All posts by h716a5.icu

After a slow start to the summer transfer window for Arsenal, they look as though they’re closing in on sealing two signings.

Kepa Arrizabalaga’s move from Chelsea to the Emirates Stadium won’t exactly be met with much fanfare considering he’s there to play second fiddle to David Raya, but it’s an important move nonetheless.

At just £5m, the Gunners have found a replacement for Neto and due to the price, it frees up money to spend elsewhere, hopefully on a wealth of attacking reinforcements.

The other arrival will see another Spaniard in the form of Martin Zubimendi head to North London. At just over £50m, that move is certainly a more exciting ones but he’s not the only midfielder who could arrive.

Arsenal looking to sign another midfielder after Zubimendi

Last summer, it looked as though Zubimendi was going to head to Liverpool. Sadly for the Anfield side, he did not. Whether or not he regrets that decision based on Arne Slot’s title success is unknown.

Transfer Focus

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

Well, a year on, he will now finally head to England, but it won’t be the red of Liverpool he’ll be donning. Instead, it’s the red of Arsenal.

The Gunners first made their move to sign the Spain international last January when they signalled their intentions to trigger his £51m release clause at Real Sociedad. Since then, an agreement has been tied up that will see the club spend a tiny bit more than that exit clause so they can pay it in instalments.

Zubimendi was reportedly in London over the weekend to wrap up the formalities of his move.

Yet, he could well be joined in the middle of the park next season by Brentford’s Christian Norgaard. That’s according to a number of sources, notably the Athletic’s David Ornstein.

He reported on Wednesday afternoon that Arsenal are “exploring” a deal to sign the Dane and have lodged their first offer, believed to be around €11m (£9m).

Fabrizio Romano furthered those claims by revealing on social media that the 31-year-old “wants to join Arsenal” this summer, so much so that personal terms have already been agreed between player and club.

Since then, BBC Sports’ Sami Mokbel has revealed that an agreement could be reached at £15m, including add-ons. A move appears to be advancing quickly, with Ornstein later reporting on Wednesday evening that the Gunners are now in the process of ‘finalising’ a deal to sign the player. A medical is also in the process of being planned.

Why Norgaard would be a good signing for Arsenal

With Jorginho having left the Emirates on a free transfer, heading to Flamengo, and Thomas Partey increasingly unlikely to sign a new deal, Arsenal need two midfielders.

Zubimendi ticks one box and in the form of Norgaard, although this would be a surprising move, it certainly makes a lot of sense.

Like Kepa, Arsenal would not be spending a bucket load on improving the squad and thus, would be leaving room to spend where it really matters this summer; on a new striker.

So, what could Norgaard offer to Mikel Arteta’s midfield? Well, like the departing Jorginho and Partey, he’s got a wealth of experience and, pivotally, he’s played in England for a long time now.

He signed for Brentford back in 2019 and has since gone on to feature 196 times for the Bees, playing 122 times in the Premier League.

34 of those top-flight outings came in 2024/25 where he scored five goals and also supplied four assists.

A holding midfielder who also chips in with goals and assists, there is reason to believe that Arteta could be signing a more experienced version of Declan Rice here.

Arsenal podcaster, Alex Moneypenny, who has appeared on Sky Sports and BBC Sport, outlines the Dane’s qualities perfectly. He’s a “search and destroyer”, a midfielder who specialises in “progressive passing”.

That’s backed up by the numbers with Norgaard ranking among the best holding midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues for progressive passing distance. In fact, he ranks almost identically to Zubimendi in this category.

The ability to turn the ball over from deep or in more advanced areas certainly makes him like Rice, as does the ability to progress play. Captain of Brentford too, he’s got the natural leadership skills that Arsenal’s record signing boasts.

But, what do the statistics say?

Goals

0.16

0.13

Assists

0.13

0.22

Goal-creating actions

0.42

0.32

Pass success rate

82%

83%

Progressive passes

4.92

6.11

Passes into final 3rd

4.38

4.36

Tackles

2.52

1.69

Succesful take-ons

0.22

0.42

With the benefit of playing further forward and taking set-pieces, Rice does better Brentford’s captain for assists and successful take-ons. It’s in the passing department where they are most alike.

They complete a similar percentage of their passes per 90 minutes and there’s not a huge difference between the number of those passes that are progressive in nature.

So, while a move of this nature is hardly going to blow supporters away, he’d be a steady pair of hands just like Jorginho was. If he hits the ground running like Rice did too, fans will soon take to the Bees star.

Better than Williams: Arsenal open talks to sign ex-Spurs player for £50m

The dynamic winger could provide Arsenal with another avenue of attack next season.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 24, 2025

Newcastle United rode into the summer transfer window on the crest of a wave, having finished the 2024/25 campaign as Carabao Cup champions, also sealing their place back in the Champions League after finishing fifth in the Premier League.

All told, Eddie Howe will be a happy man after his side’s success, but the onus is now on improving across the next few months ahead of the fresh term, when expectations will be heightened.

Efforts have certainly been made at this early stage to go from strength to strength. As per The Telegraph, the Magpies have singled out England centre-back Marc Guehi and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, although the latter has reportedly chosen he wants to join Manchester United.

A right-sided forward is still at the top of the agenda, and Newcastle might just have identified the perfect man for the job.

Newcastle open talks for new right winger

No, it’s not Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga, although the 23-year-old is admired by senior Newcastle officials.

Transfer Focus

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

Instead, the man of the moment could be West Ham United’s Mohammed Kudus, with The Athletic revealing talks have been held among senior Magpies officials to ascertain the potential of a summer signing.

Kudus has an £84m release clause in his Hammers contract and is expected to leave east London this summer.

After a difficult campaign, however, it’s thought Graham Potter’s side would be open to a more agreeable £65m fee.

Why Newcastle should sign Kudus

Kudus only scored five times in the Premier League last season, also assisting three goals, but he hit four goal contributions across his final eight appearances, and presents one of the most menacing profiles out there.

Though Elanga, Newcastle’s other top wide target, chalked up six goals and 11 assists across the league campaign, Kudus may yet hit a new level of prolific progress, which would see him soar away from the Tricky Trees star’s capacity.

Despite his struggles, the Ghana international has still maintained his ball-carrying quality across the past year, with Manchester City’s Jeremy Doku the only man to produce a greater regularity of successful dribbles.

This metric is further underscored by data-driven site FBref, who recorded that Kudus ranked among the top 6% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues last season for pass completion, and the top 3% for successful take-ons per 90.

And you’d think that Howe could restore Kudus’ finest level. When comparing his 2023/24 campaign, under David Moyes’ wing, against Elanga’s at Forest over the past year, it becomes a little clearer that Kudus’ ceiling stretches higher.

Matches (starts)

33 (27)

38 (31)

Goals

8

6

Assists

6

11

Shots (on target)*

2.0 (0.5)

1.2 (0.6)

Pass completion

84%

78%

Big chances created

5

9

Key passes*

0.8

1.3

Dribbles*

3.8

0.7

Ball recoveries*

6.4

2.3

Tackles*

2.0

0.5

Duels won*

8.5

3.0

Given that Forest would be looking to bank in excess of £50m for the sale of Elanga, it might be more worthwhile to invest in a star such as Kudus, who, when at his rip-roaring best, has been regarded as a “generational talent” by those such as journalist Gary Al-Smith.

The dream XI Newcastle can build: No Gordon; Joao Pedro & £120m trio sign

Newcastle are looking to make sweeping changes as they step back into the Champions League.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 10, 2025

Manchester United have held talks over a swap deal to sign a “generational” Premier League forward, with Jadon Sancho potentially being sent in the opposite direction, according to a report.

Sancho's future remains up in the air

Last week, it was revealed that Sancho was in discussions over a permanent move to Chelsea, having put in some improved performances towards the back end of the campaign, most notably scoring in the UEFA Conference League final.

Fabrizio Romano has since revealed the winger will not be making a move to west London, meaning the Blues had to pay Man United a £5m penalty clause. However, that does not mean he will remain at Old Trafford beyond the summer.

With Sancho’s future very much up in the air, the Red Devils are now exploring different ways to get him off the books, and secret talks have even been held over a swap deal for West Ham United winger Mohammed Kudus.

That is according to a report from United in Focus, which reveals Kudus was ready to make the move to Old Trafford, with his West Ham career coming to an end, but the deal currently remains on hold.

That is because the Ghanaian is not Ruben Amorim’s number one priority, having set out to sign Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo, who recently made it clear he wants to join United this summer, despite interest from Arsenal.

As such, while the West Ham star is expected to move on this summer, he may not join the Red Devils, with the move further complicated by the fact Graham Potter’s side are reluctant to sign Sancho.

Deal for "generational" Kudus could break the bank

Mbeumo appears to be United’s priority target, but should they switch their focus to the 24-year-old, a deal could be on the expensive side, as the forward has a £75m release clause in his contract with the Irons.

As such, it does not seem likely that Amorim’s side will sign the Ghana international this summer, with West Ham uninterested in Sancho, but he could be a fantastic signing if they do manage to facilitate a deal.

Man Utd circling to sign emerging £25m attacker in hugely controversial deal

United are in the race for an “incredible” player, who appears to be heading for the exit door…

ByDominic Lund Jun 3, 2025

The Accra-born attacker has been described as a “generational talent” by journalist Gary Al-Smith, and he has impressed in the Premier League in the past, picking up eight goals and nine assists in the 2023-24 campaign.

That said, Mbeumo has been far more prolific than Kudus in recent times, reaching the 20-goal mark this season, so it is clear to see why the Cameroonian is the preferred option for Man United.

Birmingham City fans won’t want to get too carried away, but there is a feeling in the air at St. Andrew’s that the Blues could really shake up proceedings on their re-entry to the Championship.

After all, last season proved that Chris Davies’ men were just too big of a fish for the small League One pond, amassing a ridiculous 111 points.

Therefore, the hope will be that the reigning League One champions jump back up to the second-tier with a fearlessness present, which could well result in a back-to-back promotion story taking place.

Of course, the initial aim will just be to return and consolidate, but new signings aplenty would certainly boost their wildest dreams, with an exciting midfield talent now on their radar.

Birmingham battling to sign £2m star

As per a report from Football Insider, Birmingham are set to battle it out for the services of Reading star Charlie Savage this summer.

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 names Wrexham, Blackburn Rovers, and Portsmouth as keen onlookers also eyeing up the two-time Wales senior international alongside Davies’ side, with the Royals valuing Savage at around the £2m mark amidst this frenzied interest.

This would be a gutting loss for Reading, with the ex-Manchester United academy prodigy really coming into his own in League One.

But, the prospect of a Championship move will surely turn Savage’s head, with Birmingham perhaps winning their next Jordan James in the process if the 22-year-old decides to call St. Andrew’s his new home shortly.

How Savage possesses shades of James

Birmingham would love to uncover their next version of James in Savage, considering the current Reading midfielder’s fellow compatriot would up and leave the Blues prematurely after just three seasons in the senior game with his boyhood employers.

He would shine with ten goals and two assists coming his way from 105 games to warrant a move away, and whilst Birmingham have responded to the setback of James leaving terrifically with the captures of Tomoki Iwata and Seung Ho-Paik in the middle of the park, Savage could well be the 20-year-old’s amazing second coming all the same.

Indeed, the Royals’ number eight has shown across his stay in Berkshire to date that he can hammer home a stunning effort much like James in his Blues prime, with Savage now up to 12 goals and 15 assists from 96 total games for Reading.

Described as an “exceptional” player by youth coach Matthew Jones, he also possesses a similar bite and energy strutting his stuff in League One, weighed up next to James’ swansong Championship season with Birmingham.

The numbers below tell the story perfectly.

Games played

45

40

Goals scored

5

8

Assists

9

0

Touches*

47.8

27.8

Accurate passes*

27.0 (80%)

14.0 (77%)

Key passes*

1.3

0.5

Big chances missed

2

2

Big chances created

5

3

Ball recoveries*

3.7

2.6

He could even go on to be better than James when making the step-up, with Savage trumping his Rennes counterpart in almost every aspect of their midfield games, albeit when he was performing at a level below the 20-year-old.

It could well be deemed a risk on Davies and Co’s end to fork out £2m for Savage, therefore, with the ex-Red Devils starlet yet to experience life in the Championship across his emergent career.

But, James was once in this boat himself and excelled with flying colours, with a hope that Savage flourishes in a similar vein at St. Andrew’s if he joins the ambitious club.

Birmingham could make "outstanding" signing who'd be even better than Poku

Birmingham City can land a better attacking signing than chasing after Kwame Poku by securing this star.

ByKelan Sarson Jun 3, 2025

Already seemingly closing in on Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz, Liverpool have now reportedly opened talks to sign another Bundesliga star and one that would instantly solve their striker problem.

Frimpong travels to complete Liverpool move

With Trent Alexander-Arnold on his way to join Real Madrid as a free agent this summer, Liverpool have acted swiftly and are reportedly closing in on signing Jeremie Frimpong. The flying fullback has already travelled to complete his move to Anfield in what looks set to be the first of a number of fresh faces making their way to the home of the Premier League champions in the coming months.

Whilst Alexander-Arnold’s goodbye tears are still drying, the Reds have acted in rapid fashion to find his replacement. But they’re not done there. Reports have also revealed that Liverpool are in pole position to sign Frimpong’s Leverkusen teammate, Florian Wirtz.

It initially looked set to be a battle between Manchester City and Bayern Munich for the German’s signature, only for Liverpool’s call to push Wirtz towards rejecting other interested parties. Now, with their first offer submitted, it could just be a matter of time before those at Anfield land one of the earliest and likely one of the biggest deals of the summer transfer window.

Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has also confirmed Liverpool’s interest, recently telling reporters: “It’s currently an open subject with Florian. There is concrete interest from Liverpool, but there’s no more to say right now. Florian is our player.”

The Bundesliga seems to be where it’s at for Liverpool this summer too, amid rumours that they’re already lining up a move to sign what could be their third player of the summer from Germany’s top division.

Liverpool open talks to sign £84m Hugo Ekitike

According to Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg, Liverpool are also in talks to sign Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer and are serious contenders to sign the Frenchman alongside rivals Chelsea.

Michael Edwards and Arne Slot are fans of the forward but, like Wirtz, the deal won’t come cheap with Frankfurt looking to receive around €100m (£84m) to sell their star.

Mac Allister 2.0: Liverpool working on another amazing signing after Wirtz

Liverpool could be about to replicate a deal for Alexis Mac Allister durng the upcoming summer window.

ByEthan Lamb May 28, 2025

Liverpool’s interest should come as little surprise. Slot, despite securing the Premier League title at the first time of asking, lacked a natural No.9 all season, with Luiz Diaz often asked to play the role amid Darwin Nunez’s continued struggles. Now, with the latter likely to depart, the Reds could make their move to sign a replacement that analyst Sam McGuire dubbed a “shot monster”.

After ending the season with 22 goals to his name for Frankfurt, all signs are pointing towards a top European move for Ekitike this summer and a deserved one at that.

A “world-class” player has now announced he’s set to leave his club this summer, which follows reports that he’s held talks over a move to Tottenham.

Ange Postecoglou makes trophy claim ahead of Europa League final

Next week, Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou has a golden chance to make good on his early-season suggestion that he “always” wins silverware during his second season in charge.

Levy personally wants '40 goals a season' striker at Tottenham next season

The Spurs chairman is a particular fan.

ByEmilio Galantini May 15, 2025

This quote, while arguably taken out of context, was quickly picked up by the media and used to take aim at Postecoglou on more than one occasion. Following a season of record-breaking lows in the Premier League, where they’ve tasted defeat on 20 separate occasions, the Australian could now make that statement a reality.

The Lilywhites play Man United in a crunch Europa League final which could rescue their season. Spurs have an opportunity to both end their trophy drought and qualify for the Champions League in just 90 minutes of football, so the pressure is well and truly on Postecoglou’s squad.

Son Heung-min

7.05

Pedro Porro

6.98

James Maddison

6.98

Dominic Solanke

6.88

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Dejan Kulusevski, James Maddison and Lucas Bergvall are all set to miss their clash in Bilbao through injury, with Tottenham facing an uphill battle akin to the majority of their 2024/2025 campaign.

Postecoglou, though, appears determined to end Spurs’ long wait for a winners’ medal and isn’t lost on the significance of May 21.

“For me personally, well you know great, it’s another trophy I can reminisce in my old age about, but more importantly what it means for the club,” said Postecoglou on the Europa League final.

“I’ve always said it’s the significance of what it does to people that really impacts you. A lot of the success I’ve had has been stuff that’s pretty significant. It’s been at clubs where Yokohama hadn’t won a Championship for 14 years, Australia had never won a continental championship, Brisbane had never won one, South Melbourne – my first job – hadn’t won in seven years, Celtic had been one year but trust me that’s a long time in Scotland.

“When you look at the historical backdrop of this club and what it’s been through in the last 20-odd years, I feel like it could be a turning point in terms of the way the club is perceived, but also more how it perceives itself, which I think is the biggest thing.”

Jonathan David confirms Lille exit after rumoured talks with Tottenham

Off the field, chairman Daniel Levy appears set for a ‘sell to buy’ summer as things stand, meaning the free agent market could be very useful to him as Spurs look to reinforce the squad for next term.

One of 2025’s most coveted Bosman deals comes in the form of free-scoring Lille star Jonathan David.

The Canada international has bagged over a century of goals for Lille since joining them five years ago, with Tottenham among the clubs to have spoken to David’s representatives about a potential free transfer.

David, branded a “world-class” player by ex-Canada boss Iain Hume, is set to be a man in demand, and he’s now confirmed an imminent Ligue 1 departure.

Making a statement on social media, David announced that he’ll be leaving Lille when his contract expires on June 30.

“I wanted to tell you myself that after so many years at the club, it’s time to say goodbye,” said the striker, via LW.

“I’ve had five wonderful seasons here. I know that it hasn’t always been easy but I hope that with my goals and celebrations, that I’ve managed to bring you some joy. Notably the Ligue 1 title and the Trophee des Champions and I think that with these two trophies together, we have brought a lot of pleasure and joy.”

The 25-year-old is a big-game player as well as a prolific marksman in France. This season, David boasts Champions League strikes against the likes of Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid, Liverpool and Juventus, showcasing how he can cut it against Europe’s most elite opposition.

In truth, it is curious why he hasn’t sealed a move until now, and there’s no doubt he’d be a stellar capture for Spurs on a free.

Newcastle United are now showing strong interest in signing a Premier League player who Eddie Howe called “magnificent”, according to a report.

Magpies pushing for the Champions League

Newcastle are in a strong position to qualify for next season’s Champions League, while also ending their 70-year trophy drought by winning the EFL Cup earlier this season, which should make St. James’ Park an attractive destination for new signings this summer.

Howe’s side have performed very well, but the manager is looking to upgrade his squad in several areas this summer, including in midfield, having now joined the race for Manchester City’s James McAtee, who could be available for a fee of just £26m.

There is also a desire to strengthen in forward areas, with Ademola Lookman on the shortlist, while Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi could be brought in to bolster Howe’s centre-back options, having been keen on the Englishman for quite some time.

In-demand player would rather join Newcastle despite offer from Barcelona

The Magpies could land his signature…

1 BySean Markus Clifford May 4, 2025

Another area in which Newcastle could look to strengthen is between the sticks, with Nick Pope now arguably in the twilight years of his career at 33-years-old, and they have their eye on an option from within the Premier League.

That is according to a report from Caught Offside, which states Newcastle are showing strong interest in signing Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who is in line to leave the Saints after their relegation to the Championship.

Ramsdale will be able to leave for just £25m following his side’s relegation to the second tier, and the goalkeeper is eager to remain in the Premier League, with West Ham United believed to be leading the race for his signature.

Pope’s injury setbacks mean the Magpies are looking to bring in a goalkeeper capable of competing for a starting spot, and the Southampton shot-stopper fits the bill, although the requirement to abide by financial fair play rules could hinder their chances of getting a deal over the line.

Newcastle United’s final Premier League fixtures

Date

Chelsea (h)

May 11th

Arsenal (a)

May 18th

Everton (h)

May 25th

Ramsdale could be "magnificent" signing for Newcastle

The Saints have endured a torrid campaign in the Premier League, collecting just 11 points all season, but it is difficult to be too critical of their goalkeeper, given that he is ranked as the best-performing player in the squad.

Howe has also been left seriously impressed by the Englishman in the past, describing him as “magnificent” during their time working together at AFC Bournemouth.

Not only that, but the 26-year-old caught the eye during his time with Arsenal, with Mikel Arteta singling him out for praise after an impressive performance at Anfield, describing his goalkeeper as “fantastic”.

Pope has been a fantastic servant to Newcastle, but with the Englishman now in the latter stages of his career and out of contract in 2026, a long-term replacement could be required, and there are plenty of signs that Ramsdale may well be a solid option.

Everton now face a transfer battle with Bayer Leverkusen to sign an “impressive” £30 million+ defender, according to a recent report.

Everton are stepping up transfer plans for David Moyes

Given the Blues cannot be relegated from the Premier League, David Moyes and co are now slowly turning their attentions to the summer transfer window and next season, as Everton move into their new stadium.

Scout who told Everton to sign Isak says £30k-a-week target "happy" to join

This would cause a stir this summer.

ByHenry Jackson Apr 23, 2025

Moyes is keen for his side to strengthen their forward line during the summer and has identified Evan Ferguson as a top target. The Republic of Ireland international is currently on loan at West Ham from Brighton after falling down the pecking order with the Seagulls. Ferguson’s long-term future with Brighton is up in the air, and Moyes is looking to take advantage of this by luring him to Everton, where he thinks he can improve his game.

As well as looking at the top end of the pitch, Everton are also looking to improve their defensive options this summer. Jarrad Branthwaite’s future remains a hot topic of debate, and while the Toffees would like him to stay, they already have their eyes on potential replacements. Liverpool’s Jarell Quansah has been linked with a shock move to Everton, and former scout Bryan King now believes the defender would be “happy” to join the blue side of Liverpool.

Everton looking to beat Leverkusen and sign £30m+ star

Quansah is not the only defender on the Premier League side’s radar, as according to Tuttomercatoweb, relayed by Sport Witness, Everton are looking to sign David Hancko from Dutch side Feyenoord.

The report states that the Toffees are interested in signing the 27-year-old, as they would like to build their defence around him. However, Everton are not alone in their pursuit, as Juventus reportedly already have an agreement over personal terms with the player. While Atletico Madrid and Bayer Leverkusen are also keen on striking a deal for the experienced centre-back.

Everton hope they have an advantage in the race, as they and Leverkusen are willing to offer a straight cash deal for Hancko, who Feyenoord are looking to get around €40 million for, which is roughly £34 million. Hancko is predominantly a centre-back but can also play at left-back if needed, which is ideal for Moyes, as he looks for versatility in his defence.

Apps

27

Minutes played

2,430

Goals

3

Assists

1

Tackles won

23

Interceptions

22

The Toffees do already have plenty of options in their backline, but Michael Keane is on course to depart when his contract expires this summer.

James Tarkowski is not getting any younger, and as mentioned, Branthwaite continues to be linked with a move away, so a new centre-back could be very much needed this summer for Moyes, and if he wants Everton to get back into contention for Europe, then a rebuild of his backline may be what is needed, with Hancko, who has been dubbed “impressive” by Ben Mattinson, at the heart of it.

Tottenham Hotspur and chairman Daniel Levy are making transfer plans ahead of the looming summer window, with a report now suggesting Spurs have their eyes on a West Ham United star.

Tottenham's rumoured transfer plans amid Postecoglou uncertainty

The Telegraph’s Matt Law has already reported that the Lilywhites are facing a potentially difficult ‘sell to buy’ style window, so the club are carefully planning their targets amid the very uncertain future of manager Ange Postecoglou.

24-year-old confirms decision to leave Tottenham after talks with Spurs

They’ve reached an agreement to mutually part ways.

2 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 29, 2025

While Postecoglou faces the looming threat of being sacked by Spurs, regardless of their Europa League campaign (The Telegraph), the Lilywhites are running out of time to prepare for the special limited-edition first summer window of 2025, which will open from June 1st to June 10th.

West Ham (away)

May 3rd

Crystal Palace (home)

May 10th

Aston Villa (away)

May 18th

Brighton (home)

May 25th

This gives clubs like Man City and Chelsea an opportunity to sign players before the Club World Cup, but it could also hand Spurs an early opportunity to strengthen the squad, even if it famously isn’t Levy’s style to get deals done early.

Tottenham reportedly want to strengthen their squad across the board, and are one of the many Premier League sides eyeing a move for Bournemouth starlet Dean Huijsen, who is set to be in high demand thanks to his £50 million release clause (Sky Sports).

Spurs are also targeting Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Hugo Larsson, who would apparently be open to joining them (GiveMeSport), but Postecoglou’s side are also keen to bolster their attacking options.

Richarlison could well depart Spurs this summer, and the same can be said of Bryan Gil and Manor Solomon, who don’t appear to have long-term futures at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium after spending 2024/2025 out on loan elsewhere.

A permanent deal for Mathys Tel could still be on the cards, with there being confidence both Bayern and the north Londoners can come to an amicable agreement, but the Frenchman may not be their only forward signing.

Tottenham could now bid £51 million for West Ham forward Jarrod Bowen

According to a report from CaughtOffside, West Ham star Jarrod Bowen is of interest to Tottenham.

The England international has bagged nine goals and seven assists in the league this season, standing out for the Irons amid a disappointing campaign, and this has attracted admiring glances from across London.

It is now believed Tottenham could even bid £51 million to sign Bowen from West Ham, but according to other reports, this may not be anywhere near enough. Graham Potter’s side consider Bowen “untouchable”, as per Daily Express reporter Ryan Taylor, and West Ham valued their star man at around £100 million just last summer.

Signing him for half that price just one year later is a tall order for Levy, especially considering their fierce rivalry on the field. Called one of the Premier League’s most “underrated” stars of recent years, West Ham are fully aware of his value, and it would surely take a record-breaking bid from Spurs to even get them thinking.

Leeds United are back in action once again this evening as they prepare to travel to Oxford United in the Championship for the first of their two Easter matches.

The Whites play after Sheffield United face Cardiff City earlier in the day and this means that they could go eight points clear of third place with a win, if results go their way.

Daniel Farke has already shown that he is willing to make bold selection decisions ahead of big games, having already played a blinder by dropping Illan Meslier recently.

Why Illan Meslier was dropped by Leeds

The French dud was dropped by the German head coach after making two crucial mistakes in the 2-2 draw with Swansea at Elland Road at the end of last month, dropping a cross onto Harry Darling for the first goal and being beaten too easily for the second strike.

Meslier conceded 2.73 more goals than expected and made three errors that directly led to goals in the Championship before finally being taken out of the team in favour of Karl Darlow.

The English shot-stopper has prevented 0.56 xG in his three appearances since he came into the XI, without making a single error, and provided a solid presence between the sticks.

His ability to claim crosses and take danger out of situations has been appreciated by the fan base, as shown by the post from reporter Beren Cross above.

Farke could, now, repeat the trick he played by dropping Meslier by dropping another regular starter in Joel Piroe, whose performances have dipped of late.

Why Joel Piroe should be dropped

The Dutch centre-forward started the 2-1 win over Preston North End and came off the pitch without a goal or an assist to show for his efforts for the eighth game running.

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Piroe started all eight of those matches, returning zero goals and zero assists, and has only scored one goal in his last ten starts in the Championship for Leeds.

The left-footed forward was described as “anonymous” by reporter James Marshment in February, and that is one of the issues with his performances for the Whites because the striker does not offer enough in his general play without goals to go with it.

Appearances

42

xG

15.06

Goals

15

Key passes per game

0.8

Pass accuracy

77%

Ground duel success rate

33%

Aerial duel success rate

18%

Dribble success rate

31%

As you can see in the table above, Piroe is regularly dominated by Championship defenders in duels on the ground and in the air, whilst he does not excel as a passer, creator, or dribbler in possession.

This means that the former Swansea City attacker has been a lightweight in the Whites starting XI in the past eight matches as a starter, because of his poor all-round displays as well as his lack of impact in the final third.

Therefore, Farke could repeat his Meslier trick by ruthlessly ditching Piroe from the team to unleash Patrick Bamford, who recently came off the bench to win six of his nine duels against Middlesbrough.

The English number nine could provide more physicality at the top end of the pitch, as the Dutchman has been too easy for defenders to play against, as Leeds look to get their Premier League promotion over the line in the coming days.

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