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Glasgow Rangers return to Premiership action this weekend after their midweek heroics in the Europa League.

This has become something of a recurring theme for the Ibrox side over the previous few seasons, as they have reached the last 16 of the competition every season except one since 2019/20. Although they did compete in the Champions League during the 2022/23 season.

The tie against Aberdeen is effectively a dead rubber for the Light Blues, as they will finish second in the table regardless of what happens this weekend.

All eyes will be on the return leg against Athletic Bilbao in Spain on Thursday evening. A 0-0 result during the first leg, which saw Robin Propper sent off after 12 minutes, along with Liam Kelly saving a penalty, means the Gers have a fighting chance of making it to the semi-finals.

There were a few poor performers during the first leg, however, and this should force Barry Ferguson into making a change or two, especially with the return tie in mind.

One player who should be dropped against the Dons is Cyriel Dessers, who was dismal against the La Liga side.

Cyriel Dessers' game in numbers vs Bilbao

The 30-year-old was tasked with leading the line in place of Hamza Igamane, which was perhaps seen as a bit of a surprise given their contrasting form in the competition.

Nevertheless, Dessers had scored against Manchester United and Fenerbahçe, with hopes high that he could repeat the feat against Spanish opposition.

Unfortunately, he didn’t have the best of games for the Light Blues. Typically, Dessers missed a big chance, while failing to even register a single shot on target during his 85 minutes on the pitch.

The striker managed to take just 18 touches, completed four of his ten passes and won only 40% of his total duels contested against Bilbao, offering next to nothing in the final third.

Despite his decent scoring record for the club – netting 45 goals in 102 appearances – he is always going to be a point of discussion among the fanbase.

Assistant manager Neil McCann said of the striker last week: “Cyriel Dessers will always divide opinion because he will miss chances, but this is the life of a striker. I was so proud of him after the game because he didn’t stop pushing and making runs – we need to create chances for him and that is what we are doing.”

That said, should he now be replaced?

Why Cyriel Dessers must be dropped by Rangers

In December, journalist Scott Bradley criticised the striker, saying: “I’ve had a lot of patience with Cyriel Dessers, but Rangers need to cut ties with him in January. He’s the most frustrating player I’ve watched at Ibrox. I’ve never seen a player quite like him, but it’s clear as day he’s not got the mentality to play for Rangers.”

Rangers didn’t move him on during the January transfer window, but it might be a possibility that he moves on in the summer, especially considering it could be the ideal time to cash in with two years left on his deal.

With changes expected ahead of the Aberdeen clash, Ferguson will be keen to give minutes to those who haven’t featured as often in the last few weeks.

Could this see Igamane return to the starting XI? He will need some minutes in the legs ahead of the second leg next Thursday. Igamane has already scored once against the Dons this season, netting in the comfortable 3-0 victory back in January.

Before his winner against Celtic midway through March, that was his last Premiership goal and there has been a slight downturn in his form in recent weeks, no doubt about that.

Hamza Igamane’s stats for Rangers this season

Metric

Premiership

Europa League

Goals

10

4

Assists

1

1

Shots per game

2.8

1.4

Goal conversion percentage

13%

31%

Big chances created

9

1

Via Sofascore

The overall feeling, however, is that his maiden season at Rangers has been an overwhelming success. Across 40 matches in all competitions for the club, the 22-year-old has scored 14 goals and grabbed three assists.

This works out as a goal contribution once every 2.3 matches. Given how poorly received he was on arrival last summer, he has proven plenty of his critics wrong.

In recent weeks. Ferguson has deployed Igamane on the left wing in order to cater for Dessers as his main option through the middle.

The Moroccan international is at his best when operating in a central role, especially as his hold-up play is far better than his senior teammate.

Indeed, journalist Joshua Barrie noted after the 0-0 result in midweek that Igamane had made nine successful passes/carries during his 15-minute cameo at Ibrox.

In comparison, Dessers only managed eight successful passes/carries across 85 minutes of action on the pitch. It is clear that the youngster is far better at linking up play, carrying the ball into the final third and is much more energetic.

Starting him against Aberdeen would allow the centre-forward to get some vital minutes in his legs ahead of the second leg against Bilbao, where he must start.

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A goal or two against the Pittodrie outfit would certainly bolster his confidence, that’s for sure.

Football Insider reported last month that Everton are looking to make a move for the African sensation when the summer transfer window opens up in a few months.

No fee has been mentioned as yet, but whoever arrives as the new permanent manager of Rangers will surely be looking at maximising the profit so that he has some funds to work with this summer.

And what about Dessers? Will the new boss retain his services? That will depend on his style of play and whether there is scope for him in the first-team squad next term.

Whatever happens, Igamane must be used to leading the line, especially against Bilbao next week. Replacing Dessers for the trip north this afternoon must be the one change that Ferguson has to make, especially if he wishes to lead the Ibrox side to their second European semi-final in just three years.

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Posts 1 ByRoss Kilvington Apr 11, 2025

Manchester City are believed to be “very interested” in completing the signing of a player who has been described as a “superstar in the making” this summer, sending scouts to watch him in action.

Man City preparing for big Nottingham Forest clash

Pep Guardiola’s side’s season has been a big disappointment by their incredibly high standards, with the defence of their Premier League crown petering out relatively early in the campaign. Meanwhile, they were sent packing from the Champions League before the knockout stages.

There is still plenty to play for in the coming weeks, however, not least Sunday’s FA Cup semi-final showdown with Nottingham Forest at Wembley, and then ensuring they secure a top-five finish in the league.

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side have been one of the revelations of the season, sitting third in the Premier League table, so this will be a big test for City, who are looking to go one better than last term, when they were beaten by rivals Manchester United in the final.

Regardless of what happens this weekend, significant reinforcements are required at the Etihad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, and a hugely exciting player has now been linked with a move there.

Man City very interested in PSG star Desire Doue

According to a fresh update from journalist Rudy Galetti TEAMtalk, Manchester City are “very interested” signing Paris Saint-Germain teenager Desire Doue this summer. Scouts have been sent to watch the gifted 19-year-old attacker in action, while Guardiola is believed to be a big admirer. PSG will only listen to offers of at least £85m, though.

Doue is a player who could have a massive future in the game, with journalist Julien Laurens recently waxing lyrical over his long-term potential.

“The key was that Luis Enrique and sporting director Luis Campos were both convinced they were getting a superstar in the making. Doue is so talented, strong mentally and physically. At PSG, they say he’s got rugby players’ legs because the bottom half of his body is so strong. They knew in Paris it would take time but they were ready. Luis Enrique was so happy to sign him. He was the player he wanted.”

Doue already has 13 goals and 12 assists in just 45 appearances for PSG, highlighting his end product at such a young age, so the idea of him in a City shirt is mouthwatering for supporters.

Capable of excelling on either wing and also in an attacking midfield role, the Frenchman could provide Guardiola with the extra depth that he craves next season and beyond.

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Posts 4 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 24, 2025

If Doue continues on his current trajectory, he will likely mature into a world-class footballer over time, and he is exactly the type of player City should be looking to sign, as they look to return to the top of the English and European game.

Liverpool have yet to officially lift the 2024/25 Premier League trophy but already sporting director Richard Hughes is looking at ways to improve Arne Slot’s side.

There’s no question that the Merseysiders have put on a season-long clinic, deserving, runaway winners. However, it’s also true that the likes of Arsenal and dethroned Manchester City will be frustrated with their respective top-flight campaigns and will be determined to come back stronger next year.

However, FSG and Anfield’s senior figures will be sure to take comfort in the manner of their triumph: winning the Premier League after bringing only Federico Chiesa into the first team – and he’s yet to even start a league fixture.

The mastery behind Slot’s genius has been in his soft and significant tactical tweaks to Jurgen Klopp’s system, also shaping existing squad players into superstars.

Ryan Gravenberch is the standout star, going from drifting prospect to the “exceptional” midfield player for the Reds, so says The Athletic’s James Pearce, but he’s not the only one.

Cody Gakpo has also been a revelation in his own right.

Cody Gakpo's season in numbers

Gakpo’s goal against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, expertly taken to make it 3-1 and put Liverpool within an inch of sealing the title, was his 17th of the season.

What’s telling is that that goal saw him beat last year’s 16-goal haul, and in over 600 fewer minutes at that.

Klopp utilised Gakpo’s dynamic talents in his own way, throwing him around the park like an erratic darts player across a board. This may well have proved fundamental development for the Netherlands international, but there’s no question he’s gone up a gear in a more structured role for his new coach on the attacking left flank.

Pundits Joe Cole and Peter Crouch agreed earlier in the term that the 25-year-old has “gone up a level,” and it’s exciting to think that Gakpo can ascend higher still.

Gakpo’s success this season owes largely to Slot’s tactical acumen, but there’s more still to come. The likes of Gakpo and Luis Diaz are bound to find more stable results with a high-class goalscorer in the centre.

However, Liverpool could also find another way to elevate Gakpo’s game even further, preparing to bid for one of the most talented young playmakers in the business.

Slot driving exciting Liverpool deal

As per Football Insider, Liverpool are interested in signing RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons this summer, with the Dutch playmaker emerging as one of FSG’s top targets.

Aged 21, Simons is one of the most exciting young talents in the world and would cost the Anfield side £60m, should they wish to advance their interest into something more solid. Manchester United are also sniffing around.

However, with Slot personally driving the deal for yet another Dutchman to join Gakpo, Gravenberch and co, it’s one to keep an eye on for sure.

Imagine Gakpo & Xavi Simons

Should Trent Alexander-Arnold leave Liverpool as expected when his contract expires this summer, Liverpool will lose one of their primary (if not the primary) creative sources.

Simons could prove to be the new playmaking hub, reorienting Liverpool’s creativity from the right channel and into the centre. Given that Simons has already forged something of a “symbiotic partnership” with his international peer, in the mind of journalist Bence Bocsak, it might prove to bear dividends.

The duo played together during their time at PSV Eindhoven, during the 2022/23 season, before Gakpo earned himself a £35m transfer to Anfield after his performances for his nation at the 2022 Qatar World Cup.

Ranking among the top 12% of attacking midfielders and wingers cross Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for passes attempted, the top 13% for progressive passes, the top 20% for shot-creating actions and the top 6% for ball recoveries made per 90, as per FBref, Simons could certainly add some panache from the middle, bearing the athletic energy to cover for Dominik Szoboszlai too.

Looking at his statistics in the Bundesliga this season, you get a closer look at why Simons is such hot property, prolific, creative and combative in a way which would work a treat in Slot’s squad.

Xavi Simons – Bundesliga Stats 24/25

Stats (* per game)

#

Matches (starts)

21 (21)

Goals

9

Assists

5

Pass completion

84%

Big chances created

10

Key passes*

2.2

Dribbles*

1.3

Ball recoveries*

5.1

Tackles + interceptions*

1.5

Duels won*

4.4

Data via Sofascore

While Liverpool will need to sign a striker to complete the set, a player such as Simons would go a long way toward cementing a peerless level of attacking fluency at Liverpool, connecting the dots together and allowing Gakpo to continue his rise as one of the Premier League’s finest wingers.

Gakpo already ranks among the top 6% of positional peers across Europe for non-penalty goals scored (0.52) per 90, also ranking outside the top 20% for shots taken, which effectively means he’s making the most out of the chances that fall his way.

With a playmaker like Simons, who has been dubbed a “game-changer” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, one he has already formed a prosperous on-field relationship with, taking a seat as the central creative force in Slot’s Liverpool project, there’s no telling how high Gakpo could reach.

Or Simons, for that matter. Having made his name known over the past several years, it’s easy to forget that the diminutive Dutch player is still so young. Given the direction Liverpool are going and the success Slot has already had with elevating his countrymen to new levels, this could be one to keep an eye on as the market looms large.

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Posts ByAngus Sinclair Apr 30, 2025

This summer is another opportunity for Chelsea to flex their muscles in the transfer market, with the hierarchy able to back Enzo Maresca in his quest at Stamford Bridge.

The Italian took over the role last summer, joining from Leicester City, still having the opportunity to end the season with a Europa Conference League triumph and a place in the Premier League’s top five.

Should they achieve the latter, they will secure a place in the Champions League once again, finally mixing with Europe’s elite after missing out in each of the last two campaigns.

However, if they are to be competitive in such a competition, the hierarchy will need to hand Maresca the funds to invest and land key squad depth in multiple key areas of the pitch.

One area in particular has been subject to huge interest over the last few weeks, with the board looking to back the manager upon the opening of the summer window.

The latest on Chelsea’s pursuit of a new striker this summer

Despite Nicolas Jackson’s double against Djurgarden on Thursday night, Chelsea have been in the market for a new talisman over the last couple of years.

Liam Delap has been the main striker that’s been on their shortlist in recent months, with his £30m relegation release clause potentially allowing the Blues to get themselves a bargain.

However, another name has recently entered the mix in West London, in the form of Ollie Watkins, who looks set to depart Aston Villa in the coming months, according to FootballTransfers.

The report claims that the Blues have already made an approach for the 29-year-old striker, with the hierarchy willing to pay his £60m asking price set by Unai Emery’s side.

It also reports that Maresca is keen on a move to land the England international, needing to act quickly to avoid missing out, with Arsenal once again in the hunt for his signature.

Why Chelsea’s £60m target could be their own Isak

Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak has been one of the Premier League’s leading talismen in 2024/25, scoring a staggering 22 times in his 31 outings.

The Swede has played a huge role in the Magpies’ ambitions of also finishing within the top five, coming up against the Blues in just over seven days time.

The 25-year-old has been the subject of huge interest from the likes of Liverpool, Arsenal and Real Madrid over the last few months – with Chelsea even getting themselves positioned in the race.

However, it’s highly unlikely that any side will be able to afford the striker this summer, with Eddie Howe’s side placing a whopping £150m price tag on his shoulders for the upcoming window.

Such a figure could lead to a move for Watkins, with the Englishman being the Blues’ own version of Isak – with FBref labelling him as a similar player to the Swede.

When delving into their respective stats from the ongoing campaign, the 29-year-old has managed to outperform the Magpies star in numerous key areas, showcasing what a superb addition he would be.

Watkins, who’s been labelled “tremendous” by former boss Dean Smith, may have registered fewer combined goals and assists, but has managed a higher shot-on-target accuracy rate – showcasing his clinical ability in the final third.

How Watkins compares to Isak in the PL (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Watkins

Isak

Games played

35

31

Goals & assists

22

28

Shot-on-target accuracy

43%

42%

Pass accuracy

75%

74%

Aerials won

1.8

0.9

Aerial success rate

43%

34%

Fouls won

1.2

0.4

Stats via FBref

He’s also managed to complete more of the passes he’s attempted, whilst achieving a higher aerial success rate, offering Maresca an all-round option in forward areas.

The Englishman has showcased over the last few years that he’s more than capable of leading the line for a side who are pushing to land a place within the Champions League places.

£60m may seem a hefty fee for a 29-year-old, but such a fee would be worth every penny if he can fire the Blues to immediate success at the Bridge – allowing the likes of Jackson to work off him in the process.

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Posts 1 ByEthan Lamb May 2, 2025

Blackburn Rovers have now registered their interest in signing an “amazing” striker with 96 career goals and are battling rivals Hull City and QPR, according to a report.

Blackburn set sights on new striker

Blackburn narrowly missed out on the Championship play-offs this season, finishing just two points behind sixth-placed Bristol City, who ultimately proved to be no match for Sheffield United, losing 6-0 against Chris Wilder’s side on aggregate.

As such, Valerien Ismael may not have to make too many changes to his squad to turn them into promotion contenders, but one area in which the manager is clearly lacking is striker, with last season’s top scorer, Yuki Ohashi, finishing with nine league goals.

Ohashi enjoyed a solid end to the campaign, picking up goals and two assists in his final six games, but it is clear the Japan international could do with some support up front, and the Rovers have now set their sights on a new striker.

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Posts BySean Markus Clifford May 11, 2025

That is according to a report from Football Insider, which states Blackburn have now registered their interest in signing Swansea City striker Jerry Yates, who spent the 2024/25 campaign on loan at fellow Championship side Derby County.

There could be fierce competition for Yates, however, with two MLS clubs keen, alongside second-tier rivals Queens Park Rangers and Hull City, who have also expressed an interest in the striker.

The forward is set to return to Swansea for pre-season, but he is unlikely to stick around for too long, with a permanent move elsewhere expected this summer, and the Rovers are set to be in the mix for his signature.

"Amazing" Yates could help fuel Blackburn's promotion push

Blackburn have remained outside the Premier League for the last 13 years, having narrowly missed out on the play-offs in three of the last four Championship seasons, and it is clear they could do with some additional attacking firepower to fuel a promotion push.

Not a single Rovers player managed to break into the top 20 Championship scorers last season, with Ismael’s side scoring just 53 league goals, which may have been costly in their pursuit of the top six.

There are some signs the signing of Yates could help fuel a promotion push next season, having been lauded for his “amazing” work-rate by former Derby manager Paul Warne last season.

The 28-year-old has been a consistent source of goals throughout his career, bagging a total of 96 across spells with the likes of Swansea, Derby and Blackpool, and the signing of the Englishman could relieve the goalscoring burden that currently rests on Ohashi.

Chelsea are now “really looking” at signing a “new name” in the market who was reliably believed to have agreed terms on a switch to Arsenal last year, but the move to their London rivals ultimately fell through.

Chelsea's transfer plans amid chase for Premier League top five

Enzo Maresca’s sole attention right now centres around Chelsea’s bid to seal a top five Premier League finish this weekend, and the result of this is set to have a profound effect on BlueCo’s plans for next season.

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Posts 1 ByEmilio Galantini May 21, 2025

Chelsea play Nottingham Forest at the City Ground on Sunday, with Nuno Espirito’s men also firmly in contention for Champions League qualification, so it is quite simply a must-win game for both sides.

Race for Champions League qualification with one game remaining

Points

3. Man City

68

4. Newcastle

66

5. Chelsea

66

6. Aston Villa

66

7. Nottingham Forest

65

A draw would gift Aston Villa an opportunity to go above them both, so there is absolutely no room for error, and a place in Europe’s most prestigious competition will be crucial when it comes to determining Chelsea’s transfer plans for this summer.

Competing in the Champions League would not only hand Chelsea a major pull when it comes to attracting the continent’s most high-profile players and their desired targets, but it would also gift the Blues a major financial windfall via revenue to help get those stars through the door.

The west Londoners are looking to bring in a centre-back, winger and striker, while funds generated through Europe and player sales may also allow Chelsea to go for a left-back, second central defender, versatile attacking player and a new goalkeeper (Simon Phillips).

Some doubts have surrounded both Filip Jorgensen and Robert Sanchez throughout 2024/2025, leading to Chelsea reportedly expressing an interest in Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, among others.

A shot-stopper is still believed to be on the agenda of Stamford Bridge officials heading into June 1, and they’ve now got a fresh target under consideration.

Chelsea "really looking" at signing Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia

According to journalist Simon Phillips, Espanyol keeper Joan Garcia has made his way onto Chelsea’s shortlist, following two excellent seasons at the La Liga side.

“A new name added to Chelsea’s shortlist, and one we are really looking at, is Joan Garcia from Espanyol,” wrote the reporter, via his Substack.

“The 24-year-old has been linked with Newcastle and Arsenal for a summer move, but you can add Chelsea to his list of potential suitors now as well. The rumoured fee of £25m to sign him this summer is appealing to all interested clubs.”

Interestingly, Fabrizio Romano reported last summer that Garcia agreed terms on a move to Arsenal, but his switch to the Emirates eventually collapsed, and it would appear that Chelsea could try to succeed where Mikel Arteta failed.

The 24-year-old is already making quite a name for himself in Spain, with Football Analyst Ben Mattinson calling him an “exciting” keeper with a great physical profile. Garcia would also fit the mould of a good-value, young signing with a potentially high ceiling, and Chelsea are widely known for targeting that kind of player, especially since the takeover.

This one could definitely be one to watch as we fast approach what will be a busy summer for the club.

Manchester United will not be playing European football in the 2025/26 campaign after they lost to Tottenham Hotspur in the final of the Europa League earlier this month.

Their only chance to secure Champions League football for next season was to beat Spurs in Bilbao, due to their lowly position in the Premier League, and they failed to do so.

Whilst you could spin that into a positive, as United will not have a busy schedule with loads of European matches to deal with, it could affect the club’s business in the summer transfer window.

Manchester United reportedly held face-to-face talks with Ipswich Town centre-forward Liam Delap earlier this month, but he is now set to sign for Chelsea.

Fabrizio Romano revealed that Enzo Maresca’s side are on the verge of signing the England U21 international for a fee of £30m, thanks to a relegation clause in his contract with the Tractor Boys.

The Italian journalist added that Champions League football was a key part of his decision to join the Blues, which suggests that United losing in the Europa League final played a role in their failure to land Delap.

Why missing out on Liam Delap is a blow for Man Utd

Manchester United missing out on a deal to sign the Ipswich Town centre-forward ahead of Chelsea is a blow because he could have been an interesting addition to Ruben Amorim’s squad in the summer transfer window.

The former Manchester City striker joined the Tractor Boys last year and enjoyed an impressive debut season in the Premier League, despite his team’s relegation back down to the Championship.

Delap scored 12 goals in 32 starts for Ipswich in the top-flight, whilst Bruno Fernandes ended the year as Manchester United’s top scorer in the division with just eight strikes.

The 22-year-old marksman would have arrived at Old Trafford as an upgrade on Amorim’s current first-choice number nine, Rasmus Hojlund, based on their respective performances in the Premier League this term.

24/25 Premier League

Liam Delap

Rasmus Hojlund

Appearances

37

32

xG

9.34

5.24

Goals

12

4

Conversion rate

18%

13%

Big chances created

3

4

Assists

2

0

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, Delap had a far more impressive season as a goalscorer for his side, accumulating more xG and far more goals despite playing in a worse side, as Ipswich were relegated from the league.

These statistics suggest that he would have improved United’s team by coming in to offer a greater goal threat at the top end of the pitch in comparison to Hojlund, which is why missing out on him is a blow.

A failure to land Champions League football has put an end to their pursuit of Delap, unfortunately, but the Red Devils are now reportedly looking at a forward who could be even better than the Ipswich star.

Man Utd eyeing deal for Premier League forward

According to GIVEMESPORT, Manchester United are ready to pursue a deal to sign Brentford attacker Bryan Mbeumo in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The report claims that they are preparing to target the Cameroon international in the coming weeks after it became clear that they are set to miss out on Delap to Chelsea.

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It adds that Brentford value the left-footed forward at a fee of around £60m this summer, which means that the club would have to pay twice as much as Chelsea are due to pay for Delap in order to get a deal over the line for him.

GIVEMESPORT also reveals that Mbeumo is aware of the interest from Manchester United, but that a move is not far enough along for the player to have made a final decision on his future.

The outlet states that United would be willing to pay the £60m price tag if they felt that it would give them an advantage over the likes of Newcastle United, who are unsure about whether or not they want to pay that much for the Brentford star.

Arsenal are also said to be keeping an eye on his situation heading into the summer transfer window, but the Magpies appear to be the biggest competition for his services.

Why Man Utd should sign Bryan Mbeumo

The Red Devils should swoop to sign the left-footed star ahead of Newcastle by paying the £60m asking price because he could be even better than Delap for Amorim.

One of the biggest question marks looming over the Ipswich star is whether the 2024/25 campaign was just a flash in the pan? It was his first season in the Premier League, and he had never scored more than eight goals in a single Championship season previously in his career, out on loan with Preston, Stoke, and Hull.

That same concern would not be there with Mbeumo because he has proven himself to be a very capable Premier League performer over the course of a number of seasons at Brentford.

The 25-year-old star has played in the top-flight since the start of the 2021/22 campaign, following his team’s promotion from the Championship, and has delivered plenty of quality in the final third since then.

After a return of just four goals and seven assists in his first season in the Premier League with Brentford, Mbeumo improved his output as a goalscoring threat for the Bees.

Premier League career

Bryan Mbeumo

21/22

22/23

23/24

24/25

Appearances

35

38

25

38

xG

N/A

9.77

9.81

12.26

Goals

4

9

9

20

Big chances create

4

14

6

17

Assists

7

8

6

7

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the £60m-rated sensation has consistently provided goals and assists at an impressive rate over the last three seasons, scoring more goals than United’s top scorer this year in all three of those terms.

Mbeumo, who was once hailed as “unplayable” by manager Thomas Frank, also scored eight more goals and supplied five more assists than Delap in the Premier League in the 2024/25 campaign.

This suggests that the Brentford star could be an even better signing than the England U21 international for several reasons, as he is more of a proven quantity at Premier League level, and has the potential to deliver even more quality in the final third as both a scorer and a creator of goals.

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Posts ByEthan Lamb May 30, 2025

Therefore, Mbeumo could be worth the extra £30m that United would have to pay to sign him this summer, which is why they should go ahead with a move to snap him up ahead of Newcastle.

Tottenham Hotspur are working to back new manager Thomas Frank in the transfer market this summer, with the north Londoners not exactly resting on their laurels after sealing a cut-price deal for Mathys Tel.

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Posts ByEmilio Galantini Jun 17, 2025

Despite agreeing an option to buy Tel for around £45 million in January as part of his initial loan, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy managed to negotiate a lower fee with Bayern Munich, with the Frenchman making his stay permanent for £30 million instead.

Tottenham’s best-performing regulars in the Premier League – 2024/2025

Average match rating

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Bayern sporting director Max Eberl admitted last week that Tottenham were in ongoing talks over Tel’s transfer, and those negotiations were concluded pretty quickly, as Spurs announced their capture of the 20-year-old on Sunday morning.

However, Tel’s arrival is by no means the end when it comes to their pursuit of new forwards.

In January, Spurs held “concrete” talks with the representatives of Southampton winger Tyler Dibling, and he’s now re-emerging on their radar.

The 19-year-old impressed for an otherwise dismal Saints side who finished at the foot of the Premier League table last season, chalking up four goals and three assists in all competitions whilst cementing himself as a firm regular under both Russell Martin and Ivan Juric.

Dibling is a “world-class talent” boasting enormous potential, amid comparisons to treble-winning Man City star Jack Grealish, but his price tag has been a major stumbling block for interested sides like Spurs.

Southampton were demanding as much as £100 million to let Dibling go earlier this year, as reliably reported by The Times, but Southampton’s relegation to the Championship could see him depart for significantly less.

Tottenham consider Tyler Dibling move after near-£50m price drop

According to CaughtOffside, Southampton now value the teenage sensation at around £51 million, and Frank’s side remain in the running for his signature.

As per their information, Tottenham are considering a summer deal for Dibling, with Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle United all named as fellow English contenders.

RB Leipzig have also seen a £30 million bid rejected for the Englishman, so the Under-21 international could soon be at the centre of a tug of war between sides both domestically and abroad.

Dibling is fast garnering a reputation as a creative player with excellent technique on the ball, mobility, acceleration, agility and good passing range, but it remains to be seen if the near-£50 million price drop will still be enough to entice Levy into making a formal bid.

Even his heavily discounted new valuation could still be seen by many as a major gamble, especially if Levy wants to reinforce other areas of the squad with Tottenham’s Champions League riches.

While it failed to culminate in any silverware, this season wasn’t all doom and gloom for Arsenal.

For example, Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly broke into the first team, with the latter establishing himself as a regular starter and now a full-fledged England star.

Moreover, despite missing almost four months of action, Bukayo Saka once again proved he’s a world-class attacker by racking up a haul of 12 goals and 14 assists in 37 games.

Saka’s 24/25

Appearances (Starts)

37 (30)

Minutes

2619′

Goals

12

Assists

14

Goal Involvements per Match

0.70

Minutes per Goal Involvement

100.73′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

Yet, it’s impossible to overlook that, in the end, a lack of invention in the final third prevented the team from winning anything, so it’s a good thing that reports have now linked Arsenal to someone compared to Saka and Rodrygo.

Arsenal transfer news

With Arsenal creating just the seventh-highest expected goals figure in the Premier League this season, per FBref, it’s easy to understand why there has been such an emphasis on the club signing players capable of both scoring and creating more goals in recent weeks.

Transfer Focus

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

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Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo has been one name linked with the club, as has Aston Villa and England star Morgan Rogers, although a player touted more heavily for a move to the Emirates than both this summer has been Rodrygo.

The Real Madrid star scored 14 goals and provided ten assists in 51 games for Los Blancos this term.

However, with a price tag of at least £84m and murmurs that he does not want to leave the Spanish capital, the North Londoners may be forced to sign another attacking talent from the Santiago Bernabéu, a talent who’s won comparisons to the Brazilian.

According to a recent report from Spain, Arteta has asked Arsenal to inquire about Brahim Diaz, who he believes could thrive at the Emirates.

Moreover, the story has revealed that the North Londoners are now willing to make an offer of €50m for the Moroccan international, about £42m, despite Xabi Alonso wanting to keep him in Spain.

It might not be a straightforward transfer to get over the line, but Diaz is undeniably talented, and as he’s already won comparisons to Saka and Rodrygo, he could be just what Arsenal need.

How Diaz compares to Saka & Rodrygo

Now, there are a number of reasons why Arsenal should be looking to sign Diaz this summer, but before getting to them, it’s important to address these comparisons to Saka and Rodrygo and where they come from, for that matter.

Well, in both cases, the comparisons stem from FBref, which looked at players in similar positions in the Champions League this season and then created a list of the ten most comparable players for each.

In this instance, it concluded that the Brazilian international was the fifth most similar attacking midfielder or winger to the Morccan star, while the Englishman came in as the seventh most similar.

Diaz & Rodrygo

Statistics per 90

Diaz

Rodrygo

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.48

0.48

Goals per Shot

0.20

0.20

Passing Accuracy

84.8%

85.1%

Live Passes

45.7

44.3

Tackles Won

1.11

1.13

Successful Take-On %

56.5%

58.1%

Carries

42.0

41.3

All Stats via FBref for the 24/25 UCL Campaign

The best way to see how these conclusions were reached is by looking at the underlying numbers in which the players ranked closely, which, for the case of his Real Madrid teammate, included things like non-penalty expected goals plus assists, goals per shot, passing accuracy, carries, tackles won and more, all per 90.

For the Gunners’ own number seven, the metrics that overlapped with the former Manchester City gem included things like shots on target, goal-creating actions, key passes, passes into the penalty area, non-penalty expected goals and more, also per 90.

Diaz & Saka

Statistics per 90

Diaz

Saka

Non-Penalty Expected Goals

0.28

0.34

Shots on Target

1.31

1.42

Key Passes

1.11

1.19

Passes into the Penalty Area

1.30

1.19

Goal-Creating Actions

0.80

0.83

Miscontrols

2.04

2.02

All Stats via FBref for the 24/25 UCL Campaign

Usually, being so statistically similar to two of the most exciting wingers in the modern game would be reason enough to sign someone, but away from these comparisons, there are other reasons the North Londoners should be looking to recruit the Málaga-born maestro this summer, such as his versatility.

For example, while the 25-year-old does tend to play out on the right at the moment, his most played position across his entire career is attacking midfield, but even then, he’s also capable of playing off the left and has spent time as a second striker and up top to boot.

Moreover, while he has mainly been kept to substitute appearances in Spain, he’s got the ability to do something seriously special, with former professional turned pundit Owen Hargreaves describing a goal he scored in the Champions League last season as “Messi-esque.”

However, Hargreaves doesn’t limit the comparison to strictly that goal, pointing out that it’s his “low centre of gravity” and “way he can dribble”, which also makes the 5 foot 7 magician similar to the Argentine legend.

Ultimately, Arsenal need to add more quality to their attacking and midfield options this summer, and while he might not be the biggest of names, Diaz is undeniably talented and could add that extra spark the team need.

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Sunderland are making some exciting moves in their hunt to consolidate in the top-flight and are reportedly now circling for a talented Real Madrid youngster, according to a report.

Sunderland close in on Marcin Bulka and Habib Diarra

The Black Cats are wasting no time in building a side capable of staying in the Premier League, and it is fair to say that Regis Le Bris is making some serious progress on the transfer front.

Yesterday, Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Sunderland are set to sign Strasbourg’s Habib Diarra for a package of £30 million plus add-ons, adding a layer of steel to their engine room ahead of the new campaign.

On the same token, the Black Cats are on the brink of adding OGC Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka after an agreement was found between both clubs regarding the Poland international.

Plenty of due diligence has been carried out on Wearside ahead of what promises to be a special campaign for everyone connected to the club. Yverdon Sport midfielder Moussa Baradji is another reported target amid claims he could be available for £2.5 million.

Off the field, Sunderland Echo journalist Phil Smith has confirmed Florent Ghisolfi will become Sunderland’s director of football, even if there is a wait due to administrative procedures needing to be fulfilled before he can enter the building.

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He explained: “It’s thought that Sunderland and Ghisolfi are finalising the deal and as when recruiting a player from abroad, there are administrative processes to go through.

All being well, it will be in place in time for Ghisolfi to begin work as the players return to the Academy of Light in early July and the preparations for the new season begin in earnest.”

Back to on-field matters, Sunderland are reportedly set to step up their pursuit of a talented star who plies his trade at Real Madrid.

Sunderland willing to make offer for Gonzalo Garcia

According to reports in Spain, Sunderland are willing to offer a loan proposal for Real Madrid’s Gonzalo Garcia with a mandatory purchase option that could top £17 million.

Real Oviedo, AS Roma and Leeds United are also keen on the 21-year-old forward, who has emerged as a breakout star at the Club World Cup, being likened to Raul by Los Blancos boss Xabi Alonso.

Goncalo Garcia’s breakthrough at Real Madrid

Appearances

9

Goals

3

Assists

2

However, Real Madrid could look to negotiate a buyback clause of £25.6 million for the former Spain Under-19 international.

Enjoying a brilliant campaign combining his exploits at first-team level and with the La Liga giants’ second string, Garcia registered 28 goals and six assists in 43 appearances across all competitions.

Sunderland may need to push their negotiation powers to the max to force this one over the line, but if you don’t ask, you don’t get, which will be a mantra they will hope can prove decisive should negotiations ramp up.