All posts by z3u9t.icu

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.

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

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.

Latest on Man Utd's striker search

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.

Transfer Focus

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

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.

Bruno will make him world-class: Man Utd prepare bid for "insane" £60m star

Man Utd could be set to land the perfect partner for Bruno Fernandes this summer

ByRobbie Walls Jun 9, 2025

Manchester United have now held talks with the agent of a “sensational” player, who is among the main contenders for the Ballon d’Or, according to a report.

Man Utd's pulling power called into question

The Europa League loss against Tottenham Hotspur means, of course, that Champions League football has once again eluded Man United, and Roy Keane has suggested his former club no longer have the pulling power to attract top players.

However, Old Trafford clearly remains an attractive destination, even though European football will not be on offer next season, with it recently being revealed that Bryan Mbeumo would still prefer to join United ahead of Tottenham Hotspur.

Man Utd now open talks to sign "world-class" £103k-a-week Barcelona player

He’s won 20 trophies in his career so far.

ByDominic Lund Jun 11, 2025

There have also been suggestions that Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres remains interested in a move, despite the highly sought-after striker attracting the attention of some other top clubs, suggesting the Red Devils clearly still have pulling power.

As such, Man United have now stepped up their pursuit of the highly-regarded Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, making contact with his agent, Enzo Raiola, in order to discuss a potential summer move.

Donnarumma’s PSG contract is set to expire next June, meaning he could be on the move this summer, despite expressing a willingness to remain at the French club, saying: “My priority is to stay at PSG. I don’t think there will be problems in the negotiations.”

Ruben Amorim is keen to bring in an upgrade on Andre Onana, but it could be difficult to tempt the goalkeeper into a move, considering his desire to remain in Paris, and Champions League finalists Inter Milan could provide competition for his signature.

"Sensational" Donnarumma emerges as Ballon d'Or contender

With just one year left on his deal, the Italian could be available for just £34m this summer, which could be a bargain fee for a player vying to win the Ballon d’Or, currently ranked fourth in the 2025 Power Rankings.

In recent times, a player from the Champions League winners has often scooped up the prestigious award, and the 26-year-old kept a clean sheet in PSG’s 5-0 demolition of Inter in the final, although Desire Doue was arguably the star of the show.

Not only did the PSG shot-stopper impress in Munich, but he also caught the eye of Joe Prince-Wright in the semi-final against Arsenal, with the reporter suggesting the Italy international was one of the main reasons his side progressed past the Gunners.

Evidently, Donnarumma could be a fantastic signing for Man United, but it seems unlikely that he would be willing to leave the European champions to move to Old Trafford.

An “unbelievable” Premier League player is now ready to leave his club this summer, amid interest from Nottingham Forest, according to a report.

Forest set to bolster attacking options

Forest will be in a good position to attract some top players this summer, should they manage to qualify for the Champions League, and Nuno appears to be particularly keen on strengthening his squad in attacking areas.

With signing a new striker on the agenda, the Tricky Trees have recently emerged as potential suitors for AFC Bournemouth’s Evanilson, having shortlisted the Brazilian, alongside Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, who could be available for £50m.

Not only does Nuno want to bring in a new striker, but the manager is also interested in signing a new winger, with Manchester City’s Jack Grealish of interest, while teammate James McAtee has been named as a target in attacking midfield.

Napoli and Roma chase £80k-p/w Nottingham Forest ace amid new contract talks

Forest have a battle on their hands to keep hold of one of their best attackers.

ByBrett Worthington Apr 28, 2025

There is a feeling the midfielder could be available for £25m this summer, with Forest keen, and there has now been a new update on the City ace’s future, which suggests he may not remain at the Etihad Stadium for much longer.

According to a report from Football Insider, McAtee is now ready to approve a move away from Man City this summer, amid interest from Nottingham Forest, given that he has struggled to force his way into Pep Guardiola’s plans.

The 22-year-old has only featured sporadically this season, meaning he is eager to reignite his career, and a move to the City Ground could be on the cards, although there is also interest from the likes of West Ham United and Fulham.

By June, the Salford-born midfielder will have just one year remaining on his contract, with City keen to agree a contract extension to ensure they receive a fee that reflects his value.

"Unbelievable" McAtee needs regular game time

The former Sheffield United loanee caught the eye in the early stages of his career, picking up nine goals and three assists for the Blades during their promotion-winning 2022-23 campaign, but he has struggled to make a breakthrough at Man City.

At 22-years-old, the attacking midfielder needs to be receiving regular game time, so it is little wonder he is thinking about moving on for the good of his career, and there are plenty of indications he could make an impact at Forest.

Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap was left particularly impressed with the England U21 international after bagging a brace in his side’s 2-1 victory against Ukraine U21s earlier this season.

Delap believes McAtee can achieve great things in the game, but that will only be possible if he receives regular game time, and a move to Forest could be an attractive proposition, should they manage to qualify for the Champions League.

What did we witness last night at Old Trafford? Manchester United reached the Europa League quarter-final in the most incredible circumstances, beating French side Olympique Lyon 5-4 on the night, and 7-6 on aggregate, in what will go down as an all-time classic at Old Trafford.

It’s hard to know where to begin describing the action, but United were 2-0 up at half-time, thanks to goals from Manuel Ugarte and Diogo Dalot. However, they let that lead slip in the second half, with Lyon clawing it back to 2-2 on the night, taking the game to extra time.

The French side, who were down to 10 men after Corentin Tolisso was sent off for a second bookable offence, went 4-2 up on the night in extra time. The impressive Rayan Cherki scored their third, and Alexandre Lacazette the fourth, from the penalty spot.

However, this is Man United; they are never down and out. With 114 minutes on the clock, Bruno Fernandes pulled one back for the Red Devils, also with a penalty, before Kobbie Mainoo equalised in the 120th minute of the game. Enter Harry Maguire, who gave United a 5-4 lead in the 121st minute. His fantastic header met Casemiro’s cross and rifled into the back of the net, winning the game for the Red Devils.

It was an extraordinary night, with Mainoo making a huge impact off the bench.

Mainoo’s stats vs. Lyon

United fans will always get behind their academy graduates, so for Mainoo to score the equaliser in an instant classic, it must have been special for the United midfielder, who actually played at centre-forward, and the fans. What a goal it was, too.

Getting on the end of a smart touch by Casemiro, the England international showed exceptional composure to bring the ball down with the outside of his right foot.

He then created space and took a couple more touches, shifting the ball into a favourable position to shoot, before he let fly. Mainoo’s strike nestled in the far right corner, a sublime goal in extraordinary circumstances.

Tyler Fell, a journalist for GiveMeSport, was incredibly complimentary of Mainoo, giving him a 7.5/10 for his efforts against Lyon. The journalist praised the United number 37 for his ‘phenomenal’ effort.

After a performance like that, the 19-year-old surely has to become a more prominent starter under Ruben Amorim, especially now that he’s over his recent injury issue. The same can certainly be said for another of United’s top performers in the historic clash with Lyon.

The player who should be a key starter under Amorim

You might struggle to find a performance with as much character this season as the one Leny Yoro put in against Lyon. After scoring a crucial first goal in the first leg last week, he was sensational at Old Trafford on Thursday, putting his body on the line and showing excellent ability with the ball at his feet.

Fell clearly thought that Yoro was excellent against the French side. Just as he did for Mainoo, the GiveMeSport writer gave him a 7.5/10, exclaiming that he ‘defended heroically’ and ‘used his pace to bail his side out’ if Lyon found a way past United’s defensive line.

Indeed, the 19-year-old’s stats from the game show just how well he played. As per Sofascore, Yoro had 66 touches of the ball, made nine clearances and won four out of his five attempted tackles.

Touches

66

Pass accuracy

93%

Passes completed

43/46

Clearances

9

Ground duels won

5/9

Tackles won

4/5

Interceptions

2

Chances created

1

Described as a “generational” player by writer Liam Canning, it felt like a statement performance from the United number 15 against Lyon. In high-pressure moments, he was there, throwing his body on the line to stop the opponents from finding a way through.

It was a colossal showing from the teen sensation, who showed once again why he should, and has, become such a key player under Amorim. United have made it to the semi-finals of the Europa League, where they face a tough tie against Athletic Club.

It certainly feels like Yoro will be a pivotal part of this Red Devils side if they are to go all the way and lift the trophy in Bilbao at the end of the season.

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Mikel Arteta has been in the hot seat at Arsenal for over five years now, and it wouldn’t be an overstatement to say the club today is practically unrecognisable from the one he took over in December 2019.

He’s led the North Londoners from mid-table mediocrity into one fighting for Premier League titles and who have just smashed Real Madrid 3-0 in the Champions League.

While much of this incredible turnaround has been down to the Spaniard’s methods, tactics and philosophy, it has also been helped by his signings, like the club-record acquisition of Declan Rice.

The £105m man, who was utterly sublime against Real Madrid, has arguably been Arteta’s best signing since taking the job, but if recent reports are to be believed, he could be about to secure the services of another international star who’d be the best signing since the Englishman.

Arsenal transfer news

It’s no secret that Arsenal’s priority heading into the summer is to sign a new striker, and as things stand, one of the names most heavily touted for a move to the club is Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres.

Transfer Focus

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

The Swede is supposedly available for a fee as low as £58m, which may prove to be a bargain considering he’s scored 44 goals and provided 11 assists in 44 games this season, but he’s not the only target.

Another name constantly linked with the Gunners is RB Leipzig star Benjamin Sesko, who could be available for around £67m.

The Slovenian hasn’t been as productive this season, racking up 25 goal involvements in 39 games, but is just 21 and playing in a top-five league.

However, there is another striker now supposedly high up on the Gunners’ wishlist, someone who’s an output machine and has plenty of experience in the toughest competitions: Lautaro Martinez.

Yes, according to a recent report from Spain, the Inter Milan forward is now one of the North Londoners’ top targets.

In fact, the report has claimed that Arteta and Co are ‘preparing an offer’ for the Argentine, an offer which could be as much as €150m, which is about £129m.

It would be an incredibly costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Martinez’s immense ability, one well worth fighting for, especially as he’d be Arsenal’s best since Rice.

Why Martinez would be Arsenal's best signing since Rice

So, the first thing to say is that since Rice’s arrival was announced in July 2023, Arsenal have made other impressive additions to the squad, like David Raya and even Mikel Merino, but it would be fair to say that none have had quite the impact he has.

For example, he’s already made 94 appearances for the first team, scoring 14 goals, providing 18 assists, and helping transform the midfield as a six and then eight.

In short, removing him from the team would have a detrimental impact, so for a future signing to be the best since his arrival, they’d have to be pretty game-changing, which is just what Martinez would be.

The clearest example of why he’d have such an impact on the team is his utterly stupendous level of output from the last few seasons.

For example, since moving to Inter Milan in July 2018, the World Cup-winning monster has scored a staggering 148 goals and provided 49 assists in just 323 appearances, totalling 22597 minutes.

Appearances

323

Starts

259

Minutes

22597′

Goals

148

Assists

49

Points per Game

2.08

Goal Involvements per Match

0.60

Minutes per Goal Involvement

114.70′

That means the 27-year-old, whom renowned football podcaster Angelo Valdes described as “the best 9 in the world,” has averaged a goal involvement every 1.63 games, or every 114.70 minutes, for almost seven years.

Just imagine that level of consistent output leading the line for Gunners with Bukayo Saka to his right and Martin Odegaard behind him; he’d transform their attack.

Ultimately, while it would cost an extraordinary amount of money, Arsenal should do what they can to bring Martinez to the Emirates this summer, as he’d be their best signing since Rice.

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