Following their dominant start to the Scottish Premiership season, one Celtic target now reportedly wants to complete a move to the Bhoys this summer with negotiations already taking place.
Celtic ease to victory in Scottish League Cup
Of course, it’s not just the Scottish Premiership that Celtic are looking to retain this season. Brendan Rodgers’ side also won the Scottish League Cup last time out and have already taken their first positive step towards winning the trophy once again – defeating Falkirk 4-1 on Friday evening.
Goals from Daizen Maeda, Dane Murray, Alistair Johnston and an own goal from Keelan Adams saw Celtic ease past Falkirk and stretch their unbeaten start to the season in all competitions to three games.
Rogers was left pleased with the way in which his Celtic side secured their place in the next round, telling reporters: “I thought the performance was very, very good from the first whistle,” he said. “You’ve seen the hunger in the team and the intensity in the team.
“The first half we were good with the ball but not so good without it. It gave Falkirk a couple of wee opportunities to break through. We weren’t aggressive enough and tight enough. When we corrected that at half-time, we really dominated the second half.
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“The goals were excellent and I thought we played really, really well. Overall really pleased. A lot of the players who hadn’t played came in and gave great value to the team. We had good variety in attack tonight. We were precise around the box when we needed to be.”
It’s the type of dominance that is likely to attract several targets, and that includes one long-term candidate who now reportedly wants to complete a move to the Scottish champions this summer.
Balikwisha now wants Celtic move
According to Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider, Michel-Ange Balikwisha now wants to complete a move to Celtic this summer after Parkhead chiefs commenced “negotiations” to sign the talented winger earlier on in the window.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha in action for Royal Antwerp.
A long-term target, the Belgian would likely be a Celtic player already if it wasn’t for his untimely injury last summer. It was undoubtedly a cruel twist that took place 12 months ago, but whether the Bhoys make up for it and finally get their man remains to be seen.
Dubbed “direct” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Celtic have just a couple of weeks left to get their deal to sign Balikwisha sealed and delivered at long last.
Heung-min Son’s decade at Tottenham Hotspur will be coming to an end in the coming days, after he confirmed he will be departing the club this summer.
The South Korean international has registered a staggering 454 appearances for the club, scoring on 173 occasions, after joining from Bayer Leverkusen back in 2015.
However, ultimately, the time has come for a new challenge for the 33-year-old, looking set to move to the MLS and link up with former teammate Hugo Lloris at LAFC.
Heung-min Son
It appears to be the perfect time to leave the Lilywhites for the forward, departing after helping the side end their 17-year wait for a trophy by winning the Europa League at the end of May.
There’s no denying that the winger will go down as one of the best players to ever wear the shirt, but his pending departure now leaves Thomas Frank with a huge task to replace him before the end of the window.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer
Attackers have been the priority for Frank already this summer, as seen by Spurs’ move to sign Mohammed Kudus in a £55m deal from West Ham United.
However, other options are still being considered, with Arnaud Kalimuendo and Matias Soule also being considered before the September 1st transfer deadline.
Arnaud Kalimuendo celebrates for Stade Rennais.
The pair are just one of multiple options currently in their sights, with Real Madrid star Rodrygo another player they’ve considered, according to AS via Sport Witness.
Their report claims that the Lilywhites have already made contact with the Spanish giants over a move for the Brazilian, who’s been allowed to depart the club this summer.
It also states that it would take a pretty penny to agree a move for the 24-year-old, with Xabi Alonso’s side currently wanting a fee of over £80m to part ways with the attacker this window.
Why Spurs’ latest target would be the dream Son replacement
Replacing a player of Son’s quality will be extremely difficult for Spurs this summer, with the board needing to back Frank to land a suitable replacement.
The 33-year-old has undoubtedly made himself a fan favourite during his decade in North London, producing countless moments of magic during his spell at the club.
From his superb solo effort against Burnley to his outrageous long-range strike against Arsenal in 2020/21, he’s managed to get the supporters off their seats on a consistent basis.
However, there’s no denying that age has taken its toll in recent months, scoring just seven league goals, which has led to his pending departure from the club this window.
Whilst losing him this summer will be a big loss, a move for Rodrygo would massively soften the blow, with the Brazilian able to fill the void left by the South Korean international.
Real Madrid's Rodrygo
When delving into his stats last season, he showcased he is capable of thriving at the top level, which could see him be the perfect addition for the Lilywhites this summer.
Rodrygo, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, managed to register 24 combined goals or assists across all competitions last season – a tally higher than that of Son from 2024/25.
Games played
30
Goals & assists
11
Pass accuracy
91%
Progressive passes
5.1
Progressive carries
5.3
Successful take-ons
2.3
Shot on target accuracy
50%
Key passes made
1.6
He also managed to register 5.1 progressive passes and 5.3 progressive carries per 90, having the tools to constantly get the ball into forward areas and hand the side an added threat in the final third.
The Brazilian’s excellence within attacking areas is further highlighted by his tally of 2.3 successful take-ons per 90, with such numbers showcasing his ability to glide past the opposition – something which Son has demonstrated many times in North London.
Although Rodrygo would be an expensive signing this summer, it would be a deal that would allow Frank to fill the void vacated by the South Korean for many years to come.
It would be a phenomenal addition, especially considering his performance level at the pinnacle of European football, something which will be vital if the club are to be successful in the near future.
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It’s a big season for West Ham United ahead, as they attempt to bounce back from a disappointing 14th-place finish last time out in the Premier League.
Before last campaign’s drop-off, the Hammers had managed to secure a satisfactory ninth spot under David Moyes, with a Europa League journey that ended at the quarter-final stages also impressing the London Stadium faithful.
Now, it’s up to Graham Potter to turn around his side’s unconvincing form, with the free transfer pick-up of Kyle Walker-Peters already catching the eye as he goes about improving his team all across the pitch.
Of course, away from chasing after new defenders, a fresh attacker to replace the void left behind by Mohammed Kudus is also a must to try and soften the £55m playmaker’s exit.
West Ham make contact over £30m deal
Replacing Kudus will be easier said than done, however, with the now Tottenham Hotspur attacker picking up a blistering 25 goal contributions in East London overall.
Yet, the Hammers will have targets in mind who they believe can come in and make Kudus’ departure an instant thing of the past, with James McAtee one exciting face they potentially have in mind to rebuild, as the Telegraph reports that the Manchester City reserve forward is available for around the £35m region.
Moving away from just McAtee, though, and West Ham could opt to go down a more unconventional route when seeking out immediate replacements.
Journalist Alan Nixon has revealed – via his Patreon – that contact has been initiated between Georgiy Sudakov at Shakhtar Donetsk and Potter’s men over a deal taking place.
Nixon states that West Ham view the Ukrainian attacking midfielder as a viable body that can come in and fill the gaping hole left behind by Kudus’ departure, with Sudakov costing just a little less than McAtee at the £30m mark.
Heorhiy Sudakov for Shakhtar
The sale of the 24-year-old to North London would allow for this bumper deal to go ahead, as the 22-year-old Donetsk gem attempts to take the English game by storm on his arrival, much like Kudus managed when leaving Ajax behind in 2023.
How Sudakov can be Kudus 2.0
Kudus’ entry into the Premier League two years ago was met with some intrigue, with the two-time Eredivisie winner rising the ranks at the Netherlands giants to become a well-known explosive asset in attack, after joining from Danish side FC Nordsjælland.
In total, the 5-foot-9 menace would fire home 27 strikes across 87 Ajax outings, with his career tally bumped by another 20 goals when strutting his stuff in style wearing West Ham claret and blue.
Kudus would have to exercise patience waiting for his moment to shine in the English game – having been touted for a move to top-flight behemoth Manchester United before sealing a move to the Irons – with Sudakov wanting to now take this opportunity with both hands himself if a switch was sealed, having showed off his class for Donetsk over many a season now.
Indeed, Sudakov’s sublime solo strike in the Champions League versus Young Boys, which can be seen above, was just one of 15 strikes the 22-year-old managed to register for Arda Turan’s men last season, meaning he might well be ready to embark on that monumental leap to the Premier League now.
24/25
39
15
6
23/24
34
10
6
22/23
41
5
11
21/22
12
4
1
20/21
14
1
0
After all – much like Kudus must have felt when he was still situated at Ajax – Sudakov will be desperate for a fresh and daunting challenge, having now potentially hit his ceiling in his native Ukraine after slowly but surely improving year after year at the Premier Liga outfit to be where he is today.
Capable of also slotting in down the wing if needed, like his Ghananian counterpart, this might well be a golden signing West Ham boast about down the line, with the potential for the “intelligent” midfielder – as he’s been hailed by football analyst Ben Mattinson – to also be transformed into a £55m superstar at the London Stadium.
Georgiy Sudakov for Shakhtar Donetsk.
For West Ham’s sake, however, let’s hope Sudakov feels content enough to stick it out with Potter and Co. for the long term, even if he does explode into life, over being seen as a one-time top performer who defected over to enemy lines.
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The Hammers have had a first-hand look at his quality.
Manchester United’s hunt for new attackers has been evident throughout the summer window, with Ruben Amorim making his need for added reinforcements clear.
The 40-year-old took the reins back in November, but was unable to transform the situation within the final third at Old Trafford – with no player registering double figures in the Premier League last season.
Main striker Rasmus Hojlund only netted four league goals in 2024/25, leading to murmurs around his long-term future at the club, with Inter Milan just one of the sides interested in his signature.
His potential departure will likely raise some key funds for the manager within the transfer market, handing him the opportunity to improve the current situation at the Theatre of Dreams.
Numerous players have been touted with moves to join the Red Devils this window, with multiple deals appearing to be heading in the right direction over recent days.
The latest on United’s hunt for new signings this summer
Tyler Dibling has emerged as a key target over the last couple of days, with United just one side touted over a potential move after Southampton’s relegation to the Championship.
However, he would still cost a fee in the region of £55m this window, an extortionate price tag, especially considering that he only notched two combined goals and assists in the league last season.
It would be an expensive addition, but it wouldn’t be the only one, with Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo still a key target for Amorim this summer, according to Graeme Bailey.
The journalist claims that a deal is edging closer to being agreed, after the Red Devils had two offers rejected for the 25-year-old, with the latest totalling £62.5m including add-ons.
He also states that Mbeumo only wants a move to Old Trafford, with a £65m fee expected to be agreed between the two parties as personal terms are not expected to be an issue.
Why United’s latest target could be Amorim’s next Gyokeres
Viktor Gyokeres is a striker who’s arguably been one of the most in-demand talents this summer, unsurprisingly so given his phenomenal goalscoring record in recent seasons.
The Swedish international has registered a staggering 97 goals in his 102 appearances for Sporting CP after joining the Portuguese side back in 2023 from Coventry City.
Part of his incredible record in the final third came under Amorim, which has since led to huge rumours linking the 27-year-old with a switch to Old Trafford.
However, the Red Devils’ lack of European football appears to be a huge hindrance in their pursuit of his signature, with the Swede now fully focused on a move to join Arsenal instead this summer.
The United boss shouldn’t worry, with Mbeumo able to be his next version of the talisman, with the Cameroonian possessing a clinical nature as seen by his tally of 20 league goals in 2024/25.
When comparing his underlying stats to those of the Sporting star from last season, he massively outperformed Gyokeres in numerous key areas, handing Amorim the key talisman he’s lacked during his time in England to date.
Mbeumo, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by one analyst, may have been outscored, but he has posted a higher goal per shot on target rate – demonstrating the clinical edge he possesses in front of goal.
Games played
38
33
Goals & assists
27
46
Goals per shot on target
0.44
0.41
Progressive passes
3.7
2.1
Passes into final third
1.7
0.5
Take-on success
47%
45%
Carries into final third
1.8
1.3
He’s also completed more progressive passes and more passes into the final third per 90, having the tools to provide other attackers with the chances to thrive within the final third at Old Trafford.
The Cameroonian’s all-round talent has been showcased in his ability to complete a higher success rate of take-ons, whilst also registering more carries into the final third – with Mbeumo being able to carve out an opportunity out of nothing.
The saga of his proposed transfer this summer has been one that has dragged on for way too long, with a conclusion desperately needed in the coming days.
If he can replicate his levels from last season at United, it would be a phenomenal signing, handing Amorim the talisman he needs to replicate the level produced by Gyokeres in recent years.
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Celtic look set to lose one of their top talents within the next week or so as Nicolas Kuhn is closing in on a permanent exit from the Scottish Premiership champions.
Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph claims that the club have agreed a fee of around £16.5m with Italian side Como for the left-footed sensation.
The journalist adds that the former RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich youth prospect has already agreed to sign a long-term contract with the Serie A outfit this summer.
Kuhn has reportedly turned down a potential return to Leipzig, who were interested in signing him, and has a medical scheduled with Como for next week, which suggests that an official confirmation is not imminently expected.
It does appear, though, that it is only a matter of time before Celtic confirm that the German winger will not be playing for the club next season, which will come as a blow to Brendan Rodgers.
Why selling Nicolas Kuhn is a blow for Celtic
Whilst the Hoops are set to rake in a significant sum of money for the 25-year-old talent, it is always a blow when a high-quality player moves on, and that is what he is.
The 2024/25 campaign was his first full season in Glasgow, having joined from Rapid Vienna in the January transfer window last year, and he really hit his stride on the right flank.
Cameron Carter-Vickers and Nicolas Kuhn in action for Celtic.
Kuhn ended the season with a return of 21 goals and 15 assists in 51 appearances in all competitions for the Scottish giants, which shows that he provided quality in the final third on a regular basis for Rodgers.
The left-footed magician’s form in the Premiership, as Celtic won the league title, was particularly impressive, as the forward showcased his ability to both score and create goals.
xG
0.46
Top 10%
Goals
0.62
Top 8%
Shots on target
1.30
Top 14%
xA
0.34
Top 10%
Assists
0.43
Top 10%
Chances created
2.49
Top 12%
As you can see in the table above, Kuhn ranked very highly among his positional peers in a host of key attacking metrics, which shows that he scored and created goals at an exceptional rate.
These statistics illustrate why it will be a big blow for Rodgers when this sale goes through, because he is losing a player who has proven that he can make a huge impact at the top end of the pitch for Celtic.
The Hoops have, of course, already signed Benjamin Nygren on a permanent deal to bolster their options on the flanks, but he does not have the creative quality to fully replace what Kuhn offered.
In the 2024/25 campaign, the Sweden international only managed a return of two assists in 30 Superliga appearances, to go with his impressive haul of 15 goals.
Therefore, Celtic may need to dip into the market to sign another wide option who can provide creativity as well as a goal threat, now that Kuhn appears to be on his way out of the club.
Earlier this summer, it was reported that the Scottish giants are interested in Stoke City forward Million Manhoef, who is valued at £10m by the Championship side, and they should now reignite that interest.
Why Celtic should sign Million Manhoef
The Premiership champions could brilliantly replace Kuhn ahead of the 2025/26 campaign by pushing ahead with a swoop for the Netherlands U21 international, as he would arrive with a similar profile.
Like the German star, the Stoke attacker is a diminutive left-footed right winger who has the quality to both score and create goals in equal measure, as evidenced by his form for the English side last season.
Leeds United's JuniorFirpoin action with Stoke City's Million Manhoef
He has not delivered the kind of numbers that Kuhn managed for Celtic yet, as he has not had the chance to play in a team that is as dominant domestically as the Hoops are, which means that there would be a degree of risk.
However, Rodgers can afford to take more of a risk with a player like Manhoef because the club have already brought in Nygren to potentially play on the right wing and, as aforementioned, his haul of 15 goals last season suggests that he could be a good option.
Celtic manager BrendanRodgersbefore the match
The Stoke star ended the 2024/25 campaign with a return of five goals and five assists in 28 Championship starts, but it is his underlying numbers behind those headline statistics that are even more promising for Celtic.
xG
7.74
Top 9%
Goals
5
Top 21%
Shots on target
26
Top 9%
xA
4.83
Top 14%
Chances created
52
Top 9%
Assists
5
Top 20%
As you can see in the table above, Manhoef excelled at getting into goalscoring positions and at creating chances for his teammates, ranking highly among his positional peers, but was not clinical enough with his finishing.
Pundit David Prutton claimed it would be a “tremendous” move for Manhoef to sign for Celtic, and these statistics suggest that the potential is there for it to be a tremendous move for all parties.
The Dutch wizard, who only recorded five assists from 12 ‘big chances’ created in the Championship, could thrive in a team that dominates games week-in-week-out, as Celtic do.
He has been playing for a midtable team, in Stoke, who do not challenge at the top end of the division in the second tier in England, which suggests that he has not had the opportunity to play in a side that is consistently on the front foot.
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Therefore, Celtic could brilliantly replace Kuhn by gambling on a swoop for Manhoef, who appears to have the potential to explode as a scorer and a creator of goals in a better team than the one he is currently playing in.
Leeds United won the Championship title with a whopping 100-point haul in the 2024/25 campaign to earn promotion back up to the Premier League.
Daniel Farke will now be aiming to guide the team clear of relegation, knowing that the last six teams promoted from the second tier have all been relegated at the first time of asking.
The Whites scored 95 goals in their 46 matches in the Championship, and they did so without a natural number ten type magician in the squad, as they had in the past with Pablo Hernandez, and as Farke had in the past with Emiliano Buendia.
Instead, old-school wingers like Manor Solomon and Dan James provided quality in the final third, whilst Brenden Aaronson was the main number ten and ended the season with just two assists in 43 league starts.
Bristol City (A)
0
0
Burnley (H)
0
0
Sunderland (A)
0
0
Sheffield United (H)
0
0
Coventry (H)
0
0
Coventry (A)
0
0
Burnley (A)
0
0
Sunderland (H)
0
0
Sheffield United (A)
0
0
Bristol City (H)
0
0
As you can see in the table above, the USA international did not deliver a single goal contribution in his ten appearances against the other teams in the top six, as he struggled badly against the better teams in the division.
Why Leeds needs to sign their next Pablo Hernandez
Aaronson’s lacklustre form in front of goal, despite being a regular starter in a dominant team, suggests that he will not be good enough to make the step up to the Premier League next season.
That thought is, of course, backed up by the fact that he only managed one goal in 36 games in the top-flight during his first year in England in the 2022/23 campaign, which shows that he has already failed to make the step up to that level.
Therefore, Leeds need to acquire a new number ten option to score and create goals in the Premier League, and they should target a traditional playmaker in the Pablo Hernandez mould to improve their options in the middle of the park.
The Spaniard delivered 36 goals and 41 assists in 175 appearances for the West Yorkshire outfit in all competitions, which shows that he provided quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals on a regular basis whilst playing on the wing or as an attacking midfielder.
Hernandez was a joy to watch during his time at Elland Road, as shown by some of the fantastic goals in the clips above, and Leeds do not have a similar kind of player in their current squad.
That is why the Whites should make signing their next version of the Spanish maestro a priority between now and the end of the summer transfer window ahead of their return to the Premier League.
Leeds have interest in Championship playmaker
According to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Leeds United are ‘believed’ to have a genuine interest in Sheffield United attacking midfielder Gustavo Hamer this summer.
The report claims that the Championship champions are one of the teams eyeing up the Dutch playmaker, although it reveals that he has fallen down the shortlist and is not the number one priority at this moment in time.
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It adds that the Whites were interested in a deal to sign the Blades star in the summer transfer window in 2024, and that they had an offer of £13m turned down by their rivals.
Given that he is not at the top of their wishlist for number tens, it remains to be seen if Leeds will snap the 28-year-old star up before the window slams shut at the start of September.
He is reportedly valued at a fee of around £18m by Sheffield United, but this latest report by the Yorkshire Evening Post does not reveal if they would be willing to pay that much for the midfielder.
Why Leeds should sign Gustavo Hamer
The Whites should press ahead with a swoop for the Championship star, despite him not being one of their top targets in that position, because he could be their next Pablo Hernandez.
Sheffield United's Gustavo Hamer celebrates scoring their first goal
Like the Spaniard, Hamer is a diminutive playmaker who can play out wide or in the middle as a number ten, having played off the left 33 times for Sheffield United this season.
The Dutch star, who was hailed as “outstanding” by former boss Chris Wilder, has showcased his quality in the Premier League and in the Championship with the Blades in the last two campaigns.
In the 2024/25 campaign, the former Coventry City magician scored nine goals, created 11 ‘big chances’, and delivered seven assists in the Championship, which shows that he provided quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals.
Hamer’s performances for Sheffield United in the Premier League in the previous season, despite their relegation from the division, suggest that the potential is there for him to be a great addition for the Whites.
Goals
4
Top 16%
xG
2.98
Top 24%
xA
4.55
Top 12%
Assists
6
Top 10%
Chances created
70
Top 3%
Crosses completed
33
Top 5%
Dribbles completed
28
Top 13%
As you can see in the table above, the Dutchman ranked highly among his positional peers as both a scorer and a creator of goals from a midfield position, as he was directly involved in ten goals in the top-flight.
This shows that he does have the ability to make an impact in front of goal in the Premier League. Whereas, as aforementioned, Aaronson flopped in his last season at that level.
Therefore, Hamer could arrive at Elland Road this summer as a long-term successor to Pablo Hernandez in West Yorkshire, as he is a natural playmaker who has shown that he can make a difference in the final third with goals and assists at an impressive rate.
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It is now down to the club to decide who their number one target is for the number ten position, but these statistics suggest that the Blades star would be an excellent choice.
Tottenham Hotspur are in desperate need of investment from the hierarchy this summer if they are to reach the next level under Thomas Frank’s guidance.
The Dane has been appointed to help build on their Europa League triumph at the end of the recent season, but if he is to do that, he will need to receive funds from the board.
However, despite their European success in 2024/25, their Premier League standing was nothing short of a disaster, finishing in a measly 17th position, losing 22 matches out of their 38 outings.
The new boss will have to find the right balance between their Champions League efforts and their attempts to rise back up the table, something which has become vital to owner Daniel Levy.
As previously mentioned, the lack of squad depth could be a huge hindrance to Frank’s efforts, needing to make key additions if he is to be an immediate success in North London.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer
Striker Arnaud Kalimuendo has been a key target for Spurs throughout this window, after registering 18 goals in 34 outings for French side Stade Rennais this season.
Xavi Simons is another player on their radar throughout the off-season, as the Lilywhites aim to add a new dimension to their forward line ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
However, another name has entered the frame in recent days, with Belgian centre-back Koni de Winter emerging as a potential defensive reinforcement, according to Corriere dello Sport via Sport Witness.
The report claims that Frank’s side are currently leading the race for the Genoa star, who could be available for as little as £25m throughout this summer.
It also states that the 23-year-old is subject to a lot of interest at present, with Crystal Palace also in the race for his signature, but that the Lilywhites currently hold the advantage in the pursuit of his services.
Why De Winter would be a better signing than Semenyo for Spurs
Antoine Semenyo is an attacker who has caught the eye in the Premier League this season, registering 16 combined goals and assists for Bournemouth.
The 25-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough year in England’s top-flight, something which has captured the attention of Frank’s side – subsequently entering the race for his signature.
However, Manchester United are also in the race to land the Ghanaian international this window, with the Cherries demanding a fee in the region of £65m to part ways with the star man.
Given his tally in front of goal this campaign, he would certainly provide needed depth within the final third, but De Winter would certainly be a better addition for Frank this window.
Cristian Romero has been hugely touted with a move away from North London during the off-season, with Atlético and Real Madrid both keen to land the Argentinian.
Such a move would leave a huge hole in the starting eleven, something which the manager would need to address, with De Winter arguably the perfect fit for the backline.
The 23-year-old, who’s been labelled “imperious” by journalist Sacha Tavolieri, has completed 87% of the passes he’s attempted, with 1.7 per 90 going into the final third – handing an option for the side to play out from the back if needed.
Games played
25
Goals scored
3
Pass accuracy
87%
Passes into final third
1.7
Tackles won
58%
Aerials won
3.2
Recoveries made
4.8
He’s also won 58% of the tackles he’s entered, whilst winning 3.2 aerials per 90, offering an extremely talented defensive option that would improve the situation in the defensive third.
De Winter has also made 1.1 interceptions per 90 and 4.8 recoveries, helping the Italian side keep 10 clean sheets and secure a mid-table finish in 2024/25.
£25m in today’s market would be an excellent deal for the Lilywhites, handing Frank the platform he needs for success during his first year at the helm in North London.
Whilst Semenyo would be a superb signing, the need for added defensive reinforcements will be needed, especially if Romero departs, with the Belgian having the tools to fill any void.
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Robin van Persie is a striker who managed to hugely impress at Manchester United, leading the club to their last Premier League title back in the 2012/13 campaign.
The Dutchman controversially left rivals Arsenal to join the Red Devils in a £24m deal, a move that would be a massive bargain given his form in front of goal at Old Trafford.
He registered 30 goals in his 48 appearances across all competitions, 26 of which came in the league, subsequently claiming the division’s Golden Boot award.
Former Manchester United forward Robin van Persie.
Van Persie’s talents with the Red Devils are there for all to see, with current boss Ruben Amorim potentially wishing he had his own version of the talisman in the present day.
However, the 40-year-old may be able to land just that this summer, with the manager already laying the foundations for potential additions within the final third.
The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer
With Rasmus Hojlund touted with a move away from United this summer, it’s no surprise to see various names linked with a summer move to join Amorim’s men.
The likes of Moise Kean, Hugo Ekitiké and Benjamin Sesko have all been mentioned as potential additions, as the hierarchy look to add a new dimension to their attack.
However, another name has entered the mix in the form of Dušan Vlahović, with the Juventus talisman set to depart the Italian club this summer, according to GIVEMESPORT.
They claim that United will be offered the opportunity to land the Serbian international for a fee in the region of £20m this summer, with the attacker demanding £200k-per-week.
It also states that the 25-year-old is extremely keen on a move to the Premier League this window, after scoring 10 goals in just 21 league starts this campaign.
Why Vlahovic could be the perfect Gyokeres alternative for United
Viktor Gyokeres is another striker who has been hugely touted with a move to join United this summer, unsurprisingly so given his tally of 54 goals in all competitions this season.
The Swede has also been subject to huge interest from Arsenal, with the pair battling it out for his signature ahead of the reopening of the window next week.
However, any deal would likely cost the Red Devils hierarchy a pretty penny, with Sporting CP demanding a fee in the region of £70m to part ways with the 27-year-old this window.
Such a fee could lead to a move to Vlahovic becoming the main target, given the difference in fee, offering a cheaper alternative who could follow in Van Persie’s footsteps.
The Serbian, who’s been labelled “incredible” by Statman Dave, possesses a similar skillset, with a powerful strike off his stronger left foot – also being able to play off the shoulder, similarly to the Dutchman.
Juventus' DusanVlahovicduring the warm up
He could also provide a cheaper yet effective option than Gyokeres, managing to produce some impressive figures in numerous key areas despite the difference in fee.
Vlahovic has registered 1.5 shots on target per 90 in Serie A this campaign, showcasing the accuracy that he possesses when finding himself in front of goal within the final third.
Games played
29
Goals scored
10
Shots on target
1.5
Touches in opposition box
6.7
Aerials won
2.1
Aerial success
48%
Take-on success
1.4
Progressive carries
1.4
He also managed to win 48% of the aerials he’s contested, whilst registering 6.7 touches in the opposition’s box per 90 – handing Amorim a fox in the box option at Old Trafford.
£20m is a bargain in today’s market, especially for a talent like the 25-year-old, with such a deal likely to allow for a potential profit down the line in years to come.
Whilst Gyokeres may be many supporters’ first choice, a move for Vlahovic shouldn’t be looked past, with the Serbian having all the tools to follow in Van Persie’s footsteps at United.
Amorim's own Wirtz: Man Utd lead race to sign "sensational" £70m star
Manchester United appear to be making huge moves with a deal for one talent this summer.
Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has a few intriguing players on his extensive shortlist of targets for the north Londoners, and one of them is now believed to be a marquee Premier League star.
Arsenal pursuit of new winger suggests dressing room shake-up
Bukayo Saka’s three-month lay-off midway through 2024/2025, combined with Leandro Trossard’s contract expiring in 2026, has reportedly prompted Berta to enter the market for a quality new wide player.
Arsenal ready to make "bold" bid to sign £86m Serie A star who Berta wants
He’s emerged as a “prime” target for the Italian.
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New names are being linked regularly, with £86 million Juventus star Kenan Yildiz among the wingers attracting interest from Arsenal, according to reports in Turkey.
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
While there’s no outright plan to sell Gabriel Martinelli, a recent piece from The Athletic suggested that Berta and Mikel Arteta would entertain substantial offers, with the Brazilian valued at around £50 million.
Given Arsenal already have an abundance of proven wide-players, including the emergence of highly-rated starlet Ethan Nwaneri, ex-Gunners defender Mikael Silvestre is convinced the club’s interest in signing another winger could indicate a dressing room shake-up.
“I’d be wary of bringing in too many wingers like Nico Williams through the door,” Silvestre told Esports Insider.
“You need to give Ethan Nwaneri some game time; they have Bukayo Saka, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli already.
“I don’t see why they’d want to bring another winger unless one of those players wants to leave or if the club are planning to break the bank on a world-class wide player. It would surprise me if the club spent heavily on a striker and a winger in the same window.”
Given the high-profile names eyed by Berta, it is very reasonable to assume that Arsenal could indeed splash the cash on a world-class winger.
Andrea Berta identifies Morgan Rogers as a top Arsenal target
Sky Sports reporter Lyall Thomas, writing in a piece for the broadcast giant, claims Aston Villa sensation Morgan Rogers is on the club’s agenda – alongside the heavily-linked Rodrygo (Real Madrid), Leroy Sane (Bayern Munich) and Athletic Bilbao’s Williams.
England'sEberechiEzecelebrates scoring their third goal with England's Morgan Rogers
The Englishman is fresh off the back of an excellent campaign under Unai Emery, racking up 14 goals and 15 assists in all competitions after becoming a very important player for Villa.
Rogers finished 2024/2025 as Villa’s second-best performer in the Premier League by average match rating per 90, according to WhoScored, all while completing more successful take-ons than all of his teammates.
His rise to the top has even prompted NSWE to slap a £100 million valuation on the 22-year-old’s head to deter suitors, but according to Sky’s Thomas, Berta has identified Rogers as one of his top Arsenal targets for the wide area regardless.
Aston Villa star Morgan Rogers
There is little denying that, if Arsenal were to formalise their interest in Rogers, they’d be looking to bring down his mammoth reported price tag. However, the former Middlesbrough man could certainly be worth that effort.
“I think he’s going to be a player,” said pundit Tony Cascarino.
“He really looks, there’s something about, he reminds me a little bit of Jamal Musiala. He’s that guy that picks up the ball, and he’ll just make runs, and he’ll create problems for others. He’s got a lot about him.”
It is no understatement to say that Glasgow Rangers require a major overhaul this summer.
Not just in the playing squad or staff members, but in mentality. Since the Ibrox side won the Premiership title in 2021, the Gers have won only two trophies since.
In comparison, Celtic have won every available league title on offer and have clinched a domestic double this season, although they did lose to Aberdeen in the SFA Cup final.
Rangers interim managerBarryFergusonbefore the match
Things have to change at Ibrox, and fast. The 49ers’ involvement should give those at the club a boost, but the priority is a new manager.
The likes of Steven Gerrard and Davide Ancelotti have been linked with a move to Glasgow, while several other candidates have been touted for the vacant role.
Whoever becomes the next permanent manager will have work to do in order to improve the first-team squad this summer.
There are various positions that need urgent improvement, no doubt about that. Furthermore, several players could be sold to raise funds and help reduce the wage bill.
Cyriel Dessers may finish the season as the top scorer in the Premiership, but if a reasonable offer comes in this summer, the club should cash in.
Why Rangers must sell Cyriel Dessers
Never has a Rangers player exuded more Jekyll and Hyde-like qualities than Dessers. One minute, he is simply unplayable, causing chaos for opposition defenders domestically and in Europe.
Next, he struggles with the easiest of chances and offers next to nothing in the final third.
There is no doubt about his record in front of goal for the Light Blues since he joined in a deal worth £4.5m from Cremonese in the summer of 2023. Indeed, the Nigerian striker has scored 51 goals and grabbed 16 assists across 109 games for the club during his first two seasons.
On the surface, this is an impressive record in front of goal. He has shone in Europe, with his display against Fenerbahce one of the finest by a Gers forward in quite a while.
Unfortunately, these performances are few and far between. Throughout the 2023/24 league season, Dessers missed a staggering 27 big chances across 35 matches.
Over the same number of games in 2024/25, he missed 21 big chances, a slight improvement, but still not great.
Metric
2023/24
2024/25
Goals
16
18
Assists
4
2
Shots per game
2.9
2.4
Big chances missed
27
21
Goal conversion percentage
16%
22%
During the winter transfer window, several clubs were linked with making a move for Dessers. Saint-Étienne, Cagliari, and Empoli were all showing interest in securing a move for the 30-year-old.
Much to the disappointment of large sections of the support, the centre-forward remained in Glasgow until the end of the season at least.
He has two years left on his current contract, which suggests now would be the ideal time to cash in and secure a decent fee for the player.
This could be used to fund future signings, especially a couple of younger players with a higher ceiling for growth.
Dessers shouldn’t be the only player to be moved on this summer by the new manager. Nedim Bajrami is reportedly attracting interest from afar, and now might be a good time to part ways with the Albanian.
Nedim Bajrami has offers on the table
According to reports in Albania (as relayed by Glasgow Times), Bajrami has two options on the table with regard to a summer exit away from the Light Blues.
One comes from the Italian top flight, while the other is from the Bundesliga, and the report states that the midfielder is likely to leave Glasgow when the transfer window finally opens.
Much will depend on the price, however, as the 49ers will be keen on recouping much of the £3.4m that was spent on the Albanian last summer.
It’s safe to say he hasn’t exactly enjoyed the most productive of campaigns in Scotland, despite arriving with plenty of hype.
What exactly went wrong with Bajrami?
Why Rangers must sell Nedim Bajrami this summer
The 26-year-old had impressed for his country at Euro 2024, scoring an incredible opener against Italy after just 23 seconds.
A move to Ibrox in the final days of the summer transfer window looked like a real coup for Philippe Clement.
What looked like a potentially transformative signing for the club eventually turned into a waste of money. Across 44 games for Rangers, he only scored five goals and chipped in with four assists, showing that he has rarely made a big impact at the top end of the pitch.
Considering the sum of money the club had paid, this was hardly the best of returns, especially following a decent start to life in Glasgow.
The midfielder only started 15 Premiership matches, creating only four big chances, averaging one key pass and succeeding with just one dribble per game in the top flight.
In Europe, Bajrami didn’t fare much better. Indeed, he could only muster a single goal from 11 appearances, winning less than half of his total duels per game and averaging 1.3 key passes per game, which shows how ineffective he has been on the European stage since his move to Ibrox.
Bajrami
The nadir came against Queen’s Park in the Scottish Cup back in February. Rangers suffered a shock 1-0 home defeat – arguably one of their worst domestic losses – but Bajrami was subbed at half-time following a dismal display.
Stevie Clifford, who runs Four Lads Had a Dream, criticised the Albanian a month before, saying:
“I’ll highlight it again, it’s not singling him out, but Nedim Bajrami is not offering enough at all.
“We need him to influence games & be involved, largely anonymous so far, again.
“£4m is big money to do it in these type of games & he’s miles off it so far.”
All of these points point towards a likely summer exit when the window opens next month. Should Rangers receive a bid that is deemed acceptable, then they must be ready to cash in.
He didn’t live up to initial expectations, and regardless of who the new manager is, Bajrami’s future already looks settled with the offers that are on the table from other clubs.
Hopefully, he can make better signings this summer.
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