All posts by z3u9t.icu

Back in the Premier League after a long absence, Sunderland have wasted no time in trying to establish themselves as more than just relegation candidates.

In the summer, the club spent £141.5m – the second-highest spend by a promoted side in English football history, behind only Nottingham Forest in 2022.

That money brought in Habib Diarra (Strasbourg), Simon Adingra (Brighton), Chemsdine Talbi (Club Brugge), Noah Sadiki (Union SG), Granit Xhaka (Bayer Leverkusen), and Nordi Mukiele (PSG).

Such investment has been rewarded early.

With three wins from their opening fixtures, Sunderland sit fifth in the Premier League, a position even their most optimistic supporters could not have imagined at this stage.

The challenge ahead is sustaining that form, particularly with a trip to Old Trafford looming this weekend.

For all the headline arrivals, though – alongside the headline makers like three-goal hero, Wilson Isidor – it is perhaps the least expected of their summer deals that is proving to be the most significant.

Sunderland's previous £30m sensation

Sunderland fans know better than most the importance of having a goalkeeper who can make the difference at both club and international level.

Their academy produced Jordan Pickford, who emerged from a series of loans to displace Vito Mannone in 2016/17.

That season, Pickford was so impressive that he was nominated for the PFA Young Player of the Year Award, a rare honour for a keeper.

When Sunderland were relegated at the end of that campaign, Pickford became a prized asset.

Everton swooped with a £30m deal, which remains one of the most lucrative sales in the club’s history.

Since then, Pickford has made 325 appearances for Everton, keeping 91 clean sheets, and has established himself as England’s undisputed No.1 with 78 caps, producing defining moments in penalty shootouts at the World Cup and European Championships.

That legacy of homegrown excellence set the bar high for any future Sunderland keeper.

While most of the focus has been on flashy outfield signings this summer, it is the man between the posts who is beginning to capture the same kind of acclaim Pickford once did.

Sunderland's next £30m star in the making

Signed quietly from NEC Nijmegen for £9m, Robin Roefs has been nothing short of outstanding in his first Premier League season.

The 22-year-old Dutch youth international, with ten U21 caps to his name, has played every minute of Sunderland’s campaign so far – 540 minutes in total – and already has three clean sheets to his name.

Described by Andy Sixsmith as having had an “excellent start” to life at Sunderland – while being dubbed “absolutely awesome” by Kevin Phillips – Roefs has shown maturity beyond his years.

While he was at fault for a goal conceded against Aston Villa – palming a shot into the roof of his own net – his response since then has highlighted his resilience and temperament.

Statistically, he has been elite: a save percentage of 82.5% (99th percentile), a clean sheet rate of 50% (99th percentile), and a cross-stopping percentage of 10% (91st percentile).

A direct comparison with Pickford’s current numbers underlines the scale of his start, with the pair deemed to be statistically similar players, as per FBref.

Matches Played

6

6

Saves

18

11

Clean Sheets

3

2

Penalties Saved

1

1

Last season, Roefs averaged 3.0 saves per 90 minutes, compared to Pickford’s 1.83. His save percentage of 82.6% far outstrips Pickford’s 72.2%, and he has conceded just 0.67 goals per 90 against Pickford’s 1.0.

Even in clean sheet percentage, Roefs comes out on top—50% to 33.3%.

It is no surprise, then, that Roefs has also been likened in style to Barcelona’s Joan Garcia and Arsenal’s David Raya, as per Fbref, both keepers renowned for combining strong shot-stopping with modern distribution.

For Sunderland, having a player of that calibre between the sticks provides a foundation for their survival hopes and long-term ambitions.

Supporters may have expected their big-money forwards or high-profile midfield additions to steal the spotlight, with Isidor certainly flourishing despite the step up, but it is Robin Roefs who has been their standout.

Just as Pickford’s rise once brought Sunderland significant acclaim and financial reward, there is already a sense that Roefs could follow a similar path—both in terms of on-field impact and, in time, market value.

At only 22, Sunderland may already have unearthed their most important signing of the summer.

Not Xhaka: Sunderland's "remarkable" star looks like their best signing

Sunderland sealed the best signing of their summer when landing this remarkable star.

ByKelan Sarson Oct 2, 2025

Tottenham are offering out-of-favour attacking midfielder Bryan Gil to various suitors ahead of the transfer deadline on September 1, as they look to find a new home for the Spaniard.

While some squad members have discovered a new lease of life under Thomas Frank, especially Richarlison, the likes of Gil haven’t been given a chance to showcase their worth to the Dane.

After spending 2024/2025 on loan at Girona in La Liga, where he was a mainstay under Michel before injury ended his season, the former Sevilla sensation still hasn’t recovered or played a single minute for Frank.

Bar his devastating injury, the signs were positive for Gil last season, with the player bagging three goals and three assists over 21 top-flight starts for Girona – ending 24/25 as their third-best performer by average match rating, according to WhoScored.

Still just 24-years-old and dubbed a “very exciting” player on his day, there is still a chance that Gil can make something of his career, but it probably won’t be at Tottenham.

Speaking to Estadio Deportivo earlier this year, Gil admitted that he and Spurs are in full agreement that a move elsewhere is best for all parties.

Four years after Gil was signed for around £22 million with Erik Lamela going the other way in a part-exchange deal, technical director Johan Lange is getting to work on finding him a new club.

Tottenham offer Bryan Gil to Atalanta amid Ademola Lookman discussions

According to The Boy Hotspur, Tottenham have offered Gil to numerous sides, including Atalanta, which is particularly interesting because it comes amid Spurs’ links to Ademola Lookman.

Other reports suggest that Lookman’s representatives have reached out to Spurs as they look to entice Premier League suitors, with the Nigerian fresh off a 20-goal campaign in Italy and desperate to leave.

Lookman submitted a transfer request to leave the Gewiss Stadium, as confirmed by the player himself, and his talks to join Inter Milan have now fully collapsed – meaning Spurs have a real opportunity here.

Amid reports that Man City are blocking Savinho’s move to Tottenham, the 27-year-old is a very viable alternative, and perhaps the north Londoners offering Gil in exchange could sweeten a potential deal.

Otherwise, Tottenham would have to fork out around £43 million.

Tottenham are in glaring need of a new number 10 and an alternative to James Maddison after the Englishman’s fresh injury nightmare, and Thomas Frank will be ruing their missed opportunities to bring one in this summer.

Spurs’ emotional Seoul farewell to club legend Son Heung‑min soured last Sunday when Maddison was forced off on a stretcher late into their 1-1 pre-season draw with Newcastle.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

The former Leicester City star – having just recovered from a knee injury which sidelined him at the end of 2024/2025 – came on in the 75th minute and lasted barely ten minutes before collapsing in agony, clutching that same knee. Frank didn’t sugarcoat it.

The Dane confirmed it was “bad” and the same knee that sidelined Maddison in May, ruling him out of Europa League final glory, with the 28-year-old now expected to face yet another lengthy lay-off in a major headache for Frank.

Maddison was poised to be the creative heartbeat of Frank’s new-look Spurs side this season – especially with Son waving goodbye to the club after 10 years and fellow chief creator, Dejan Kulusevski, also out injured.

Daniel Levy has already splashed £117 million on the signings of Mohammed Kudus, Mathys Tel, Kota Takai, Kevin Danso and a loan deal for Joao Palhinha, but losing Maddison leaves the attack dangerously thin.

Tottenham were on the verge of signing Morgan Gibbs-White this time last month, which would’ve solved this problem.

They even scheduled a medical for the 25-year-old ahead of a £60 million move (BBC), but Nottingham Forest blocked the transfer, wrote a letter to Spurs threatening legal action and, to rub salt in the wound, tied Gibbs-White down with a club-record new deal.

Spurs are still in hot pursuit of a new playmaker, listing it as one of their chief priorities before deadline day on September 1 (Alasdair Gold), and there are a few Gibbs-White alternatives to keep aware of.

Despite RB Leipzig’s approach for Liverpool star Harvey Elliott, talkSPORT’s Alex Crook suggests that the England Under-21 sensation could emerge as a target for Spurs, while Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze has also been linked with a move to N17.

Tottenham favourites to sign Conor Gallagher from Atlético Madrid

Another outside-the-box option could be former Chelsea captain Conor Gallagher.

While more traditionally used as a defensive anchor, the Englishman can play further forward in a traditional centre-midfield role and, more importantly, as a CAM.

According to Football Espana, Tottenham are seen as the most likely destination for Gallagher this summer, following reports that Atlético Madrid will let him go for a fee of up to £44 million.

FE report that Levy is considering a bid for the 25-year-old, so this could be one to watch as Spurs ponder offering Gallagher a route back to London after just over 12 months in the Spanish capital.

“Conor Gallagher is a hardworking player, with quality, a good presence, recovers balls, and always gives his maximum in every situation,” said Atlético boss Diego Simeone.

“He came with a lot of enthusiasm, and we need that kind of player in the midfield because he makes us better.”

During his final season at Stamford Bridge, Gallagher averaged their second-highest average of key passes per 90 in the top flight behind Cole Palmer (WhoScored) – bagging nine assists in all competitions to boot.

Mauricio Pochettino used him in an attacking midfield role regularly during that time too, and Gallagher would also help to fill Spurs’ ‘locally trained’ Champions League quota.

Two weeks after triggering his £60m release clause in Morgan Gibbs-White’s contract, Tottenham Hotspur are still yet to complete a deal for his signature.

The saga continues to be dragged out, with the midfielder now returning to pre-season training and even going on tour with his current outfit, Nottingham Forest.

It remains unclear as to what could happen over the next few weeks, with a deal dragging out and restricting the business Thomas Frank can conduct in his first window in charge.

Whether the player wants the move or not, no deal can progress until the illegal approach situation with the Reds is resolved, something which could take time when dealing with Evangelos Marinakis.

Undoubtedly, other targets are being drawn up as a result of the delay, possibly seeing the hierarchy move away from a move for Gibbs-White and targeting other Premier League talents.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Over the last couple of weeks, Harvey Elliott has been touted with a move to join Spurs, looking to add further quality in attacking areas in North London.

The Liverpool star could be an expensive addition this summer, with Arne Slot’s side demanding a fee in the region of £40m to offload the 22-year-old attacker this window.

However, he’s not the only Premier League player currently in their sights, leading to work being done behind the scenes to sign Manchester United star Kobbie Mainoo.

According to TBR Football, the Lilywhites have reached out to the Red Devils to ask about a potential move for the 20-year-old, who made 37 appearances across all competitions last season.

The report also states that the player could leave Old Trafford this summer, after contract talks between the player and the club recently hit a stalemate.

Previous claims have suggested that United placed a £70m asking price on the midfielder’s head earlier in the summer.

Why Spurs’ latest target is a bigger talent than Gibbs-White

At the time of his £44.5m transfer to Forest, eyebrows were raised at the magnitude of the fee, but it’s safe to say the 25-year-old has justified every penny during his time at the City Ground.

The former Wolves star has posted a total of 18 goals and 26 assists for Nuno Espírito Santo’s side in his 118 appearances for the club, remaining as one of very few players left from their first season back in England’s top flight.

He’s even taken responsibility for being their club captain in recent times, leading the Reds to European football for the first time in three decades.

As good as his addition would be to Frank’s side this window, there are better deals to be had, especially given the drama the hierarchy currently face with Forest.

Mainoo could prove to be just that for the Lilywhites, already producing numerous high-profile feats that are arguably better than what Gibbs-White has achieved.

The youngster has already scored a key goal in a Europa League semi-final, whilst even being part of the England squad during the Euro 2024 tournament last summer.

His stats from the Premier League last season also highlight why he’d be a key addition, managing to outperform the 25-year-old in multiple areas that are crucial for a midfielder.

Games played

25

34

Pass accuracy

87%

78%

Tackles won

1.6

0.7

Interceptions made

1.1

0.7

Blocks made

0.9

0.5

Take-on success

46%

40%

Carries into 18-yard box

0.6

0.4

Recoveries made

4.8

4.1

Tackle success rate

60%

51%

Mainoo, who’s been labelled “generational” by teammate Rasmus Hojlund, completed more of the passes he attempted, whilst completing more take-ons, evidently thriving with the ball at his feet.

Out of possession, he’s been just as dominant, winning more tackles per 90, whilst also registering a higher tally of recoveries – potentially being the perfect box-to-box option for Frank’s side.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the youngster would cost the Lilywhites this summer, it’s clear that he’s already a bigger talent than the Forest star – having the potential to improve further in the years ahead.

If the hierarchy could complete a deal for Mainoo’s signature, it would certainly be a statement signing, handing the new boss the talents he needs to be a success in North London.

Their answer to Rice: Spurs considering move to sign "sensational" £47m CM

Tottenham Hotspur could be about to make a statement move in this summer’s transfer window.

ByEthan Lamb Jul 24, 2025

Liverpool kicked off their pre-season with a 3-1 win over Preston North End. The result didn’t matter. This was an occasion for Diogo Jota, with the two clubs coming together to celebrate and commemorate a wonderful man who will forever be woven into Liverpool’s history, forever a part of Anfield.

The football was secondary, but it was a chance for fans to see the fruits of sporting director Richard Hughes’ labours in the transfer market, with wide duo Milos Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong catching the eye.

Kerkez, signed from Bournemouth for £40m, looks an absolute menace, so lively and sharp. Replacing Andy Robertson, 31, should have been a daunting thing, but the Reds have hit the jackpot here.

Frimpong, too, shone, using his blistering speed and underrated intelligence to great effect, winning three of four duels and completing his one attempted dribble, as per Sofascore.

Giorgi Mamardashvili also exuded control between the sticks, but it wasn’t just the new boys who caught the eye, with Cody Gakpo looking good to continue his rise under Arne Slot’s wing.

Cody Gakpo's performance vs Preston

Last season, pundit Peter Crouch noted that Gakpo had “gone up a level” with Slot at the helm, going from strength to strength as he performed in a fixed attacking role off the left flank, as opposed to the shuffle-about role he had for Jurgen Klopp.

Against Preston, Gakpo continued that impressive role, seeing plenty of the ball and converting a well-taken goal that led to an emotional celebration.

The 25-year-old will be desperate to prove to his manager that he deserves another season in a prominent position at Anfield, having scored 18 goals and provided seven assists across 49 matches last year.

However, with Luis Diaz potentially being sold this summer, Bayern Munich reported to have agreed personal terms with the versatile Colombian forward, Slot is within his rights to want more depth out on the wing.

And the man the Dutch coach has in mind might just have the quality to supersede Gakpo.

Liverpool lining up new forward

According to reports from Spain, Liverpool are planning to make an offer for Real Madrid star Rodrygo this summer, potentially using the non-committal Ibrahima Konate as leverage in a potential one-in, one-out deal.

Rodrygo has been considered among the world’s leading forwards for several years, but he’s struggled of late with Real, having been pushed to the backbenches since Xabi Alonso replaced Carlo Ancelotti.

Another Spanish outlet, AS, have also chimed in, revealing that Rodrygo has a price tag of €100m (£86m). Los Blancos might be willing to sell their long-serving winger, but only on their terms.

Time will tell whether Hughes and Michael Edwards can engineer a deal that checks out for Liverpool. Arsenal are also keen, though, so swiftness is important here.

Why Liverpool want Rodrygo

Rodrygo would be the first to admit that he endured a frustrating 2024/25 campaign, but having chalked up 14 goals and 11 assists across all competitions, it’s clear he’s got a high bar, which leaves even poor seasons above that of many other forwards across Europe.

His former teammate, Luka Modric, actually called him a “world-class superstar” once, and with a longing for a permanent place on the left wing, Rodrygo could find that Liverpool would be the perfect new home for him, should Diaz be sold in the coming weeks.

Given that the Brazil international was fielded out on the right for the majority of the 2024/25 campaign in spite of his preference to play on the opposite flank, maximising his potency, he did well.

Moreover, he’s a big-game star, something Liverpool will need as they challenge for the biggest prizes once more.

Rodrygo’s arrival wouldn’t prove detrimental for Gakpo; Diaz and the Dutchman cohabited in the Reds first team last year.

But there’s a sense that Liverpool would be signing an upgrade on the former PSV Eindhoven talent, one who could dynamise and expand Slot’s vision as the Reds chase down more success.

Matches (starts)

35 (23)

30 (22)

Goals

10

6

Assists

4

5

Touches*

27.7

48.1

Shots (on target)*

1.6 (0.7)

1.8 (0.7)

Big chances missed

6

1

Pass completion

84%

91%

Big chances created

11

5

Key passes*

1.1

1.6

Dribbles*

0.9

1.6

Tackles + interceptions*

1.1

1.1

Duels (won)*

3.1 (51%)

3.8 (53%)

Looking at how Gakpo in the Premier League and Rodrygo in La Liga compared last season, you’d have to say that the wide range of qualities leans toward the Brazilian’s favour, even though he flattered to deceive by his standards.

Moreover, he might have only scored six times, but the 24-year-old also missed only one big chance, underscoring his value as a prolific outlet.

Journalist Sam Tighe once backed this up when calling Rodrygo “terrifyingly good” in front of goal, so deadly when fit and on form.

The fact that Rodrygo managed to score six goals and supply six assists from the left side of Real Madrid’s frontline probably tells you all you need to know, for Ancelotti actually gave him just 12 appearances from that flank.

A duo of Gakpo and Rodrygo contesting for the ascendancy in Slot’s system would only be a good thing. But if Rodrygo is given the grounds to grow his confidence, he might just find himself eclipsing Gakpo, bringing athletic completeness to marry into a natural-born bent for goalscoring which has perhaps yet to even be fully realised on the professional stage.

Slot's next Wirtz: Liverpool in contact to sign "the new Haaland" for £78m

Liverpool are planning to sign a new striker in the summer transfer market.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 14, 2025

Nottingham Forest have submitted an offer for a “superb” player, who is now pushing for a move to the City Ground, according to a report.

Nottingham Forest eyeing new signings amid Gibbs-White saga

Having already lost Anthony Elanga this summer, it would be a blow for Forest if Morgan Gibbs-White were to move on too, but there has now been a twist in the ongoing transfer saga.

It has emerged that Gibbs-White hasn’t travelled with the squad for the start of the pre-season tour in Portugal, although Forest have stated the reason isn’t transfer-related, while Ola Aina has revealed that his teammate is still maintaining professionalism.

Aina said: “He’s keeping it professional; I don’t know the ins and outs of that. He was here today, playing, and he’s training, keeping fit as normal.

“At the end of the day, we’re all professionals – we’ve got a job to do and that’s what Morgan is doing right now. He’s keeping it professional.”

Nuno Espirito Santo will be faced with the very difficult task of finding a replacement for the attacking midfielder, should he move on, while the manager is also keen to bolster his options in defence, and there has now been a new update on the pursuit of RCD Mallorca’s Pablo Maffeo.

According to a report from Marca (via Sport Witness), Nottingham Forest submitted an improved offer for Maffeo over the weekend, increasing their proposal to €5m plus €1.5m in bonuses, around £6m in total.

The La Liga club do not plan to accept Forest’s most recent bid, as they are looking to receive €8m (£7m), which Forest are hesitant to pay, meaning the deal could be at a standstill.

Nottingham Forest to advance deal to sign "incredible" £25m ace this week

Nottingham Forest are ready to progress with a deal to sign a Premier League player who has many admirers.

ByBrett Worthington Jul 21, 2025

However, the player himself is seemingly very keen on a move, with the 28-year-old said to be putting on the pressure, and he hopes Nuno’s side are able to finalise a deal quickly.

"Superb" Maffeo could be solid Nottingham Forest signing

There are signs the Spaniard could make an impact in both an attacking and defensive sense, given that he ranks in the 93rd percentile for successful take-ons per 90 over the past year, while also placing in the 93rd percentile for clearances.

Once described as “superb” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, the Argentina-born defender has been a dependable option for Mallorca across a number of seasons, most recently making 30 La Liga appearances as his side secured a 10th-placed finish.

That said, it may be very difficult for the defender to displace Aina in the starting XI, given that the former Chelsea man impressed across the 2024-25 campaign.

As such, while it would be nice to have Maffeo as a back-up option, with a Europa League campaign on the horizon, it would not be the end of the world if Forest were unable to get a deal over the line.

Manchester United’s well-documented struggles last season led to the nadir of INEOS’ short ownership period. Of course, they haven’t been there all that long, and there’s hope yet that Ruben Amorim can turn things around.

But supporters have been left chagrined by their club’s slump, finishing 15th in the Premier League and failing to grasp a lifeline after losing to Tottenham Hotspur in the Europa League final, thus losing the key to next year’s Champions League.

With Matheus Cunha signed and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo edging closer to a move to Old Trafford, it’s clear that the Red Devils want to rewrite their offensive script. Rasmus Hojlund, however, may well stay put.

But the frontline isn’t the only area United need to improve on. Indeed, the midfield also requires a brush-up.

Man Utd looking for midfield upgrade

Christian Eriksen left Manchester United at the end of his contract last month. The ageing Dane needed to go, but it has thinned out the central options all the same.

Well, Director of Football Jason Wilcox is trying to fix that. After reports that United have entered negotiations with Juventus for Douglas Luiz, Fabrizio Romano has elusively revealed an unnamed Premier League outfit has made an approach.

However, United are also looking at another Serie A star who might be an even better fit.

Indeed, as per GOAL, the English club are set to rival Inter Milan and AC Milan for Atalanta’s Ederson, with the suitors all making official enquiries and beginning contacts with the midfielder’s entourage.

Ederson, 26, is a talented player, having attracted interest from Premier League heavyweights last year. Valued at €60m (£51m), he would mark a steep outlay, but one which may well be worth it for a Man United side scrambling to return to the big time.

What Ederson would bring to Man United

Blessed with that distinctive blend of rugged Brazilian combativeness and artful flair, Ederson is a well-rounded midfielder, having gone from strength to strength over a number of years with Atalanta, making 139 appearances in total.

United already have a tough-tackling defensive midfielder in Manuel Ugarte, but Ederson would add competition while serving as more of an eight when called upon too.

In fact, his silky passing and focused defensive efforts make him United’s answer to Martin Zubimendi, who has just signed for Arsenal in a deal worth £51m.

Zubimendi is a Spanish maestro with a steely way about him, and if Amorim wants to close the gap on his rivals, he will indeed need to respond emphatically.

Matches (starts)

37 (32)

36 (33)

Goals

4

2

Assists

1

1

Touches*

65.9

61.0

Pass completion

87%

84%

Big chances created

6

1

Key passes*

1.1

0.5

Dribbles*

0.6

0.5

Ball recoveries*

5.0

3.9

Tackles + interceptions*

2.3

3.2

Duels won*

4.9 (56%)

4.6 (58%)

Perhaps Zubimendi is a little more active in the tackle, but Ederson has demonstrated over the past year an aptitude for roundedness, bringing it all together in a way which would only enrich the level of the Theatre of Dreams.

And anyway, Italian content creator Damiano Coccia has even claimed that Ederson is “the strongest defensive midfielder in the world”, which is high praise indeed.

A strong tackler he may be, but Ederson is so much more. The physical player has been praised by Fabio Capello in the past for his completeness: “He is out of this world for his ability to combine running, physicality, technique and intelligence”.

The plaudits are all over the place – just like Ederson. Scout Antonio Mango has remarked that the South American is “just everywhere when he plays”.

Evidence of this can be found in his ground-covering ability, having ranked among the top 7% of positional peers in the Italian top flight for ball recoveries per 90, as per FBref.

Change is afoot in Manchester this summer, and this is exactly the kind of signing that is needed to put the issues of recent years in the past and start making sustained headway back to the top level of English and European football.

Their new McTominay: Man Utd in talks to sign £42m ex-Man City star

Man United are still looking to bring in a raft of new signings for Ruben Amorim.

2 ByAngus Sinclair Jul 7, 2025

Birmingham City sent out a statement of intent last summer when they spent a reported fee of £15m to sign Jay Stansfield from Fulham after their relegation from the Championship.

They smashed the League One transfer record to land the England U21 international on a permanent deal, after he had spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan at St. Andrew’s.

Stansfield still has a long way to go before he lives up to that huge price tag, though, after he scored 19 goals in 37 League One matches this season, including nine goals from the penalty spot.

Despite having the English forward on their books, Birmingham are also reportedly in contact with Rennes to strike a deal for Japanese striker Kyogo Furuhashi, who scored ten goals in 22 league games for Celtic in the first half of the season, and he is not the only striker they want to sign.

Birmingham eyeing up Bundesliga striker

According to GIVEMESPORT, the League One champions will not be satisfied by just signing Kyogo to bolster their attack, as they want another forward as well.

Transfer Focus

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

The report claims that Holstein Kiel centre-forward Shuto Machino has emerged as a target for the Championship side, after he caught the eye in the Bundesliga this term.

It states that the Blues want to sign the Japan international to further add to Chris Davies’ arsenal, which could include Stansfield, Kyogo, and Machino if all things go to plan before the end of the summer transfer window.

GIVEMESPORT does not reveal how much it would cost to sign the Japanese marksman, but Birmingham could land an even better striker than Stansfield by landing a deal for him in the coming weeks.

Why Birmingham should sign Shuto Machino

The Blues should push to sign the 25-year-old striker from the German team, after their relegation from the Bundesliga, because he could come in as an even better forward than the former Fulham youngster.

Whilst Stansfield is three years younger and has the potential to develop and improve in the years to come, the Japan international appears to be the superior option in the here and now for Birmingham.

Machino, who was described as a “true goalscorer” by manager Marcel Rapp, ended the 2024/25 campaign with a return of 11 goals in 32 Bundesliga outings, outperforming his xG of 6.43.

Stansfield, meanwhile, scored ten goals from 10.44 non-penalty xG and 19 goals from 18.32 xG overall in League One, which suggests that the Holstein Kiel forward could be more ruthless in front of goal as a finisher.

Appearances

32

37

Non-penalty goals

9

10

Big chances created

5

6

Dribble success rate

63%

35%

Ground duel success rate

44%

36%

Aerial duel success rate

39%

12%

As you can see in the table above, the Birmingham star scored one more non-penalty goal and created one more ‘big chance’, whilst playing five more matches in the third tier in England, compared to Machino’s output in the German top-flight.

Whilst playing at a higher level, the 25-year-old forward also provided more to his team out of possession by winning a much higher percentage of his physical duels, particularly in the air, which suggests that he would be an upgrade on Stansfield when it comes to duelling with centre-backs.

Overall, Machino’s qualities in and out of possession appear to place him in a better position to be a star as the main number nine for Birmingham in the Championship next season.

That could mean that Stansfield ends up playing on the left flank, where he made eight appearances this term, more often for the Blues, in order to fit Machino and Kyogo, if all goes well, into the starting XI.

Better signing than Poku: Birmingham close in on landing £8m star

Birmingham City might not be landing Kwame Poku, but they’re closing in on an exciting signing in attack anyway.

ByKelan Sarson Jun 24, 2025

If all of these signings are completed, then Davies could have plenty of high-quality options to pick from when it comes to selecting his starting line-ups.

Chelsea chiefs are carrying on with their ambitious transfer plans off-the-field, amid their Club World Cup campaign, with Enzo Maresca’s side now holding conversations over signing a marquee sensation who’s starring at the tournament right now.

Champions League club fear Chelsea will hijack their deal for £70m striker

There’s genuine worry behind-the-scenes.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 18, 2025

The Blues opened their account with a solid 2-0 victory over Los Angeles FC at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Monday night, with Pedro Neto and Enzo Fernández grabbing one goal in either half to set up what will be an interesting next clash against Flamengo on Friday.

Cole Palmer

7.33

Moises Caicedo

7.02

Enzo Fernández

6.95

Nicolas Jackson

6.88

Noni Madueke

6.82

via WhoScored

Liam Delap also made his debut for Chelsea and notched his first assist for the club just minutes after coming off Maresca’s bench, setting up Fernandez with an excellent cross from the right-hand side for the Argentine to tap home from close range.

When it comes to how invested supporters are in the Club World Cup, that is highly debatable to say the least, considering Chelsea beat LAFC in front of a largely barren crowd in Georgia.

However, Stamford Bridge chiefs are believed to be taking the tournament very seriously indeed, with £97 million worth of prize money on offer to the victors. This hefty financial windfall would seriously boost Chelsea when it comes to avoiding the dreaded swinging axe of PSR regulations, and could allow them to invest in their summer recruitment drive with even more gusto.

Chelsea are reportedly prioritising a new winger for Maresca right now (The Guardian), with Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens at the very top of their wishlist after they saw three bids rejected before the CWC transfer deadline.

The Englishman isn’t their only wide target, though, with Man United’s Alejandro Garnacho still on Chelsea’s radar as well.

Chelsea hold discussions with Juventus over signing Kenan Yildiz

According to website Juve FC, Serie A starlet Kenan Yildiz is another transfer possibility for Maresca’s side, following his excellent 2024/2025 campaign.

The Turkey international finished 2024/2025 as Juventus’ best-performer by average match rating in the Italian top flight (WhoScored), racking up a total of 10 goals and seven assists in 49 appearances across all competitions so far.

Yildiz is continuing his fine year in the CWC. He got on the Old Lady’s scoresheet and put in an impressive display as Juventus rounded off a routine 5-0 victory over Al Ain in their first group game, with the 20-year-old’s fine displays attracting attention from west London.

Chelsea are now said to have opened “discussions” with Juve over Yildiz, who value the Turk at around £86 million.

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While offers below this benchmark would be considered, Igor Tudor’s side are giving no consideration to selling as things stand, and there’s no indication that the player would push for this move either, despite contact being made with his close circle.

Juve are also planning to agree an extension with Yildiz that could tie him down in Turin until 2031, so Chelsea could have their work cut out for them here.

This is the summer for signing a new striker, with that certainly true of those at Manchester United, having been forced to witness Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund score just seven Premier League goals between them in 2024/25.

Having splashed out over £100m on that youthful pairing across the last two summers, the Red Devils are once again ready to dip into the market for a centre-forward. The problem is, so is everyone else.

Indeed, reports have suggested that Liverpool are seeking to secure a replacement for the potentially departing Darwin Nunez, while Arsenal’s lengthy bid for a proper number nine could also come to an end, amid links to RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.

Chelsea, meanwhile, have already edged out Ruben Amorim and co for the capture of Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, with the Blues also among those in the mix for Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike – now that’s just getting greedy.

Unsurprisingly, those top-flight rivals appear to be shopping in the same pool, with Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres no doubt an in-demand target, amid his expected exit from the Lisbon outfit.

A reunion with Amorim in Manchester has been more than mooted, but the prolific Swede certainly isn’t the only target under consideration.

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With it already reported that Gyokeres is open to making a move to Old Trafford, despite the lack of Champions League football on offer, further reports outlined that a bid is in the works for the £60m man.

The now 27-year-old previously scored 66 goals in just 68 games during Amorim’s spell in charge of the Primeira Liga outfit, with the 6 foot 2 ace unsurprisingly earmarked as a standout target to ease United’s goalscoring woes.

That said, alternatives are also under consideration, with Italian outlet Tuttosport suggesting that the Red Devils could be ready to battle the Gunners for the signing of Napoli’s Victor Osimhen.

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Indeed, the belief is that the Nigerian sensation has turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi side Al Hilal, amid the hope of securing a move to one of Europe’s elite clubs instead.

The report goes as far as to suggest that it is the interest of both United and Arsenal that led to the 26-year-old snubbing a move to the Middle East, albeit with it yet to be seen whether the pair will firm up their apparent interest.

If either side does wish to prise the former Lille man from Naples, following his year-long loan spell at Galatasaray, then previous reports have indicated that he could be available for a fee of around €75m (£63m).

Why Osimhen could be the next Ronaldo

The wait for a centre-forward solution continues at Old Trafford, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s haul of 18 league goals still ranking as the joint-best top-flight return for the club in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era.

Season

Player

Goals

2024/25*

Bruno Fernandes & Amad

8

2023/24

Bruno Fernandes & Rasmus Hojlund

10

2022/23

Marcus Rashford

17

2021/22

Cristiano Ronaldo

18

2020/21

Bruno Fernandes

18

2019/20

Marcus Rashford & Anthony Martial

17

2018/19

Paul Pogba

13

2017/18

Romelu Lukaku

16

2016/17

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

17

2015/16

Anthony Martial

11

2014/15

Wayne Rooney

12

2013/14

Wayne Rooney

17

2012/13

Robin van Persie

26

Ronaldo, of course, endured an ultimately acrimonious exit from the Red Devils in the end, albeit while still clinging on to the limelight three years later, following his crucial equaliser in Portugal’s eventual Nations League final triumph over Spain on Sunday night.

Ever the man for the big occasion, the 40-year-old is THE goalscorer of this or even any era, with his latest effort taking him up to 938 career goals in total.

Osimhen, meanwhile, may currently rest on ‘just’ 151 club career goals – plus 26 for his country – although that has come from only 264 games, having been a hit in Belgium, France, Italy and Turkey thus far.

Indeed, the centre-forward “monster – as described by analyst Ben Mattinson – ended 2024/25 with 37 goals to his name in all competitions for Galatasaray, with 26 of those coming in the Turkish Super Lig.

Previously a central figure in Napoli’s 2022/23 Scudetto charge, following his 26-goal Serie A haul, Osimhen, in a similar vein to the great Ronaldo, appears to have that knack for being able to shine no matter the club, country or arena.

It is for that reason that former Besiktas forward Nihat Kahveci has described him as being “like Cristiano Ronaldo”, while Osimhen also boasts a remarkable heading ability, akin to his Al Nassr counterpart, having been hailed as a “beast in the air” by Mattinson.

A man who also likes to steal the limelight – like ‘CR7’ – Osimhen is also a true “goal poacher” too, as hailed by compatriot Segun Odegbami, with such instincts seemingly lacking from Hojland and the current crop.

As already stated, the battle is on across the Premier League and Europe for a new centre-forward. Osimhen, unsurprisingly, will have a long list of suitors – now is the time for United to pounce.

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