All posts by z3u9t.icu

It’s all going on at Tottenham Hotspur this summer.

The North Londoners moved quickly to fire Ange Postecoglou earlier this month and then, in a relatively quick fashion, appointed Thomas Frank to lead the club into the next season.

However, that’s only the start of the business the North Londoners will be doing this season, as recent weeks have seen them linked to a plethora of talented players, from Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo to RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons.

Yet, perhaps the most interesting and exciting link has been to Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo, even though his valuation is currently lower than that of a current Spurs star.

Why Spurs want Mbeumo

As things stand, it would appear as if Spurs and Manchester United are the two teams most interested in signing Mbeumo this summer, and while the fee required to do so is still in the air, Football Transfers has valued the Cameroon international at around €58m, which comes out to £49m.

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

Now, that is still a lot of money, but it would be hard to make a genuine argument against him being worth that and more.

For example, in 42 appearances for the Bees this season, totalling 3577 minutes, the former Troyes gem scored 20 goals and provided nine assists.

That means the 25-year-old phenomenon managed to maintain an average of a goal involvement every 1.44 games, or every 123.34 minutes, which is undeniably sensational and the sort of output that would seriously help the North Londoners next year.

Furthermore, the Avallon-born monster is reasonably versatile, as while his primary and best position is off the right, he has spent a not-insignificant period playing up top and as a second striker during his time in the capital.

Finally, while there might be cheaper and more exciting options elsewhere in Europe, the 22-capped international is Premier League-proven and, therefore, should easily slot into the Tottenham squad next season.

However, he will have to hit the ground running to see his valuation surpass one of his potential new teammates.

The Spurs star worth more than Mbeumo

So, even though Spurs endured a diabolically poor domestic campaign this season, the club is still blessed with an abundance of talented players, like James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski and Micky Van de Ven.

However, in this context, the player in question is fellow right-winger Brennan Johnson, who, according to Football Transfers, is currently worth €66.5m, which converts to about £57m, or £8m more than Mbeumo’s valuation.

Now, that might sound like a lot to some of you, but the Welshman actually enjoyed a pretty impressive season with the North Londoners this year.

For example, he ended the campaign as the club’s top scorer, with 18 goals and seven assists in 51 appearances, totalling 3316 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.04 games, or every 132.64 minutes, which isn’t much worse than the Brentford star.

Moreover, he scored arguably the most important Tottenham goal in a generation in the Europa League Final last month.

On top of that, he stacks up reasonably well against the Cameroonian superstar when we take a look at their underlying numbers from this season.

For example, the 25-year-old comes out ahead in some metrics, such as progressive passes and carries, shots on target and shot and goal-creating actions per 90.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.51

0.42

Non-Penalty G+As

0.61

0.58

Progressive Passes

2.69

3.72

Progressive Carries

2.21

3.43

Shots

2.13

2.08

Goals per Shot

0.23

0.18

Shots on Target

0.84

0.94

Goals per Shot on Target

0.58

0.41

Passing Accuracy

69.2%

66.1%

Shot-Creating Actions

1.72

3.80

Goal-Creating Actions

0.27

0.53

Tackles

1.42

1.29

Tackles Won

0.90

0.85

Blocks

0.97

0.69

However, the “frightening” former Nottingham Forest gem, as dubbed by content creator HLTCO, comes out ahead in just as many other areas, including expected and actual non-penalty goals plus assists, shots, goals per shot and shot on target, tackles and tackles won, blocks and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, Mbeumo might be the more exciting player at the moment, but Johnson fully deserves the valuation he has, and should the North Londoners get their hands on the Brentford star, there could be a fierce battle for that right-wing position next season.

He's like Isak: Spurs make contact to sign £47m Premier League "monster"

The reliable goalscorer would make Spurs far more dangerous.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 20, 2025

Chelsea’s 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest at the City Ground this afternoon was enough to secure the club Champions League football ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Levi Colwill’s strike just minutes into the second half was enough to secure all three points for Enzo Maresca’s men, ending the year in fourth during the Italian’s first season at the helm.

Such an achievement is exceptional, handing the hierarchy a needed boost in the financial department, certainly aiding the current PSR standing and easing any concerns.

The win in the East Midlands was certainly a hard-fought contest, with the side deserving of a place among Europe’s elite, having the opportunity to claim a third European Cup.

However, despite the triumph, numerous players struggled to make the desired impact on Trentside, potentially putting their place in the side at risk over the summer transfer window.

Chelsea’s poor performers against Nottingham Forest

Midfielder Enzo Fernández has been widely linked with a move away from Chelsea in recent weeks, with Real Madrid the main outfit in the race for his signature.

The Argentine struggled to produce his best display in the win, failing to win a single tackle and only managed to complete 70% of the passes that he attempted.

He wasn’t alone in failing to impress, with attacking midfielder Cole Palmer once again disappointing and needing to recapture his best form in 2025/26.

The 23-year-old failed to complete any of his attempted dribbles, and registered a measly completion rate of just 17% from the crosses he put into the box.

However, despite the showings from the aforementioned duo, one other first-team regular was unable to extract his highest performance levels, putting his long-term future at Stamford Bridge at huge risk.

The 5/10 Chelsea star who may never play for the club again

This summer is now likely to be an exciting one for Chelsea supporters, with the manager now able to have the extra funds to make the changes he desires to his playing squad.

He’s done a magnificent job in leading the side to a place in the top five, deserving the chance to land any targets he feels would improve the options at his disposal.

However, he will likely want to move players on in the process, with winger Jadon Sancho still having a huge question mark next to his future in West London over the coming months.

The 25-year-old joined on loan from Manchester United last summer, with an obligation to buy for £25m, but they could pay a fee in the region of £5m to send him back to his parent club.

However, his showing in the East Midlands was one that wouldn’t have satisfied the hierarchy, which could spell the end of his stint as a Chelsea first-team player.

Sancho featured for 62 minutes of the contest, failing to register any efforts on goal and was unable to complete any dribbles, showcasing his lack of impact in the final third.

He also only registered a measly tally of 32 touches, a figure that was lower than that of goalkeeper Robert Sanchez, who managed a total of 44.

Minutes played

62

Touches

32

Shots taken

0

Dribbles completed

0

Tackles won

0

Aerials lost

100%

Possession lost

6x

The loanee also failed to win a single tackle, whilst losing 100% of the aerial duels he entered, showcasing his inability to impress across all areas of the pitch.

As a result of his disappointing showing against the Reds, he was handed a measly 5/10 match rating by The Standard’s Malik Ouzia – highlighting the disappointing performance he produced.

Such a display will put doubt in Maresca’s mind over his long-term future, potentially saving them £20m to invest in other targets if they send him back to Old Trafford.

It’s safe to say that his time with the Blues has been well below the levels many expected, with the hierarchy needing to make sure that his outing today was his last for the club.

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Chelsea are again forecast to be busy in this summer’s transfer market, so could they sign a “direct’ Premier League star to be the next Cole Palmer?

May 25, 2025

Alexander Isak is a striker who has been a key target for Liverpool over recent months, with the Swede certainly likely to be on their radar once again this summer.

The 25-year-old has been a clinical option in the Premier League this campaign, registering 23 goals in his 33 appearances, offering Eddie Howe’s side a key presence in their quest for Champions League football.

He’s also starred against the Reds throughout 2024/25, scoring what proved to be the winning goal against Arne Slot’s side in the Carabao Cup final at Wembley.

However, if the Merseyside outfit were to make a move and land the talisman during the off-season, they would have to fork out a pretty penny, with the Magpies demanding £150m for his signature.

Such a figure would likely price the club out of a potential deal, leading to potential alternatives in the market, with numerous players already on their list ahead of the upcoming window.

The latest on Liverpool’s hunt for a new striker this summer

RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko has emerged on Liverpool’s shortlist over the last couple of days, with the Slovenian catching the eye with his tally of 21 goals in his 45 outings.

It was reported earlier this week that the club were ready to enter talks to land the 21-year-old, seeing him as an option to improve the players currently at his disposal.

However, he’s not the only Bundesliga attacker in the sights ahead of the upcoming window, with Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitiké the latest name mentioned for a move to Anfield, according to French outlet RMC Sport.

The report states that the Reds have already made an approach for the 22-year-old, who’s registered 22 goals and 12 assists throughout 2024/25 in all competitions.

It also claims that he’s allowed to leave the German outfit during the upcoming window if anyone matches the €100m (£84m) valuation they’ve placed on his head.

Why Liverpool’s £84m target could be Slot’s own Isak

A striker is evidently a priority for Liverpool this summer, as seen by the recent targets, but it’s pivotal that the hierarchy land the right option for Slot.

In the past, they’ve spent heavily on a talisman, as seen with the signing of Darwin Núñez back in 2022, with the Uruguayan costing a club-record £85m.

However, it’s safe to say the move to Anfield has been a disappointment, registering just 40 goals in his 142 appearances on Merseyside – with just seven of which coming this campaign.

Such form has led to links away from Anfield this summer, which will undoubtedly result in a hefty loss on the fee paid for his signature, but could pave the way for a new centre-forward.

From the recent names mentioned, Ekitike would be a better signing than Sesko, outperforming him in numerous key areas when comparing their respective stats.

The Frenchman would also be the club’s own Isak, being comparable to the Swede by FBref and matching or bettering the figures produced by the Newcastle star in numerous key areas.

Ekitike, who’s been labelled a “monster” by one analyst, has registered more shots and more shots on target per 90 – highlighting the constant threat he poses in attacking areas.

Games played

33

33

33

Goals & assists

23

29

18

Progressive carries

3.3

2.7

1.7

Shots on target

1.5

1.3

1.1

Shots taken

4

3.1

2.5

Pass accuracy

76%

74%

67%

Shot-creating actions

3.5

3

1.9

Take-ons completed

1.8

1.4

1.4

He’s also registered more shot-creating actions and completed more take-ons per 90, handing Slot a complete option in attacking areas, bolstering their chances of retaining their title.

The Frankfurt star has completed more passes and competed more progressive carries, subsequently able to aid other attackers when getting into the final third.

It would be another huge investment from the board, but it’s one that could play a huge part if they are successful once again in the years ahead.

Whilst Isak would be many fans’ main option this summer, Ekitike has proved that he’s capable of being an excellent talisman and possibly the Reds’ own version of the star.

Dream Wirtz alternative: Liverpool plot move for "generational" £34m star

Liverpool can forget about a move for Florian Wirtz, with another name entering the mix this week.

1 ByEthan Lamb May 22, 2025

Arsenal agreed personal terms with a “powerful” player last summer, and while a move ultimately didn’t come to fruition, it could happen this year instead.

Arsenal braced for Champions League semi-final tie against PSG

Mikel Arteta’s side have a golden opportunity to make 2024/2025 their most memorable campaign in decades, despite missing out on this year’s Premier League title to Liverpool by some distance.

A better signing than Gyokeres: Arsenal keen on landing the "new Haaland"

Arsenal are on the hunt to bolster their forward line this summer.

5 ByMatt Dawson Apr 27, 2025

Two season-defining European semi-final legs have the potential to pay dividends for Arteta’s side, with their first Champions League final appearance since 2006 on the line, not to mention the possibility of being crowned winners for the first time in their illustrious history.

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Southampton (away)

May 25th

Arsenal face-off against a PSG side who they’ve already beaten once this term, a 2-0 league phase win back in October, with Luis Enrique’s side also tasting defeat in Ligue 1 for the first time this season against Nice last week.

Riding high off their sensational 5-1 aggregate win over Real Madrid in the last round, Arsenal go into the tie carrying plenty of encouragement, with Arteta urging his players to play with bravery.

“You’ve seen it first hand the way we approach the game against Real Madrid, the way we approach the game when we played [PSG] before, the way we approach every week,” said Arteta in his pre-match press conference.

“That’s not going to change, that’s who we are, it’s our biggest strength. The good thing as well about us is that we are able to adapt to very different contexts, and we have shown that again this season. Because sometimes you don’t want to, but the teams are able to take you to a different game, and feeling comfortable playing that game, and overcoming that game with yourself in a position that you play more of the game that you want, is a big strength. I think this season again we have demonstrated that we have the capacity to do that.”

Away from the pitch, sporting director Andrea Berta is preparing for his first summer window at the club. Reports suggest Arsenal want to sign a new second-choice keeper, and links to Espanyol starlet Joan Garcia are re-emerging as a result.

Joan Garcia teases summer transfer after agreeing terms with Arsenal last year

Arsenal are tipped as one of the main contenders to sign Garcia once again this summer, after the 23-year-old agreed terms on a move to the Emirates last year (Fabrizio Romano).

Now, the Spanish shot-stopper has dropped an update on his future, confirming Arsenal’s interest last summer and teasing the possibility of a move away from Espanyol this summer.

“There was a lot of interest last summer, especially from Arsenal, but I stayed here and since then I’ve been 100% focused on this season,” said Garcia to press in Spain.

“We all know the situation, not just mine but the club’s, and anything can happen. But the future will tell, and we’ll worry about it when the time comes.”

Garcia is viewed as one of La Liga’s standout goalkeeping talents after another great season, and he’d undoubtedly be a great back-up to David Raya. The cost of his signature, as things stand, is around £21 million – the current value of his release clause – but this could be seen as a real snip.

“García is such an athletic GK. His legs are so powerful and springy enabling him to generate more power to reach the ball,” said Football Analyst Ben Mattinson.

“Good flexibility, agility and his proactiveness enable him to be an alert shot-stopper in the box and recover to make double saves.”

A fortress is made impregnable not through the initial conquering but the success in defending the territory claimed over so many years, and that means Liverpool will need to strengthen their ranks this summer.

It’s clear at this point that Arne Slot is going to win the Premier League in his first term in the hot seat, an incredible feat given Liverpool were effectively written off following Jurgen Klopp’s departure at the end of the 2023/24 campaign.

But Slot will want an abiding position at the forefront of English and indeed European football, and Liverpool’s frontline has looked a little out of kilter over recent months.

It’s clear that FSG are going to authorise one or two exciting summer bids.

Liverpool targeting new forwards

Mohamed Salah has meted out punishment on near every opponent he has faced this season, but Liverpool need more up front, with The Athletic among those to report Red interest in Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak.

However, number nine isn’t the only spot on the club’s radar.

As per Caught Offside, Liverpool and Arsenal are interested in signing Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze; further suitors are in the running but the Premier League’s top two share the lead here as well.

Eze’s strong and potent performances under Oliver Glasner suggest he has what it takes to thrive at a top-performing club like Liverpool, who could do with such a dynamic attacker.

Last summer, the Eagles anticipated a swarm of interest in their silky star but no one came forward. Now, the ball is in their court and demands worth £60m have been put in place.

Why Liverpool want to sign Eze

Eze packs a punch. The 26-year-old has gone from strength to strength since leaving Queens Park Rangers in the Championship in 2020 and joining the Selhurst Park ranks for a £20m fee.

Hailed as a “superstar” by data analyst Ben Mattinson, Eze has hit 12 goals and 12 assists apiece under Glasner’s wing, featuring 48 times in total.

This season alone, he’s been in fine fettle, playing a more creative role than in 2023/24 but doing so to a fine effect.

Eze’s broad skill set lends itself to multiple positions, and while he’s been fielded routinely in the middle of the park this year, he has ample experience out on the left flank.

With that in mind, Eze could be the perfect signing to upgrade on Luis Diaz, whose uncertain future at Anfield suggests a replacement will be required sooner rather than later.

Matches (starts)

25 (23)

29 (23)

Goals

2

9

Assists

6

5

Shots taken*

3.4

2.0

Pass completion

82%

86%

Big chances created

9

6

Key passes*

2.0

1.6

Dribbles*

2.1

1.6

Ball recoveries*

4.6

2.9

Tackles + interceptions*

1 8

1.2

Duels won*

5.4

3.8

While Eze hasn’t chalked up the greatest numbers in front of goal this season, his underlying data suggests that he’s outstripping Diaz across almost every department.

This is important. Diaz isn’t exactly revered for his clinical touch, instead effusively praised for his tricks and slicks, skill and will toward driving play forward and leaving defenders munching dust.

To sign a player who produces such qualities but to a higher standard, more relentless in the duel, creative in his playmaking duties, active in carrying the ball, it’s an intriguing proposition, one which might just dynamise Liverpool’s already progressive attacking outfit.

Moreover, Eze’s clinical side was on full show last season, firing 11 goals home across 24 Premier League appearances, missing just five big chances in an immense display of potency.

Indeed, the Englishman halted Jurgen Klopp’s bid for a farewell league triumph after scoring at Anfield in the 1-0 win in April, with journalist Keifer MacDonald noting that the playmaker had left Trent Alexander-Arnold “furious” due to his slow walk off the field when substituted late on.

Whether the Three Lions star, who scored his first international goal off the bench in a 3-0 win over Latvia last week, is bid for remains to be seen, but Eze has everything that Slot’s Liverpool need, especially if a clinical centre-forward is welcomed to the fold this summer.

In a more distinguished team like Liverpool, Eze may even find himself unlocking his full goalscoring potential. As per FBref, the £100k-per-week talent actually ranks among the top 2% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for shots taken per 90.

Having been described as a “wizard” by Arsenal’s Declan Rice in the past, Palace’s main man may just be on the move this summer. Diaz has been a fantastic servant for Liverpool over the past several years and will be duly rewarded with a Premier League winners’ medal in the coming months, but the time might be right for a change.

The Colombian has only scored one goal across his past 19 fixtures in all competitions for the Reds – albeit assisting in four of his past six top-flight games – and at 28 is heading into the penultimate year of his £55k-per-week deal with sights set on a new bumper package or change of scenery.

There have been whispers of late that Diaz could be sold this summer to fund a freshen-up. Barcelona have a long-standing admiration and the Saudi Pro League are also there, quietly lurking.

How much of a vested interest sporting director Richard Hughes has in Eze at this stage, we don’t know. However, his efforts in south London over the past few years certainly indicate a future at one of the division’s European competitors, and Liverpool will be right there, ready to pounce if the right opportunity presents itself.

Slot could boldly axe "special" Liverpool star who's the new James Milner

Who will stay and who will go in the transfer market for Liverpool this summer?

1 ByAngus Sinclair Apr 1, 2025

It is almost a foregone conclusion that Liverpool will win this year’s Premier League. With the Reds boasting a 12-point lead with nine games to go, all signs are pointing to a record-equalling 20th league title.

While there is plenty of football to be played and nearest challengers Arsenal are still to visit Anfield, Liverpool being crowned champions may not happen for a few weeks yet.

But when could Arne Slot’s side put the title beyond mathematical doubt? And which clubs could face the daunting prospect of handing the Anfield giants a congratulatory guard of honour? Here, we look at the most likely scenarios.

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ByStephan Georgiou May 20, 2024 How many points do Liverpool need to win the Premier League title?

As it stands heading into April, Liverpool have a 12-point advantage at the top with 27 still up for grabs. This means the Reds can accumulate a maximum total of 97 points for the season – which would be far more than enough to claim their first title since 2020.

Meanwhile, their closest challengers, Arsenal, can only achieve a maximum of 85 points if they win all of their remaining games – which includes a trip to Anfield in the second week of May.

Assuming the Gunners go on a run at the business end of the campaign, Liverpool would require 86 points. That means five wins and a draw from their final nine games is all it will take.

Rank

Team

P

W

D

L

GD

PTS

Liverpool

29

21

7

1

+42

Arsenal

29

16

10

3

+29

When can Liverpool win the title?

Liverpool can seal the title within their next six games regardless of Arsenal’s results. If they were to win at least five of their next six games, this currently marks their clash with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge as a potential party date.

Of course, if Arsenal drop points between now and then, Liverpool could already be celebrating a deserved title triumph.

One slip from the Gunners could pave the way for an Anfield coronation with fans against Tottenham Hotspur on 27th April.

If all of Liverpool’s closest challengers were to fully implode, the Reds could become champions in as little as two weeks when they face West Ham on 13th April – though Arsenal would have to lose to Fulham, Everton and Brentford for that to happen.

And with lots of points to be won and lost, there are still a number of possibilities when it comes to being confirmed as champions, including sealing the championship against Arsenal themselves.

Date

Liverpool

Arsenal

1st April

Fulham (H)

2nd April

Everton (H)

5th April

Everton (A)

6th April

Fulham (A)

12th April

Brentford (H)

13th April

West Ham (H)

20th April

Leicester (A)

Ipswich (A)

26th April

Crystal Palace (H)

27th April

Tottenham (H)

3rd May

Bournemouth (H)

4th May

Chelsea (A)

10th May

ARSENAL (H)

LIVERPOOL (A)

18th May

Brighton (A)

Newcastle (H)

25th May

Crystal Palace (H)

Southampton (A)

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ByStephan Georgiou Mar 29, 2025 Who could be giving Liverpool a guard of honour?

Should Liverpool win every match between now and the end of the season, at least three teams will be giving them a guard of honour to mark their title success.

The first of these teams could be Arsenal, who would be Liverpool’s first opponents should both title rivals win all their matches from here on in until the Reds become uncatchable.

Even more likely to commemorate Liverpool’s glory pre-kick-off are Brighton & Hove Albion and Crystal Palace, with the latter visiting Anfield on the final day, when the home side should be presented with the trophy.

Can Arsenal catch Liverpool?

It would take a catastrophic collapse from Liverpool for the Reds to be denied from here – on a par with Kevin Keegan’s Newcastle United side from the mid-1990s.

Mikel Arteta’s team would also likely have to achieve perfection to keep the pressure on the league leaders, and the Gunners have hardly been consistent this term despite their current placing in second.

One omen that could give the Gunners hope is that Liverpool also led the table with nine games to go last year (albeit by just two points), only to dramatically drop out of the title race by claiming just 15 points in the run-in.

Such a return could let Arsenal in if they were to win nine on the spin, but with so much room for error and the Premier League the only thing for the Reds to focus on, it would be a monumental failure if Liverpool were not the new kings of England come the end of May.

Date

Opponent

Result

4th April 2024

Sheff Utd (H)

W 3-1

7th April 2024

Man Utd (A)

D 2-2

14th April 2024

Crystal Palace (H)

L 0-1

21st April 2024

Fulham (A)

W 3-1

24th April 2024

Everton (A)

L 0-2

27th April 2024

West Ham (A)

D 2-2

5th May 2024

Tottenham (H)

W 4-2

13th May 2024

Aston Villa (A)

D 3-3

19th May 2024

Wolves (H)

W 2-0

Will there be a trophy parade?

While a trophy parade has not been confirmed, Liverpool will almost certainly take the opportunity to celebrate their prospective title win with their supporters having been denied the chance to do so in 2020 amid the pandemic.

As far as a date is concerned, there appears to be a couple of obvious options open to the Reds.

With the season ending on 25th May – the day they could officially be handed the trophy – the day after (Monday 26th May, which is also a bank holiday) could be an ideal parade date, particularly with the Reds out of all other competitions.

Manchester City held a parade through the city a day after pipping Liverpool to the title in 2022, while last year, the Citizens celebrated a fourth successive title triumph a week after the season ended, so the following Sunday (1st June) could be an alternative.

Liverpool also held a parade in 2022 seven days after the end of the domestic season and upon their return from their Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid, having been denied a possible quadruple in the final weeks of the campaign.

Tottenham Hotspur have reached out to the representatives of a “very versatile” manager to potentially replace the under-pressure Ange Postecoglou, with Spurs doing their due-diligence on future options if they decide to sack their current head coach.

Tottenham face AZ Alkmaar in Europa League second leg

On the field, Postecoglou’s side are gearing up for their highly-anticipated Europa League Last 16 second leg clash against AZ Alkmaar.

Tottenham set for £38m forward talks as Levy eyes second attacker after Tel

Spurs want multiple new final third options to come in this summer.

ByEmilio Galantini Mar 12, 2025

Spurs go into the game bearing the task of overcoming a one-goal deficit from their first leg in the Netherlands, trailing 1-0 to AZ after Lucas Bergvall’s own goal handed the Eredivisie side a crucial advantage ahead of their trip to north London.

Fulham (away)

March 16th

Chelsea (away)

April 2nd

Southampton (home)

April 5th

Wolves (away)

April 12th

Nottingham Forest (home)

April 21st

The Europa League comes as Tottenham’s only chance to win any major silverware this season and end their 17-year wait for a trophy, but they’ll have to get the better of AZ without star winger Dejan Kulusevski, Radu Dragusin, Richarlison and January signing Kevin Danso, who picked up a hamstring injury against Bournemouth over the weekend.

“Yeah, Kevin got a hamstring injury in the last game so he is out. Ben [Davies] is back in, so that’s the only change from the weekend. Everyone else got through the game no problems,” said Postecoglou on Tottenham team news ahead of AZ.

However, the 59-year-old benefits from having all four of his “leaders” fit and available to play together, which has been rare this season, with Son Heung-min, James Maddison, Cristian Romero and Guglielmo Vicario set to play a key role this evening.

“I think Vic was enormous for us in the first leg and he was big for us on the weekend as well,” said Postecoglou.

“You want your big, experienced players to perform in these games, for sure. We have relied a lot on our younger players who have really progressed really well, but I guess a night like tomorrow night, having the likes of Romero, Maddison, Vicario and Sonny out there, they are our four leaders and I don’t think we’ve had them on the park at all this year or very little anyway. Having all four of them, the whole leadership group out there, will definitely be beneficial.”

A good run in Europe could even be crucial for Postecoglou to keep his job, with reports suggesting that Tottenham are identifying managerial targets like Inter Milan’s Simone Inzaghi.

Tottenham make contact with Andoni Iraola's representatives

Another tactician who’s been linked with the potentially vacant post at the end of this season is Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola.

The Spaniard has impressed onlookers after guiding his team to within touching distance of a Champions League qualification place, and he’s done well to cope with injuries to key players in his Bournemouth squad of late.

The Cherries want to tie him down with a new contract and fend off elite clubs who may be interested, according to GiveMeSport, and Spurs are very much interested in the prospect of appointing Rayo Vallecano’s ex-head coach.

According to the outlet, Tottenham have even made contact with Iraola via his agents, expressing their serious interest in the 42-year-old as an alternative to Postecoglou.

Bournemouth, though, will fight tooth and nail to keep hold of their highly-respected manager, as the south coast side plan talks to tie him down with fresh terms at the Vitality Stadium.

Called a “very versatile” manager who “earns the respect of the dressing room” by football analysts (X), his reputation for adapting to different scenarios and taking initiative could be very tempting for Spurs, as Postecoglou has often been criticised for not having those attributes and sticking to the same formula.

Glasgow Rangers made the decision to keep faith with head coach Philippe Clement earlier this season and it increasingly looking like a shrewd call.

Back in November 2024, Football Insider reported that pressure was mounting on the Belgian boss, due to ‘poor’ performances, but they were willing to give him time to turn things around.

The Light Blues were set to play in the final of the League Cup the following month and the board seemingly decided to give him the chance to win another piece of silverware.

As shown in the highlights above, it was a spirited performance from the Gers and they came ever-so-close to winning the trophy, just to fall short on penalties.

Since that clash at Hampden Park, Rangers have only lost two of their last 13 matches in all competitions, including one loss to Premier League side Manchester United, and this shows that Clement has managed to get the Light Blues back on track.

The Belgian tactician has been helped by the respective returns of Danilo, from injury, and Ianis Hagi, from a contract dispute, as they have both starred at the top end of the pitch.

Ianis Hagi and Danilo's fantastic form this season

Firstly, Danilo returned from a knee injury, that kept him out for 12 matches, in November and has offered an excellent option in the centre-forward position in recent months.

The former Feyenoord and Ajax marksman has only started six of his 14 appearances in the Scottish Premiership this season, but has offered plenty of quality in those starts.

He has racked up an exceptional return of five goals and three assists in those 14 matches and six starts, along with six ‘big chances’ created for his teammates. This shows that the Brazilian ace has offered a huge threat inside the box and has made himself a reliable option for Clement when fit.

Hagi, meanwhile, returned to the team in October after players and board members stepped in to get him back in the squad, after he had been left out due to a contract issue that would have seen him given a pay rise if he had played more games.

The Romania international has been a star for Rangers in the Premiership ever since his return, with the highlights above showing off his most recent goals against Ross County.

Appearances (starts)

15 (12)

Goals

3

Big chances created

5

Key passes per game

2.1

Assists

5

As you can see in the table above, the 26-year-old playmaker has offered a big threat at the top end of the pitch from an attacking midfield position, with eight direct goal contributions in 12 starts.

These statistics show that both Hagi and Danilo have been influential figures in the final third for Clement and that they have both been crucial parts of the improved performances in recent months.

However, there is a former Rangers player who they could, now, regret cashing in on last year, as he has outscored both of those current Light Blues stars.

How much Rangers sold Sam Lammers for

In the summer of 2024, the Scottish giants decided to part ways with versatile Dutch forward Sam Lammers as FC Twente swooped in to secure his services for a reported fee of £2.5m.

The left-footed attacker was brought in from Atalanta on a permanent deal in the summer of 2023 under former Rangers head coach Michael Beale and he failed to hit the ground running at Ibrox in the first half of the 2023/24 campaign.

Lammers produced two goals and two assists in 31 appearances for the Light Blues, before he was sent out on loan to FC Utrecht for the second half of the season by Clement, who came in to replace Beale in the dugout.

Appearances

18

Goals

10

Key passes per game

1.1

Big chances created

5

Assists

3

As you can see in the table above, the Dutchman enjoyed an incredible time with Utrecht in the Eredivisie, with a return of 13 direct goal contributions in 18 matches.

Where Are They Now

However, that form was not enough to convince Clement to give him another chance at Ibrox, which led to his £2.5m switch to FC Twente last summer.

Why Rangers may regret selling Sam Lammers

The Gers may, now, regret their decision to cash in on the 26-year-old star so early in his career in Scotland, as he has caught the eye once again in the Eredivisie this term.

Lammers, who can play as an attacking midfielder, out wide, or as a striker, has been a regular starter for Twente in the Dutch top-flight so far this season, with 16 starts in 17 appearances in the league.

The former Rangers star has scored six goals in the league so far this term, which is more than Danilo (five) and Hagi (three), as aforementioned, have managed in the Premiership.

He has also scored two goals in six appearances in the Europa League for the Dutch team, which shows that he can also step up on the European stage, whilst neither Danilo nor Hagi were registered for the league phase of the competition for the Gers.

Appearances

17

Goals

6

Big chances missed

3

Big chances created

4

xA

2.70

Assists

1

As you can see in the table above, Lammers has also provided an impressive amount of creativity at the top end of the pitch for FC Twente in the current campaign.

His teammates have let him down with their wasteful finishing in the final third, though, as he has only registered one assist from four ‘big chances’ created and 2.70 xA.

These statistics show that Lammers is thriving in the Netherlands, again, after he caught the eye for Utrecht last term, and is outperforming two of Clement’s top performers as a goalscorer.

This is why Rangers may regret cashing in on him after only six months at Ibrox as they did not give him enough time to find this kind of form for the Light Blues, and it will now forever remain a case of ‘what if?’ for the Scottish giants.

Rangers hit jackpot with "unbelievable" star who's worth more than Cameron

Rangers have struck gold with the impressive midfield star at Ibrox.

2 ByDan Emery Feb 4, 2025

Liverpool exceeded expectations with Arne Slot at the helm last season, winning the Premier League and comfortably at that.

It’s been a fruitful start to the transfer window for the Reds, who don’t want last year’s triumph to stand as a flash in the pan, and are instead packing Slot’s squad with enough quality to last for many years to come.

However, Trent Alexander-Arnold has left for pastures new in the Spanish capital and a few more exits could yet happen.

For example, Luis Diaz has been courted by Barcelona and Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League, and with just two years remaining on his current deal, he may be among the sold this summer.

Liverpool don’t want to part with the Colombian maverick, something they informed Barca in no uncertain terms, but the transfer window is a long process indeed, and if he does go, the Reds must be ready to pounce on an alternative.

Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon, it seems, is reportedly at the top of the shopping list.

Why Liverpool want Anthony Gordon

Liverpool have clearly preempted Diaz’s departure for a while, having bid to sign Khvicha Kvaratskhelia in January before the Georgian left winger completed a £59m move from Napoli to Paris Saint-Germain.

In fact, the efforts to sign Gordon from Newcastle one year ago speak of a longer-running desire to secure a new wideman to serve as Diaz’s eventual heir.

Gordon, 24, has come off the back of a frustrating campaign in spite of his side’s silver-laden success, but he was immense in 2023/24, picking up 28 direct goal involvements, and has a connection to Anfield given he was released from Liverpool’s academy when he was just 11 years old.

But Newcastle reportedly seek at least £80m to part with the Three Lions star, and is this something that Liverpool can justify spending, given the other areas of the field that still need reinforcing?

Should Diaz go, Liverpool will need to replace him. But given that there’s a much cheaper alternative on the market, it might be better for sporting director Richard Hughes to shelve the interest in Gordon.

Liverpool open talks for new winger

As per reports in Spain – via Sport Witness – Liverpool have opened talks with Real Betis as they consider a bid for teenager winger Jesus Rodriguez.

In direct competition with Aston Villa, Liverpool have learned they will need to meet his €50m (£43m) release clause if they are to bring in one of La Liga’s brightest young talents.

Though FSG have made their initial enquiries and indeed have been scouting Rodriguez, it’s worth noting little of substance has since emerged, and this is one which could drag into the later stretches of the transfer window.

Transfer Focus

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

Why Liverpool should sign Jesus Rodriguez

Rodriguez might only be 19, but he’s already proven himself to be one of the most exciting talents in Spain, breaking into Real Betis’ first team last season, featuring prominently across the latter half of the term, actually starting 15 times in the Spanish top flight.

The left-sided forward would be a far more astute purchase than Gordon, but one whose natural qualities and fast start to life on the senior stage could see him leapfrog the Englishman, all the while at a cost of less than half what Liverpool would need to pay Newcastle.

With Cody Gakpo already performing so well on the left flank at Liverpool, does it really make sense to fork out an excessive figure on a player who might not even knock him off his starting perch?

That’s why Rodriguez would be perfect, having been hailed for his “explosive” style of play by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

It’s such snappy performances that could lead Rodriguez to become Liverpool’s own version of Gordon, one whose tactical brain remains malleable in its footballing infancy, and thus could see Slot bend it in whichever direction he pleases.

Matches (starts)

21 (15)

34 (28)

Goals

2

6

Assists

0

5

Shots (on target)*

1.1 (0.4)

1.7 (0.6)

Big chances missed

2

10

Pass completion

76%

81%

Key passes*

0.4

1.5

Dribbles*

1.4

1.1

Ball recoveries*

4.7

3.6

Tackles + interceptions*

1.1

1.1

Duels won*

4.1

4.4

Of course, Rodriguez isn’t as refined and complete in his skill set as Gordon is right now, but the Betis man is also five years the England international’s junior, still in his teenage phase.

What’s curious is that he is crisp on the ball and combative in the duel, two staples of Gordon’s tactical approach, which have seen him bloom into one of the Premier League’s finest.

Moreover, he’s proven on the continental stage his propensity for success: as per FBref, the young Spaniard ranked among the top 2% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Conference League last year for successful take-ons and the top 16% for tackles per 90, highlighting both his pace and his willingness to get stuck in.

His fleet-footedness certainly suggests there’s a first-class player in there, and with Liverpool looking to sign a striker as well this season, this might prove the perfect signing to add a bit of depth while maintaining the harmony of Slot’s squad.

Slot won’t want to upset the tactical togetherness and coherence Liverpool have right now, nor will he want to take a big chunk out of the coffers before a new centre-forward has been brought in.

Rodriguez could be the perfect man to sign, should Diaz leave this summer.

He's a dream Isak alternative: Liverpool exploring move for £160m forward

Liverpool are hoping to sign a new centre-forward to replace the outgoing Darwin Nunez.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 19, 2025

Chelsea are showcasing themselves as one of the busiest Premier League sides in the transfer market this summer, and many outgoings are also expected at Stamford Bridge.

Renato Veiga, Lesley Ugochukwu, Raheem Sterling, João Félix, David Datro Fofana, Carney Chukwuemeka, Ben Chilwell, Armando Broja and Axel Disasi are all expected to leave Cobham this summer (The Athletic), as BlueCo seek to trim the wage bill and help fund Chelsea’s recruitment drive.

£47m star has already agreed to join Chelsea with club talks "to follow"

Enzo Maresca’s side are busy behind-the-scenes amid their Club World Cup campaign.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 17, 2025

£150,000-per-week outcast Kepa Arrizabalaga is also on his way to Arsenal (David Ornstein), but he’s not the only keeper who could quit Chelsea in the coming months.

Cole Palmer

7.33

Moises Caicedo

7.02

Enzo Fernández

6.95

Nicolas Jackson

6.88

Noni Madueke

6.82

via WhoScored

Chelsea want to sell both Djordje Petrovic and Robert Sanchez, according to reports, and could revisit a deal for AC Milan number one Mike Maignan after missing out on a pre-Club World Cup deal for the France international.

Club chiefs will be very keen to find new homes for Chilwell, Sterling and Felix in particular, considering the out-of-favour trio are on a combined salary of around £655,000-per-week.

There are some suggestions that key first-team players aren’t entirely safe either.

Chelsea may well decide to sell Trevoh Chalobah (Matt Law), despite his renaissance during the second half of 2024/2025, where he stood out as one of Maresca’s key men after returning from a loan spell at Crystal Palace.

Chelsea prepared to sell Noni Madueke this summer

As well as Chalobah, it is believed that mainstay winger Noni Madueke isn’t deemed untouchable by any means.

The England international, who earned praise from Thomas Tuchel during the Three Lions’ last round of international matches, started 27 Premier League games under Maresca last season, and it would’ve been more if not for injury.

Maresca even called Madueke one of Chelsea’s “best players”, but according to journalist Simon Phillips, the 23-year-old winger could still be sold in the coming months if a suitable offer arrives.

“Chelsea have reportedly made contact with Malick Fofana of Lyon as they weigh up winger options,” said Phillips, via his Substack.

“I get a sense that they are perhaps putting this name out there to help strengthen negotiations to sign Jamie Gittens of Dortmund. I am sure they do have interest in Fofana, absolutely, and you know what? Maybe they even look to end up bringing in two more out-and-out wingers, and they may well need them depending on the future of Noni Madueke as well, who Chelsea will listen to offers for.”

Of all the Chelsea players who absolutely need to be sold, Madueke surely isn’t one of them, regardless of their chase for new wide players.

“Noni has been excellent out there [on the left wing],” said pundit Jason Cundy on talkSPORT.

“The thing I love about Noni is whenever he picks the ball up, he looks that way [forward]. His first instinct with his first touch, ‘How can I get beyond you? How can I get in behind you?’

“What I noticed he did against Liverpool, and he does this very well on the right-hand side, but he will come inside on his right. Most left-footers out there tend not to. Left-footers love it on the right.

“When you’ve got a winger that can go both ways and threaten, as a full-back now you’re asking questions. He does that; Saka’s one of the best, goes out on the right and comes inside. You need to threaten both [ways], Noni has been really good, really impressive.”