All posts by h716a5.icu

With the league stage and the quarter-finals done, ESPNcricinfo looks at six of the players who have set the field alight in the Vijay Hazare Trophy

Hemant Brar22-Oct-2019Manish Pandey (Karnataka)To say that Manish Pandey has been in great form in the Vijay Hazare Trophy won’t be enough. Over the nine innings, the lowest score the Karnataka captain has been dismissed for is 48, against Hyderabad. Incidentally, that’s the only game his side has lost so far. Currently third on the run-charts, behind Yashasvi Jaiswal and B Aparajith, Pandey has plundered 525 runs at an average of 105 and a strike rate of 108.02. Batting at No. 4, Pandey scored five fifties and one hundred and whenever Karnataka chased – except for the Hyderabad game – Pandey stayed till the end to finish the game.Dinesh Karthik (Tamil Nadu)Dinesh Karthik’s inspiring leadership oversaw Tamil Nadu’s nine-match winning streak in the league stage. Before the knockouts, he told ESPNcricinfo he was targeting the T20 World Cup next year and felt well-suited for the role MS Dhoni played for India for many years. Perhaps Karthik couldn’t wait for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, India’s domestic T20 tournament, to begin and smashed 360 runs at a strike rate of 128.57 while still averaging 72. Scores of 0 and 11 in the last two games may have taken some sheen off those numbers but he has presented his case.B Aparajith (Tamil Nadu)If Karthik provided all the flourish and late fireworks, B Aparajith’s solid game at No. 3 set the platform for Tamil Nadu. Aparajith has struck 526 runs from ten innings, including one century and five half-centuries. He averages 75.14, even higher than his captain. His strike rate of 80.67 is in keeping with his role as batting mainstay, and the bonus has come in the form of his often-overlooked offspin, picking up ten wickets at an economy rate of 4.46. He saved his best for Railways, where he picked up 4 for 30 to restrict the opposition to 200 for 9 before steering the chase with an unbeaten 111.Yashasvi Jaiswal (Mumbai)If there were doubts over Yashasvi Jaiswal converting his talent into performance at the senior level, the Mumbai teenager dispelled them all. Concerns over his big-hitting abilities were put to rest during his 154-ball 203 against Jharkhand that included 17 fours and 12 sixes. A left-hand batsman who has shots all around the park, he is currently the leading run-scorer despite playing only six games, his 564 runs include three hundreds and an unbeaten fifty, which came when Mumbai’s chase was cut short by rain in the quarter-final against Chhattisgarh. Jaiswal had waltzed to 60 off 38 balls before rain robbed Mumbai of a place in the semi-final.Roosh Kalaria (Gujarat)The highest wicket-taker for Gujarat in the last Ranji Trophy season, Roosh Kalaria has the chance to go one better this year and top the overall wicket-charts in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. A left-arm seamer is always a coveted commodity and in Kalaria, Gujarat not only have a wicket-taker but also someone who doesn’t give away too many runs. Often providing his side with breakthroughs with the new ball, Kalaria has 21 wickets at an average of 15.09 and a strike rate of 23.3. Only twice in ten games has he gone for more than five runs an over, and boasts an overall economy of 3.88 in the tournament.Vishnu Vinod (Kerala)Despite the likes of Sanju Samson and Robin Uthappa in the batting line-up, it was 25-year-old Vishnu Vinod who emerged as the leading batsman for Kerala. The dashing opener amassed 508 runs at an average of 63.50 and a strike rate of 113.14. His 29 sixes were the most in the tournament, while only Jaiswal matched his tally of three hundreds. Kerala might not have made it to the knockouts, but Vinod stamped his dominance in all their matches.

In a bid to prolong his career, Dale Steyn retires from Tests. He leaves as one the greatest ever to play the longest format, well liked and respected by his peers

ESPNcricinfo staff05-Aug-2019

The greatest of his generation. Stats don’t lie and @DaleSteyn62 test stats is the best . I know how much test cricket means to you bud and how badly you still wanted to achieve more . Hopefully we will still see a lot of this action. # pic.twitter.com/qMglFgfZ9U

— Faf Du Plessis (@faf1307) August 5, 2019

View this post on Instagram

Too many memories to mention! We started together many years back and I had the privilege and front row seats of watching @dalesteyn turn into the best bowler of his time. You are the greatest, an even better person and the best team man around. Well done HOOOLiOOOO

A post shared by AB de Villiers (@abdevilliers17) on Aug 5, 2019 at 11:52am PDT

Wishing you all the very best for the future @DaleSteyn62. You always challenged batsmen to bring their A-game to the ground.
It’s been a joy to watch you bowl and play against you. pic.twitter.com/CndQbGsOU4

— Sachin Tendulkar (@sachin_rt) August 6, 2019

I love you @DaleSteyn62

— Chris Morris (@Tipo_Morris) August 5, 2019

What an athlete,bowler and overall nutter @DaleSteyn62 ! From your first test match I knew you were something special and your numbers back that up perfectly. Your bouncer wasn’t slow either congrats

— Herschelle Gibbs (@hershybru) August 5, 2019

The best of his Era!!! #Gun https://t.co/r9Dq2fT8E6

— Scott Styris (@scottbstyris) August 5, 2019

What a player, bowler, legend, man, best in the business!! @DaleSteyn62 congrats on a special career!

— Alviro Petersen (@AlviroPetersen) August 5, 2019

Congrats @DaleSteyn62 on a wonderful Test career. Always knew you were in a battle batting against him and one you would do very well not to lose!

— Matt Prior (@MattPrior13) August 5, 2019

One of the very best…. https://t.co/kAq7OjRFqF

— Jason Gillespie (@dizzy259) August 5, 2019

Salute @DaleSteyn62
One of the greats indeed.#SteynGun #SteynRemover #DaleSteyn

— Mpumelelo Mbangwa (@mmbangwa) August 5, 2019

Had the privilege of sharing in a few of those 93 caps. Absolute Rolls Royce of your generation. Congrats on a fantastic Test career @DaleSteyn62 Feet up now, save those legs for the @CT_Blitz

— Ashwell Prince (@ashyp_5) August 5, 2019

He has a four-for at the U19 World Cup and is now hoping to create a splash at the IPL, after catching up with Anil Kumble

Sreshth Shah in Bloemfontein24-Jan-2020On Sundays, Ravi Bishnoi would sneak out of his house in Jodhpur, in the western state of Rajasthan, with his brother and play cricket all day. In the evenings, they would check to see where their father was, and rush back home and settle down with their textbooks before being caught.Being the son of a headmaster of a government school, pursuing cricket was a long shot for Bishnoi, let alone think of becoming India’s premier legspinner at the 2020 Under-19 World Cup and – not to forget – earn an INR 2 crore (US$ 280,300 approx.) paycheque at the IPL auction, the most among his colleagues now in South Africa.But Bishnoi’s mother loved the sport. He remembers watching cricket matches with her while his father was at school, and even now, she is to be found glued to the TV when the cricket is on, especially when her son is in action.But Jodhpur isn’t a hub for the game, which made taking the game seriously difficult.ALSO READ: World Cup-bound Under-19s strike gold at IPL auction”Seven years ago, [older friends Shahrukh Pathan and Pradyot Singh] decided to make an academy of their own to fill the gap in the city. But none of us had the finances for it. So to keep the costs low, I did some of the labour work, with others, to build the academy,” Bishnoi tells ESPNcricinfo. “There were some experts who developed the pitch and the ground, but I was breaking stones or carrying cement to them. Those six months were really tough, not knowing whether this effort would be worth it in the end, but once that academy was made, my formal cricket journey began.”It began all right, but didn’t progress smoothly for the longest time, as he faltered first at the Under-16 and then the Under-19 trials for Rajasthan. But a word to the people in charge at the Under-19s from his coaches got him another shot at the Under-19s last year, and when he impressed, he was in.Soon came his first brush with the IPL as a net bowler for Rajasthan Royals, but it clashed with his Class XII board exams. He chose cricket, staying back in Jaipur where the Royals were based.”But the first two days, I didn’t get to bowl. I told my brother I want to go back home to sit for my exams, but then my coach asked me to hang around,” Bishnoi recalls. “In the night, they were playing scenario games and they asked me to field at third man. The first ball that came to me, I missed it and it went for four. So some people were saying ‘who the hell is this guy?’ but [Royals fielding coach Dishant] Yagnik sir told me, ‘don’t worry; you’re here to be a bowler, not a fielder’.”

I really want to learn more about the flipper from Kumble sir. I already have that ball in my arsenal, but to improve on it, from the legend himself, would be something else

He stayed on, and after the time with the Royals, Bishnoi made his Rajasthan debut at the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy in February 2019, going on to pick up four wickets in four T20 games with a good economy rate. Soon after came the call-up to the India Under-19 side, and success against Bangladesh earned him a spot in the World Cup side, and he already has a Man of the Match award in the bag following returns of 4 for 5 against Japan.While Bishnoi now has just the solitary aim of helping India defend their world title, he can’t wait to catch up with Anil Kumble, the coach at Kings XI, who sent him a congratulatory e-mail after the IPL auction.”In the NCA, Rahul [Dravid] sir had a chat with me. He said, ‘you and Kumble are similar that you guys bowl fast – bowl in such a way that the batsman plays at you every time; aim for the bat and that’s half your job done’,” Bishnoi says. “I really want to learn more about the flipper from Kumble sir. I already have that ball in my arsenal, but to improve on it, from the legend himself, would be something else.”But before all that happens, we need to go back to the IPL auction.A few of his World Cup-bound team-mates had put their names in the hat too, and so he sat down with Akash Singh, the left-arm seamer, and Divyaansh Saxena, the top-order batsman, in a hotel room in Mumbai, where the team was based, to watch the action unfold on the TV.Ravi Bishnoi and Priyam Garg celebrate a wicket•ICC via Getty”First Akash got selected by Royals, so Divyaansh and I were very happy for him. Then came the turn of the spinners,” Bishnoi says. “For a while, I thought I wouldn’t get anything because, at first, nobody put their paddle up. But as soon as Mumbai Indians made a bid for me, my heart started fluttering. From INR 20 lakh, the bidding simply grew. Finally, Kings XI Punjab bought me for INR 2 crore, and I couldn’t believe it. My parents called me on video call. They were watching the auction too.”But honestly, I won’t say that’s my biggest moment. My biggest moment will always be getting the chance to represent India. In our squad, we don’t discuss the IPL. That’s a no-no.”Bishnoi, whose best youth ODI figures thus far came against Japan in Bloemfontein the other day, believes his bowling is similar to Rashid Khan’s: a fast run-up, combined with the quick roll of his shoulder. He also follows Yuzvendra Chahal and R Ashwin – not for their bowling, but for their cricketing brains.”Growing up, of course, I watched videos of the god – Shane Warne. But now, I follow Rashid Khan’s bowling,” Bishnoi says. “And then there’s Yuzi and Ashwin sir. Chahal’s mind is next level, I have realised. The way he varies his pace, the way he draws the batsman into the shot, that has really caught my attention. With the red ball, I can’t stop watching Ashwin sir bowl. Both their brains fascinate me.”With me as well, I think it’s my mind that has helped me become a good spinner. I know when to keep calm and when to go aggressive. Because everyone has the same skill here. Here, the guy with the strongest mind will do better.”These days, Bishnoi is reading Rhonda Byrne’s bestseller , a book that talks about the magic of positive thinking, on the recommendation of his Ranji senior Abhimanyu Lamba. The way he has started the World Cup for India, that reading has clearly paid off.

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers isn’t hanging around with the summer window around the corner and could now turn his attention to a surprise target, per reports.

Celtic's summer window is beginning to take shape

The Bhoys are well on course for the Scottish Premiership title and may seal their fate this weekend if they emerge victorious against Kilmarnock followed by Aberdeen defeating Rangers 24 hours later.

Unfortunately, Celtic missed their chance to guarantee league glory after a surprise defeat to St Johnstone last Sunday. However, Brendan Rodgers will know that misfortune will just be a minor setback en route to domestic glory.

With all that said, what does it mean for the reigning champions’ prospects come the window? On the face of it, the Hoops appear to be proactive at an early stage.

Augsburg midfielder Elvis Rexhbecaj is said to be on Celtic’s radar and could be available for £3 million. On the same token, long-term target David Strelec is attainable for £4.2 million as potential competition to Daizen Maeda and Adam Idah across the frontline.

The fee could stretch to £5.9 million with add-ons, though Celtic would have no problem in paying a premium amid their rude financial health. On the flip side, that could prove to be a downside when negotiating for particular targets.

Celtic may lose "very good" £16k-p/w star amid surprise escape route offer

Celtic could offload a number of stars this summer ahead of next campaign.

BySean Markus Clifford Apr 8, 2025

Nevertheless, there is little time to waste with Champions League qualifiers kicking off in the early part of next season. Rodgers will know his side need to be ready if they have designs on securing a spot in the league phase.

Stocking up on talent, the Irishman has now turned his attention to a surprise target who could bolster the ranks ahead of 2025/26.

Celtic look to strengthen goalkeeping ranks with Martin Dubravka

According to Chronicle Live, Celtic have taken an interest in Newcastle United’s Martin Dubravka amid his uncertain future at St James’ Park due to rumours linking James Trafford with a move to the North East.

Coming as a surprise, the Bhoys could now pursue the Slovakia international despite already having Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo between the sticks. The latter has filled in recently due to his counterpart being ruled out with a shoulder injury.

Martin Dubravka vs Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo – domestic league

Martin Dubravka – Premier League

Save percentage rate

70.9%

Clean sheets

5 in 10 appearances

Goals conceded

12

Kasper Schmeichel – Scottish Premiership

Save percentage rate

77.3%

Clean sheets

19 in 30 appearances

Goals conceded

20

Viljami Sinisalo – Scottish Premiership

Save percentage rate

83.8%

Clean sheets

1 in 2 appearances

Goals conceded

1

Labelled “excellent” by Tom Heaton, the 36-year-old has racked up nearly 180 appearances for Newcastle United and earns £40,000 per week on the books at his current employers.

Observing the financial realities that come with PSR regulations in England, Dubravka may be a fairly straightforward sacrifice if Celtic want to deal for the veteran stopper.

Aston Villa have now held talks to sign an in-demand attacker who has been likened to boyhood Villa fan Jack Grealish.

Aston Villa looking for more Champions League football after PSG exit

The Villans nearly produced a memorable Champions League comeback in the week against Paris Saint-Germain after finding themselves 5-1 down on aggregate early in the second leg.

Goals from Youri Tielemans, John McGinn and Ezri Konsa meant that Villa would win the second leg 3-2 in front of their fans, but they fell agonisingly short of progressing to the semi-finals.

Talking after the game, Unai Emery challenged his Villa side to qualify for the Champions League again next season in the Premier League run in. “It is now most important to get Europe again. The most important competition is the Champions League. The challenge we have for the last six matches is to try and get Europe and the Champions League.

“The players showed their capacity to compete at this level. Hopefully we can come back quickly to play in the Champions League. This is our objective and to play in the FA Cup as well for a trophy.”

Aston Villa vs Newcastle United

April 19

Man City vs Aston Villa

April 22

Aston Villa vs Fulham

May 3

Bournemouth vs Aston Villa

May 10

Aston Villa vs Tottenham

May 18

Man Utd vs Aston Villa

May 25

With six games to go, Villa go into this weekend’s crucial top flight clash against Newcastle United a point off Manchester City in fifth. A win would see them go level on points with the Magpies who currently sit third, and they also have an FA Cup semi-final at Wembley to prepare for later this month against Crystal Palace.

It is promising to be an eventful end to the campaign on the pitch, and behind the scenes, NSWE and Monchi appear to be working on potential new signings.

Aston Villa racing to sign "complete" £39m defender with shades of Rudiger

The Villans are set to battle it out for a centre-back…

ByDominic Lund Apr 18, 2025

Recently, it has been reported that Aston Villa are looking to close a deal to sign Rosenborg star Sverre Nypan, with the 18-year-old also wanted by Arsenal. Now, Villa have made their move for another in-demand teenager.

Aston Villa hold talks to sign Crystal Palace youngster Derry

According to TBR Football, Aston Villa are in talks to sign Crystal Palace gem Jesse Derry. Son of former Crystal Palace and QPR midfielder Shaun Derry, the 17-year-old has been catching the eye coming through the Eagles’ academy.

Derry, called a “talented ball carrier”, has even been likened to Grealish due to his hair and having low socks when playing, and he has rejected the chance to sign professional terms with Crystal Palace.

As a result, Villa are looking to take advantage, alongside Manchester City, whereas other huge European clubs such as Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, Juventus and PSG have also made contact.

Capable of playing anywhere across a front three or even as an attacking midfielder, Derry looks set to be one to watch over the coming months.

As they look to build on a stunning Premier League title win in Arne Slot’s first season in charge, FSG are reportedly on high alert as Liverpool race to sign a talented Champions League star this summer.

Liverpool's summer plans begin to take shape

The Reds may be in celebration mode, and rightly so after an emphatic campaign, but that hasn’t stood in the way of some early summer planning. Even as champions, it’s clear that Slot’s side have another level to reach and the Dutchman, himself, still has his own stamp to mark on the squad at his disposal. And that should be seen as no bad thing at Anfield.

The new Gravenberch: Liverpool ready bid for "one of the best in the world"

Liverpool are set to make a bid for a talent who could be Arne Slot’s next Ryan Gravenberch.

ByEthan Lamb May 1, 2025

Without any significant incomings last summer, the former Feyenoord boss managed to achieve what many believed to be the unthinkable this season. Now, if FSG back Slot in the form of arrivals this time around, the possibilities could be endless.

On the transfer front, the rumours are already coming thick and fast too. Names such as Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitike have both been mentioned as reported targets in recent weeks and it’s clear that a forward will be among Liverpool’s priorities in the coming months.

What that will mean is the likely end for Darwin Nunez at Anfield. The struggling striker is reportedly expected to depart following three frustrating years, which have been full of moments or glimpses of quality rather than the star No.9 that Liverpool were looking to sign in 2022.

In a season of strengths, one of Liverpool’s weaknesses has come within their frontline amid inconsistencies from Diogo Jota, Nunez and even Luis Diaz at times – leaving Mohamed Salah to drag the Reds to victory.

The Egyptian has enjoyed a historic season whilst those around him have struggled to stand out and could yet have a new-look attack to work with as a result next season.

FSG attentive to Morgan Rogers' situation

One player who would certainly help light a fresh spark in Liverpool’s attacking play is Morgan Rogers. According to Fabrizio Romano for Give Me Sport, FSG are on high alert in the race to sign Rogers and Liverpool have scouted the Aston Villa star several times. Any deal will not be easy, however, given Villa’s place as a European competitor these days and their reluctance to sell one of their best players.

Whilst Rogers wouldn’t feature directly in Liverpool’s frontline, his influence from midfield would only add another outlet for the Premier League champions, just as it has done for Villa this season.

Praised for his “fantastic season” by scout Jacek Kulig, Rogers has scored 14 goals in all competitions whilst assisting a further 13 throughout the current campaign. To put it simply, the interest of the Premier League champions should come as little surprise.

Liverpool’s success during 2024/25 has been nothing short of sensational, winning the Premier League with ease and being unlucky not to have added a Carabao Cup to their list of honours.

Arne Slot has produced a side that has made easy work of other sides in the division, losing just three times in their 35 matches – the best record of any side in the top-flight.

The Dutchman hasn’t made wholesale changes from the previous management, utilising all the players who were at the club after his appointment last summer.

However, despite the excellent run endured in recent months, he has the opportunity to make changes to his squad and take them to the next level ahead of 2025/26.

With just a couple of weeks until the transfer window opens, the manager and the hierarchy have already wasted no time in targeting added reinforcements to bolster his already impressive squad.

The latest on Liverpool’s pursuit of new signings this summer

Over the last couple of months, Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi has been a player who has constantly been touted with a switch to join Liverpool this summer.

However, it appears they’re set to miss out on the 26-year-old, after Fabrizio Romano confirmed that he’s agreed a deal with fellow Premier League side Arsenal over a £50m switch.

Such news will be a disappointment to the fanbase, but they’ve quickly moved on to other options, with Athletic Club’s Mikel Jauregizar now their top target, according to Anfield Watch.

The report states that Slot and staff behind the scenes have been impressed with his showings in LaLiga this campaign and are ready to make an offer for his signature.

It also claims that any move could depend on outgoings in the coming months, but that the 21-year-old will be the player they go after if sales are made.

Why Liverpool’s target would be better than Gravenberch

Midfielder Ryan Gravenberch has been a key part of Slot’s side this campaign, starting all but one league game to date, and cementing his place alongside Argentinian international Alexis Mac Allister.

It’s a stark change from last season as he struggled to break into the side, making just 12 Premier League starts under former boss Jurgen Klopp.

His £34m transfer fee was seen as a waste of money given his lack of action in 2023/24, but now it appears to be a bargain given his importance under his compatriot.

He will likely remain an integral part of Slot’s plans once again next campaign, but his game time could dramatically decrease should the Reds secure a summer deal for Jauregizar in the coming months.

When comparing the Spaniard’s stats to those of Gravenberch this season, he’s managed to match or better him in numerous key areas, highlighting what a phenomenal addition he would be for the club.

The youngster, who’s been labelled “Mr Consistent” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has registered more passes into the final third – highlighting his ability to get the ball into forward areas.

However, he’s also dominated defensively, winning more of the tackles he’s entered, whilst making more blocks per 90 – handing the manager that added defensive reinforcements he’s been desiring.

Games played

30

34

Goals & assists

3

4

Passes into final third

4.5

4.3

Tackles won

2

1.1

Blocks made

1.1

1

Aerials won

1.3

0.8

Fouls won

1.7

1.4

Jauregizar has also won more aerial duels this season, whilst drawing more fouls per 90 – handing the side a restbite option should they find themselves under the cosh.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the Spanish youngster would set the club back, it’s evident that from the stats produced that he would be a phenomenal addition to the Reds squad.

If Slot is to maintain such success and claim a second title next campaign, it’s vital that the hierarchy work tirelessly to complete a deal – potentially seeing Gravenberch face stiff competition to maintain his starting role.

Dream Frimpong alternative: Liverpool make enquiry for "world-class" star

Liverpool could forget about Jeremie Frimpong with a move for another defensive star.

ByEthan Lamb May 10, 2025

Everton are embarking on a new era under David Moyes and could now land themselves a summer transfer bargain once the window opens for business.

Everton look to make summer window mark

Survival has been achieved with flying colours by Everton and there is only one match now left at Goodison Park before supporters say goodbye to their home ahead of moving to Bramley Moore Dock.

Emotions are running high and there will be plenty of time for sentimental thoughts over the next few weeks, but fans will feel emboldened that the club are headed in the right direction under David Moyes.

Exciting times are on the horizon under The Friedkin Group and plenty of transfer movement is expected on Merseyside, with Inter Milan defender Yann Bisseck cited as an ambitious potential arrival.

Gustavo Hamer could also join the Toffees from Sheffield United if Moyes has his way, as the former Netherlands Under-20 international is viewed as an ideal creative midfield option by the man in charge.

Abdoulaye Doucoure heads up a lengthy list of players that could be set to leave Everton upon the expiry of their contract or loan deals, which could be the signal for a sea change to take place in the dressing room.

Everton make first contact in race to sign "talented" ex-Arsenal defender

He could complete a Premier League return.

ByTom Cunningham May 1, 2025

Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Seamus Coleman and Ashley Young are among other potential departures on free transfers, leaving Moyes with some tough choices to make when considering the future look of his group.

While money is set to be available this summer, PSR regulations will keep clubs in check, meaning Everton could be forced to look for inexpensive pick-ups in certain positions to boost squad depth.

Spying an opportunity to land a bargain, the Toffees are now said to be in pole position to land one of England’s most trustworthy strikers.

Everton looking to seal move for Jamie Vardy

According to reports, Everton are looking to sign Leicester City forward Jamie Vardy once he becomes a free agent at the end of the season and are believed to be at the front of the race. Evaluating his profile, Moyes and TFG are said to value the former Three Lions international’s work ethic and capacity to deliver in pressure moments, citing him as someone who could be a leader in the short-term.

Jamie Vardy’s Premier League statistics – 2024/25

Shots

52

Shots on target

23

Chances created

19

Touches in opposition box

106

Goals

7

Assists

3

Becoming a shining light in a grim season for Leicester, the 38-year-old has been labelled “brilliant” by Gary Lineker and still retains a desire to offer something at the highest level.

Financially, Everton would be able to land the veteran on a free transfer, allowing room for manouvre to spend on other areas in need of surgery. Nevertheless, plenty of other clubs will also be in the hunt for £140,000 per week earner Vardy’s signature due to his potent nature, creating an intriguing few months ahead to see who will eventually land his services once the window opens.

With Pep Guardiola personally pushing for his signature, one Manchester City target now reportedly has representatives in Manchester to discuss a deal to sign for the Citizens.

Kevin De Bruyne preparing for ultimate farewell

Whilst Manchester City do have one eye on the summer transfer window, they must first bid farewell to one of their greatest ever players in Kevin De Bruyne. The Belgian is set to depart as a free agent after winning everything there is to win at The Etihad and earning his place as one of the best to ever do in the Premier League, not just at Manchester City.

Big Rico Lewis upgrade: Man City agree personal terms with young target

Manchester City are closing in on a star who could be a big upgrade on Rico Lewis.

ByDan Emery May 12, 2025

He won’t want to bow out without a trophy, however. As one last trip to Wembley awaits in City’s sky blue, De Bruyne has the opportunity to enjoy one last moment of magic and take his side to victory against Crystal Palace. All of a sudden, from what looked like a season destined to end in disaster, City could yet finish as high as second and win silverware along the way.

Following the FA Cup final, De Bruyne will have just two games left in a City shirt with his final game at The Etihad coming against Bournemouth just three days after a trip to Wembley.

These aren’t meaningless games for Guardiola’s side, either. They’re must-win affairs if they want to secure their place in the Champions League ahead of next season. The last thing the Manchester club needs is to lose the FA Cup final before crashing out of the top five in a disastrous final couple of weeks.

By securing Champions League football, the Citizens – like others around them – would be in a far stronger position to attract their top target and perhaps pull off quite the hijack.

Wirtz's representatives travel for talks

According to Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg, Florian Wirtz’s family are now in Manchester to hold talks with Manchester City over a move to The Etihad this summer. Whilst it’s been Bayern Munich in the driving seat for much of the transfer saga, it doesn’t look like City are willing to give up anytime soon and could use Bayer Leverkusen’s reluctance to sell to a rival to jump ahead of the queue.

With Guardiola personally pushing to sign his De Bruyne replacement, Manchester City will be desperate to beat Bayern to a player described as “incredible” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig earlier this season.

Indeed, Wirtz will be one of the most interesting players to watch this summer, having been praised as “probably the best midfielder in the world” by former striker Patrick Helmes, who believes he could one day end up at Real Madrid.

With Rasmus Hojlund continuing to struggle, Manchester United are now reportedly positioning themselves to sign an impressive 17-goal striker who would be an instant upgrade.

Hojlund up for sale this summer

Almost two years on from his £72m move from Atalanta, Hojlund is yet to burst into life in a Manchester United shirt. Even after paying such a price, the Red Devils would have been aware that any young striker would need time. By this stage, however, those around Old Trafford had hoped to see more from the Dane, who has struggled more than ever under Ruben Amorim.

Appearances

94

Goals

26

Assists

4

26 goals in 94 appearances is a poor record for any striker, but for a £72m striker it’s undeniably disastrous. Now, according to recent reports, Amorim is ready to sanction Hojlund’s sale and find an instant replacement this summer.

This comes just days after the Europa League final, in which the 22-year-old was once again kept quiet as Tottenham Hotspur battled to a 1-0 victory. What will far from help his cause is how much more structured Manchester United looked following the introduction of Joshua Zirkzee.

Whilst Hojlund failed in his hold-up play approach, Zirkzee dropped deeper and instantly handed the likes of Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes a connection between midfield and attack. As much as the Dutchman has also struggled in Manchester this season, he has shown glimpses of the traits that Manchester United signed him for last summer.

In desperate need of an upgrade to end their goalscoring woes, the pending arrival of Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers may not be the last time that Manchester United go in search of attacking talent this summer. As per recent reports, the Red Devils are also lining up another Premier League star.

Man Utd positioning themselves to sign Mateta

According to L’Equipe, Manchester United are now positioning themselves to sign Jean-Philippe Mateta from Crystal Palace this summer. The Frenchman is reportedly considering joining Amorim’s side in a bid to break into France’s World Cup squad next summer.

The forward has enjoyed another excellent season at Selhurst Park and will forever have his place in the club’s history after playing his part in their FA Cup win and their first-ever major trophy.

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The question will naturally be asked as to whether Mateta will be willing to ditch such success for a United side in turmoil, but Cunha’s reported move proves that those at Old Trafford still have the ability to attract top talents.

Minutes

2,587

1,924

1,402

Goals

14

4

3

Assists

2

0

1

Expected Goals

12.9

5.2

4.8

With 14 goals in the Premier League and 17 in all competitions, Mateta has found the back of the net more times than both Zirkzee and Hojlund combined. Described as “amazing” by Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner earlier this season, the Frenchman is someone that Manchester United should go all out for.