All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Being one of the biggest clubs in world football, Manchester United have completed some hugely exciting signings over the years.

While they don’t always work out, the Red Devils have signed more than their fair share of bona fide superstars over the years, like Paul Pogba and Ángel Di María, just to name a couple.

However, when it comes to the transfer that captured the most headlines and caused the most excitement among the fans, it’s hard to look past Cristiano Ronaldo’s return in 2021.

Interestingly, if reports are to be believed, United are looking to make another signing in that vein this summer.

United working on Ronaldo repeat

While last season was Manchester United’s worst in the Premier League era, the club have had an excellent summer when it comes to transfers.

Transfer Focus

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

While it looked like they’d struggle to bring in their targets at one point, the Red Devils have now overhauled their entire frontline with Bryan Mbeumo, Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko.

Yet, instead of sitting back and being pleased with their efforts, the club look intent on making more signings, and are now looking at a deal which would be very reminiscent of Ronaldo’s in 2021.

At least that is according to a recent report from the Sun, which claims United are interested in David de Gea.

In fact, the report has revealed that INEOS and Co have been making ‘discreet calls’ behind the scenes and have been tipped off that a clause in their former player’s current contract with Fiorentina could see him ‘leave for a relatively small sum.’

It’s unclear what that fee would be, but given Andre Onana’s struggles last year, United should pay it and bring the Spaniard back, just like they did with Ronaldo.

Why De Gea would be Ronaldo 2.0

While there are probably other signings you could compare it to, especially when it comes to the position, there are a few reasons why bringing De Gea in this summer would feel a lot like Ronaldo’s move in 2021.

The first is obviously the fact that it would be United resigning an old player, although more than that, it would be the club bringing back someone who had been one of their very best players for years.

During his time in the North West, the “phenomenal” Spaniard, as dubbed by Rio Ferdinand, made an astounding 545 appearances for the Red Devils, in which he kept 190 clean sheets, averaged 1.84 points per game and won more than his fair share of major honours, including one Premier League title, an FA Cup and the Europa League.

Moreover, like the former Real Madrid star, the shot-stopper would be making his way back to Old Trafford from Serie A, and he would also almost certainly do so under the promise he’d get plenty of first-team football this season.

After all, one of the primary reasons this deal even seems plausible is the fact that Andre Onana has been an issue for the club, and they need someone more reliable between the sticks as soon as possible.

Saves

2.74

2.59

Save %

72.6%

68.9%

Clean Sheets

0.31

0.26

Clean Sheet %

31.4%

31.4%

Penalty Save %

66.7%

25.0%

Passing Accuracy

73.2%

72.6%

Key Passes

0.09

0.03

We can see that the former United star would be able to fulfil that role by looking at both players’ underlying numbers from last season, as in almost every relevant metric from saves per game to save percentage and even passing accuracy, he comes out on top.

Ultimately, while some might argue United shouldn’t go back for a player they sold in the past, it’s clear they need a more reliable goalkeeper this season, and from everything we’ve seen over the last year or two, it’s clear that De Gea is precisely that.

Therefore, just as they did with Ronaldo four years ago, the Red Devils should bring the Spaniard back to Old Trafford.

Bad news for Mainoo: Man Utd to open talks to sign £100m Baleba alternative

Manchester United have made their move for another star instead of Carlos Baleba.

ByEthan Lamb Aug 17, 2025

Liverpool have long been an ambitious club, but it feels like FSG recognised just how big a superpower Arne Slot’s Anfield side are, having unleashed the dogs in the transfer market this summer.

Giorgi Mamardashvili has arrived to provide competition for Alisson Becker between the sticks, while Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez will redefine Liverpool’s wide berths over the coming years.

Florian Wirtz, who joined in a British-record £116m deal last month, has been called “the best midfielder in the world” by former Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrick Helmes.

And Hugo Ekitike will now join from Eintracht Frankfurt in a £79m package, bringing his intelligent, all-action striking style to the team.

But that doesn’t mean the Premier League champions are done and dusted just yet this summer.

Liverpool's next move in the summer transfer market

Liverpool have bolstered heavily this summer, but, as has been confirmed by Fabrizio Romano, they aren’t done just yet.

Transfer Focus

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

With Darwin Nunez up for sale, Ekitike will need a strike partner, and Liverpool are gearing up to make an incredible signing that might just top all others this summer.

Indeed, according to transfer insider Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are still weighing up a new bid for Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, though it would take a new British-record bid worth £130m to even tempt Eddie Howe into parting ways with his talisman.

Bailey stated: “Liverpool aren’t going away. If there’s a chance of getting him, Liverpool are going to be there. I think the approach was more to say to Isak and Newcastle, ‘don’t forget, we are here and ready to make our move’. That was intrinsically behind it. If Liverpool think it’s doable, a bid could go in, it’s not beyond the realms of fantasy. They’ve already come in and made it clear they’ll pay £120m, so it’s already a bid in everything but name.”

Last week, Liverpool approached Newcastle for Isak before forging ahead with a bid for Ekitike, rebuffed as they were. Even so, the Reds may yet return to sign their dream target.

How Isak compares to Ekitike

If Liverpool have the financial means to sign Isak this summer (and it appears that they just might), Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes might just come together to pull off something special.

Newcastle signed Isak from Real Sociedad for a club-record £63m fee in 2022, and he’s gone from strength to strength since then, now recognised as one of Europe’s leading centre-forwards.

Since his Premier League debut, he’s even managed to hit the back of the net at a more clinical rate than Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, which highlights just how incredible a deal this could be for the Reds.

1.

Erling Haaland

97

85 (0.88)

2.

Mohamed Salah

108

66 (0.61)

3.

Alexander Isak

86

54 (0.63)

4.

Ollie Watkins

112

50 (0.45)

5.

Bryan Mbeumo

101

38 (0.38)

Moreover, the Sweden international is dynamic and well-rounded as a marksman. As per FBref, he ranked among the top 16% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues last season for shot-creating actions, the top 13% for progressive passes, and the top 7% for progressive carries per 90.

A far cleaner striker than Ekitike, Isak would unquestionably be the most exciting signing of Liverpool’s remarkable transfer window, hailed for his “limitless potential” by Toon boss Howe.

To think that Isak, 25, still has lofty heights to scale in spite of his meteoric rise in the Premier League over the past few years is quite a thing.

Certainly, Slot’s first-class coaching could unlock some depth of his skill set he doesn’t even know sits latent within.

Intelligent, industrious and ever enterprising, Isak would rock the footballing world, were he to move to Merseyside this summer.

If Liverpool were to complete a deal for Isak this summer, it would immediately relegate Ekitike to the second fiddle up top. If that doesn’t make the decisive comment on who’s more exciting, what does?

A bigger star than Ekitike: Liverpool enter race to sign £100m winger

Liverpool are consolidating their position at the top of the Premier League this summer.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Jul 22, 2025

West Bromwich Albion fans will hope their team is back in the Championship promotion reckoning very soon after stumbling to an unsatisfactory ninth spot in the division last time out.

Ryan Mason is an unknown entity from the dugout – having only ever been an interim manager option at former side Tottenham Hotspur – which could well work in his favour, as the exciting 34-year-old rookie prepares to try and guide his brand new side back into the playoff positions.

He has been backed in the transfer window so far, with George Campbell the latest addition from CF Montreal, on top of Aune Heggebo joining the group from Brann for a whopping £4.7m.

Whilst that lavish fee will of course have caught the eye of the Hawthorns masses, Mason might well have another trump card in his back pocket when attempting to finally bring in the likes of Mikey Moore to the West Midlands on loan, owing to his ex-Spurs connections.

West Brom's ongoing pursuit of Moore

It’s been well documented across this chaotic transfer window to date that West Brom are keen to add Moore to their ranks this summer, knowing full well he was coached by Mason back in North London.

On top of that already healthy working relationship being a major plus, Moore does look ready for a chance to shine in the demanding EFL, having lit up youth pitches at Spurs for some time now, away from also scoring his first ever senior strike for his boyhood employers last season in the Europa League.

Moore’s silky surge forward against IF Elfsborg, and the subsequent finish that was drilled into the back of the net, would have got Spurs supporters out of their seats, with the 17-year-old finally off the mark for the club at a senior level, after collecting 29 goals and assists in U18 Premier League action.

The trail has gone slightly cold involving the Baggies hunting down Moore’s services, however, with German outlet BILD even speculating that Borussia Dortmund are now looking at the raw attacker.

Therefore, it might not be as straightforward as once thought for Mason to flex his close-knit ties if the might of Dortmund are sniffing around, which might now lead West Brom down a different avenue for another rising Premier League starlet…

The "special" PL ace who could be Mason's next Moore

West Brom will be seen as a worthwhile working environment for Premier League youngsters to join, considering the likes of Harvey Barnes and Romelu Lukaku called the Hawthorns home briefly on loan as wide-eyed starlets, before going on to have lengthy careers at the very top.

James McConnell will hope he’s the next up-and-coming youngster that finds his brief stay at West Brom to be as transformative as others have experienced, with journalist Lewis Steele recently revealing that the highly-rated Liverpool midfielder is on the Baggies’ radar, after news came out that he was being allowed a loan opportunity away from Anfield.

Whilst Moore is the talk of the town based on his Europa League exploits, McConnell – who is more mature at 20 years of age – would be another exciting talent to obtain, in the same mould as his 17-year-old counterpart.

Firstly, the Reds number 53 can boast that he has a solitary appearance in the more luxurious Champions League, whilst he also looked assured and confident at Wembley back in 2024 when trusted with a 33-minute cameo in the EFL Cup final versus Chelsea.

McConnell would come away from that short stint on the Wembley turf with many a notable voice showering him with praise, with Jurgen Klopp even going as far as to hail the 20-year-old as “special”.

Lastly, his adaptability for the cause, away from Moore primarily favouring a spot down the wing or as a striker, will also make him an attractive prospect to pick up on loan, as West Brom attempt to gun for promotion during the intense 46-game marathon.

CM

35

5

7

DM

28

1

3

AM

7

1

1

RM

2

1

0

RB

1

0

0

CF

1

0

0

LW

1

0

0

LM

1

1

0

McConnell has even lined up as a right-back on occasion across his entire Anfield stay, with Mason now surely viewing the Liverpool man as a versatile gem that’s worth pursuing, over holding out hope a move for Moore gets off the ground.

The new Fellows: West Brom racing EFL rivals to sign £5m sensation

West Bromwich Albion are interested in a move for a £5m ace who could become the club’s next Tom Fellows.

ByKelan Sarson Jul 18, 2025

Back in November 1992, Manchester United completed the £1m signing of forward Eric Cantona, in a deal that will certainly be one of the best in the club’s history.

The Frenchman managed to score 64 goals in his 143 appearances over a five-year spell, but it was often his antics without the ball that made him as known as he was at Old Trafford.

In the 1994/95 campaign, the attacker infamously kung-fu kicked a Crystal Palace supporter after receiving abuse as he exited the pitch after picking up a red card.

He was subsequently banned for eight months, before returning for the next campaign and spending two more years with the Red Devils before departing back in 1997.

However, in the present day, boss Ruben Amorim has the opportunity to land another star who’s been labelled a similar player to the iconic star due to his own antics.

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

Over the last couple of days, United have been linked with a move to sign Chelsea star Nicolas Jackson, as Amorim looks to strengthen his front line ahead of 2025/26.

No bid has yet been made for the Senegalese international, who scored 13 goals across all competitions, but he could be allowed to leave after the arrivals of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap.

However, other moves have also been made, with Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez firmly on their radar this window, according to La Nacion via Sport Witness.

They claim that the Argentinian international is already in negotiations over a move to join the Red Devils this summer, even stating his desire to move to Old Trafford during the off-season.

It also states that the 32-year-old could be available for a fee in the region of £40m this window, with Unai Emery’s side prepared to allow him to depart if they can land a replacement.

Why United’s £40m target would be more important than Watkins

Ollie Watkins has been another player firmly on United’s radar over the last couple of weeks, with the hierarchy wanting to hand Amorim the quality and depth he desires in the final third.

The 29-year-old has been linked with a £60m switch to join the Red Devils this window, after netting 17 goals for the Villans across all competitions in 2024/25.

However, it would be a huge investment in a player who’s evidently coming towards the back end of his professional career, arguably having no resale value if he stays at the club for many years.

Other options should be considered in such a department, which could make Martinez a more important addition to the club – especially considering the situation in such a department.

Current number one Andre Onana is out with a hamstring injury and could miss the start of the 2025/26 campaign, opening the door to added investment in such a department.

Martinez, who’s been labelled the “Cantona of his generation” by Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley, has constantly been a showman during his time in the Premier League, even having an infamous battle with striker Neal Maupay.

When comparing his stats to those of the Cameroonian from last season, the Argentine has massively outperformed him in numerous key areas – highlighting why he’d be a crucial addition to Amorim’s side.

The Argentine managed to concede fewer goals per 90, whilst also achieving a higher save percentage, handing the side the needed defensive reinforcements they desperately need next season.

Games played

37

34

Goals conceded

1.2

1.3

Saves made

4

3.7

Save percentage

70%

68%

Pass accuracy

78%

72%

Long pass accuracy

49%

36%

Penalty save percentage

50%

25%

Crosses claimed

1.6

0.6

Martinez has further impressed in recent times, claiming more crosses per 90 than the current United number one last season, offering Amorim a goalkeeper who can offer a commanding presence within his own box.

The 32-year-old is also a two-time FIFA Goalkeeper of the Year award winner, showcasing his ability to perform at the very top level of European football when required.

Such experience could be crucial in the club’s attempts to rise up the league table and challenge for a place in Europe again in the near future.

There’s no denying that Watkins would hand the side an added focal point, but Martinez would offer an immediate upgrade and fix to a problem position at the Theatre of Dreams.

Amorim's answer to Isak: Man Utd chasing deal for "sensational" £100m star

Manchester United are targeting a move for a new talisman who could transform Ruben Amorim’s side.

ByEthan Lamb Jul 16, 2025

With Callum Osmand signed and delivered, Celtic have now reportedly turned their attention towards another young talent in what is a hectic race for his signature.

Osmand "really excited" by Celtic move

Following Kieran Tierney, Benjamin Nygren and Ross Doohan through the door, Osman officially put pen to paper at Celtic earlier this week. Arriving from Fulham, the 19-year-old will have his sights set on breaking into Brendan Rodgers’ first-team plans as soon as possible in Scotland.

After arriving, the young striker told Celtic’s official website: “It’s a massive move. I’m really excited and I can’t wait to step out at Celtic Park in front of all the fans.

“The winning mentality at Celtic is obviously unbelievable and I want to win trophies here. Every game that I step into here, I want to win, and I feel like we have all the facilities, players and staff to do so.”

The former Fulham man is also not the first to swap the Cottagers for Celtic Park, with Moussa Dembele and Matt O’Riley paving the way before Osmand, who took the chance to mention both players: “Obviously, there has been multiple names that have come to Celtic like Moussa Dembele and Matt O’Riley.

“I have spoken to Matt on the phone, so he has given me advice. He talked me through some stuff, that I knew about too. He was telling me about how big the club is, how amazing the fans are and it’s a new life really. So excited is definitely the word for me.”

Following Osmand’s arrival, Celtic’s focus isn’t destined to change anytime soon. Reports are now indicating that they’ve now instantly turned their attention towards signing another impressive young talent.

Celtic join race to sign "special" O'Sullivan

According to the Irish Independent, Celtic have now joined the race to sign Cathal O’Sullivan from Irish club Cork City this summer. It will be a complex deal to do, as the Scottish champions have joined the likes of Brentford and Preston North End in an already hectic battle to land the 18-year-old midfielder.

Like Osmand, O’Sullivan is full of talent and has often found himself at the centre of praise as a result. When speaking about one of Ireland’s top young talents, former Preston and current Cork City forward Sean Maguire told reporters: “He’s one of the best young fellas I’ve played with, and that includes in England. Not just because of his talent, it’s just his attitude towards everything.

More exciting than Inamura & Osmand: Celtic could sign "jaw-dropping" star

Celtic could land a signing that is more exciting than Callum Osmand and Hayato Inamura with this star.

ByDan Emery Jun 30, 2025

“That’s what teams in England will look for first, because you can just see it clear as day how good he is on the ball. He’s a joy to play with. When he eventually goes to England, I’ll be gutted not to play with him again, because of how good he is. “

“But I’ll be keeping tabs on his career, because he’ll definitely play for Ireland. He’s that good. I genuinely think he’s special… Whatever the club gets from him, he probably should be worth 10 times more.”

Newcastle United have spluttered their way into life this summer, starting to show signs of activity in the transfer market.

The feel-good factor was in full swing after Eddie Howe led the Magpies to a top-five Premier League finish, sealing United’s place in the Champions League, having also won the Carabao Cup back in March.

But the gears are indeed beginning to move. A £45m offer has been rejected for Nottingham Forest right winger Anthony Elanga, while efforts are ongoing for Brighton & Hove Albion’s versatile forward Joao Pedro, who is expected to leave the AMEX this summer.

Newcastle line up Joao Pedro alternative

Pedro, 23, would be a wonderful addition, having posted 30 goals and ten assists across 70 matches for the Seagulls.

His high-powered approach to the attacking game would see him act both as a foil for Alexander Isak and indeed a complementary force, sitting in behind or out on the left.

However, Chelsea are also keen, and an alternative pick has been drafted up.

Transfer Focus

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

According to Football Insider, Newcastle are hoping to sign Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford on loan if INEOS fail to ship the England winger off on a permanent basis this summer and are advancing in their efforts to do so.

Valued at £40m, Barcelona are also interested in the £300k-per-week Rashford, who will need to take a pay cut if he is to leave Old Trafford.

However, Howe is curious about a deal, enticed by the 27-year-old’s versatility, capable both as a left-sided and central forward.

Why Newcastle should sign Marcus Rashford

Rashford has been through the wringer in recent years, but despite his trials and tribulations, he remains an immensely talented and explosive player.

If Howe can capture his natural qualities and direct them in a way befitting Newcastle’s project, he could secure an excellent addition to add depth and dynamism to his offensive ranks.

And given Rashford’s versatility, he might be the perfect alternative to Pedro, bringing a goalscoring predilection that has earned such acclaim in the past.

You need only look at his top-flight record through the years to see exactly how good a player the Toon would get if they got him back to his A-game.

24/25

25

6

4

23/24

33

7

3

22/23

35

17

6

21/22

25

4

2

20/21

37

11

13

19/20

31

17

9

It’s true that the Three Lions star has lost his way, but Howe has one of the sharpest tactical minds in the country and has demonstrated over a number of years on Tyneside his ability to raise the level of his wide players.

Let’s not forget that across two seasons in his career, Rashford has recorded 17-goal hauls in the Premier League, and he was hailed as a “goal machine” by journalist Mazola Molefe only two years ago.

That player still exists, with a balanced and somewhat selfless version revealed at least in part during his short-term stint with Villa, hitting ten goal involvements from just 17 matches in all competitions.

As per FBref, Rashford actually ranked among the top 14% of positional peers in the Premier League last term for goals scored per 90 (0.38), emphasising the prowess that would surely be enhanced in such a fluent Tyneside system.

The Brazilian Pedro is a good player, but he hasn’t yet proved himself capable of reaching the heights we all know Rashford has in his locker.

Is he approaching the last-chance saloon? Maybe not, but he’ll know that Howe will demand plenty of him, and if it works out, it might just drive this incredible project toward the next degree of success.

He's like Mitrovic: Newcastle now in the race to sign "monster" £26m CF

Newcastle United could soon land this explosive striker who possesses shades of Aleksandar Mitrovic’s game.

ByKelan Sarson Jun 22, 2025

Last summer, Arsenal needed to sign a new centre-forward. Benjamin Sesko was in their crosshairs but he ultimately ended up signing a new contract with current employers, RB Leipzig.

In the end, the Gunners went without. The only signing to bolster the forward line was Raheem Sterling.

The Chelsea loanee promised we’d see the best of him. That did not happen.

In January, Mikel Arteta was crying out for a striker again but it wasn’t forthcoming. What happened next? Kai Havertz sustained a nasty hamstring injury during a warm-weather training camp in Dubai.

Arsenal’s Premier League form suffered drastically and it ultimately tripped them up in Paris when they exited the Champions League at the semi-final stages.

So, a year on from when a new centre-forward first should have arrived, Arteta and Co are back at square one, chasing Sesko again.

Arsenal moving closer to signing a new centre forward

When you end the campaign with Mikel Merino up top, you know something has gone drastically wrong.

In all fairness, Merino was fine. Fine being the key word. He wasn’t exceptional, he wasn’t the spearhead you need to win a Premier League or continental title but he did score six goals in 12 outings as a striker.

That’s not bad at all, but it’s not the 54-goal tally Viktor Gyokeres scored. It’s not the 27 goals Alexander Isak scored. It’s not the 21 goals Sesko scored either.

All three of those players would be excellent signings, but it’s Sesko who looks the most likely to arrive at the moment.

Transfer Focus

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

That’s according to German publication BILD, via Sport Witness. They report on Wednesday that a deal is beginning to move on the player side.

Indeed, BILD states that Arsenal have ‘reached an agreement’ on personal terms between them and the striker.

While that doesn’t mean anything is wrapped up with Leipzig, the report does note that Arsenal have signalled to the Bundesliga club that they are set to made a bid that will not fall below their expectations financially.

It’s likely to take an offer between £68m-£85m to convince them to sell.

How Sesko could replicate Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang at Arsenal

It’s safe to say that since Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang left Arsenal behind, Arteta has lacked a real potent centre-forward.

That’s not to say it was a mistake to let him go. After all, the Gabonese striker departed in controversial circumstances, stripped of the captaincy (video below) and then flying out to Barcelona on a trip that wasn’t sanctioned by the club.

Despite his flaws, Aubameyang was a mighty fine player for the club and was a key reason behind Arteta’s only trophy as a manager so far, the FA Cup in 2019/20.

Given Arsenal’s recent progress, it’s remarkable that they’re currently in the middle of a five-year trophy drought, but it’s perhaps no coincidence that they’re yet to win any major honours since Auba departed.

His record with the Gunners was exceptional, scoring 92 goals in 163 outings, most notably winning the Premier League Golden Boot in 2018/19.

He was one of the meanest forwards in the whole of English football during his time at the Emirates Stadium and even deservedly found his way into the PFA Team of the Year for 2019/20.

Aubameyang was relentless, netting 31 goals in 51 games throughout 2018/19 and then the following term, he bagged 29 in 44 matches.

Well, if Sesko did arrive then he’d certainly have a lot to live up to but there are similarities in the way they play the game.

Described as “the new Haaland” by scout Jacek Kulig, the Slovenian possesses a tall frame, standing at 6 foot 5. In contrast, the former Arsenal forward stands at 6 foot 2.

There is a slight difference there but what their height allows is for a longer and more powerful stride pattern. They can burst beyond the last line of the defence and surge towards goal in a similarly explosive fashion.

Rather than relying on intricate build-up play, they’re also very clever with their movement and rely on their instinctive finishing ability. In essence, they’re both mighty fine poachers. More often than not, they’re always in the right place at the right time.

Shots

2.50

2.61

Shot on target %

43.9%

44%

Average shot distance

17.5 yards

15.5 yards

Expected goals (xG)

0.38

0.42

Shot-creating actions

1.93

1.98

Touches

34.1

35.4

Carries

16.8

20.9

Completed passes

15.7

17.6

Key passes

0.72

0.75

Pass completion %

67.6%

67.3%

Comparing one of Aubameyang’s best seasons at Arsenal with Sesko’s latest campaign, we can see see alike the pair are.

They took a near identical number of touches and completed a near identical rate of successful passes per 90 minutes, suggesting their actions in the build-up are very similar.

Likewise, they come out very closely for key passes and shot-creating actions, underlining how often they make something happen in the final third of the pitch.

Aged just 22, Sesko clearly has a lot of development left to do but if Arteta could extract that in north London, the Spaniard may well have the next Aubameyang on his hands, just without the excess baggage. That doesn’t sound too bad, does it?

He's shades of Nwaneri: Berta holds talks to sign £40m star for Arsenal

Arsenal are looking at signing one of Europe’s best young prospects this summer.

ByMatt Dawson Jun 18, 2025

The Premier League fixtures were announced this week and Liverpool will kick start their reign as champions by welcoming Bournemouth on Friday August 15, but who will make their starting XI?

The Reds face the Cherries, a trip to Newcastle and a home clash with Arsenal in their first few fixtures, and have already been very busy in the transfer market in preparation for the new season.

How to Watch the FIFA Club World Cup for Free

Everything you need to know about the Club World Cup.

ByCharlie Smith Jun 13, 2025

Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez are expected to follow Jeremie Frimpong through the Anfield door, so Arne Slot’s side could have a totally new look to it come August, as the club’s leadership opt to attack from a position of strength this summer.

But with plenty of new faces and the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and possibly Andy Robertson departing, what will the manager’s first team of the season look like? We’ve asked Grok, the AI tool on X, to find out, as it set the Reds up in a 4-2-3-1 formation.

AI predicts Liverpool's starting XI vs Bournemouth Defence: Alisson, Frimpong, Konate, Van Dijk, Kerkez

There are few surprises in the prediction for Liverpool’s defensive set-up, with all signs pointing towards Kerkez being the next new face through the door.

An international teammate of Dominik Szoboszlai, the Hungarian star’s father all but confirmed the move this week, and Bournemouth have already signed his replacement in the shape of Adrien Truffert.

On the other side, Konate is flanked by Frimpong, who’s incredible goal threat from a wide position should go some way to filling the void left by Alexander-Arnold – the flying Dutchman registered five goals and five assists in 33 Bundesliga games last season.

Defensive midfield: Gravenberch, Mac Allister

Again we see the beauty of building off the back of a stunning title-winning season, as there is plenty of consistency through the spine of Liverpool’s predicted set-up.

Ryan Gravenberch was crowned the top flight’s young player of the season last term, starting 37 of his side’s 38 league matches, and will look to continue his development alongside World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister.

Attacking midfield: Salah, Wirtz, Gakpo

If fans were worried about the creativity lost by their vice-captain’s departure, then the arrival of Wirtz to slot in alongside Salah should ease those concerns. The Germany international and the Egyptian King were the only two players across Europe’s big five leagues to score ten or more goals and assist ten or more goals across the last two seasons.

Goals

29

10

Assists

18

12

Shot-creating actions

169

148

Successful take-ons

58

82

Crosses

79

101

On the left the nod goes to Gakpo, perhaps lending credence to the idea that Luis Diaz will depart the club amid links to Barcelona and the Saudi Pro League.

Striker: Alexander Isak

With Darwin Nunez expected to leave Merseyside this summer and join a club in Serie A, there is plenty of speculation about who takes the number nine role under Slot, and Grok predicts it will be Newcastle superstar Alexander Isak.

The 25 year-old is thought to hold a price tag of £150m with his current employers, which would smash the top flight record and Liverpool’s own top signing, which will soon be Wirtz at £116m.

Could anyone stop Liverpool’s newfound domestic dominance if they added Isak to their already illustrious attacking options?

You have to wonder whether Manchester United’s decision to keep hold of Erik ten Hag after winning the 2023/24 FA Cup played into Daniel Levy’s decision to sack Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou.

Added to the long list of managers at the Tottenham helm since Levy assumed ownership of the club in 2001, Postecoglou would be forgiven for feeling aggrieved after winning the Europa League last month, ending 17 years of searching for silverware.

But he has paid the price for the year-long suffering in the Premier League, the injury-hit Londoners slumping to a 17th-place finish, one above relegated Leicester City.

Ange Postecoglou

Jul 23 – Jun 25

101

1.53

Antonio Conte

Nov 21 – Mar 23

76

1.78

Nuno Espirito Santo

Jul 21 – Nov 21

17

1.65

Jose Mourinho

Nov 19 – Apr 21

86

1.77

Mauricio Pochettino

Jul 14 – Nov 19

293

1.84

Tim Sherwood

Dec 13 – May 14

26

1.65

Andre Villas-Boas

Jul 12 – Dec 13

80

1.91

Harry Redknapp

Oct 08 – Jun 12

198

1.73

Juande Ramos

Oct 07 – Oct 08

54

1.35

Martin Jol

Nov 04 – Oct 07

147

1.62

Jacques Santini

Aug 04 – Nov 04

13

1.46

Glenn Hoddle

Apr 01 – Sep 03

102

1.35

There’s no question Tottenham’s trophy-winning European campaign has been at variance with their wretched top-flight term, but given the schism that has been created through Levy’s latest dismissal, it’s crucial that they get the next appointment right.

And you’d have to say, Thomas Frank would be a brilliant signing.

Why Spurs want Thomas Frank

Emerging as the clear frontrunner in the bid to replace Postecoglou at Tottenham, Brentford boss Frank is being pursued, although official contacts with the Bees have yet to take place.

Taking Brentford into the Premier League and establishing them as a solid unit with an attractive brand of football, the Danish tactician has proved his durability, adaptability and flexibility during his time in London, hailed for creating an “extraordinary team” by Manchester City’s Pep Guardiola.

Frank’s nuanced tactical approach is perhaps the definitive factor behind Levy’s desire to get the deal done, with Postecoglou, for all his exciting attacking play, perhaps a little one-dimensional at times.

However, there’s no certainty that Tottenham will make the appointment. Indeed, an alternative approach for Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi underscores that point.

And Lilywhites chairman Levy may even be ready to sign an alternative.

Spurs line up Frank alternative

According to BBC Sport, Frank might be the favourite for the vacant manager position at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, but Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola is also in the frame.

Iraola has been a revelation since joining the South Coast club in July 2023, and he’s since led the Cherries to their two biggest points hauls in Premier League history (48 in 2023/24 and a whopping 56 last season).

With Frank holding a sizeable release clause in his Brentford contract, Iraola might be a fantastic alternative to turn to, not least because his Bournemouth side finished a place above Frank’s in the top flight.

What Andoni Iraola would bring to Spurs

Iraola has shaped Bournemouth into one of the easiest-on-the-eye teams in English football, with former Premier League defender Nedum Onuoha commenting on the “incredibly impressive” start to life at the Vitality Stadium, instilling a clear identity.

The 42-year-old’s typical 4-2-3-1 formation is also something that would suit Spurs’ current crop well, retaining the attacking style Postecoglou will leave embedded but taking it and shaping it into something more fluent and organised.

Iraola’s success could even see him prove a better fit for Tottenham than Frank, who has been described as “one of the best in the league” by analyst Ben Mattinson.

His ability to transform Bournemouth from a pragmatic outfit expected to fight to stave off relegation into a slick team capable of knocking on the European door showcases how he could improve Tottenham, who will need some transformative coaching after their wretched domestic campaign.

Raising the ceiling is something both Frank and Iraola have proved themselves capable of doing since taking their respective posts in England, but Iraola may also help a more seamless transition away from Ange’s high-line, big-risk, high-intensity possession-based game.

Indeed, as per FBref, Bournemouth only averaged 48.5% of possession in the Premier League last year (putting them 11th), but Brentford were even less active on the ball, 15th with a 47.9% average.

This may feel like something of a regression in tactical expansion, but it would actually be a move rooted in progressive pragmatism, scaling back from the high-stakes gambling played by Postecoglou.

Moreover, Iraola’s teams have earned praise for their organisation and togetherness when out of possession, further highlighting the issues Tottenham have been beset by and how they could fix this.

Still, the two managers aren’t diametrically opposed, and Iraola’s intense physical demands would allow him to dovetail into the Tottenham milieu.

While Frank is a proven manager in the Premier League, Iraola is also showing himself to be a nuanced and dynamic tactician, and could be the right man for the job.

Fans will understandably be concerned that Tottenham are stuck in something of a circular motion, winning some silverware, yes, but continuing to churn through managers.

Manager Focus

Such back-and-forth threatens to isolate the success, leaving it as a flash in the pan. However, Iraola is a fantastic and intelligent manager, and if given several years to inculcate his teachings onto the north London squad, this could be a real corner for Tottenham.

He's another Bergvall: Spurs enter race to sign "extraordinary" wonderkid

The promising youngster could be a star at Spurs.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 7, 2025

Wolverhampton Wanderers have now submitted an opening bid for a defender who “never puts a foot wrong”, but there could be competition from their Premier League rivals, according to a report.

Wolves looking to kick on under Pereira

Vitor Pereira’s arrival last season marked a change in fortunes for Wolves, with the manager overseeing a major improvement in results, which meant relegation fears were quashed way before the business end of the season.

Pereira has stated he wants to “do better” next season, however, which means some new arrivals may be needed this summer, particularly with Matheus Cunha on his way to Manchester United, and there have been suggestions Nelson Semedo could follow the forward to Old Trafford.

Quite rightly, the manager may also be keen to strengthen his backline this summer, given that the Old Gold conceded the most goals of any side not to be relegated from the Premier League last season.

Club

Final position

Goals conceded

Tottenham Hotspur

17th

65

Wolves

16th

69

Manchester United

15th

54

West Ham United

14th

62

According to a report from Italy (via Sport Witness), Wolves have now made an offer for Lazio defender Mario Gila, but there could be competition for his signature from their Premier League rivals, with Chelsea and Brighton & Hove Albion also keen.

Lazio’s failure to qualify for Europe could have a big impact on their summer transfer window, and there is now growing interest in Gila, with the Italian club looking to hold out for a fee of €50m (£42m) for his services.

However, the Old Gold only appear to be willing to fork out €35m (£29m) for the centre-back’s signature, so the two clubs remain some way apart at the moment, and he is thought to be keen on playing for a top club next season.

Wolves can sign their new Raul Jimenez with "extraordinary" £29m star

Wolves will need to replace Matheus Cunha this summer

ByRoss Kilvington May 25, 2025 Gila "never puts a foot wrong" in defence

Former Lazio sporting director Igli Tare was full of praise for the Spanish defender upon signing him from Real Madrid, saying: “He is fast, intelligent and never puts a foot wrong. He can become one of the top 3-4 defenders in the world and it wouldn’t surprise me if Real wanted him back.”

The Barcelona-born defender has since emerged as a key player for Lazio, making 32 Serie A appearances during the 2024/25 campaign, and CBS’ Matteo Bonetti believes he could be in line for a move to a top club due to his “unique” profile.

As such, Gila could be a real coup for Wolves, but given that European football will not be on offer next season, it would be a surprise to see him move to Molineux.