All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Nuno Espirito Santo has officially been axed at Nottingham Forest. It’s time for a new era at the City Ground.

Despite picking up 30 wins in charge of the Tricky Trees, with Europa League football also on the menu this season, the ex-Wolverhampton Wanderers boss’ fiery relationship with chairman Evangelos Marinakis and Edu has ultimately been his downfall.

Forest have moved swiftly to secure an immediate successor to Nuno, with the Premier League side having announced Ange Postecoglou as their new boss on Tuesday afternoon.

He, of course, guided Spurs to a Europa League triumph just last campaign and is seen as the man to take the Midlanders to the next level.

Known for an exciting brand of attacking football while situated in North London, he could well be a breath of fresh air away from Nuno’s more attritional approach.

That means Morgan Gibbs-White could thrive even more under the Australians’ new methods.

Why Gibbs-White could thrive under Ange

Postecoglou will walk into the dug-out at the City Ground pretty content with the attacking options at his disposal.

Of course, he will have the imposing goal machine of Chris Wood to rely on – who has two Premier League strikes already this season – alongside knowing he also has an enthralling playmaker setting him up with chances galore in the aforementioned Gibbs-White.

Staggeringly, it wasn’t too far back that Forest fans were resigned to the prospect of their star man defecting to Postecoglou’s ex-employers.

Now, however, he could be the 60-year-old’s leading attacking force alongside Wood, with a bumper 15 goal contributions last season from 34 Premier League clashes setting the very high standards.

After all, Postecoglou, when back at Spurs during his up-and-down stint, got the very best out of similarly skilful, but potent presences in attack, as seen in him overseeing Maddison picking up a whirlwind 23 goals and assists last campaign.

The former Celtic boss would even herald Maddison as “loveable little rogue” during their time together at the Lilywhites.

Therefore, you might well expect Gibbs-White’s numbers to rise to these lofty heights shortly.

However, the soon-to-be new Tricky Trees manager might well see even more promise in a rising star at Forest as his next potential Maddison-style project.

Ange's new Maddison at Nottingham Forest

Despite Nuno falling out with Marinakis regularly at the City Ground, it’s fair to say the now jobless 51-year-old was backed in the summer transfer window, before parting ways dramatically.

Indeed, the likes of Dilane Bakwa would join on deadline day for a whopping £35m to bolster the options available on the right wing, on top of plenty of exciting English talent also entering the building in the form of record signing Omari Hutchinson and James McAtee.

In particular, the brand-new Forest number 24 might well have caught the eye of the incoming manager, with McAtee once being noted as being a “special” talent by his former Manchester City boss, Pep Guardiola, before severing ties with his boyhood side to join Forest.

More first-team opportunities should come the ex-Sheffield United loanee’s way at the City Ground, with a hope on Postecoglou’s end that he can get even more out of another entertaining and captivating number ten who was previously seen as the next best thing, like he did so effortlessly with Maddison at Spurs.

Games played

75

200

Goals scored

16

67

Assists

21

37

Trophies

1x

9x

After all, much like his fellow compatriot who scored and assisted a bumper 96 times for Leicester City, McAtee has shown off his class for the Citizens at both a senior and youth level, as well as starring out on loan at the Blades, with a mammoth 67 goals and 37 assists to shout about for his fledgling career to date.

With Postecoglou managing to extract 16 goals and 21 assists from Maddison in North London, it remains to be seen what magic the Australian can now conjure up with yet another thrilling attacking midfielder.

The up-and-coming 22-year-old will likely have to fight it out with Gibbs-White for a starting spot under Postecoglou.

But, if he can shine when thrown into the action, it could well be that McAtee goes on to be the former Spurs manager’s second coming of Maddison, as he embarks on a daunting new adventure himself in a fresh Premier League dug-out.

Nottingham Forest join race for "intelligent" Man City gem who Pep loves

He’s a wanted man…

ByTom Cunningham Sep 6, 2025

Manchester United continued their pre-season preparations for the 2025/26 campaign with a 2-1 win over Premier League rivals West Ham United in America on Saturday night.

Bruno Fernandes scored both of the team’s goals in a narrow win over the Hammers, scoring from the spot in the first half before delivering a fantastic finish in the second.

There was another outing for new signing Matheus Cunha, who played the opening 66 minutes of the game, but Bryan Mbeumo was not ready to don the shirt for the first time.

Whilst fans have had the chance to watch last season’s team, along with Cunha, ramp up their preparations to improve on last year’s dismal showing, there are a number of players who have not been part of the travelling party.

Ruben Amorim decided to leave several players at home for this tour and the Premier League summer series, as the club are looking to move on from them this summer.

One of the players in the ‘bomb squad’ is Brazilian forward Antony, who spent the second half of last season on loan with Real Betis in Spain.

Why Man Utd should sell Antony

It simply has not worked out for the left-footed dud in England and it appears to be the right time to allow him to move on from Old Trafford on a permanent basis, after a successful loan spell.

United reportedly agreed an £85m deal with Ajax to sign Antony in the summer of 2022 to bolster Erik ten Hag’s options at the top end of the pitch, but he has only mustered up 12 goals and five assists in 96 appearances for the club to date.

The 25-year-old star has not offered enough in the final third to suggest that he has much of a future in English football, rarely scoring or creating goals in his three years in Manchester so far, which is why it could be the right move to cash in on him this summer.

It could also be a smart time to cash in on the winger because he is fresh off the back of a successful loan spell with Real Betis, which shows that he does have the quality to make an impact in other leagues in Europe.

Appearances

17

9

xG

2.87

1.41

Goals

5

4

Big chances created

8

5

Key passes per game

2.2

1.1

Assists

2

3

As you can see in the table above, the former Ajax star caught the eye with nine goals and 13 ‘big chances’ created in 26 appearances for the Spanish side, which may help United to attract interest from other clubs this summer.

Whilst it remains to be seen where Antony will end up by the conclusion of the summer transfer window, there is an even bigger United flop closing in on a move away.

Man Utd flop agrees personal terms on exit

According to the print edition of Corriere dello Sport (26/07/2025), as relayed by Tutto Mercato Web, Jadon Sancho has agreed personal terms with Italian giants Juventus.

The report claims that the England international, who is not part of the club’s pre-season tour, has verbally agreed to a five-year contract with the Old Lady, which would see him earn around £5.2m-per-season.

Transfer Focus

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

It states that Sancho is aware that his race is run at Manchester United and he is willing to drop his wage demands from the £8.7m-per-season he is said to earn at Old Trafford in order to seal a move to Italy.

However, the sticking point is currently the transfer fee. United want a fee of around £22m for the former Borussia Dortmund star, whilst Juventus are currently offering up to £17m.

This is a move that appears to be heading in the right direction, though, given that he has already agreed personal terms, which means that flop could be closing in on an exit from Old Trafford.

Why Sancho is even worse than Antony

Cashing in on Sancho would be a great move for United because he has flopped in Manchester and is currently even worse than Antony as a wide option.

The English forward joined from Borussia Dortmund for a fee of £73m in the summer of 2021 and has scored 12 goals in all competitions for the Red Devils in the subsequent four years, which is as many as Antony has scored for the club in three years.

Sancho was not a part of Ten Hag’s plans at the start of last season and the Dutchman sent him out on loan to Chelsea for the 2025/26 campaign, but he struggled to offer consistent quality for the Blues.

Appearances

26

42

xG

4.28

2.60

Goals

9

5

Big chances created

13

11

Assists

5

8

Games per goal/assist

1.85

3.23

As you can see in the table above, Sancho only averaged a goal or an assist every 3.23 appearances in all competitions for Chelsea last term, as Antony outperformed him during his five-month spell with Real Betis.

These statistics show that the Brazilian winger was far more effective during his loan spell away from Old Trafford, as he scored more goals and created more ‘big chances’ in 16 fewer appearances.

As Jamie Redknapp said in the clip above, Sancho simply does not do enough in the final third to produce goals and assists to help his team win matches.

The 25-year-old flop has scored 12 goals in four years at United and only managed five goals in 42 games on loan at Chelsea, which backs up the pundit’s point about his lack of output at the top end of the pitch.

Another Cunha & Mbeumo: £100m "monster" now wants to join Man Utd

Manchester United could have the chance to bring in another ‘proven’ Premier League talent…

ByRobbie Walls Jul 26, 2025

Therefore, United should be delighted that Sancho has agreed personal terms with Juventus and is now closing in on an exit, with the finer details of the transfer fee just to be ironed out, because he is even worse than Antony, and possibly a bigger flop despite a smaller fee.

Wolverhampton Wanderers find themselves looking to build on a mixed campaign last term and are now in the picture to sign a highly-coveted striker, according to a report.

Wolverhampton Wanderers want to kick on after Jhon Arias arrival

Adding some much-needed flair after Matheus Cunha’s departure, Jhon Arias has joined Wolves from Fluminense and has explained that the success of his compatriots at Molineux helped to sell the idea of a move to the Premier League.

He stated: “It’s a project I believe in. They showed me the plans, and there are top players there – I don’t even need to mention André or João Gomes, who came from Flamengo.

“I believe in the squad and in the manager’s work. I know what they expect from me, and I’m ready to give 100%.”

Vitor Pereira has been a breath of fresh air since arriving in the West Midlands, though more reinforcements are needed to ensure the Old Gold can evade being dragged into a relegation scrap.

With that in mind, Almeria full-back Marc Pubill was picked to replace Wolves defender Nelson Semedo, with the latter set to depart to bring an end to a protracted goodbye for the Portugal international. However, the Spaniard has instead joined Atletico Madrid.

Aston Villa now racing Wolves to sign "quality" £40m Ligue 1 goalscorer

Aston Villa are among several Premier League teams interested…

ByBrett Worthington Jul 23, 2025

Not to be deterred, Real Betis winger Pablo Garcia could also come in at Molineux after a bid was submitted for his signature, albeit they are competing with Real Madrid and Barcelona to sign the 19-year-old.

Either way, there is plenty of movement on incomings starting to occur at Wolves, which will please supporters after a slow start to the window.

Now, the Old Gold have turned their attention towards strengthening their forward line despite signing Jorgen Strand Larsen on a permanent deal.

Wolverhampton Wanderers fighting to sign Idrissa Gueye

According to L’Equipe, Wolves are one of a number of clubs in the mix for FC Metz striker Idrissa Gueye, who could be set to exit France only months after joining the Ligue 2 club from Génération Foot.

Intriguingly, up to ten clubs are keen on signing the 18-year-old. Manchester United, Borussia Dortmund, West Ham United and Southampton are also among his admirers.

Idrissa Gueye at FC Metz – 2024/25 in all competitions

Appearances

20

Goals

5

Assists

1

Metz are keen to recoup a hefty fee of around £17 million for the teenager. Nevertheless, they will listen to offers that near the £13 million mark for the young striker.

Previously, Gueye has been likened to Olivier Giroud by his club’s director of football Frederic Arpinon. At the same time, comparisons to compatriot Sadio Mane have also come to the fore as his rise continues.

Admittedly, the Mbour-born man is likely to be a signing with the future in mind, but there is no harm in Wolves adding another layer of variety to their frontline ahead of another exciting season for all involved at Molineux.

Manchester United desperately needed to hit the rebuild button this summer after a catastrophic 2024/25 season.

Indeed, the stale Red Devils slumped to a horrendous 15th place in the Premier League come the end of the 38-game slog, on top of also failing to secure a last-minute spot in Europe by coming up short in the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur.

Therefore, this summer does feel as if it’s make-or-break territory for Ruben Amorim in the constantly pressurised Red Devils hot-seat, with the Portuguese manager aiming to not sink under all the strain by landing some top talents to help his underperforming team push on next season.

Man Utd in talks to land £51m midfielder

Matheus Cunha has already joined the building, with Bryan Mbeumo looking likely to be the next high-profile capture.

Cunha’s capture certainly caught the eye, but Mbeumo would no doubt be the biggest statement here, considering he scored 20 goals last season for Brentford.

Yet, as far as rumours go, another excellent addition might soon be entering the developing United camp in the midfield areas.

Indeed, according to reports in Italy, United and Atalanta are currently locked in negotiations over the Red Devils landing Ederson from the Serie A titans.

It’s stated that Amorim and Co. were interested in the energetic Brazilian last summer when offering up a fee around £42m, but Atalanta were looking for an offer nearer to the £51m region to consider parting ways.

Now, they could make this move a reality as talks continue, with it also being rumoured earlier in the hectic transfer window that Liverpool were intrigued by the possibility of landing the 25-year-old to bolster their own midfield department.

The Premier League strugglers aren’t blessed with depth in the middle of the park either, with both Christian Eriksen and Casemiro 33 years of age, meaning a new, fresh addition centrally would definitely boost Amorim’s side, away from just the high-profile addition of Cunha.

How Ederson can be United's new McTominay

Sealing a move for Ederson could mean United can finally get over the sad exit of Scott McTominay, with the lively South American a similar style of performer to the departed Scotsman, having also set Serie A alight with many standout performances.

Transfer Focus

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

Nobody would have anticipated the sharp rise McTominay would undergo when swapping his boyhood club for Antonio Conte’s Napoli last summer.

Indeed, just a season into his stay in Naples, the 61-time Scotland international steered Conte’s men to a triumphant Serie A title success.

He scored a sublime 12 goals and posted six assists in league action. Amazingly, he had only amassed seven more goals than this stunning amount when regularly plying his trade in the Premier League, even from a far greater tally of 178 clashes.

Ederson didn’t quite have a similarly impactful season for The Black and Blues, but he has shown over three seasons now in Bergamo a hunger to be involved in all phases of play, just like McTominay.

From 139 games and counting in the heart of the Atalanta midfield, the £51m “machine” – as he’s been labelled in the past by journalist Carlo Garganese – has collected 13 goals and four assists, with his relentless desire to get stuck in for his team’s cause also baring clear similarities to the ex-United academy product.

Games played

37

Goals scored

4

Assists

1

Touches*

65.9

Accurate passes*

45.5 (87%)

Key passes*

1.1

Big chances created

6

Ball recoveries*

5.0

Total duels won*

4.9

Glancing at the table above, Ederson actually beats McTominay when it comes to accurate passes per league clash in Serie A at 45.5 per clash compared to the Scotsman’s lesser 22.7, before you even begin to consider the Brazilian’s aggressiveness means he trumps McTominay’s ball recovery numbers too at five per match, next to his counterpart’s lower 4.2

Further heralded as “strong” by football journalist Tim Vickery in what he can offer in the midfield spots, this feels like it could be a golden capture on United’s end as they hunt down a similar star to McTominay.

United will have to hit the ground running next season to silence their loud naysayers, and with Ederson’s potential arrival onto the scene, Amorim’s options continue to look stronger and stronger all across the pitch.

Man Utd now negotiating "complex" big-money transfer to sell £200k-p/w star

He wants to leave.

ByTom Cunningham Jun 28, 2025

It will be fascinating to see the future of Marcus Rashford this summer, but it does not seem like he will return to Aston Villa.

The Manchester United forward enjoyed a successful loan spell at Villa Park in the second half of last season, but a return to the club on a permanent deal seems unlikely.

In mid-May, BBC Sport reported that the winger thinks his boyhood club ‘would be prepared to sell him for £40m to anyone this summer’. Reading between the lines, you certainly get the impression that a permanent deal at Villa Park is off the table for Rashford.

If he does end up going elsewhere, the Villans will need a replacement for the electric England international.

Aston Villa eyeing up Rashford alternative

Replacing a player with the impact and star quality of Rashford will not be easy for Monchi and Co this summer, especially with potential PSR restrictions looming over them.

Transfer Focus

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

However, it seems as though manager Unai Emery has identified his ideal target.

According to a report from journalist Graeme Bailey, the West Midlands club are ‘keeping very close tabs’ on Barcelona attacker Ferran Torres.

He is a player who ‘has been on the radar of several Premier League clubs’ since leaving Manchester City, with ‘Villa seriously interested’ in adding him to their squad.

This is a move driven by manager Emery. It appears that the Villa boss would ‘absolutely love’ for his side to sign the Spain international this summer.

As for a fee, it was reported by a Spanish news outlet in May that he could cost around the £42m mark for any potential transfer to happen.

How Ferran Torres compares to Rashford

If Torres were to make the move to Villa Park this summer, he would add instant quality to their attack and bring Premier League experience, too. Of course, since leaving Man City, he has represented Barcelona, where, last season, he impressed.

Breaking into a Barca front three that contains Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, and, of course, Lamine Yamal, is not easy. Yet, Torres still showed his quality last season, with 19 goals and seven assists in 45 appearances.

In La Liga, he played 27 times, scoring ten times and grabbing six assists. However, perhaps the most notable game of the 2024/25 season from the Spaniard came against his former side, Valencia, in the Copa del Rey. Torres scored a hat-trick in a 5-0 rout at the Estadio Mestalla.

It certainly would not be easy to step in for Rashford if the Spaniard moved to Villa. The 27-year-old only played 17 games for the club, but had an incredible impact in such a short amount of time.

The boyhood Man United star played 940 minutes, the equivalent of 10.4 full 90-minute games. He scored four goals and registered six assists in that time, leaving him with a goal-to-game ratio of 0.96.

Stepping into Rashford’s boots will certainly be a challenge for Torres. However, he already had a taste of the Premier League with Man City. In 28 English top-flight games, he scored nine goals and grabbed three assists.

Many Villa fans will surely be hoping the Spain international is essentially the second coming of Rashford, and the stats on FBref are there to back that up. The pair are statistically similar to each other over the past 365 days.

There are some noticeable stats which best showcase the similarities between the pair. For example, Torres last season averaged 3.09 shot-creating actions each game compared to Rashford’s 3.55 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes.

Goals per shot on target

0.45

0.36

Key passes

1.54

1.77

Progressive passes

2.85

2.15

Shot-creating actions

3.09

3.55

Goal-creating actions

0.57

0.25

Take-ons completed

0.89

1.14

Stats like that show just how involved in the attack Torres is, which can certainly be said for Rashford, too. In that sense, and the fact that he maintains a similar creative output to the Englishman, suggests he would be a fantastic replacement. He is, as football scout Antonio Mango said, a “special” player.

For around £42m, Torres could be a bargain for the Villa Park side. He is, in many ways, the second coming of Rashford, and should seamlessly be able to step into his shoes. Emery wants to sign him, and the price is fair. This seems like a brilliant deal for Villa.

The next Rogers: Aston Villa pushing hard to sign "explosive" £30m star

Aston Villa could be about to win their next Morgan Rogers if they’re successful in their advances for this rising star.

1 ByKelan Sarson Jun 24, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur have enjoyed revelling in the triumph of lifting the Europa League and restoring their place among Europe’s elite next term, but Daniel Levy’s decision to fire Ange Postecoglou highlights the hunger to sustain an even loftier level of success over the coming years.

With Thomas Frank snatched from Brentford to lead from the dugout, Spurs are in a good position to challenge at the top end of the Premier League once more, though summer signings will be needed to inject fresh quality within a tired squad, whose success has papered over what was a most difficult year indeed.

Antoine Semenyo’s name has been bandied about, but there’s one man above all others who Tottenham’s new manager would like to welcome to the fold.

Spurs make contact for statement signing

Earlier this week, Sky Sports revealed that Tottenham have been growing in confidence that they could sign Bryan Mbeumo this summer after initial discussions, having made contact with Brentford, despite the player’s preference to join Man United.

This is because the Londoners have appointed Frank, who has led Mbeumo to such impressive individual heights over the past couple of years.

And now, as per transfer insider Graeme Bailey, the Lilywhites believe that Champions League football and the chance for the 25-year-old to stay in London could play into their favour.

Mbeumo won’t come cheap after his exceptional season, with the Bees looking to bank around £60m for the right-sided forward.

What Bryan Mbeumo would bring to Spurs

Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak and Erling Haaland. Perhaps the Premier League’s three finest goalscorers. They were the only players to outscore Mbeumo last season, with Ipswich Town writer Alex Osborn hailing him as “one of the best wingers in the league.”

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

Not only has Mbeumo dazzled in front of goal, but he’s performed well across underlying areas. As per Sofascore, the Cameroon international averaged 1.8 key passes, 1.4 dribbles, and 4.7 successful duels last term, underscoring a roundedness that most goalscorers don’t boast.

His prolific style surely makes him a better pick than Semenyo, who is a fantastic player but would cost Tottenham in excess of £50m and only scored 11 goals in the Premier League last year, also racking up six assists across his 37 appearances.

Make no mistake, Semenyo is a talented winger who would have a big effect on reorienting Tottenham’s domestic form and fluency, but can he compete with Mbeumo, who is objectively one of the classiest stars in front of goal?

The Bournemouth man ranked among the top 5% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the English top flight last year for shots taken, as per FBref, but only among the top 27% for goals scored per 90, with his efforts leading the data-driven site to draw up Mbeumo as one of his most comparable players.

If that is the case (and there are similarities: both players are physical and dynamic and potent across different positions), then surely the best track to go down would be to sign the more reliable and menacing player in front of goal.

Therefore, Mbeumo is surely the better pick to go for, especially when considering the kind of money that Bournemouth are looking to part with Semenyo.

Their next Werner: Spurs in battle to sign "special" £25m man for Frank

Spurs would be making a massive mistake signing this player.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 13, 2025

Arsenal are making serious moves in the summer transfer market and have already held numerous talks over targets, but Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta are now resigned to losing out on an “exciting” target with a deal agreed for him to join Man City.

Berta is already poised to seal deals for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi and Chelsea goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga, with Berta keen to reinforce Arsenal’s attack as well.

£67m player prioritising Arsenal move as agent holds meeting, it's not Sesko

He’s pretty keen on a move to north London.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 13, 2025

Arsenal have all the details of Zubimendi’s signing agreed, according to both David Ornstein and Fabrizio Romano, with AS also reporting this week that the delay in his arrival is a result of Sociedad wanting to finalise his exit as part of the next financial year, which commences in July.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

Kepa, meanwhile, is currently attempting to complete a £5 million move from Stamford Bridge to the Emirates Stadium, with the Spaniard looking set to come in as David Raya’s new understudy following Neto’s return to Bournemouth.

Following Zubimendi and Kepa, they are believed to be in the market for a new winger as well, with Real Madrid star Rodrygo standing out as a “dream” target for Arsenal, even if it is unlikely to materialise as things stand (Fabrizio Romano).

Obviously, Arsenal’s pursuit of a striker has dominated headlines over the last few weeks, and two names in Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko have stood out in particular.

Arsenal have held concrete talks over a deal for Sesko in recent weeks, with some reports in Portugal now claiming that an opening offer for Gyokeres has landed from north London as well (Record).

As per the BBC recently, Arsenal groundwork has been laid over moves for both Sesko and Gyokeres, so Berta could be testing the waters for either man right now ahead of deciding which one to fully prioritise.

Unfortunately for the club’s new transfer chief, he doesn’t have that same luxury when it comes to attacking midfield target Sverre Nypan, who’s now set to join City.

Arsenal in disbelief after missing out on Sverre Nypan deal

The Norwegian wonderkid has now sealed a switch to Eastlands, and will join City in a near-£13 million move from Rosenborg despite Arsenal’s serious interest.

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, speaking to The Boot Room, Arsenal chiefs are in disbelief they’ve missed out on signing Nypan, and were convinced they’d land him before news emerged of the 18-year-old’s pending switch to Manchester.

“It’s weird. Arsenal thought they got him,” said Bailey.

“It was actually Aston Villa who came on (strongest). Arsenal are a little bit shocked that City have ended up getting him. They (Arsenal) thought City were out of it and felt they had beaten him to him.”

Nypan has drawn comparisons to Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard whilst being hailed as an “extremely exciting” talent by Norwegian media.

The teenager bagged eight goals and 10 assists in all competitions during the 2024 season, piqueing interest from Arsenal, but the Rosenborg sensation has elected to link up with Pep Guardiola instead.

As PSG celebrated winning the Champions League on Saturday evening, Arsenal fans were longingly contemplating whether that would have been them had they signed a striker last summer or even over the winter.

The Gunners swept aside Real Madrid with absolute ease but came unstuck against the might of PSG, although they certainly were not disgraced in the semi-final stages.

That said, you’re not going to get very far if Mikel Merino is your striker in the semi-finals of a major European competition (sorry Mikel).

The Spaniard certainly did a good job as an emergency centre-forward, scoring six goals in 12 appearances in that position, but that cannot continue heading into 2025/26.

The latest on Arsenal's pursuit of a new striker

Andrea Berta came into this summer window needing to tick one box: sign a new striker.

Indeed, after the failed attempts of the last few windows, it’s an absolute necessity if the Gunners are going to challenge for major honours next term.

So, who are their options? Well, Benjamin Sesko appears to be the number one pick at the moment, with Fabrizio Romano revealing last week that initial talks have now started over a move to bring him to the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal looked at Sesko last summer but the Slovenian decided to sign a new contract with RB Leipzig but a year later he is now set to be on the move.

If a move falls through for a second successive summer, then Berta does have an alternative up his sleeve. That’s according to reports on the continent.

Transfer Focus

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

They suggest that while talks for Sesko have indeed started, there is no agreement on personal terms yet.

As a result, Arsenal’s ‘objective is to make progress on several fronts simultaneously’ so that they are not left empty-handed for another transfer window.

The alternative is Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres. The report notes that the Swedish striker has ‘already given his verbal agreement’ to join the north Londoners this summer.

While Sesko is expected to cost around £70m this summer according to Sky Sports, Gyokeres is likely to cost £67m.

How Sesko compares to Gyokeres

Alexander Isak is allegedly still Mikel Arteta’s dream target this summer but with Newcastle United having secured Champions League qualification, attaining the Swede’s signature is nigh on impossible.

As a result, their striker chase likely boils down to both Sesko and Gyokeres now, but who would be the better signing?

Well, if the club are looking for more of a project striker then the Leipzig star would be their man. Indeed, by signing Sesko, the Gunners would be gambling on his potential but he certainly has all of the raw ingredients to be a huge success in the future.

Here, they must take influence from Newcastle’s pursuit of Isak, or to use a more recent reference point, PSG’s transfer strategy. Buy the player before they’re a superstar, much in the way the Parisians have done with players like Desire Doue, Vitinha and Bradley Barcola. Now, they are three of the very best players in the world.

Here’s what Arsenal could achieve with Sesko’s signing. He’s not a plug-and-play forward just yet, scoring 21 times this term, but he ticks a lot of boxes.

Described as the “new Erling Haaland” by scout Jacek Kulig, he’s got pace, he’s got an incredibly powerful shot, he can find the net, and standing at 6 foot 5, he’s got a ridiculous leap on him. There is so much to like about the 22-year-old.

Goals

13

39

Expected Goals (xG)

9.89

30.95

Big chances missed

10

23

Assists

5

10

Successful dribbles *

1.2

1.8

Ground duels won *

2.0

4.4

Aerial duels won *

2.1

1.1

Gyokeres, on the other hand, is certainly the win-now option. He’s the most lethal centre-forward in Europe, scoring a mind-boggling 54 goals in 52 games this season. At the age of 26, he’s reaching his prime and he knows his game inside out.

Considering Arsenal need a goalscorer, they’d be silly to turn down someone of his calibre in front of goal. Described as a “ball-striking monster” by data analyst Ben Mattinson, there simply isn’t a better option on the market right now if you’re looking for out-and-out goals.

For those who doubt the quality of opposition in the Portuguese top-flight, he also scored six in eight Champions League ties, which included a hat-trick against Manchester City.

It could be vital as well that he’s already got experience of English football. He came through the ranks at Brighton and then dazzled at Coventry City, netting 22 times in 50 outings during his final campaign in the Midlands.

Since then, he’s only gone from strength to strength. No player has scored more than Gyokeres in the top ten leagues worldwide this calendar year.

On that evidence, he’d be a seriously exciting signing. Whether he’d be better than Sesko, however, we may never know.

Arteta's £45m star will be totally finished at Arsenal if Sesko signs

Arsenal are planning to sign a new centre-forward in the transfer market this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 1, 2025

Manchester United will want to improve all areas of the pitch during the summer transfer window, needing to right the wrongs of the 2024/25 campaign, which was certainly one to forget.

The Red Devils lost in the Europa League final and also finished 15th in the Premier League, with no European football present at Old Trafford next season.

Such a failure will certainly have an impact on finances at the club, restricting any funds that boss Ruben Amorim may have had at his disposal had they claimed victory over Tottenham Hotspur.

However, it could be a blessing in disguise, handing the manager the opportunity to work closely with his players and mount a serious charge for the Premier League’s top four in 2025/26.

Regardless of the terrible form, the hierarchy look set to give Amorim the benefit of the doubt and hand him funds to change their fortunes, with numerous players already on the manager’s radar.

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

Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo and Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap have been on United’s radar in recent days, with the hierarchy holding talks with the Cameroon international over a switch to Old Trafford this summer.

The club have been quoted a fee in the region of £50m for the 25-year-old star, who’s managed to score 20 goals in the Premier League this season, but could face competition from Newcastle United for his signature.

However, the other end of the pitch is also in need of investment, with Burnley shot-stopper James Trafford emerging as a summer target, according to GIVEMESPORT.

The report claims that the club are exploring potential reinforcements to bolster the ranks, with the future of Andre Onana at United uncertain given his recent showings.

It also states that it’s unknown how much Scott Parker’s side will demand for the signature of the 22-year-old, who kept a staggering 29 clean sheets in the Championship last season, but prior reports this year suggest it may be around £30m.

Why Trafford could be the next Sancho

Winger Jadon Sancho joined United in a £73m deal from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2021, but it’s safe to say his time at Old Trafford has been a disaster.

The Englishman has made 83 appearances for the club, scoring just 12 goals and being sent on various loan spells – including back to the side which the Red Devils landed him from.

The 25-year-old is currently on loan at fellow Premier League side Chelsea, but could well be back in Amorim’s side ahead of next season if the Blues trigger his £5m cancellation fee after originally joining with an obligation to join permanently.

He’s only scored four times in his 40 appearances across all competitions in West London, with the club undoubtedly set to lose a small fortune on their investment in the near future.

However, the club could land a repeat of Sancho in a summer move for Trafford, with the goalkeeper following a similar path in his career to the winger over recent years.

The pair both came through Manchester City’s academy, before moving elsewhere to make their name and potentially costing the Red Devils a small fortune in the process.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the shot-stopper would set the hierarchy back this summer, it’s one they should look to avoid with better options available in the market.

Games played

28

38

Goals conceded

62

58

Save percentage

65%

75%

Saves made

3.7

3.9

Clean sheets

2

9

Clean sheet percentage

7%

23%

Pass accuracy

65%

73%

Trafford, who’s been labelled “world-class” by current boss Parker, was unable to better current ‘keeper Onana in numerous key areas during his last stint in the Premier League, even dropping to number two in the pecking order as a result.

Whilst there’s no denying that a new goalkeeper needs to be on the agenda this summer, Amorim and the board should be exploring other options, with a more experienced head needed between the sticks.

Given the similarities between him and Sancho’s career path, it’s another reason as to why they should steer clear – needing to find value for money elsewhere given the financial constraints.

He's like Viktor Gyokeres: Man Utd expect to sign £30m star after Cunha

Manchester United could follow Matheus Cunha by signing Ruben Amorim’s new Viktor Gyokeres.

1 ByDan Emery May 27, 2025

Why don’t we park the negativity for a moment: Liverpool have won the Premier League in Arne Slot’s season, and with plenty of time to spare at that.

You may have seen on social media that Slot is partying out in Ibiza, while Virgil van Dijk has taken the lads off to Dubai for a mini-break to celebrate Trent Alexander-Arnold before his contentious move to Real Madrid as a free agent.

This is amusing to watch, not least because the Reds still have to play Brighton & Hove Albion at the AMEX on Sunday before the culminating game of the campaign against Crystal Palace at Anfield in two weeks. But it highlights the club’s staggering success this year, so dominant throughout.

To think that FSG’s new iteration achieved league gold with only Federico Chiesa added to the first-team squad. Signings are needed now, and no mistake, with sporting director Richard Hughes acting swiftly to seal a deal for Jeremie Frimpong, Liverpool’s right-back-in-waiting.

Why Liverpool are signing Jeremie Frimpong

Frimpong has scored 30 goals and supplied 44 assists across 190 matches for Bayer Leverkusen. The 24-year-old is rapid, physically robust and dynamic, and if Liverpool’s data-driven team are convinced, fans should be too.

According to Fabrizio Romano, advanced discussions are underway, with details pertaining to the structure of the €35m (about £30m) release clause being ironed out.

Frimpong differs greatly from Alexander-Arnold but he will add an attacking dimension to Liverpool’s backline, ranking among the top 6% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues this term for goal contributions and the top 2% for progressive carries per 90, as per FBref.

24/25

48

5

12

23/24

47

14

12

22/23

48

9

11

21/22

34

2

8

20/21

13

0

1

The Netherlands star will be a great addition, one who will tussle with Conor Bradley for that number one spot. However, Liverpool are planning surgery across three quarters of the backline, and there’s an even better deal currently in the works.

Liverpool lead race for new defender

While Milos Kerkez remains the top target at left-back, it’s unlikely Liverpool will advance their intrigue, given Bournemouth still have it all to play for in the Premier League.

Transfer Focus

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

Dean Huijsen also plays for the Cherries, but the young centre-back is being pursued by almost every top team worth their salt, with a £50m release clause that demands a decision on his future in the coming weeks.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Liverpool are ready to lodge an official bid for Huijsen to trigger that clause, though Real Madrid are interested too and it’s felt the young star would be interested in moving to the Spanish capital.

Of course, Liverpool are an interesting destination themselves. According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, not only is a decision is forthcoming, but Liverpool are alongside Arsenal in leading the race.

A decision will indeed be made soon, and FSG must surely be ready to seal the deal with a first major central defensive signing since Ibrahima Konate arrived from RB Leipzig for £36m in May 2021.

Why Dean Huijsen would be Slot's perfect signing

Romano’s revelation suggests a conclusion to this saga will be found soon, and FSG must ensure they are doing all they can to complete Slot’s backline with the young star.

Huijsen really is “the most in-demand centre-back in the world,” as has been noted by analyst Ben Mattinson. At the moment, the race is absolutely open, and Liverpool can only do all they can to convince the Spain international that Anfield presents the best step forward in his career.

Joining Bournemouth from Juventus in a deal worth £15m last summer, Huijsen has established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout young stars, playing every minute of his side’s past 23 fixtures.

Would it be fair to say he’d be a better signing than Frimpong for Slot’s trophy-winning Reds? In fairness, Huijsen is regarded as the “ultimate modern-day centre-back” by Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp, and he’s got the statistics to back it up.

As per Sofascore, the 20-year-old has averaged almost three tackles and interceptions per game this term, winning 61% of his aerial battles and keeping seven clean sheets for Andoni Iraola’s side. It’s hardly surprising he’s been named a “world-class” star in the making by one analyst.

Honestly, there’s no question really that he’d be a better signing than Frimpong, not least having proven himself in the Premier League, while bearing all the traits needed to become a superstar in Slot’s Liverpool set-up. Who knows, given his left-footed inclination, maybe Huijsen could even succeed Van Dijk on the left side.

As per FBref, Huijsen ranks among the top 7% of defenders in the Premier League this season for goal involvements, the top 7% for shot-creating actions, the top 13% for progressive passes and the top 9% for progressive carries per 90, effectively illustrating a technical aptitude and athletic ability that marry into his core defensive quality.

Given the uncertainty around Ibrahima Konate, who has been confirmed to have seen contract talks stagnate with just one year remaining on his current deal, Liverpool must surely accelerate their plans to sign Huijsen, insofar as such efforts will hold any sway. Of course, they can canvass a proposal for the ages, one which promises a standout role in a standout team.

We’d love to watch Huijsen spray balls out into the path of an electric-bursting Frimpong next season, but there’s no question the Spanish man is the one that FSG should go for, should they need to prioritise.

A Salah-esque signing: Liverpool agree personal terms with "insane" target

Liverpool are ready to begin their summer shopping spree.

ByAngus Sinclair May 13, 2025