All posts by z3u9t.icu

Arsenal are very active in the transfer market and could complete an array of different deals before summer deadline day on September 1.

Club now "working tirelessly" to sign Arsenal "magician" for pre-season

It starts in three days.

ByEmilio Galantini Jul 11, 2025

Mikel Arteta is being backed to the very hilt by new sporting director Andrea Berta, who’s making quite the impression since he was officially announced as Edu’s replacement in late March.

The Italian has begun his reign by completing the signings of Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard and Noni Madueke, with the latter undergoing his medical this weekend ahead of a £50 million move from Chelsea (Fabrizio Romano).

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

25/26 – summer

£75m

The England international, who has divided opinions among the Arsenal fanbase, will also put pen to paper on a long-term five-year contract – putting an end to Arsenal’s search for a left-winger.

While their pursuit of an out-and-out wide appears has drawn to a close with Madueke’s arrival, Arsenal still want Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze to complement club captain Martin Odegaard in central attacking midfield, according to Sky Sports.

Arsenal have held positive talks with Eze’s camp, but are yet to open formal Palace talks with regard to paying the 27-year-old’s £68 million release clause.

The potential arrivals of both Eze and Madueke would come as a serious statement from Arsenal, but one area of the squad which quite simply needs to be prioritised is at centre-forward.

Arsenal’s lack of ruthlessness in the final third last term, especially when compared to their previous two campaigns, was a major cause for concern and played a serious role in the Gunners’ lacklustre Premier League title challenge.

Viktor Gyokeres only wants to join Arsenal this summer

The consensus is that Berta’s looking towards Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres to solve this problem.

The prolific Sweden international has been unplayable since moving to Portugal two years ago, scoring 97 goals in just 102 total appearances, but his time at Sporting, it’s safe to say, is now over.

The former Coventry City star is actively refusing to return to pre-season training, and Arsenal are in advanced talks to sign Gyokeres, as negotiations rumble on over the final fee.

Now, the ever-reliable Fabrizio Romano has shared an update on the situation.

Writing for CaughtOffside, he states that Gyokeres only wants to join Arsenal this summer, and he won’t entertain talks with any other club as things stand, so there is little danger of a potential hijack from Ruben Amorim’s Man United.

This comes after personal terms were agreed with Gyokeres days ago, but Sporting’s price is a major sticking point.

Some reports have even claimed that their president, Frederico Varandas, could go back on his promise not to demand the player’s full £85 million release clause – due to the toxic situation involving Gyokeres’ agent (CNN Portugal).

Leeds United made their second signing of the summer transfer window on Monday evening when they officially confirmed the arrival of Jaka Bijol from Serie A side Udinese.

The central defender is now set to compete with the likes of Ethan Ampadu, Pascal Struijk, and Joe Rodon for a place in the starting XI in the Premier League next season.

Daniel Farke is also in the market to add another number nine to his squad, having already brought in Lukas Nmecha on a free transfer from Wolfsburg.

Football Insider claims that Leeds are interested in a deal to sign Fulham centre-forward Rodrigo Muniz, but the Cottagers are confident of keeping hold of the Brazilian frontman.

The report adds that the Whites have already had an offer of £32m rejected by the fellow Premier League team, and that the London-based side are prepared to price the Championship champions out of a move for the striker.

This latest update suggests that the Fulham marksman will not be making his way to Elland Road this summer, but what could he have brought to the team?

What Rodrigo Muniz could bring to Leeds

If Leeds can turn it around to sign him, the 24-year-old attacker would join the Whites to provide Farke with a Premier League-proven number nine who has shown that he can score goals at that level.

In the last two seasons, Muniz has racked up 17 top-flight goals for the Cottagers, which shows that he knows how to find the back of the net in the top division in England.

Appearances

26

31

xG

8.72

5.81

Goals

9

8

Big chances created

2

1

Key passes per game

0.7

0.2

Assists

1

1

As you can see in the table above, the Brazilian forward also outperformed his xG in both of those seasons, showing that he is also a reliable and clinical finisher.

However, creativity is not his strong suit. A return of two assists in two seasons, and a peak of 0.7 key passes per game, does not suggest that he would create many high-quality opportunities for his teammates.

Muniz would, though, offer physicality in the number nine position. He won 52% of his duels and won 2.2 aerial battles per game in the Premier League this season, which shows that he can hold his own against top-flight defenders.

Whilst there are clearly a lot of strong qualities that the Fulham star could bring to West Yorkshire, Leeds are now reportedly pursuing a striker who could be an even better signing.

Leeds pursuing deal for Serie A star

According to Gazzetta del Mezzogiorno, as relayed by Sport Witness, Leeds United are expected to make another bid to sign Nikola Krstovic from Lecce in the summer transfer window.

The report claims that the Championship champions have already had an offer of £19.7m rejected by the Italian side for the Montenegrin centre-forward, but they are now plotting another attempt to snap him up.

Transfer Focus

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

It also reveals that AS Roma are interested in signing the 25-year-old marksman, and that they would be prepared to offer a player in exchange for him, although they have yet to make an official bid.

Meanwhile, the print edition of Corriere dello Sport, via MOTLeedsNews, reports that Lecce value the forward at a fee of around £26m, and claims that Leeds are ready to pay big money to get a deal done for the striker.

It now remains to be seen whether or not their second offer for the Montenegro international will be enough to tempt the Italian team to part ways with the attacker.

Why Leeds should sign Nikola Krstovic

The Premier League new boys should push to sign the Lecce number nine before the end of the summer transfer window because he would be an even better signing than Muniz.

Krstovic would be considerably cheaper if the latest reports are to be believed, with Lecce valuing him at £26m compared to the significantly more than £32m that Fulham want for Muniz in order to price Leeds out of a deal.

This means that it could be more financially viable for the Whites to pursue the Montenegro international, which would also free up more funds to be spent on other areas of the squad as they look to build a team that can compete in the Premier League.

Krstovic, as shown in the clips above, is a versatile goalscorer who has shown that he can find the back of the net in a variety of ways, with either foot, from close or long range, and with his head.

The Lecce sensation, who was dubbed “integral” by former boss Roberto D’Aversa, has proven that he can score goals in a major European league, netting 18 Serie A goals in the last two seasons combined.

Appearances

31

37

Sofascore rating

6.88

7.14

Goals

8

11

Big chances created

1

5

Assists

1

5

Duels won per game

3.7

4.9

As you can see in the table above, Krstovic outperformed Muniz at league level in the 2024/25 campaign, with three more goals and four more assists, whilst also winning more duels per game.

The Montenegro international’s ability to generate high-quality opportunities for himself is one of his most impressive attributes, as he has accrued 24.80 xG in two seasons in the Serie A, compared to the Fulham man’s tally of 15.32 in two Premier League campaigns.

This could suggest that Krstovic is better at getting himself into goalscoring situations, which could be particularly useful in a season that Leeds are expected to be battling relegation in.

Overall, the Lecce star could be a better signing than Muniz for the Whites as the striker may be able to offer more goals and assists in the top-flight, whilst being a cheaper addition to the squad.

Best signing since Raphinha: Leeds close to landing "exceptional" £21m star

Leeds United are closing in on a deal for a star who would be their best signing since Raphinha.

1 ByDan Emery Jun 23, 2025

With Thomas Frank looking to make his mark from the off, Tottenham Hotspur are now reportedly battling Manchester United in another transfer race to sign a £20m gem.

Tottenham open summer business with Tel arrival

Although there are likely to be plenty of others who steal the headlines this summer, Mathys Tel has his place in history as the first signing of the Frank era in North London. The young forward has arrived on a permanent deal following a short loan spell in the second-half of last season. Still just 20 years old, the former Bayern Munich man represents the type of talent that could thrive under Frank’s guidance.

The Lilywhites are unlikely to be done there with attacking additions, however, amid recent reports that suggest they’ve opened talks sign Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo.

With Bryan Mbeumo still leaning towards a summer switch to Manchester United, Frank and Tottenham’s attention has seemingly turned towards the Cherries and sealing the arrival of a player who has been on the rise in the South Coast for the last two seasons.

Of course, there will be plenty of frustration if they miss out on Mbeumo – especially given how Frank got the best out of the Brentford star during their time together in West London – but Semenyo very much represents an ideal alternative.

The Mbeumo saga may not be the last time that Spurs and Manchester United do battle in the transfer window, either. Reports are now suggesting that both clubs are interested in the same midfield gem.

Tottenham battling Man Utd to sign £20m Agoume

According to reports in Spain, Tottenham are now battling Man Utd to sign Lucien Agoume from Sevilla this summer. The young midfielder is reportedly available for just £20m amid Sevilla’s financial troubles and could be destined for the Premier League one way or another in the coming months.

It’s easy to see why two of the Premier League’s so-called big six teams are interested in Agoume this summer. U23 scout Antonio Mango was full of praise for the 23-year-old in his assessment, going on to describe him as “combative” and “extremely well-rounded”.

If they lose out on Mbeumo to Manchester United, then Tottenham should look to exact instant revenge by signing Agoume ahead of the Red Devils this summer. What could reportedly help their battle to do exactly that is the fact that they have Champions League football to offer, whilst Manchester United, of course, do not.

28-year-old wants to join Tottenham as Levy considers "clever" signing

He’d be an interesting addition.

4 ByEmilio Galantini Jun 21, 2025

It would be quite the moment if Spurs’ Europa League victory over the Red Devils saw them hand those at Old Trafford another defeat away from the pitch in the coming months.

Liverpool have now submitted a “concrete offer” to sign a teenage centre-back from Ligue 1, say reports in the player’s homeland of Morocco.

Liverpool expected to complete Wirtz and Kerkez deals

Liverpool appear to be close to capturing not one but two new players in the coming days. Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen and Milos Kerkez from AFC Bournemouth are expected to follow Jeremie Frimpong through the Anfield door to become Arne Slot’s second and third signings of the summer.

Liverpool in talks for another club-record signing who's as exciting as Wirtz

Liverpool may need to replace Luis Diaz in the transfer market this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 4, 2025

The Athletic’s David Ornstein revealed on Tuesday that Liverpool’s latest Wirtz bid, which was worth £109 million, was turned down by Leverkusen, as they hold out for a British-record fee of £126 million, but a deal is still expected to go through.

And Wirtz appears to have implied things are progressing on his own social media accounts too, posting on Instagram to deny reports he has demanded Alexis Mac Allister’s number ten shirt in order to join.

As Liverpool work on finding an agreement with Leverkusen, club chiefs are also closing in on a deal for a new left-back. According to Sky Sports, the Reds are growing increasingly confident that they will sign Kerkez from Bournemouth.

The Hungary star is keen on the move to Anfield and personal terms are not said to be an issue.

Liverpool submit official bid for teenage centre-back

The Reds don’t plan on stopping there, as according to Morocco’s LE360 Sport, relayed by Sport Witness, Liverpool have now made a concrete offer to sign defender Abdelhamid Aït Boudlal from Stade Rennais.

The 19-year-old, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Amiens in Ligue 2, has yet to make his senior debut for Stade Rennais, but that hasn’t stopped Liverpool and Newcastle United from showing significant interest. The Magpies have met with the player already, but the Reds have gone one step further and have already made an offer, though it is unclear what the offer is worth.

OGC Nice and two teams from La Liga are also in the ‘picture’ when it comes to signing Aït Boudlal. The Moroccan is under contract until 2028, but given the significant interest from Europe, it appears his time in Rennes is coming to an end.

Apps

9

Starts

8

Assists

1

Big chances created

1

Interceptions per game

0.7

Tackles per game

1.6

Balls recovered per game

3.6

Clearances per game

7.9

Liverpool’s interest in Aït Boudlal isn’t new, as club scout Kyle Wallbanks was in attendance for the AFCON U20 tournament, where Aït Boudlal helped Morocco reach the final. The Reds have obviously been keeping a close eye on the defender and are now ready to bring him to Anfield.

Arsenal have now been contacted by the entourage of a Manchester United star, ahead of a potential summer move, according to a report.

Gunners stepping up winger pursuit

With Mikel Arteta’s side poised to finish second for the third year on the bounce, the board are set to spend big in the upcoming window, and The Mirror’s John Cross has revealed there are two key areas in which the manager is looking to strengthen.

Bukayo Saka’s lengthy spell on the sidelines this season underlined his importance to the Gunners, but there may be some concerns about Gabriel Martinelli’s attacking output, with the Brazilian hardly setting the world alight in the Premier League.

The 23-year-old picked up just eight goals and four assists in the 2024-25 campaign, and the north Londoners could now be presented with the opportunity to raid one of their Premier League rivals for a potential replacement.

Indeed, according to a report from The Boot Room, the agents of Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho have now been in contact over a potential move to the Emirates Stadium this summer, with the left-winger set to be sold.

Garnacho is frustrated about not being included in the starting XI for the Europa League final, and having accepted he needs to leave Old Trafford this summer, the Argentine is keen on a switch to Atletico Madrid, while Napoli are also in the picture.

It remains to be seen whether the 20-year-old is tempted by a move to Arsenal, but any deal is expected to amount to around £51m.

£359k-per-week striker would join Arsenal "immediately", Berta wants him

He’s apparently very keen.

ByEmilio Galantini May 24, 2025 "Generational" Garnacho needs summer move

Much like a whole host of other top players, the Argentina international’s career has stalled at Old Trafford, picking up just six goals and two assists in the Premier League this season, but there are plenty of signs the youngster could be a success elsewhere.

Lauded as “generational” by Statman Dave, the starlet holds the record for most goal involvements by a teenager in United’s history, while he has also received praise for his ability to create chances.

That said, Arsenal have identified a number of other winger targets, and it would be a risk to take a punt on Garnacho, rather than a player who is more proven at the top level.

Player

Current club

Potential cost

Rafael Leao

AC Milan

£145m

Nico Williams

Athletic Club

£49m

Ademola Lookman

Atalanta

£55m

Rodrygo

Real Madrid

£85m

Tottenham Hotspur have held negotiations over signing a colossal centre-back in the last few days, according to reports, with chairman Daniel Levy and technical director Johan Lange working to strengthen the squad.

Spurs win Europa League but end Premier League season in 17th

Ange Postecoglou’s future hangs in the balance after what was a very mixed season for the Lilywhites.

£165k-a-week Tottenham star has told Levy he's quitting despite Europa win

He’s informed the Spurs chairman directly.

3 ByEmilio Galantini May 25, 2025

According to reports, Tottenham chiefs are currently ’50/50′ about sacking Postecoglou, with the Australian ending their 17-year wait for a major trophy whilst also leading them to a record-breaking 22 Premier League defeats this campaign, resulting in a lowly 17th-placed finish.

The emotional high surrounding their first European triumph since 1984 in the Europa League, coupled with Postecoglou’s rousing speech at the trophy parade, will be firmly stuck in Levy’s mind – and the chairman is now faced with an almighty conundrum ahead of next season.

“As much as you try to understand what a trophy would mean to these people, seeing them out there today, is why we do what we do,” said Postecoglou after their Europa League final win.

“That’s the priceless bit, for this feeling. I’m super pleased that these boys could deliver. All good things come through hard work, toil, perseverance and belief. This group have that in spades and I’m so pleased that we could crack that stone and now everyone can enjoy it.

“We had to dig deep, for sure, but what the history books will say is that we’re the Europa Cup winners, and it doesn’t say how we did it, just that we did it. I made family a theme from when I got here because I felt that we needed something to bring us all together and look further than just what everybody wanted. We had to form some sort of unity and the lads have been brilliant. They’ve shared their stories and got closer through the tough times like all families and now they share the reward.”

A decision on Postecoglou will need to be made and quickly, with the first of two 2025 summer transfer windows set to open imminently.

Tottenham hold "negotiations" over signing Pisa defender Francesco Coppola

Tottenham’s qualification for the Champions League gives Levy and Lange an almighty boost when it comes to the club’s recruitment drive, with reports suggesting Spurs are more confident they can tempt players like Marc Guehi as a result.

The Crystal Palace star isn’t their only defensive target, either, with Pisa Sporting Club’s rising star Francesco Coppola also on their radar.

The Italy Under-20 international spent 2024/2025 on loan at Serie C side Vis Pesaro, but his performances in the third tier have apparently impressed Spurs scouts – so much so that they’ve approached Pisa over signing him.

That is according to La Nazione, who write that Tottenham held “negotiations” over Coppola in the last few days, but these talks ended pretty swiftly.

Pisa are said to have rebuffed Levy’s advances for the towering 6 foot 5 defender, as they appear determined to keep hold of their highly-promising centre-back. If Spurs are to be successful in their pursuit, they may have to go back in with an offer which proves too good to resist.

Glasgow Rangers face Hibernian this weekend in their final match of the Scottish Premiership season before all focus can turn to the summer transfer window.

Getting a new head coach through the door should be the priority for the Light Blues, and it was recently reported that Davide Ancelotti, currently assistant to Carlo Ancelotti at Real Madrid, is closing in on the job.

It would be the Italian tactician’s first job as a first-team manager and he would be immediately faced with a number of big decisions, including whether or not to cash in on James Tavernier.

Why James Tavernier could stay at Rangers

The English full-back is reportedly a target for teams in Italy and the MLS ahead of the summer transfer window, with his contract at Ibrox expiring in 2026, and this means that there is doubt over his future at the club.

Ancelotti, as a new head coach, could look to lean on Tavernier’s experience, with 512 matches played for Rangers, and his leadership, as the captain, to help him in the role.

The right-back, who has scored 130 goals for the club, could be the link between the manager and the players, using his experience at Ibrox to ensure that the rest of the team are onboard and pulling in the right direction.

One player who should immediately be axed as the first departure of Ancelotti’s reign, should the coach complete a move to Ibrox this summer, is centre-forward Cyriel Dessers.

Why Cyriel Dessers should be sold

The Nigeria international should be the first player axed by the Italian head coach because the manager should want a reliable and consistent number nine who can fire them back to glory in domestic football against Celtic.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Unfortunately, Dessers, who has only scored two goals in ten matches against the Hoops, has not been a reliable centre-forward for the Gers since his move from Cremonese in the summer of 2023.

The £3m-rated flop, who was described as “awkward” to play against by journalist Josh Bunting, has proven himself to be excellent at getting into goalscoring positions, but has not provided enough quality with his finishing.

Appearances

35

34

Goals

16

17

Big chances missed

27

21

Big chances created

8

2

Assists

4

2

Duel success rate

33%

33%

As you can see in the table above, he has got in enough positions to score 33 league goals since the start of last season, yet has also missed 48 ‘big chances’, and been unreliable out of possession, losing 67% of his duels overall.

This shows that Dessers does not make enough of the quality opportunities that are created for him, which is why he is not the reliable striker Rangers need to kick on and end Celtic’s dominance in the Premiership. That is further backed up by his dismal goal return against the Hoops.

His lack of quality has been particularly telling in the Europa League as well. The striker scored three goals from 5.49 xG and missed a whopping ten ‘big chances’ in nine starts in the competition this term, which shows that he is not cut out to help the side kick on in European competitions.

Three Italian sides, Monza, Cagliari, and Empoli, were linked with the forward in January, and Ancelotti should push for the club to explore potential deals with any interested sides to move the striker on this summer, in order to create space for a new centre-forward to come in.

Dessers does not appear to be suited to leading the team forward as their main number nine, given his dismal finishing and struggles out of possession, and that is why the new head coach should instantly axe him from the team.

He'd kickstart Ancelotti era with a bang: Rangers in talks for first signing

Rangers could kickstart the Davide Ancelotti era with a bang by signing this star.

ByDan Emery May 14, 2025

Whereas Tavernier, another one of the senior players at the age of 33, could be kept around because of his experience at Rangers and the leadership he could provide.

West Ham United supporters will no doubt be feeling hugely disappointed with their 2024/25 campaign, falling way below the usual high standards they’ve set for themselves.

The Hammers currently sit in 15th place in the Premier League with just two games remaining of the 2024/25 campaign – a staggering 23 points off the Champions League places.

Graham Potter has so far been unable to turn around the early-season slump endured under former boss Julen Lopetegui, with this summer crucial if he’s to maintain his position at the helm.

The former Chelsea boss only had part of the January window to make his own mark on the current squad, with the summer huge if he’s to be successful at the London Stadium.

With the window just around the corner, the hierarchy have already started work behind the scenes to provide the 49-year-old with the ammunition needed to improve the situation.

The latest on West Ham’s hunt for new signings this summer

Over the last couple of weeks, numerous players have been touted with a switch to West Ham, undoubtedly strengthening the options currently on the books.

Morten Frendrup and Liam Delap are just two names mentioned with a switch to the club, with both players improving the midfield and front line should they make the switch this summer.

However, a defender has been thrown into the mix in recent days in the form of Genoa’s Koni de Winter, with GIVEMESPORT naming the Hammers as one of the interested sides.

The report claims that Potter’s men have made an enquiry to the Serie A outfit over a deal for the 22-year-old, with Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace also in the race for his signature.

It also states that the Belgian international could be available for a fee in the region of £25m this summer, as the hierarchy looks to add youth to the first team squad.

Why West Ham’s £25m target could be Potter’s own Van Dijk

Liverpool centre-back Virgil van Dijk has been the leading defender in the Premier League over the last couple of years, leading the Reds to new heights after his £75m transfer.

The Dutch international has made over 300 appearances at Anfield, winning multiple major honours in the process, including the Premier League and the Champions League.

He’s also constantly posed a threat at the other end of the pitch, often popping up with a crucial goal or two – including in the recent 2-1 win over the Hammers in April.

However, Potter’s side could be about to land their own version of the superstar this summer in the form of De Winter, with the youngster having the tools to match his accomplishments.

The defender’s agent has previously claimed that he could be the next big star, matching Van Dijk’s high levels of performance, with a switch to England handing him that platform to succeed.

When comparing his stats to those of the Liverpool star, he’s managed to match or better him in numerous key areas – highlighting what a superb addition he would be for the club.

De Winter, who’s been labelled “unreal” by talent scout Antonio Mango, has won more tackles per 90, achieving a higher tackle success rate – handing Potter the defensive quality his side have lacked this campaign.

Games played

23

36

Goals scored

3

3

Tackles won

0.9

0.4

% of tackles won

71%

55%

Successful take-ons

0.3

0.08

Recoveries made

4.8

3.1

Aerials won

3.2

3

He’s also managed to complete more of the take-ons he’s attempted, having the quality on the ball to play out from the back should the boss want his side to.

The Belgian has also matched Van Dijk for goals, whilst winning more aerial duels, handing the club the added threat at both ends of the pitch – improving the situation the Hammers find themselves in.

£25m for a player of De Winter’s quality would be an absolute bargain in today’s market, massively improving the options currently at Potter’s disposal at the London Stadium.

Should he manage to replicate the levels produced by the Liverpool star in the Premier League, it would be a phenomenal addition and one that could catapult the club back towards European success.

West Ham could seal an even more "phenomenal" striker signing than Delap

West Ham United desperately need to land a new talisman this summer to bolster Graham Potter’s squad.

ByEthan Lamb May 11, 2025

Manchester United are now in advanced talks to sign a midfielder who’s “out of this world”, but there could be competition for his signature from rivals Manchester City, according to a report.

Man Utd planning summer rebuild

Man United are on course for their lowest-ever Premier League finish, sitting in 14th place with just six games left to play, and Roy Keane was extremely critical of the players’ mentality after the 4-1 defeat against Newcastle United.

Andre Onana’s performances have been a cause for concern, with the Cameroonian being dropped in favour of Altay Bayindir against Newcastle, while Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have just six Premier League goals between them this season.

As such, Ruben Amorim is planning a serious rebuild this summer, with FC Porto’s Diogo Costa and Angers’ Yahia Fofana among the targets between the sticks, while Premier League duo Liam Delap and Matheus Cunha have been identified as potential options at striker.

Sky Sports: Man Utd now in contact over deal for "incredible" £26m striker

The Red Devils have made the first move to sign a forward, who is keen on a move to the Premier League.

ByDominic Lund Apr 16, 2025

According to a report from Spain, Amorim may also be keen to strengthen in midfield this summer, with it being revealed Man United are now in advanced talks with the agents of Atalanta star Ederson, although there may be competition for his signature from Man City.

Doubts over the futures of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen mean United have now stepped up their pursuit of the Atalanta midfielder, and they are ahead of their rivals in the race, but he will not come cheap.

The Italian club could hold out for a fee of €60 (£52m), given his importance to the side, and they are in no rush to sanction the Brazilian’s departure.

"Out of this world" Ederson impressing for Atalanta

It is little wonder two of England’s biggest clubs are now keen on the 25-year-old, given that he has been impressing for Atalanta for quite some time, making 12 appearances en-route to their Europa League triumph in the 2023-24 campaign.

Fabio Capello also singled the Brazil international out for particularly high praise earlier this season, saying: “He is out of this world for his ability to combine running, physicality, technique and intelligence”.

With doubt over Casemiro’s future, it could be important for United to bring in a defensively adept midfielder this summer, and the Atalanta maestro certainly fits the bill in that regard, given that his tackling ability was regularly on display last season.

Ederson could be the perfect heir to Casemiro, who is now in the twilight years of his career at 33-years-old, so it is exciting news that Man United are in advanced talks with his agents.

Manchester City’s major squad rebuild continues.

After Omar Marmoush, Abdukodir Khusanov, Nico González, Vitor Reis and Juma Bah all joined in January, at the cost of around £180m, more big-money signings are expected to be arriving at the Etihad this summer.

So, get excited Man City fans, one of the most talented left-backs in world football could be on his way.

Manchester City's first-choice left-back target

According to a report by Lyall Thomas and Mark McAdam of Sky Sports News, Manchester City are “interested” in a move for Bournemouth left-back Miloš Kerkez, with Liverpool and Real Madrid also mentioned as clubs that are in the running.

After a very impressive season by the South Coast, the Hungarian international is widely-expected to move this summer, and is valued at £45m, according to a report by Gary Jacob of the Times, although a bidding war could see that price-tag increase.

So, could the 21-year-old be on his way to Manchester?

How Miloš Kerkez would improve Manchester City

As alluded to earlier, Kerkez has been a standout performers this season, with Matt Furniss of Opta’s the Analyst describing him as ‘one of the hottest properties’ in world football right now, adding that he’ll soon become ‘one of the best full-backs in Europe’.

Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout agrees, describing him as “one of the most talented left-backs in world football”, so let’s assess his statistics.

Minutes

2,897

16th

Goals

2

120th

Assists

5

31st

Progressive carries

89

28th

Progressive passes

141

24rd

Passes attempted

1141

52nd

Key passes

30

64th

Crosses into the area

22

3rd

Shot-creating actions

74

51st

% of dribblers tackled

61.1%

49th

Blocks

33

47th

Interceptions

38

17th

Clearances

100

33rd

Ball recoveries

148

23rd

As outlined in the table, Kerkez ranks highly for most metric across the board, with his attacking statistics particularly impressive, considering he is a full-back.

Only Antonee Robinson and Pedro Pedro have accumulated more than Kerkez’s 22 crosses into the penalty area, helping the Hungarian international rack up five assists, two of which came during a 2-1 victory over Manchester City in November.

So, how would he fit into Man City’s team?

Well, Pep Guardiola has deployed numerous players on the left-wing so far this season, including Phil Foden, Jack Grealish, Savinho, Bernardo Silva and Marmoush, but Jérémy Doku has always appeared to be the most natural fit for this position.

The Belgian was in the headlines on Tuesday night, assisting Matheus Nunes’ last-gasp winner against Aston Villa with a sensational, impudent trivela cross that was tucked home at the back post.

Alex Keble told the Premier League that Doku’s introduction changed the game, as a result of his direct dribbling and maverick energy, something such a tactical chess match required.

Meantime, Guardiola stated on Saturday that it was “‘so unfair” that Doku had not been starting more frequently, with this the fourth successive fixture in which he’d been utilised off the bench.

The Belgian ranks second in the Premier League for attempted take-ons this season, as well as first for both successful take-ons and progressive carries, registering at least 38 more of the latter than anybody else, all according to FBref.com.

Thus, with a high-quality, reliable and consistent left-back in Kerkez behind him, we could finally see the best of Doku on a regular basis, should the pair link-up in sky blue.

100% dribbles, 88% passing: Pep has found his own Cambiaso in Man City star

Manchester City claimed a vital 2-1 victory over Aston Villa in the Premier League on Tuesday, with one star in particular catching the eye.

Apr 23, 2025