All posts by z3u9t.icu

Manchester City are readying a £51 million bid to sign their top target to replace Ederson, who has continually been linked with a move away this summer.

Man City’s Ederson has now entered the final year of his contract at the Etihad, and it looks as though the Blues have the opportunity to cash in on the Brazilian before the transfer window closes. Turkish giants Galatasaray have made Ederson a transfer target this summer, and the goalkeeper is said to be keen on the switch after a difficult campaign in England.

Given the new speculation surrounding Ederson, City have already begun work on finding a suitable replacement. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, City have made contact with Burnley over a deal to sign James Trafford.

The former England under-21 international was at City before he joined the Clarets on a permanent basis, and now the Blues are looking to bring him back.

Man City initiate contact to hijack Newcastle deal for "world-class" star

The Citizens could compile Newcastle’s misery.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 19, 2025

City are not the only team chasing Trafford, as Newcastle United have been working on a deal for the 22-year-old for some time now, and therefore, the Blues may have to hijack any potential deal to bring Trafford back to the Etihad. And with that in mind, it seems they have turned to a different shot-stopper as their priority number one.

Man City ready to submit £51m bid to sign Diogo Costa

According to Maisfutebol, relayed by Sport Witness, Man City are working on a deal to sign Diogo Costa from FC Porto.

The report states that City have identified Costa as their top target to replace Ederson, and they have already made contact to get an understanding of a potential transfer. Costa is under contract until 2027 and has a release clause worth €75 million, which is roughly £64 million, but City are preparing an offer worth €60 million (£51 million). It remains unclear if Porto are willing to accept an offer less than the release clause.

The Portugal international joined Porto at a young age in 2010, and since then, he has worked his way through the academy set-up to be their number one goalkeeper. Last season, Costa equalled his best tally of clean sheets, as he kept 16 and only conceded 27 times in 32 Liga Portugal games.

Costa

Ederson

Apps

32

26

Goals conceded

27

26

Goals conceded per 90

0.84

1.01

Saves made

57

53

Save percentage

74.1

69.2

Penalty kicks saved

2

0

Passes attempted

1222

923

Passes completed

1016

811

As well as Ederson, City do already have Stefan Ortega and Marcus Bettinelli in their ranks, but should Costa arrive, it would be in the Brazilian’s place as number one.

City may look to act quickly in terms of wrapping up a deal for Costa, as earlier in this window, Manchester United were given the green light to sign him. He is thought to be pushing to leave Porto and is open to the idea of a move to Old Trafford or elsewhere.

Manchester United’s pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo feels as though it has been going on for months now, with no deal yet agreed for the Brentford star this summer.

The Cameroonian has been a key target for many months now, unsurprisingly so given his record of 20 Premier League goals for the Bees throughout 2024/25.

The Red Devils have so far had two separate offers rejected for the 25-year-old, with Ruben Amorim yet to get his hands on the player who could transform the club’s fortunes in attacking areas.

Keith Andrews’ side are said to be holding out for £65m to part ways with their star man during the current window, but the sides are yet to agree to such a figure, with United’s latest offer totalling £62.5m including add-ons.

It would be a huge disappointment to miss out on the forward, given the huge attempts made for his signature, but other targets have been drawn up over the last couple of weeks as a result of the delay.

The latest on United’s hunt for new signings this summer

Southampton forward Tyler Dibling was a name that was thrown into the mix last week over a potential move to join United, with his current employers demanding a fee in the region of £55m.

Other attackers such as Christopher Nkunku, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Benjamin Sesko have all been touted with moves to join the Red Devils this summer.

However, other areas of the pitch have also been subject to interest, with the hierarchy currently exploring a deal to sign Brighton star Pervis Estupiñán, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

He claims that the club have already held talks with the player and his representatives over a move to Old Trafford, after he made 30 league appearances last campaign.

Jacobs also states that the Seagulls will be open to allowing the 27-year-old to depart this summer, after securing the signing of Maxim De Cuyper, but doesn’t state the fee any deal would cost Amorim’s side.

Why United’s latest target would be perfect for Mbeumo

Despite the delay around a deal for Mbeumo in recent weeks, there’s still a strong feeling that the club will complete a deal for his services at some stage this window.

It would be such a shame to miss out on the forward, especially considering the tiny difference of just £2.5m in valuation between the Red Devils and the Bees.

The player himself has previously expressed his desire to move to Old Trafford, which should only bolster their chances of landing the Cameroonian international in the coming weeks.

However, he will need to be aided in his attempt for success should he move to the club, with Mbeumo unable to transform the Red Devils’ fortunes all by himself.

The addition of fellow attacker Matheus Cunha will certainly help him in the final third, but Estupinan could also play a vital role in the Bees star’s hunt to be a success in the North West.

Despite being a full-back, the Ecuadorian international has showcased his talents higher up the pitch, potentially playing perfectly into the hands of Mbeumo as a result.

Estupinan, who’s been labelled “exceptional” by journalist Ryan Adsett, registered 4.9 progressive passes per 90 along with 3.9 passes into the final third – having the tools to provide Mbeumo with opportunities in attacking areas.

Games played

30

Goals & assists

2

Progressive passes

4.9

Passes into final third

3.9

Take-ons attempted

56%

Carries into final third

2.3

Tackles won

1.6

Interceptions made

1.4

He also completed 56% of the take-ons he attempted, whilst making 2.3 carries into the final third, able to overlap the forwards and add a new dimension to Amorim’s attack.

However, despite his attacking capabilities, he’s also been just as impressive without the ball, making 1.6 tackles per 90 and 1.4 interceptions per 90, arguably being the perfect wing-back in United’s 3-4-2-1 system.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the full-back would cost this summer, it’s evident that he has all the tools needed to thrive on the left side of United’s system.

If he can form a partnership with Mbeumo at Old Trafford, it would further add to the quality of any addition, helping the side massively in their quest for success in the near future.

Amorim's own Pogba: Man Utd leading race to sign "sensational" £42m star

Manchester United could be about to make a move to land a key target in their plans for the 2025/26 campaign.

ByEthan Lamb Jul 16, 2025

Arsenal’s transfer train shows no sign of stopping anytime soon.

Mikel Arteta’s side have burst into life in the last few weeks, and following the signings of Martin Zubimendi and Kepa Arrizabalaga for a combined fee of £65m, they’ve announced the arrival of Christian Norgaard.

The Danish international has joined the Gunners from West London outfit Brentford for a fee of £15m including add-ons, and looks unlikely to be the only Scandinavian to move to the Emirates this summer, as talks for Viktor Gyokeres are said to be advanced.

However, while there is a lot to be excited about, some problems may also be brewing, with Arsenal closing in on a Premier League signing, which could be bad news for Ethan Nwaneri.

Arsenal target more Premier League stars

With the Gunners desperate to finally get over the line next season and win the Premier League, it makes sense for them to be targeting stars from the competition.

Transfer Focus

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

One of the names most heavily touted for a move to the club is Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze, who’s reportedly already been subject to a £45m bid from the Gunners.

It’s not hard to understand why Arteta and Co would be so keen to sign the England international, as he fired the Eagles to FA Cup glory last season and racked up a tally of 14 goals and 11 assists in 43 appearances.

However, while signing the former QPR star appears to be something of a fan-pleasing no-brainer, the same cannot necessarily be said about the deal for Noni Madueke.

Yes, according to a recent report from Sky Sports Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Arsenal are continuing in their quest to sign yet another Chelsea ace.

The reporter has revealed that a verbal agreement has been reached, and talks are proceeding according to plan between the two clubs. At the same time, the winger is awaiting an official agreement before undergoing his medical.

In terms of how much the 23-year-old is set to cost the Gunners, transfers expert Fabrizio Romano reported yesterday afternoon that they had made an official offer worth around £50m.

This is unlikely to be a popular deal among the Arsenal faithful, as while Madueke is a talented player, his arrival could be bad news for Nwaneri.

Why Madueke could be bad news for Nwaneri

While we can’t know exactly what is going on behind closed doors, much of the talk around Nwaneri over the last week or so has focused on the negotiations surrounding a new deal, which have supposedly not gone as well as Arsenal would have liked.

The reason given for this has more often than not been down to him asking for guarantees around game time, and this is the main reason Madueke’s arrival could be bad news for him.

For example, even though the Chelsea star is left-footed, he is first and foremost a right-winger and considering the offer the Gunners have already made for him, he’d likely become the first backup for Bukayo Saka.

Therefore, with just one signing, the Hale End prospect could see his minutes decimated, as while he can play in midfield, his most played position last season was right wing, and it wasn’t even close.

Finally, even though some fans may not be happy with the club signing yet another Chelsea player, there are elements to the Barnet-born winger’s game that could explain the Gunners’ interest and why he’d likely start ahead of the 18-year-old.

Progressive Carries

6.82

Top 1%

Carries into Penalty Area

4.12

Top 1%

GCA (Defensive Action)

0.04

Top 4%

Touches (Att Pen)

8.15

Top 4%

Non-Penalty xG

0.43

Top 6%

Shots Total

3.54

Top 7%

Progressive Carrying Distance

154.28

Top 7%

Shots on Target

1.33

Top 8%

For example, FBref ranked him in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for progressive carries and carries into the penalty area, while also ranking him in the top 7% for total progressive carrying distance, all per 90.

These statistics help to demonstrate that the “fearless” phenom, as dubbed by U23 scout Antonio Mango, is a carrying machine.

Add to that the fact he scored ten goals and provided five assists in 2305 minutes of action across the Premier League and Conference League proper last term, and it’s easy to see how he could be useful for Arteta and Co.

Ultimately, while large sections of the fan base might not be on board with this signing, Madueke would likely add more quality to the squad; however, his arrival could come at Nwaneri’s expense.

Saka's dream CAM: Arsenal submit bid for £45m superstar & it's not Madueke

The experienced international could be a game-changer for Arsenal and Bukayo Saka.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 10, 2025

Arsenal hold a concrete interest in an “unbelievable” Cristhian Mosquera alternative, and they have now made an approach over a potential deal, according to reporter Sami Mokbel.

Gunners identify Mosquera as main centre-back target

Mikel Arteta is blessed with having a top-quality centre-back duo at his disposal, with Jamie Carragher heaping praise upon William Saliba and Gabriel last season, suggesting the defenders complement each other.

Speaking about Saliba, the Sky Sports pundit said: “I think he is one of the top centre-backs in European football. As a partnership, him and Gabriel is as good as anything in the Premier League.

“I think Saliba is the better player but Gabriel is the better leader, and Saliba needs to bring that to his game if he wants to get to the levels we talk about with Virgil van Dijk.”

Saka will love him: Arsenal agree initial fee to sign £60m "monster"

Arsenal could be growing closer to signing a new striker.

ByMatt Dawson Jun 29, 2025

However, with Gabriel absent through injury during the back end of the campaign, Arteta was left a little short on options, with Jakub Kiwior filling in, suggesting it could be savvy to bring in additional strength in depth at centre-back this summer.

Mosquera has emerged as Arteta’s main target to come in as a back-up option for Gabriel and Saliba, with the Gunners expected to make a bid for the 21-year-old, however, they have now made a move for an alternative option.

That is according to Mokbel, in a report for BBC Sport, with the reporter stating Arsenal have now made an approach to sign Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who is expected to be available for a fee in the region of £40m this summer.

The north Londoners hold a concrete interest in Guehi, having made an initial enquiry, but their interest may have cooled, having now turned their attentions to Mosquera.

Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United also retain an interest in the Palace captain, so it could be difficult to get a deal over the line, should the Gunners decide to launch a move.

Guehi could be better-suited to Arsenal than Mosquera

It remains to be seen whether the England international would be keen on a move to the Emirates Stadium, given that it would be difficult to force his way into the starting XI, but there are signs he could be a more suitable addition to the squad than Mosquera.

Crucially, the Palace star already has experience in the Premier League, having been a key player for the Eagles for a number of years, while he has also outperformed the Valencia defender across some key defensive metrics over the past year.

Average per 90

Cristhian Mosquera

Marc Guehi

Tackles

1.52

1.79

Blocks

1.0

1.62

Clearances

3.47

4.80

Aerials won

1.11

2.0

Lauded as “unbelievable” by members of the media, Guehi could be a fantastic signing for Arsenal, but a move for an established centre-back could cause unrest if it means Gabriel or Saliba receive less game time.

Manchester United fell by the wayside last season, but the early readings from the summer transfer market suggest Ruben Amorim and INEOS are doing all they can to lift Old Trafford back to its feet.

With sights set on driving their way back into the Premier League ascendancy next year, getting their foot back through the European door, the Red Devils acted swiftly to activate Wolverhampton Wanderers star Matheus Cunha’s £62.5m release clause, and that’s despite interest from Arsenal, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur.

The prestigious outfit needs new goalscoring superstars, and Cunha will certainly add to that department. However, United are also pushing to sign another who could become their new talisman.

And all this before they even sign a striker.

Man Utd still leading race for Premier League star

It’s safe to say that the ongoing transfer window has all been about attacking additions for United. After a move for Cunha was completed, Jason Wilcox and Co have turned their attention to the likes of Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres, according to reports.

However, while Gyokeres would allegedly favour a move to Arsenal instead of Old Trafford, that’s not the same story for another of football’s brightest forward players.

As per TEAMtalk, Tottenham Hotspur have opened talks with Bournemouth for the transfer of Antoine Semenyo. Why is this relevant? Well, because Spurs also have a vested interest in Bryan Mbeumo having appointed the winger’s former boss, Thomas Frank, as their new manager.

Mbeumo, 25, has been immense for Brentford and is a wanted man. With Frank heading to Spurs, there were fears that he may not sign for United now, but as with Cunha, his preference is still to move to the Theatre of Dreams.

United have already seen an opening offer worth £55m rejected, and are expected to go back in for the Cameroonian with Fabrizio Romano revealing that there is an ‘agreement with the player in place’ on personal terms.

Why Bryan Mbeumo could be Man Utd's answer to Salah

Mbeumo did rather well across the recently finished campaign, only outscored in the Premier League by Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak and Erling Haaland – not bad competition to be pitted against.

1.

Mohamed Salah

38

29

2.

Alexander Isak

34

23

3.

Erling Haaland

31

22

4.

Chris Wood

36

20

5.

Bryan Mbeumo

38

20

It certainly makes a convincing comment on Mbeumo’s skillset, not least because he, like Liverpool’s Salah, is a right-sided, left-footed forward, not technically a striker.

In fact, Mbeumo has been described as a “mini Salah” by talkSPORT pundit Jason Cundy, arcing inward to curl powerful strikes into the back of the net.

Anfield’s Egyptian King has so often been a thorn in United’s side, but in Mbeumo they might just find their own version, one whose prowess could inflict damage not just on Liverpool but the division at large, having ranked among the top 2% of positional peers in the English top flight in 2024/25 for goals scored per 90, as per FBref.

Moreover, Mbeumo isn’t just a sharpshooter, and would instead dynamise the Red Devils and raise their creative bar through his skilled performances, having created 17 big chances last season, averaging 1.8 key passes per game, as per Sofascore.

Playmaking has increasingly become a defining part of the 33-year-old Salah’s game as his athleticism drips away, and so it’s good to know that Mbeumo already plays with a natural focus on linking play together and helping his team in that regard.

Mbeumo has performed with gamely courage and a confidence in his high-level quality. He’s only 25, which, coincidentally, was the age Salah was when he joined Liverpool from Roma for £34m in 2017.

It’s clear that Man United need to forge ahead with this exciting signing. Mbeumo wants the move and has the English experience to lift the club and propel Amorim toward greener pastures.

Better than Ekitike: Man Utd open talks to sign "the best ST on the market"

Manchester United could be edging closer to ending their hunt for a new striker this summer.

2 ByEthan Lamb Jun 16, 2025

Leeds United have now made contact over a deal for a £17m-rated striker, who is keen on a move to the Premier League this summer, according to Sky Sports reporter Sacha Tavolieri.

Leeds eyeing new striker amid Piroe doubts

Joel Piroe was the Championship’s top scorer last season, finishing the campaign with 19 goals, however, the Whites have doubts over the forward in the top flight. Former Arsenal man Alan Smith has also expressed concerns about whether Piroe will be able to cut it in the Premier League.

Smith said: “You look at who’s scoring the goals last season for Leeds, like Dan James, and Joel Piroe, the Dutchman.

“Are these boys going to be good enough for the Premier League? James has already had a crack at it, and it’s not really worked, so I think Leeds still need more players.”

Smith also expressed his concern over the potential signing of Callum Wilson, given his age and injury record, but Daniel Farke’s side are now looking at signing a younger centre-forward, albeit with less experience at the top level.

According to Tavolieri, in a report for Sky Sports on Monday, Leeds have now been in contact to explore the possibility of a deal for Norwich City striker Josh Sargent, having deemed bringing in a new centre-forward a priority this summer.

£50,000-a-week Leeds star unhappy with offer as new contract talks stall

Leeds are now looking to tie down one of their key players from the 2024/25 season, but talks are stalling.

1 ByBrett Worthington Jun 9, 2025

It could take a bid of up to €20m (£17m) to prise Sargent away from Norwich, however, and he is not the only striker on the shortlist, with Everton’s Beto also of interest to the Championship winners.

In talks with his entourage, the Norwich forward has made it clear he would be keen on a move to the Premier League, which means a move to Elland Road could be of great appeal to the 25-year-old.

"Exceptional" Sargent impressing in the Championship

Smith has doubts about whether Piroe will be able to make the step-up to the Premier League, but the American is also relatively unproven above the Championship, having scored just two goals in 26 games in his previous stint in the top flight back in 2021-22.

However, there are signs the Missouri-born striker has developed considerably since then, having scored a combined 44 goals in his past three Championship campaigns, most recently collecting 20 goal contributions in 32 appearances.

Lauded as “exceptional” by members of the media, Sargent may deserve another chance to prove himself at Premier League level, and Wilson’s very poor injury record could make the USA international a preferable option to the Englishman.

Season

Wilson games missed

2020-21

18

2021-22

30

2022-23

9

2023-24

28

2024-25

29

That said, it seems a little harsh to suggest Piroe won’t be able to adapt to life in the Premier League, and the Dutchman has earned the chance to lead the line in the top flight with his impressive performances ever since arriving from Swansea City.

Chelsea’s pursuit of Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens failed to materialise before Tuesday’s transfer deadline prior to the Club World Cup. Fabrizio Romano confirmed that ‘negotiations will continue’ later in the summer, but it is unclear if a deal will be agreed with the Englishman’s current side.

Thus, the Blues might turn their attention to other options out wide, with Enzo Maresca clearly eying up a new winger this summer. One of the names on their list appears to be Alejandro Garnacho, with Chelsea ‘monitoring’ his situation at Old Trafford. He could cost upwards of £70m, as per The Telegraph.

However, there is an alternative name to Garnacho and Gittens, who might prove to be a better option than the Argentine international.

Latest on Chelsea's search for a winger

Chelsea’s summer transfer plan is clear and quite similar to previous windows under Todd Boehly. Buy young, talented players with a high ceiling who can impact now and in the future. That is certainly a policy that Gittens and Garnacho fit into.

Transfer Focus

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

Well, so does Athletic Club and Spain attacker Nico Williams, a player Chelsea have been constantly linked with. Those rumours are not going away, with one Spanish outlet suggesting the West Londoners are one of the sides ‘courting’ him this summer, and could line up a move.

They will face competition from other powerhouses of European football, too. One of those is London rival Arsenal, with Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich also showing strong interest.

The 22-year-old has a £49m release clause in his deal, meaning Chelsea, or indeed any other side interested, would have to pay that fee to bring him in.

Why Williams would be a good signing

It has proved to be yet another strong campaign for Williams. He maintained his starting spot in the Spain side over the most recent international break, showing just how good his form has been in 2024/25. He is an “electric” player, according to Statman Dave.

For Los Leones in all competitions last term, the 22-year-old attacker played 45 games, finding the back of the net 11 times and grabbing seven assists in that time. The winger mainly played on the left, although he did operate on the right-hand side twice.

Williams’ standout form surely came in the Europa League, a competition in which his side reached the semi-final before losing to Manchester United. The Spaniard scored five goals and assisted two in their run to the penultimate stage, including one strike against Rangers in the quarter-final.

The Spain international, who was born in Pamplona, had a far more fruitful season than Garnacho when it comes to goals and assists.

He notched up ten top-flight goal involvements and seven in Europe, compared to eight in the Premier League and five in the Europa League for the Man United number 17.

Indeed, Garnacho did finish the season with an impressive tally of 21 goals and assists, although he did struggle for consistency in the Premier League and Europa League.

At one stage, he went 16 Premier League games without scoring or assisting, a drought that was broken by a goal against Leicester City.

Looking at the underlying numbers on FBref, there is further data to suggest Williams is better than Garnacho. For example, the Spaniard averages 5.29 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes, compared to the United winger’s 3.63 shot-creating actions each game, illustrating the greater threat he poses in the final third.

Goals and assists

0.52

0.37

Key passes

2.05

1.68

Shot-creating actions

5.29

3.63

Goal-creating actions

0.61

0.37

Take-ons completed

3.43

1.31

For a player of that quality, a deal of £49m seems a bargain for Chelsea this summer. He is, at this stage, outperforming Garnacho, as the stats suggest, and could prove to be the perfect signing if they miss out on Gittens.

Chelsea’s transfer plan this summer is clear, and Williams fits the bill perfectly. He could be a superb addition for the Blues as they look to rise up the Premier League table in 2025/26.

Maresca's own Wirtz: Chelsea want "world-class" £100m star after Gittens

Chelsea could be about to make a move for a player who could emulate Florian Wirtz’s switch to England.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 11, 2025

Sunderland now look set to sell an “excellent” player on the cheap in the summer transfer window, following a significant new update.

Sunderland prepare for Premier League amid Bellingham uncertainty

The Black Cats are preparing for life back in the Premier League, and while focus has been on new signings, trying to persuade Jobe Bellingham to stay put has also been at the top of their list of priorities.

The 19-year-old has been weighing up his future in recent weeks, with Sunderland no doubt hoping he will decide to stay on after Regis Le Bris’ side’s memorable playoff wins over Coventry and Sheffield United.

Despite this, it has always felt as though the teenage midfielder is still more likely move on, though, with the Borussia Dortmund seen as the likely destination.

Fabrizio Romano has often reported that Sunderland won’t allow him to leave for less than his £34m release clause, but now a new update has emerged regarding his future.

Bellingham set to leave on the cheap

According to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, Bellingham has chosen to leave Sunderland for Dortmund, exiting for nearly £10m less than the Black Cats hoped and joining for £25m instead.

It is such a shame to see Bellingham depart the Stadium of Light this summer, considering what an exciting young talent he is, but it is no great surprise at the same time. The Sunderland ace has no doubt been told by his brother about the path through Dortmund to stardom, as he looks to emulate him and become a world class player over time.

Bellingham will be remembered as a key man in the Black Cats’ unforgettable promotion campaign, though, being hailed as “excellent” by scout Jacek Kulig.

Hopefully, Sunderland can now use the funds received for Bellingham wisely, bringing in either one big-name addition or a couple of good players to bolster Le Bris’ squad.

Sunderland now looking "increasingly likely" to sign ex-PSG defender

Regis Le Bris wants to snap him up.

ByHenry Jackson Jun 3, 2025

Black Cats supporters are unlikely to wish any ill of the Englishman, with his exit feeling rather predictable, and it’s now a case of moving on without him, ensuring his departure doesn’t affect them too badly.

Everton are believed to be “ready to make their move” to complete the signing of a young midfielder in the summer transfer window, according to a new report.

Moyes expecting busy summer at Everton

David Moyes has come in and impressively steered the Blues comfortably clear of the Premier League relegation zone this season, with a move to Bramley Moore Dock happening this summer.

It is vital that Everton enjoy a productive transfer window ahead of next season, ensuring yet another relegation battle is avoided, and Moyes has spoken positively to talkSPORT about how busy he expects the summer to be.

This will be music to the ears of Everton supporters, who will hope to see some top-quality players arrive on Merseyside, and now a new transfer rumour has emerged.

Everton "ready" to move for 21 year-old midfielder

According to a new report from Wiw Sport [via Sport Witness], Everton are battling Brighton to sign Strasbourg midfielder Habib Diarra this summer. The Blues are “ready to make their move” and “working to secure” the services of the 21-year-old, who is valued at £17m by his current club.

Diarra is exactly the type of player Everton should be targeting in the summer window, in terms of being a youngster with plenty of long-term potential to grow into a world class player at their new Bramley Moore home.

The four-cap Senegal international has four goals and five assists to his name in Ligue 1 this season, invariably operating as an attacking midfielder, but he is also capable of shining deeper and even as a centre forward, which is perhaps why scout Jacek Kulig has described him as an “excellent” footballer.

Abdoulaye Doucouré could leave Everton this summer, and Diarra could be a perfect replacement if he can refine the off-ball parts of his game over time.

Appearances

29

Starts

27

Minutes played

2340

Goals

4

Assists

5

Clearances per game

1.4

Tackles per game

0.8

Pass completion rate

86.6%

Granted, he is more attack-minded, but his versatility means Moyes could use him in several different ways, and he should only become more formidable as the years pass.

It’s hard to pinpoint just why this season has gone as horribly as it has for Tottenham Hotspur.

Injuries have undoubtedly played a large part, but even when the team has been close to full strength, they’ve found ways to drop points.

While it feels increasingly likely that Ange Postecoglou will be replaced in the summer, it feels just as crucial that Daniel Levy and Co bring in some genuinely talented players to help whoever the next manager is to take the team back up the Premier League table.

Fortunately, the last few weeks have seen the North Londoners linked with a whole host of extraordinary goalscorers from across Europe, including one who is just four goals behind Harry Kane and could, therefore, be a significant upgrade on Dominic Solanke.

Spurs' striker search

Before we get to the goalscorer in question, it’s worth reviewing a couple of the other strikers linked with Spurs in recent weeks, like Jonathan David and Liam Dealp.

Transfer Focus

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

The former has been in incredible form this season, racking up a tally of 25 goals and 12 assists in 48 games, and will be available for free thanks to his contract expiring in June.

However, since being linked to the Lilywhites, it would appear that Serie A giants Napoli have stormed ahead in their pursuit of the Canadian and are now in talks with him.

Delap, on the other hand, appears not to be in talks with any other teams at the moment, meaning the North Londoners might still be able to get him for around £30m, which could be a steal considering he’s scored 12 goals and provided two assists in just 35 league games this year.

However, perhaps the most gettable, and arguably most interesting, forward Spurs have been linked to in recent weeks is Daizen Maeda.

Reports from earlier this month claimed that the Lilywhites are interested in the Celtic star, who could be available for just £25m.

Now, he might not be the biggest name around, but the Hoops’ Japanese superstar has been in sublime form this season and could very well be an upgrade on Solanke.

Why Maeda would be an excellent signing

So, the first thing to clear up is that while Maeda does tend to play out wide more often than not, he’s no stranger to playing straight down the middle, having done so on ten occasions this season alone.

Therefore, we wouldn’t be surprised to see Spurs opt to play him there, which would, thus, put him up against Solanke for game time, but who comes out on top?

Well, when it comes down to the most important metric of all for a centre-forward, raw output, it’s the Celtic star who comes out on top, and by quite a significant margin at that.

For example, in 49 appearances, totalling 3891 minutes, the Osaka-born “machine,” as dubbed by previous coaches, has scored 33 goals – just four off Kane’s tally – and provided 12 assists.

In other words, the free-scoring dynamo is averaging a goal involvement every 1.08 games or, even more impressively, every 86.46 minutes.

Appearances

49

42

Minutes

3891′

3221′

Goals

33

15

Assists

12

8

Goal Involvements per Match

0.91

0.54

Minutes per Goal Involvement

86.46′

140.04′

In contrast, the North Londoners’ record signing has scored 15 goals and provided eight assists in 42 appearances, totalling 3221 minutes.

That comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.82 games, or every 140.04 minutes.

Now, it has to be said that the former Bournemouth star is playing in a far tougher league, but the difference is so stark that it at least suggests that the Japanese international is worth signing to see what he could do in a top-five league.

Ultimately, while Maeda isn’t the biggest name around, his output this season has been nothing short of spectacular, and for the price that was reported earlier this month, he’s certainly worth a gamble, as he could prove to be a massive upgrade on Solanke.

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