Newcastle United are now planning to hold face-to-face talks over a summer deal for an “unbelievable” forward this week, according to a report.
Magpies eyeing new forwards with Wilson heading for exit
It would be fair to say Callum Wilson has been a fantastic servant to Newcastle, with the striker making 129 appearances for the club, but it looks as though his time at St. James’ Park is now set to come to an end when his contract expires this summer.
The Englishman has suffered with injuries throughout the campaign, while often being limited to appearances as a substitute, and he is now starting to attract attention from elsewhere, with Leeds United believed to be leading the race for his signature.
As such, Eddie Howe’s side have now started to run the rule over potential replacements, with the manager particularly keen on signing versatile Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, who is among the Premier League’s top scorers this season.
Player
Premier League goals
Mohamed Salah
28
Alexander Isak
23
Erling Haaland
21
Chris Wood
19
Bryan Mbeumo
19
Mbeumo is not the only Premier League forward of interest, however, with a report from talkSPORT revealing Newcastle are now planning to hold face-to-face talks over a deal for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap this week.
Delap is planning to hold in-person discussions with all his potential suitors ahead of the summer window, and the Magpies are the latest English side to express an interest in triggering the £30m release clause in his contract.
Howe is keen on bringing in another striker to ease the goalscoring burden on Alexander Isak, with the manager looking to strengthen his squad in a number of different areas this summer.
He'd be their new Gordon: Howe wants Newcastle to sign "deadly" £60m star
Newcastle are looking to upgrade their attack
ByJoe Nuttall May 20, 2025 "Unbelievable" Delap could push for Isak's starting spot
Understandably, Wilson’s game time has been very limited this season, given that Isak has enjoyed his best season to date in a Newcastle shirt, leading his side to EFL Cup glory and scoring 27 goals in all competitions.
However, the Ipswich star has also started to make a name for himself this season, finding the back of the net 12 times in the Premier League, with teammate Luke Woolfenden lauding him as “unbelievable”.
Howe has also been impressed by the start the 22-year-old has made to life in the Premier League, saying: “He’s a pivotal player for [Ipswich], there’s no denying that. I think he’s had a very good season. “He’s got big strengths, very strong, powerful runner.”
The only concern for Newcastle will be that Delap may not be tempted to move to St. James’ Park this summer if he doesn’t have guarantees of being a regular starter, and that is unlikely to be the case unless Isak decides to move on.
As they did at the start of this season, Arsenal will go into next year as one of the clear favourites to win the Premier League.
While such an expectation now feels entirely normal, it wasn’t just a few years ago, as the 22/23 campaign marked the first season in a long time that the Gunners mounted a serious challenge for the title.
Mikel Arteta’s side failed to even qualify for the Champions League the year prior but came flying out of the gate and came painfully close to becoming champions with the exciting wing play of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, two of the club’s stand-out players.
While the former has only improved since then, the latter has struggled to match the 22 goal involvements he produced in 46 games, but the board might be about to sign a centre-forward who could help him get back to his best.
Arsenal's striker search
With Arsenal clearly needing another striker as far back as last summer, the club have been linked with a whole host of free-scoring forwards this year, from Alexander Isak to Benjamin Sesko.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The former would probably be most people’s preferred option, as he’s proven in the Premier League and has been in incredible form this season, scoring 27 goals and providing six assists in just 40 appearances for Newcastle United.
However, with reports from earlier this year claiming that he could cost in excess of £150m, it seems incredibly unlikely that this is a deal that gets done.
Sesko, on the other hand, could cost around £58m this summer, and considering he’s managed to rack up a tally of 21 goals and six assists in 43 appearances for RB Leipzig, that might just be a reasonable fee.
Yet, as the Slovenian is still just 21 years old, the North Londoners might want a more senior marksman leading the line next year, which is where Viktor Gyokeres comes in.
According to a recent report from Spain, Arsenal have maintained their strong interest in the Sporting CP superstar ahead of the summer transfer window.
In fact, the report has revealed that the Gunners have now made an opening bid of €60m for the Swedish superstar, which is about £51m, and considered likely to be too low.
Sporting CP's ViktorGyokerescelebrates after the match
The good news is that the Portuguese giants are willing to sell him for less than his €100m – £85m – release clause, but the bad news is that the likes of Chelsea, Atlético Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and AC Milan are also all keen to secure the 26-year-old’s services.
It would be a costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Gyokeres’ immense ability in front of goal, it is one well worth fighting for, especially as he could get Martinelli back to his best.
Why Gyokeres could get Martinelli back to his best
Let’s say that Arsenal have their bid accepted, or they increase and get their man that way; why would Gyokeres help get Martinelli back to his 22/23 best?
Sporting Club's Francisco Trinaco and Viktor Gyokeres.
Well, while there are a few different reasons, they fundamentally all come back to one thing: his output.
For example, in 50 appearances last season, totalling 4169 minutes, the prolific “monster,” as dubbed by journalist Alex Turk, scored 43 goals and provided 15 assists.
Appearances
50
49
Minutes
4169′
3948′
Goals
43
52
Assists
15
12
Goal Involvements per Match
1.16
1.30
Minutes per Goal Involvement
71.87′
61.68′
That means he averaged 1.16 goal involvements per game for the entire campaign, or, in other words, he produced one every 71.87 minutes.
However, if that wasn’t good enough, he’s doing even better this season, as in 49 appearances, totalling 3948 minutes, the Stockholm-born sensation has scored 52 goals and provided 12 assists.
Such an incredible level of output means the 26-capped international is averaging 1.30 goal involvements per game at the moment, or one every 61.68 minutes.
Just imagine a striker as unbelievably efficient as him starting to the right of the Gunners’ number 11; his goal and assist numbers would explode.
Moreover, the sheer presence of someone so clinical in the frontline will force opposition defences to focus more attention on him, thus opening up more space for Saka and the rapid Brazilian to exploit.
Ultimately, Arsenal should do all they can to sign Gyokeres this summer, as not only would his goals make a significant difference on their own, but he’d also surely help Martinelli get back to his very best.
Same agent as Saka: Arsenal lead race to sign £51m upgrade on Nico Williams
The sensational youngster could flourish at Arsenal.
Manchester United are set for a crucial summer under boss Ruben Amorim, with the off-season the first real opportunity to get his feet under the table to make the changes he desires.
January was the first chance he had to make the changes he wanted, signing Patrick Dorgu and Ayden Heaven to add to the first-team squad, with more additions expected in the coming months.
However, alongside new signings, departures are desperately needed to free up the wage budget and create funds to allow for the potential arrivals ahead of the Premier League season in 2025/26.
Countless players may be moved on and allowed to kickstart their careers elsewhere, as the owners look to avoid a repeat of the current campaign, which has seen them occupy a place in the bottom half.
With the window rapidly approaching, Amorim has already wasted no time in identifying potential targets to bolster his chances of being a success during his first full year at the helm.
An update on United’s hunt for new signings this summer
The cost-cutting operation in place at Old Trafford in recent months could make funds difficult to come by for the manager over the summer, restricting the additions he could possibly make.
However, Atalanta midfielder Ederson has already emerged as a key target for the club, with progress already being made in an attempt to provide needed depth in the middle of the park.
Atalanta midfielder Ederson
It was confirmed that the Red Devils were already in talks with the Serie A outfit over a potential move for the 25-year-old who’s made 29 league starts this season.
He’s not the only player who has appeared on their radar in recent days, with Real Betis sensation Jesus Rodriguez another player on their list ahead of the summer.
According to one Spanish outlet, United have made a swap offer for the 19-year-old forward, which would see big-money attacker Antony move in the opposite direction on a permanent basis – allowing them to bypass the Spaniard’s £42m release clause.
The Brazilian is currently spending the second half of 2024/25 on loan with the LaLiga side, with Amorim’s men looking to take advantage of their interest in signing him by moving for youngster Rodriguez.
Why United’s £42m target could be their next Amad
Ivorian attacker Amad Diallo has endured an excellent breakthrough year at Old Trafford after the former Sporting CP boss took the reins, enjoying increased minutes within the side as a result.
He’s made 36 appearances across all competitions, registering nine goals and seven assists, including the winner against local rivals Manchester City at the Etihad.
However, his progress has been restricted in recent months, missing the last 10 weeks of first-team action after suffering an ankle issue during a training session.
Despite originally being ruled out for the remainder of the campaign, Amorim confirmed this week he’s set to return to training, potentially playing a key role between now and the end of May.
They could land another version of Amad in the form of Rodriguez, signing a talented young forward from a European club to try and push them back in the right direction.
When comparing his stats to those of the current Red Devils star, he’s managed to match or outperform him in numerous key areas – highlighting how much of a superb addition he would be.
Games played
17
22
Goals & assists
2
12
Shot-on-target accuracy
36%
32%
Shots on target per game
0.8
0.7
Take-ons completed
2.7
2
Carries into final third
3.1
2.6
Fouls won
3.3
1.3
The Betis talent, who’s been labelled “outstanding” by analyst Ben Mattinson, may have registered fewer combined goals and assists, but he’s notched a higher shot-on-target rate – showcasing his clinical nature.
He’s also managed to complete more of the take-ons that he’s attempted to date, along with more carries into the final third, having all of the tools to provide others in attacking areas.
Should the club manage to complete a swap deal with Antony moving in the opposite direction, it would be a phenomenal piece of business, using him as a bargaining tool to get themselves a superb young prospect.
It’s evident from the figures the Spaniard has produced this year, he is a talent who will hand Amorim the quality to try and make amends for their dismal season throughout 2024/25.
Better than Cunha: Man Utd in contact to sign another "world-class" forward
Manchester United could be about to land a star who could transform their fortunes in attacking areas.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk confirmed that the Premier League leaders will meet up to watch Arsenal’s home fixture against Crystal Palace on Wednesday evening, knowing that a surprise defeat for the Gunners would seal the title for the Reds.
Should Mikel Arteta’s side avoid an upset, Liverpool can finish the job themselves on Sunday, against Tottenham Hotspur and surrounded by four sheets of Anfield support, roaring and bellowing and cheering with such volume as has rarely been heard anywhere across the vast footballing landscape.
Mohamed Salah celebrates with Luis Diaz and Curtis Jones for Liverpool.
Surely the more favourable of the two scenarios, the one which will indelibly mark the occasion in the minds of the myriad supporters.
Arne Slot, truly, has worked wonders this season, a shining light to guide Liverpool through the beginnings of a post-Jurgen Klopp world. He will receive his crown, taking a seat at an exclusive table of managers to have won the Premier League on their first attempt.
2004/05
Jose Mourinho
Chelsea
2009/10
Carlo Ancelotti
Chelsea
2013/14
Manuel Pellegrini
Man City
2016/17
Antonio Conte
Chelsea
Liverpool were supposed to be rudderless, but they have gone from strength to strength with a new head coach and minimal help on the transfer front.
The point is this is to underline that Liverpool are capable of absorbing a big punch and responding with a flurry of their own to prove the doubters wrong.
Liverpool head coach Arne Slot
It’s a quality that may well be called into play again this summer, with some rather big names touted with a summer exit.
Who could be leaving Liverpool this summer
After scoring the winner against Leicester City on Sunday afternoon, Trent Alexander-Arnold did little to allay fears that he will join Real Madrid when his contract expires this summer, refusing to comment on speculation when interviewed post-match.
Though Liverpool are set for a summer of spending, while cutting out some of the deadwood, there’s no question that all of a Liverpool persuasion want the homegrown vice-captain to sign a new deal.
However, that’s not the same for all of Slot’s first-teamers, with Darwin Nunez, for example, confirmed to have been transfer-listed ahead of the market by Fabrizio Romano.
Liverpool'sDarwinNunezreacts
Nunez needs to go, but parting with too many members of the frontline might rock the boat too hard. Indeed, it might be a mistake if FSG were to act on rumours and part with Luis Diaz this summer.
Why Liverpool may regret selling Luis Diaz
Slot won’t want to spark too much upheaval this summer, especially after keeping such a close-knit group together to charge through the many obstacles of the season and move into the final stages of winning the Premier League title.
Liverpool forward Luis Diaz
With Nunez set to be sold and potentially Chiesa too, it might be something of a risk to part with any further members of the frontline, and it’s for that reason that FSG may want to resist any offers for Diaz.
The 28-year-old winger has attracted attention from the Saudi Pro League and from Barcelona in the past and is about to enter the penultimate year of his £55k-per-week contract.
However, discussions for a renewal do not appear advanced.
Saying that, Football Insider have recently reported that sporting director Richard Hughes is preparing to dig deeper into contract talks with the Colombian’s representatives.
He might ebb and flow in front of goal but the left-sided forward is dynamic and direct, such a slippery customer for Premier League and European opponents to deal with.
Mohamed Salah
47
32
23
Cody Gakpo
44
16
6
Luis Diaz
46
15
8
Diogo Jota
33
9
4
Darwin Nunez
42
7
7
Federico Chiesa
12
2
2
Diaz’s output had lulled in recent months, but he’s not put in a bad shift in front of goal, all told. Indeed, with Mohamed Salah blanking across his past six matches in all competitions, Diaz has stepped up big time in the Premier League, steering Liverpool toward the title.
He’s bagged either a goal or an assist in five of his past six league outings, in fact, with Liverpool winning all but one of such fixtures. That loss, by the way, was against Fulham at Craven Cottage, a game in which Diaz scored off the bench.
Liverpool winger Luis Diaz
He’s also much more than just a goalscorer. As per FBref, Diaz ranks among the top 9% of positional peers in the Premier League this season for pass completion as well as the top 17% for successful take-ons and the top 9% for touches in the attacking penalty area per 90.
Of course, the patchiness of his goalscoring form can be deceiving: Lucho also ranks among the top 8% for non-penalty goals scored per 90. Is there any wonder he’s been hailed for his “world-class performances” this year by journalist Adam Brown?
It may well be that parting with Diaz carries every bit the negative impact that Trent’s inevitably will. Liverpool cannot afford to lose the wider nucleus of their title-winning group.
If Liverpool sign a centre-forward who can actually produce significant hauls across multiple seasons, there’s every chance that Diaz could take his game to the next level in 2025/26.
Moreover, Alexander-Arnold’s departure calls for a new playmaking outlet, which will most likely come in the centre of the park.
Plenty to chew on. Whatever happens, Liverpool might want to think twice about parting with their electric South American winger.
Nunez upgrade: Liverpool likely to see £50m bid accepted for "mini-Salah"
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Darwin Nunez is expected to leave Liverpool this summer.
Arsenal booked their place in the Champions League semi-final last night with a sensational 2-1 win over defending champions Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The victory secured a 5-1 aggregate win, putting a stop to the Spanish outfit’s chances of making it back-to-back European triumphs after their win at Wembley against Borussia Dortmund last season.
Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli’s second-half strikes were enough for Mikel Arteta’s men to advance to the next stage of the competition, subsequently setting up a tie with French giants PSG.
It was a superb showing from the Gunners in Madrid, restricting Carlo Ancelotti’s side to limited opportunities and preventing his star-studded side from making yet another miraculous comeback.
Numerous players starred during the victory, playing a pivotal role in their chances of landing their first-ever European trophy in the coming months.
Arsenal’s star performers against Real Madrid
Mikel Merino once again started as Arsenal’s main centre-forward, not looking out of place and producing yet another impressive showing at the top end of the pitch.
The Spaniard registered two assists in the win and completed four passes into the final third, providing numerous opportunities for other attackers, as seen by his assist tally.
Declan Rice picked up where he left off from the first leg, completing 96% of the passes he attempted, three of which were into the final third, starring with the ball at his feet.
Out of possession, the 26-year-old was just as impressive, winning 100% of the tackles he entered, whilst making four interceptions, restricting the likes of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior for large spells.
Despite the showings of the aforementioned duo, one other player hugely impressed at the Bernabeu – easily walking into Madrid’s side after such a showing.
The 8/10 Arsenal star who showed he would walk into Madrid’s team
For many years, Madrid have been the golden boys of European football, as seen by their tally of 15 titles – the most of any side in the competition’s history.
Six of their victories have come since 2010, but Arteta’s side produced an incredible showing over two legs to stop their chances of extending their record as the most successful side in history.
Given the stature of the club, only the best talents in the world could be able to cement their place in the squad, but Gunners full-back Jurrien Timber certainly wouldn’t look out of place within their side.
The Dutchman produced a sensational showing against the Spanish outfit last night, arguably his best since returning to action after missing the majority of his debut season through injury.
Timber featured for 89 minutes of the clash, limiting Vini Jr to minimal chances throughout the contest, making four recoveries to stop their Brazilian.
Minutes played
89
Touches
42
Passes completed
10
Passes into final third
5
Ground duels won
3
Times dispossessed
1
Tackles made
2
He also made five passes into the final third, with such a tally being 50% of all the passes he completed during the game, offering Arteta’s side a quick transition on the counterattack.
His impressive showing didn’t stop there, winning three ground duels, only being dispossessed once in what was a superb all-round performance from the 23-year-old – leading to one content creator labelling him as “phenomenal”.
To top off his excellent showing, he was handed an 8/10 match rating by the Evening Standard’s Simon Collings – further highlighting how much of a key role he played at the Bernabeu.
Given Madrid’s issues in the right-back role, there’s no denying the Dutchman would be able to star in their side, with the Gunners having a huge talent on their hands.
If they are to go all the way and win the competition this season, Timber will undoubtedly play a key role, potentially providing the difference in the next couple of rounds.
Bigger star than MLS & Nwaneri: Arsenal plotting bid for "skilful" talent
Arsenal are set to make a bid for a talented star who could be a bigger star than two young gems.
Everton picked up an important point at home against Arsenal on Saturday lunchtime, drawing 1-1 with Mikel Arteta’s side. In the final clash between the two English heavyweights at Goodison Park, the Gunners took a first-half lead thanks to a goal from Leandro Trossard.
However, a second-half penalty from attacking midfielder Iliman Ndiaye equalised for the Toffees. It was a controversial decision, too. Myles Lewis-Skelly tumbled into Jack Harrison and brought him down in the box, which was deemed a foul. Ndiaye stepped up and coolly slotted home into the bottom right corner.
It was not a game in which centre-forwards thrived, with Beto not registering a shot and Trossard just three, as per Sofascore. Indeed, a former striker of both clubs, Francis Jeffers, might not have fared better.
Jeffers’ time at Everton
Everton manager David Moyes is now into his second spell as Everton manager, after an 11-year stint between 2002 and 2013. In that time, he worked with some talented attacking players, including the likes of Wayne Rooney, to whom he gave his first team debut.
However, none may be as polarising as Jeffers. The Liverpool-born striker turned into something of a journeyman throughout his career after breaking through at Goodison Park. He impressed in his first few seasons for the club, scoring 18 goals, prompting Arsenal to buy him in 2001 for £10m, including add-ons.
However, for an Arsenal side looking to compete on all fronts, Jeffers struggled, scoring eight times in 39 appearances across two full seasons. Everton brought him back to the club on loan in 2003/04 under Moyes, but it didn’t quite work out.
The former England international played 22 times under the legendary Scottish boss but only managed to score twice, neither of which came in the Premier League. In fact, Jeffers’ two goals both came against Fulham, in the FA Cup fourth round and the resulting replay, which the Toffees lost.
Sadly, Jeffers’ move back to Goodison Park did not go to plan, and he never regained the form he showed in his early career. There is certainly an argument to be made that Moyes is seeing a repeat of that loan move in his current Everton side.
The Everton star who is Moyes’ new Jeffers
Everton signed Armando Broja on loan from Chelsea on deadline day last summer. It was a last-gasp deal for the Albanian striker, who seemed destined to join Ipswich Town before the Toffees snapped him up. However, just as Jeffers struggled on loan at Everton from a ‘big six’ club, Broja has also not had an easy time of things.
Armando Broja for Everton
In truth, things have not really worked out for the exciting youngster at Goodison Park. He has unfortunately struggled with injuries as an Everton player, suffering from an Achilles tendon issue and an ankle problem.
During his time at the club so far, the 23-year-old has managed just nine appearances, with just two of those coming from the start. He has also played just three games under Moyes so far, but with his return to fitness, he could well be in line for his first start under the Scot before too long.
In top-flight football, Broja has shown that he can be clinical in front of goal. Described as a “complete forward” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, the Albania international has scored eight goals in the Premier League and ten strikes for Vitesse in the Eredivisie during a loan spell four years ago.
Chelsea
Premier League (2019/20)
1
0
4
Vitesse
Eredivise (2020/21)
30
10
1875
Southampton
Premier League (2021/22)
32
6
1981
Chelsea
Premier League (2022/23)
12
1
287
Chelsea
Premier League (2023/24)
13
1
453
Fulham
Premier League (2023/24)
8
0
81
Everton
Premier League (2024/25)
8
0
205
As the video below from his time at Southampton shows, the 23-year-old is a composed finisher in the penalty box, capable of scoring from all different angles. He is also a true goal-poacher and is able to sniff out chances from nowhere.
It has not worked out for Broja at Everton yet due to the injuries from which he has suffered. However, if he can rediscover his best form towards the end of the season, they could have a deadly striker on their hands.
Saved by Ndiaye: Everton's 6-pass star proved he must be axed this summer
Everton fought back to earn a draw against Arsenal at Goodison Park.
Football’s back for those of a Liverpool persuasion, and it’s a big one at that.
Having sat out last weekend due to an early exit from the FA Cup, Arne Slot’s Liverpool return to action in the Premier League as they host resurgent Everton.
The international break is typically a gruelling thing, stunting progress and halting anticipation as teams fight for their respective goals. Liverpool, however, may have found the sojourn to have been a blessing, falling in the Champions League before losing the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle United.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot
Ah well, there’s always next season – for those honours, anyway. Liverpool are still hunting down the Premier League title, 12 points clear of second-place Arsenal with nine matches to play.
Everton have been reborn under David Moyes’ wing, the Scotsman replacing Sean Dyche in January and crafting a nine-match unbeaten run after losing his league opener to Aston Villa at Goodison Park.
24/25
Goodison Park
2-2 draw
23/24
Goodison Park
2-0 loss
23/24
Anfield
2-0 win
22/23
Anfield
2-0 win
22/23
Goodison Park
0-0 draw
Everton’s patch of Merseyside was left giddy, exalted, after James Tarkowski hit parity in the dying embers last month, but Slot will hope for a different outcome here as his side look to end their dip in form across recent matches.
Liverpool team news
Trent Alexander-Arnold, who looks set to join Real Madrid when his contract expires this summer, is still sidelined after injuring his ankle against Paris Saint-Germain.
Compounding the issue, Conor Bradley is not quite ready to return to the starting line-up after his period of convalescence; with Joe Gomez also out, Slot is likely to pick Jarell Quansah to deputise at right-back once again.
Ryan Gravenberch and Alisson Becker, however, are both expected to be fit following respective scares for their nations over the past two weeks.
Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch
This is all well and good, but Liverpool’s recent issues derive from a dried-up pool of attacking fluency. Indeed, Liverpool have been a day late and a dollar short of late, and fans online have been murmuring about freshening things up with a tactical tweak to the frontline.
However, Federico Chiesa may not be the answer for this one, not in Slot’s mind.
Slot must unleash Liverpool's "special" forward
Liverpool struggled to get going at Wembley, but it was substitute Chiesa who latched onto Harvey Elliott’s tidy through ball in stoppage time to spark fleeting hopes of a comeback.
But Liverpool failed to stage the desired response; time had been exhausted. Chiesa, however, did show off a glimpse of the quality that prompted the Anfield side to pay Juventus for him back in August, a quality that is illuminated given the ongoing profligacy of Darwin Nunez, Diogo Jota and Luis Diaz.
Federico Chiesa scores for Liverpool
The international break will hopefully have served as a reset button for the wasteful bunch, but it more importantly means a fully-fit Cody Gakpo is ready to return from Netherlands duty brim-full, having only just returned from injury before the break and indeed last starting a Premier League fixture in mid-February.
It’s been a big blow for the Merseysiders, for Gakpo has been in fine fettle this season, scoring 16 goals and providing six assists across all competitions. The 25-year-old is currently level with last term’s haul, but he’s matched it in over 800 fewer minutes across all fronts.
Gakpo has to start against Everton, his clinical shooting giving rise to the success of his frontal peers. Diaz’s makeshift dynamism in a central striking role, for example, is heightened by the Dutchman’s presence, easing the goalscoring burden on Salah.
1.
Mohamed Salah
15
2.
Cody Gakpo
12
3.
Luis Diaz
7
4.
Diogo Jota
4
5.
Darwin Nunez
3
5=
Dominik Szoboszlai
3
5=
Alexis Mac Allister
3
The table above makes for somewhat grim reading, with Liverpool’s lopsided frontline clear through the shooting success clinched on home turf.
However, it does highlight Gakpo’s confidence on home soil, scoring three-quarters of his strikes this year at Anfield. Indeed, the Netherlands star has actually bagged in each of his past eight starts at Liverpool’s home ground.
His quality has been streamlined by Slot’s decision to field him in a more structured role off the left flank, as opposed to Jurgen Klopp’s choice of deploying across myriad points of the pitch.
This, of course, has meant Diaz’s qualities have been required in a more central position, but since Gakpo is now fit and ready to fire once more, would it really be wise to unleash Chiesa from the outset in an important derby fixture?
The stakes are high. With Arsenal narrowing the gap after beating Fulham, Liverpool cannot afford to fumble at this stage. The need for Chiesa’s finishing is effectively neutered by Gakpo’s return as he restores the balance and balance of potency up top.
The £120k-per-week Gakpo, after all, ranks among the top 4% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Premier League this term for goals scored per 90 (0.51), as per FBref. It’s no wonder he’s been praised by Fabrizio Romano for “flying for Liverpool this season.”
Conversely, Chiesa has struggled to buy a game. Though he’s posted two goals and two assists apiece across 11 matches in all competitions – just three starts – Slot has thus far been unwilling to hand him any starting roles in the Premier League, and that’s not going to change in an important league fixture against heated rivals Everton, who are in hot form at that.
While we’d all like to see Liverpool’s nifty Italian earn some more action, it doesn’t feel probable that he will play from the opening bell in this one.
That said, if Gakpo can work toward establishing a healthy lead for Slot’s team, Chiesa could surely enter the fray in the second half – and with a point to prove.
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Liverpool are ready to sign a new left-back this summer.
Tottenham have been given some encouragement over the prospect of signing a Brazil international as his agents work to find him a new club.
Tottenham targeting new attacker in January amid creativity issue
Thomas Frank faces mounting pressure at Tottenham just six months into his tenure, with serious questions surrounding the Dane’s future.
Spurs sit 11th in the table with just 19 points from 13 games, and their home record tells a catastrophic story.
With only one Premier League win at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium all season, not to mention 10 home defeats this calendar year, they currently boast the joint-worst record in that regard in the club’s history.
Winless in five matches across all competitions, including losses to Arsenal, PSG and Fulham, their controversial 2-2 draw at Newcastle on Monday evening prevented a fourth straight defeat.
16. Burnley
2
1
4
7
-2
17. Nottingham Forest
2
1
4
7
-5
18. West Ham
2
0
5
6
-9
19. Tottenham
1
2
4
5
-1
20. Wolves
0
1
6
1
-11
Cristian Romero rescued Frank with a dramatic stoppage-time overhead kick. The Argentine scored twice at St James’ Park, his header and acrobatic finish earning a vital point, and his heroics seriously spared Frank’s blushes.
Dressing room unrest is reportedly growing, with reports suggesting players are confused by Frank’s constant tactical tinkering.
Fabrizio Romano shares Thomas Frank update amid mounting Tottenham pressure
The reliable journalist has some information.
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Summer signing Xavi Simons symbolises Frank’s struggles. The £55 million playmaker has started just six league games, relegated to the bench for crucial fixtures despite Spurs’ creative drought, and former defender Ramon Vega has accused Frank of “changing his mind every two seconds.”
Frank apparently retains board backing until at least new year, but improvement must arrive quickly.
January reinforcements remain crucial, with FC Porto striker Samu Aghehowa heavily linked alongside Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo, who has a tantalising £65 million release clause in his contract which will be active next month.
If Spurs cannot win the race for Semenyo amid interest from Man City, then RB Leizpig’s Yan Diomande is believed to be an alternative, with Sky Switzerland’s Sacha Tavolieri reporting they’ve already held advanced discussions on the player’s side.
Tottenham given Rodrygo boost as agents work on Real Madrid exit
Now, according to TEAMtalk and journalist Graeme Bailey, the north Londoners have been given a boost in their pursuit of Real Madrid star Rodrygo.
It is believed that Tottenham have emerged among the Premier League clubs that Rodrygo would consider joining, with his representatives actively working to secure a January departure from the Bernabeu.
The Brazilian has seen his situation deteriorate dramatically since Xabi Alonso replaced Carlo Ancelotti over the summer, becoming the most high-profile casualty.
Only four of his 15 appearances this season have exceeded 45 minutes, with Rodrygo regularly deployed as an impact substitute and falling behind Arda Güler in the pecking order.
Intermediaries representing the 24-year-old are working diligently to identify potential destinations, with Arsenal and Liverpool already engaged in discussions.
Rodrygo himself has made clear he would welcome moves to Man City, Man United, Chelsea or Tottenham too, though currently only Arsenal, Liverpool, City and Spurs are actively monitoring his availability.
Real value him between £70-79 million, and the Spanish giants ideally want to retain Rodrygo until the summer, when Nico Paz’s expected return will likely accelerate his departure.
It isn’t an easy deal to do by any means, with Spurs potentially needing to break their transfer record whilst fending off elite competition from their rivals.
However, there is little doubt this would be a statement move by the Lewis family as they look to usher in a new era post-Daniel Levy.
Tottenham have reportedly made an eye-watering initial offer to sign Real Madrid forward Rodrygo ahead of the January transfer window after contacting Los Blancos president Florentino Perez.
Rodrygo’s once-prominent status at Real has come under serious threat this season, with the Brazilian winger’s reduced role fueling speculation about a potential departure from the Bernabeu.
The 24-year-old’s situation has deteriorated rapidly since Xabi Alonso replaced Carlo Ancelotti in the dugout. Despite featuring in 13 matches this season, Rodrygo has managed just 359 minutes of playing time in all competitions, less than 18-year-old Franco Mastantuono, Arda Güler and the exit-linked Vinícius Júnior.
More tellingly, he hasn’t completed a full 90 minutes in any game at all this term, suggesting a serious fall down Alonso’s pecking order.
Rodrygo’s career at Real Madrid since joining from Santos
Appearances
283
Goals
68
Assists
53
Bookings
12
Red cards
0
Minutes played
16,512
Rodrygo has started just three of his 13 competitive matches in 25/26, including only one start in his last seven La Liga games, raising serious questions about his future at the club where he’s won two Champions League titles.
The former Santos sensation, speaking to reporters in Brazil’s mixed media zone earlier this week, opened up about his lack of chances and put on a dedicated front.
However, behind-the-scenes, whispers are indicating that a January exit could be on the cards for him.
Rodrygo was attracting interest from Tottenham in the summer, with north London rivals Arsenal also holding talks over signing the South American as far back as May, according to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg.
While a move to the English capital didn’t materialise for Rodrygo, it could well be revisited in January, with ESPN Brasil reporting that he’s privately open to leaving Real after growing dissatisfied under Alonso.
From Tottenham’s perspective, it is believed that Thomas Frank’s side are prepared to spend a club-record fee on bringing Rodrygo to N17, as per reports from Spain, and there’s now been another update on his future, again involving Spurs.
Tottenham make 'initial offer' for Rodrygo after contacting Florentino Perez
As per Spanish media sources, the Lilywhites have approached Perez with a proposal already.
Tottenham are now said to have made an ‘initial offer’ of around £75 million for Rodrygo, with £62 million to be paid in full plus a further £13 million in add-ons. Right now, they’re apparently showing the ‘most interest’ of any potential suitor, with Johan Lange and Fabio Paratici setting their sights on a statement signing.
However, that isn’t to say they’re alone in the race, as other unnamed Premier League clubs have inquired about Rodrygo as well.
The Lewis family recently backed Tottenham with a £100 million cash injection which could be put towards the club’s recruitment drive, and reports of this nature suggest that they’re looking to usher in a post-Daniel Levy era with real aplomb.
Tactically, he offers Frank exactly what the Dane has been missing — creativity.
His strengths include exceptional dribbling, key passing, finishing and crossing ability (WhoScored), providing that spark from wide areas which Tottenham have desperately lacked so far, bar Mohammed Kudus.
Rodrygo’s versatility across the front three would give Frank real tactical flexibility as well, given he’s capable of operating on either flank or even centrally.
The winger scored 14 goals and bagged 11 assists in all competitions under Carlo Ancelotti last term, with Jude Bellingham calling him their most ‘gifted’ and ‘underrated’ player.
Manchester United’s central midfield department has been one that has been up for debate, with numerous players trying to stake their claim for a regular starting role.
Ruben Amorim has often struggled to find his best partnership in such an area of the pitch, leading to countless players being utilised in the middle of the park since his appointment.
However, Bruno Fernandes and Casemiro have been the manager’s duo of choice of late, with the pair starting each of the Red Devils’ five Premier League matches in a row.
The club have remained unbeaten during such a period, showcasing that the boss has made the right decision in opting for the pair instead of selecting the likes of Kobbie Mainoo.
However, with Casemiro now 33, he’s likely coming to the back end of his career at the top level, with the hierarchy already laying the foundations for a move for one player in the January window.
Man Utd’s hunt for a new midfielder in January
Over the last couple of days, it’s been reported that United are targeting a move for Nottingham Forest star Elliot Anderson in the upcoming January transfer window.
It’s been claimed that the Red Devils have already made an approach to Sean Dyche’s side to register their interest in landing the 23-year-old England international in the coming months.
However, any deal would be a club record, with the Reds currently demanding a fee in the region of £100m to part ways with their star man during the upcoming market.
He’s not the only midfielder in their sights at present, as Brighton & Hove Albion star Carlos Baleba has once again appeared on their radar, if recent reports are to be believed.
According to one Spanish outlet, Amorim and INEOS have made the Cameroonian international their “dream” target for January, but like Anderson, he would set them back a small fortune.
They also state that a £100m deal would be needed to prise him away from the AMEX, but that the player himself would be open to a switch to move to Old Trafford in the near future.
Why United’s £100m target would end Ugarte’s career
It wouldn’t be the first time United have splashed the cash on a new central midfielder, especially after spending a reported £50m for the signature of Manuel Ugarte back in 2024.
The Uruguayan’s transfer generated huge excitement within the Red Devils fanbase, with his arrival finally handing the side the disruptive presence needed to regain possession.
However, a little over 12 months on from his switch to England’s top-flight, he’s since dropped down the pecking order, as seen by his tally of just two league starts in 2025/26.
Amorim has undoubtedly lost faith in the 24-year-old at present, with a new addition only pushing the former PSG star further down the list – which could tempt the hierarchy to cash in on his services.
Spending £100m on a new addition would be a huge statement of intent, but it would no doubt put the future signing ahead of Ugarte in the pecking order due to the fee alone.
Baleba now appears to be the most likely candidate to join the Red Devils in January, with the youngster offering an immediate and long-term upgrade on the Uruguayan.
When comparing their stats from the 2025/26 campaign, the Brighton star has managed to outperform him in numerous key areas – potentially making his £100m price tag an excellent deal.
Games played
11
9
Games started
10
2
Pass accuracy
86%
85%
Log balls completed
54%
50%
Interceptions made
1.4
1.1
Duels won
6.5
5.1
Take-on success
63%
33%
Recoveries made
5.9
5.8
The 21-year-old has completed more of the passes he’s attempted this campaign, whilst completing more of the long passes he’s attempted – highlighting the dominance he has over Ugarte in possession.
He’s also completed more of the dribbles he’s attempted, further showcasing his all-round talents with the ball at his feet in the Premier League this season.
Out of possession, Baleba has won more duels per 90, whilst making more interceptions per 90 – subsequently offering the side a more dominant option out of possession.
£100m would be a huge statement of intent from the United hierarchy, but given his tender age, Baleba would be the perfect immediate and long-term solution to their problems.
As to Ugarte, such a transfer would likely spell the end of his time in Manchester, with the board needing to offload him to avoid losing a huge chunk of their £50m investment.
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