach for his signature.

Watkins was, of course, at the centre of attention in January when Arsenal came calling. Unlike Chelsea, however, the Gunners were reluctant to meet Villa’s asking price and the England international therefore stayed put in the Midlands.

At 29 years old, the Villa star goes against BlueCo’s usual transfer route of young stars, but an established Premier League goalscorer could be exactly what Maresca’s side need if they are to improve this summer.

Starts

27

26

Goals

15

10

Assists

7

5

Expected Goals

14.5

12.2

Dubbed “amazing” by Villa boss Unai Emery earlier this season, Watkins’ numbers compared to Nicolas Jackson highlight the upgrade that he would instantly offer Chelsea and Maresca.

Bigger coup than Solomon: Leeds weigh up move for "exceptional" £13m star

The dust has barely settled on Leeds United’s jubilant promotion-winning campaign, but the transfer rumour mill is already going into overdrive at Elland Road.

The Whites have been linked with a whole host of varied names since regular Championship action halted, with the likes of Everton centre-forward Beto and Tottenham Hotspur attacker Richarlison being linked, but the Brazilian is not the only wanted figure playing for the North Londoners.

Of course, after playing a huge role in the Whites sealing a triumphant return to the Premier League on loan, Manor Solomon is now being eyed up by the West Yorkshire titans on a permanent basis, with Spurs perhaps willing to part ways with the 25-year-old.

The latest on Solomon joining permanently

There were plenty of risks attached to the Solomon deal last summer, considering the 5 foot 7 attacker was horrendously injury-prone at Ange Postecoglou’s men during the 2023/24 season.

But, despite missing 277 days of action last campaign in North London owing to injury, this season has been more of a smooth sailing experience for Solomon on the contrary, with this last-gasp strike below away at Plymouth Argyle on the final day handing Daniel Farke’s men the title.

That would be Solomon’s final goal of his loan stint, with the former Fulham man closing out his celebrated spell donning Leeds white by amassing ten goals and 13 assists from 41 total clashes.

Unsurprisingly, therefore, the Whites want Solomon back for good ahead of their daunting Premier League voyage, with reports seeming to suggest that Leeds’ wish could be granted if they’re willing to fork out £20m.

This would show Leeds mean business competing amongst the big boys once more, but an even more impressive coup could be on the horizon at Elland Road soon in the midfield areas.

The "exceptional" star who'd be a bigger coup than Solomon

After all, splashing out £20m isn’t too far off the record-breaking move for Georginio Rutter that Leeds sanctioned back in January of 2023, with the Frenchman costing a high £35.5m, but eventually proving he was worth every penny.

There would be a worry in the air that Solomon would struggle with his recurring injury demons back up a level, but away from potentially offering the 25-year-old a permanent deal, snapping up the services of former £45m sale Kalvin Phillips would be way more of a coup if he can recapture his finest Leeds form again.

Indeed, journalist Graeme Bailey has added to the rampant speculation recently by revealing that a reunion could finally be on the cards, stating that £13m-rated Phillips is ready for a move back to home soil this summer with Leeds considering a move.

Leeds would, no doubt, welcome their former homegrown gem back with open arms, especially with the hole that’s going to be left behind centrally by loanee Joe Rothwell returning back to AFC Bournemouth, alongside Phillips’ wealth of Premier League experience being a much-needed bonus.

Games played

29

20

Games started

28

18

Goals scored

1

0

Assists

2

1

Touches*

65.0

62.1

Accurate passes*

41.0 (85%)

38.9 (82%)

Big chances missed

0

1

Big chances created

5

1

Total duels won*

5.3

4.9

Phillips has wobbled at Manchester City and blown hot and cold on loan at West Ham United and Ipswich Town, but it’s been quickly forgotten about how well-rounded of a midfielder the Leeds-born star looked whilst still at Elland Road.

Keen to get stuck into a duel whilst also picking up four goal contributions across 49 appearances in the top-flight for Leeds, the “exceptional” star – as he was once lauded by football talent scout Antonio Mango – would be a welcome addition to the ranks if he can get back to the top of his game, away from impressively tasting action in the relentless league a total of 92 times.

Former Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips.

To add context, Solomon has just 24 appearances next to his name. Therefore, if Leeds could win back the services of their much-loved ex-number 23 for a cut-price, he would surely go down as a more luxurious coup than the loan talent.

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He's a lot like Xhaka: Arsenal working hard to sign £43m "duel monster"

Since Mikel Arteta took charge of Arsenal in December 2019, he’s got more things right than wrong.

After all, the club were languishing in tenth place when he was handed the reigns, and he has turned them into perpetual challengers in the Premier League and now the Champions League.

Moreover, while he has made his fair share of dud signings – see wingers from the blue half of West London – he’s been key to securing some of the team’s current stars, like Declan Rice, Gabriel Magalhaes and David Raya.

granit-xhaka-arsenal-transfer-manchester-city-yaya-toure-arteta

However, when it comes to one player who was arguably allowed to leave too easily, many fans will point to Granit Xhaka, but if recent reports are to be believed, the club are now looking to sign someone with plenty of similarities to the Swiss international.

Arsenal transfer news

Before getting to the player in question, it’s worth looking at some of the other midfielders linked with Arsenal in recent weeks, like Martin Zubimendi and Morgan Rogers.

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The former received the Fabrizio Romano ‘here we go’ treatment on Saturday morning, so he looks like he will be on his way to the Emirates in the summer, and given his vast experience with Real Sociedad and Spain, £51m feels like a fair deal. treatment on Saturday morning

On the other hand, Rogers remains a rumour at this stage, but with 14 goals and 14 assists to his name in 52 games this season, his reported £100m valuation doesn’t feel too absurd.

Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers

However, neither of these players could really be described as being similar to Xhaka, unlike Andrey Santos.

Yes, according to a recent report from France, Arsenal are now incredibly interested in signing the Chelsea ace, who’s currently on loan with Racing Club de Strasbourg.

The report claims that French giants Paris Saint-Germain are also keen to secure the Brazilian’s signature this summer but that the Gunners are ‘hard at work’ to bring him to the Emirates.

A price is not mentioned in the story, but according to a report from last month, the midfielder could be available for around £43m.

RC Strasbourg'sAndreySantosin action

It could be a complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Santos’ ability and potential, it’s one Arsenal should be fighting for, especially as he shares some key similarities with Xhaka.

How Santos compares to Xhaka

So, before looking at some of the other reasons Arsenal might want to sign Santos this summer, what about his game makes him similar to how Xhaka was at his best in North London?

Arsenal'sGranitXhakacelebrates scoring their fourth goal

Well, the first thing is that, like the Swiss international, the Brazilian talent has the ability to play deeper as a six but is currently thriving as a more box-to-box midfielder who’s involved in everything from defence to attack.

For example, respected analyst Ben Mattinson claimed the Blues gem has “everything you want in a CM,” from “top tackling ability” to a real level of “composure in front of goal.”

We can see this in his underlying numbers, as according to FBref, the 21-year-old sits in the top 3% of midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues for non-penalty goals and tackles, showing that he really can do both parts of the role incredibly well, as the former Gunners’ ace did in his final campaign in England.

Furthermore, if underlying numbers aren’t your cup of tea, then he’s got the raw output to back up the praise he’s received for his attacking prowess as well.

Appearances

33

Minutes

2934′

Goals

10

Assists

5

Goal Involvements per Match

0.45

Minutes per Goal Involvement

195.6′

In just 33 appearances for Les Bleu et Blanc, totalling 2934 minutes, the 5 foot 11 “duel monster,” as dubbed by Mattinson, has scored ten goals and provided five assists, coming out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.2 games, or every 195.6 minutes.

Ultimately, Santos would play second fiddle to Rice for a while, but given how incredibly well he has played in France this season, he would be the perfect backup.

Andrey Santos Chelsea

Therefore, Arsenal should do all they can to sign him, as he might just be their next Xhaka.

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After Hagi & Balogun: 49ers must ruthlessly axe "struggling" Rangers flop

There will be plenty of change at Ibrox this summer after Glasgow Rangers confirmed that several players will be moving on from the club ahead of next season.

A new head coach will also be in the dugout when the 2025/26 campaign gets underway, as the Light Blues have confirmed that Barry Ferguson will not be getting the job on a full-time basis after his interim spell.

As well as the Scottish interim boss, Rangers have revealed that three first-team players will be leaving Glasgow as free agents at the end of this month.

The Rangers players being released this summer

Rangers have announced that Tom Lawrence, Leon Balogun, and Ianis Hagi will not have their contracts renewed, making them free agents ahead of the summer transfer window.

They are three experienced operators who will be moving on from Ibrox, and two of them – Balogun and Hagi – were part of the 2020/21 title-winning campaign under Steven Gerrard.

Hagi, in particular, played a big role on the pitch this season with four goals and five assists in 24 appearances in the Scottish Premiership after coming in from the cold.

These three stars are not the only experienced players who should be ruthlessly ditched by the 49ers, once the takeover is completed, and Kevin Thelwell this summer, however, as Robin Propper should also be on the chopping block.

Why Robin Propper should be sold this summer

The Gers swooped to sign the Dutch defender from FC Twente to bolster their backline in the summer transfer window last year after Connor Goldson moved on from Ibrox.

Robin Propper

Unfortunately, the 31-year-old centre-back does not seem particularly suited to the physical nature of the Scottish Premiership, as opposition forwards have found it too easy against him at times.

Rangers only conceded nine goals in the 11 matches that he did not feature in and 32 in the 27 that he did play, which suggests that they were better defensively without him.

Appearances

30

27

Goals conceded

22

32

Dribbled past per game

0.2x

0.4x

Ground duel success rate

73%

62%

Aerial duel success rate

67%

64%

Fouls per game

0.7

0.9

As you can see in the table above, the Light Blues made their team worse by replacing Goldson with Propper, who has failed to offer more quality in the centre-back position, as shown by the stark contrast in goals conceded.

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Back in December, pundit Neil McCann outlined how concerning Propper’s performances were in the Premiership. He said: “Propper is struggling. He’s been pretty vocal over the last couple of weeks that he’s finding it tough in our league. He’s been asked the question early on. It’s quite worrying when you see him struggling as bad as that. Look at the body language – he’s looking for a way out already.”

This is why the 49ers must ruthlessly axe the central defender from the squad in the summer transfer window, if there are any clubs interested in snapping him up, because he has not adjusted well to Scottish football.

Whilst he is not the only player in the defence, it is worrying that there has been a huge drop off in defensive form since he was signed to replace Goldson, and that the team has a better defensive record without Propper in the side.

Therefore, Rangers must move on from Propper in the summer transfer window after they have already made the ruthless decisions to release Balogun, Hagi, and Lawrence.

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49ers now enter transfer talks to sign £16m+ star "open" to Leeds move

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

Leeds United look towards Premier League comeback

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Leeds United hold talks over Emiliano Buendia move

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

Five most similar players to Emiliano Buendia (FBRef)

Eliesse Ben Seghir

Monaco

Enzo Millot

Stuttgart

Facundo Buonanotte

Leicester City

Jude Bellingham

Real Madrid

Xavi Simons

RB Leipzig

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

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

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

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

Barry alternative: Everton make approach to sign £11m Calvert-Lewin upgrade

Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin is now in the final month of his contract, although it remains to be seen whether he will stay with the club.

The striker has been with the Toffees since 2016, and if his near-ten-year association with the club was to end this summer, David Moyes will have big shoes to fill.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin in action for Everton.

By all accounts, he endured a difficult 2024/25 campaign and, judging by that form, he might not be too much of a miss.

Why Dominic Calvert-Lewin must leave Everton

The centre-forward reportedly has other Premier League clubs showing interest in him, Newcastle among them.

Last season was a major struggle for the Englishman. Across 26 league matches last term, Calvert-Lewin scored just three goals and grabbed two assists.

He finished the season with an 8% goal conversion rate, while missing 16 big chances, averaging just 0.8 shots on target per game and creating one big chance.

In this form, moving on his massive £120k-per-week wages would surely give Moyes plenty of room for manoeuvre in the transfer window.

2024/25

26

3

2

2023/24

38

8

3

2022/23

18

2

1

2021/22

18

5

2

2020/21

39

21

3

2019/20

41

15

1

2018/19

38

8

3

2017/18

44

8

5

2016/17

11

1

0

If so, the Scot would be looking to bring in a striker or two to replace the 27-year-old ahead of next season.

It appears as though the Merseyside outfit have enquired about the availability of a player who has attracted plenty of attention…

Everton looking at Calvert-Lewin replacements

Recent reports have suggested that Everton are looking at Villarreal striker Thierno Barry with an approach having been made to sign him last week. If a deal cannot be done there, who’s the alternative?

Transfer Focus

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Well, according to the Mirror, Everton have made an enquiry regarding striker Adama Bojang, although West Ham United and Brentford are also keen on the youngster.

The Gambia starlet played for Swiss side Grasshoppers on loan last term and could be available for as little as £11m this summer.

Given his potential and room for development, this could be a shrewd move by Moyes, no doubt about that. But, might Bojang emerge as an ideal replacement for Calvert-Lewin?

The 21-year-old certainly impressed for Grasshoppers last term. Across 26 league games, he found the back of the net on six occasions, while registering two assists in the process.

Like Calvert-Lewin, he was hardly prolific, but a young fresh face could be precisely the direction Moyes needs to head in. After all, he’s already been hailed as the “Gambian hurricane” and also lauded as an “insane talent” by U23 scout Antonio Mango. So, Adama’s future looks incredibly bright.

He scored once every 212 minutes in the Swiss Super League last term, while finishing the season with a 15% goal conversion percentage, far better than Calvert-Lewin’s.

The striker also created five big chances for his teammates, missed just eight big chances and succeeded with 0.5 dribbles per game.

Raw, certainly, but it is evident that he has the tools required to make an impact in a big five European league.

Everton manager DavidMoyes

£11m is a drop in the ocean for a club the size of Everton, and by signing Bojang, they will be getting a player who could see their value increase in a short space of time.

He might take a while to adjust to life in the Premier League, but as seen by his statistics last term, he performed better than Calvert-Lewin across several metrics. It is surely a no-brainer for Moyes.

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Newcastle talks held over "brilliant" £75m forward, PIF have the cash ready

Newcastle United are active in the hunt for reinforcements and internal discussions are ongoing at St James’ Park over a potential move for an exciting attacker, according to a report.

Newcastle United discover opening Premier League fixtures

The Premier League fixture schedule has landed ahead of the new campaign, and it is fair to say Magpies fans will be salivating over the prospect of their side being back in competitive action.

Facing Aston Villa, Arsenal, and Liverpool within their first few matches won’t be easy, but there will be plenty of confidence within the camp that a strong platform can be built ahead of another enthralling season.

With a trip to Villa Park first up, intrigue will start to grow over potential activity in the North East over the next couple of months. Simon Jordan believes Newcastle’s position of relative strength should be more of a talking point as they gear up to go to battle in the top-flight.

He stated: “I think the answer to the question is where is there not an intriguing story? Look around the league. Look at all the teams that are in there. Look at Newcastle.

“Newcastle are now in the Champions League. They have got the spending restrictions probably back into play now and they can go again hard.”

Newcastle United manager EddieHowebefore the match

Joao Pedro has emerged as a key target for Newcastle in their mission to juggle domestic football and Champions League participation, with talks open over a move for the Brazil international.

Roma’s Evan Ndicka could join Howe’s revolution, but it appears that extending their pool of depth across the front four position has become the main priority for the Geordies if recent reports are anything to go by.

Newcastle discuss West Ham United man Mohammed Kudus

According to The Athletic, Newcastle have internally discussed a move for West Ham’s Mohammed Kudus amid uncertainty over his future at the London Stadium.

Previously, reports came to light detailing that Magpies owners PIF feel they can afford a swoop for Kudus as a cheaper alternative to Brentford star Bryan Mbuemo.

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The Ghana international has a release clause of around £75 million. However, it is widely acknowledged that he won’t move for as high a fee, and Newcastle appear to have taken encouragement due to the fact his name has been mentioned in the corridors of power.

Labelled “brilliant” by Graham Potter, Kudus registered five goals and four assists last campaign in 35 appearances across all competitions, which isn’t bad going given the Hammers endured a disappointing season.

Making his presence known in attack, the 24-year-old created 31 chances in the Premier League and fits the bill as a versatile attack-minded addition for Howe due to his ability to function on either flank or through the middle.

Newcastle’s targets are beginning to evolve this window and Kudus is now near the front of their mind amid his potential availability.

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