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Manchester United have won three Premier League matches in succession for the first time in the Ruben Amorim era after their 4-2 win over Brighton & Hove Albion last time out.

The signings of Bryan Mbeumo, Benjamin Sesko, and Matheus Cunha have had a positive impact on the team, as all three of them were directly involved in at least one goal against Brighton.

INEOS have seen the impact that signing high-quality, ready-made, players can have on the squad, which may be why they are being linked with a move to sign Adam Wharton.

The latest on Adam Wharton to Manchester United

It was recently reported that the Crystal Palace central midfielder has overtaken Brighton star Carlos Baleba on Manchester United’s shortlist of targets ahead of the January transfer window.

That report claimed that Amorim wants to sign the left-footed English starlet because of his direct style of play and forward passing in the middle of the park, as he looks to bolster his options ahead of the second half of the 2025/26 Premier League campaign.

However, it has been reported that it could take a fee of up to £100m to convince the Eagles to part ways with Wharton, which would eclipse United’s club-record £89m deal for Paul Pogba.

Chalkboard

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

Instead of splashing out a club-record fee on the Crystal Palace star, though, Manchester United could unearth their own version of Wharton in Kobbie Mainoo by working with him to improve his game.

Why Kobbie Mainoo can be Man Utd's own Adam Wharton

The England international, who was described as “fearless” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, has yet to start a Premier League game this season, because Amorim has stated that he is competing with Bruno Fernandes for a starting berth.

However, the Portuguese head coach could solve that problem by coaching Mainoo to excel as the holding midfielder next to the captain, as his own version of Wharton, as the young midfielder has some of the raw materials needed to perform in that position.

The 20-year-old starlet, who Mango also stated had a “meteoric rise” at United, does need to improve his forward passing and creativity in possession, though, as Wharton has the beating of him in those two aspects.

Pass accuracy

74.4%

86.3%

Shot-creating actions

3.80

2.85

Expected Assisted Goals

0.31

0.11

Progressive passes

5.57

3.62

Progressive carries

1.15

1.75

Successful take-ons

0.48

1.10

Tackles made

1.83

2.59

Percentage of dribblers tackled

40.6%

58.1%

As you can see in the table above, Wharton produces more shot-creating actions and progressive passes per 90 than Mainoo, based on their statistics over the past year, which shows that Red Devils youngster what he needs to develop.

The United academy graduate, however, has offered more defensive quality to his side than the Palace man by winning more tackles and winning a far higher percentage of his attempted tackles, which suggests that he does have the physical edge to play that role next to Bruno.

Mainoo’s progressive carries and successful take-ons per 90, particularly in comparison to Wharton’s, also suggest that he has the direct play in the middle of the park that Amorim wants to sign the Eagles midfielder for.

The 20-year-old star’s statistics show that he does have some impressive qualities that could make him an excellent fit for the role that the club may be lining Wharton up for, if he can work on his progressive passing and creativity in the final third.

Rather than spending £100m or more on the Palace star, United could look within their own squad to coach Mainoo and help him to become their own £100m-rated midfielder by working on his weaknesses to make him a complete star.

Carragher said Man Utd star was "terrible", now he's Amorim's key player

Manchester United now have a talent who has managed to transform his career at Old Trafford.

ByEthan Lamb Oct 30, 2025

Arsenal have now joined the race for a £88m forward who recently entered “very advanced” talks over a move to Tottenham Hotspur…

Gunners ramping up pursuit of forward amid Eze criticism

The Gunners’ lead at the top of the Premier League table was reduced to just two points on Saturday, with Aston Villa securing a 2-1 win at Villa Park, and Shaka Hislop was particularly unimpressed with Eberechi Eze’s performance.

Hislop said: “He could have been taken off after 30 minutes, I’ll be honest.

“Now I am as willing as anybody to sing Eze’s praises, but everything from Arsenal came down the right in that first half.

“Everything came through Bukayo Saka, so the change had to be made at half-time because Eze was non-existent.”

In fairness, Eze has made a very promising start to life at the Emirates Stadium, with the England international amassing nine goal contributions in his opening 22 matches across all competitions.

However, the 27-year-old’s best performance arguably came in the 4-1 victory against Tottenham, during which he played through the middle, so there may be room to bring in another left-winger this winter, and Arsenal are now ramping up their pursuit.

It was recently revealed that a strong move is being made for Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola, but the Frenchman is not the only target, with a report from Caught Offside revealing Arsenal have now joined the race for RB Leipzig star Yan Diomande.

The Gunners have been monitoring Diomande’s progress over the past few weeks, alongside a number of Europe’s top clubs, while Spurs are also keen, with Sky Sports reporter Sacha Tavolieri recently stating they are in “very advanced” talks with the left-winger.

A deal could be on the expensive side, however, with it being suggested RB Leipzig could look to hold out for around €80m – €100m (£70m – £88m).

Arsenal to "directly contact" £88m forward about joining after talks with his reps

Arteta apparently wants to sign him in January.

ByEmilio Galantini 7 days ago Diomande making "sensational" impact in Germany

The Ivorian only made the move to Germany during the summer, but he has already started to make a major impact, being singled out for high praise by scout Jacek Kulig.

Most recently, the 19-year-old put in a remarkable performance in his side’s 6-0 victory against Eintracht Frankfurt, scoring a hat-trick and completing more dribbles than any other player.

Yan Diomande’s key statistics vs Frankfurt

Number completed

Dribbles (successful)

8 (4)

Key passes

1

Duels (won)

13 (6)

Goals

3

Considering Diomande is still a teenager, the level of his performances in the Bundesliga this season have been remarkable, and he may be ready to join one of Europe’s biggest clubs soon, so it would be fantastic if Arsenal were able to beat Tottenham to his signature.

West Ham United have made the biggest offer to sign a Euro 2024 star, according to a recent report.

West Ham transfer plans under Steidten and Lopetegui

The Hammers have already made a start on their summer business, with new manager Julen Lopetegui and technical director Tim Steidten bringing in teenage winger Luis Guilherme from Palmeiras and goalkeeper Wes Foderingham after he left Sheffield United.

Speaking at Lopetegui’s official first press conference as Irons boss, Steidten promised West Ham supporters a busy summer, revealing the club are “looking at all areas”.

“I can’t tell you specifics, but it will be a busy summer for us for sure. The owner and the board have done a really good job over recent years, so we’re in good shape financially…

“We’re trying to build up the squad. We’re not limiting ourselves to one position – we’re looking at all areas.”

League champions on the hunt to sign "superb" £35,000-p/w West Ham player

A key player could be on his way out of East London.

ByTom Coates Jul 1, 2024

Meanwhile, Lopetegui said: “Of course we are working to improve (the squad). The first thing to highlight is that we’re happy with the players, but of course we’re going to try to improve. We have to work very hard to be ready for the Premier League, and we would like players as soon as possible, but it’s not easy.”

One of those areas appears to be another attacking addition after Guilherme. Recent targets have included former Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha, now at Galatasaray, Fluminense forward Jhon Arias, Lille striker Jonathan David, Genoa forward Albert Gudmundsson and Vitoria Guimaraes star Jota Silva.

Bids were rumoured to have been made for Zaha and Arias. Talks were held to sign David, whereas West Ham were willing to pay a big fee for Gudmundsson and had even agreed personal terms with Silva.

Now, a new update has emerged on a forward who has been scoring at Euro 2024.

West Ham make biggest offer for Mikautadze

It has been a busy few weeks for Georgia forward Georges Mikautadze. He helped his nation qualify for the last 16 of Euro 2024, scoring three goals in four games before they were eliminated by Spain.

At club level, it was confirmed on Monday that FC Metz have exercised their option to make his loan move from Ajax a permanent transfer in a deal worth around €13m. Now, though, it looks as if he could already be on the move again, with Metz making a healthy profit.

According to Le10Sport reporter Alexis Bernard, West Ham have made the biggest offer to sign Mikautadze from Metz, thought to be worth well over €20m (£17m).

The problem for the Hammers is that Mikautadze favours playing in France, with Monaco, Lens and Lyon also interested in the 23-year-old. It could therefore be one to keep an eye on, and it shows that West Ham, Steidten and Lopetegui are willing to splash the cash on more attacking reinforcements ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

Tottenham have reportedly opened talks over two more signings amid their sealed agreement for Bournemouth striker Dominic Solanke, as Spurs seemingly look to end the window on a high for manager Ange Postecoglou.

Spurs agree deal with Bournemouth to sign Solanke

After completing deals for Timo Werner and Archie Gray, it appears Solanke is next in line to join Postecoglou's side this summer.

Tottenham now offered club's £25 million Player of the Year with Solanke

The Lilywhites have been approached by intermediaries.

ByEmilio Galantini Aug 9, 2024

Spurs have reached a complete agreement to sign Solanke, coming after the Englishman bagged an impressive 21 goals in all competitions over some vital performances for the Cherries last season.

The 26-year-old was and is a key player for Andoni Iraola, who will be saddened to lose him when his move to Tottenham becomes official. It is believed that Solanke is "desperate" to play for Spurs next season, according to reliable journalist David Ornstein, which may have helped to speed the move along.

Player

Goals scored

Son Heung min

17

Richarlison

12

Dejan Kulusevski

8

Brennan Johnson

5

Cristian Romero

5

James Maddison

4

Solanke has agreed a six-year contract at Spurs, as per Ornstein again, and the club will pay Bournemouth the entirety of his £65 million release clause. This comes after Postecoglou admitted to the press that bringing in a new number nine was a major priority for Tottenham this summer.

"At Celtic, I had Kyogo, who was a sort of out and out number nine and in Japan, I've always had a striker," said Postecoglou on Spurs signing a new striker.

"It just depends, like last year we had to be a bit creative, it's fair to say. You know but if Harry would have stayed I definitely would have used him! So I think for us what's more important is the type of striker we get. You know we play a certain way. We demand certain things from a physical perspective from the technical aspects of it that it's going be a striker that fits that mould."

With Solanke compeleting a move to north London, focus now turns to who could follow the Englishman, with just weeks of the window remaining.

Tottenham open talks for two more signings after Dominic Solanke

Journalist Pete O'Rourke has shared a further update on Spurs' plans beyond bringing in a new number nine.

Writing for Football Insider, the reporter claims Tottenham have opened talks for two more signings before the deadline, as chairman Daniel Levy and co also look to reinforce their options for the wing and their left-back area.

While targets haven't been named in the report, Fabrizio Romano has backed that Spurs could look to bring in a new winger, depending on opportunities, while Postecoglou may need left-back cover after the departure of Ryan Sessegnon on a free transfer.

Emerson Royal featured at left-back on occasion last term, but a move to AC Milan is still very much on the cards (Alasdair Gold), meaning Spurs could find themselves requiring an alternative to Destiny Udogie.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta now appears set to promote one very highly-rated teenager to the first team, as a senior member of the Spaniard's squad faces a fresh injury setback.

Arsenal prepare to face Wolves in opening Premier League game

Following their two month-plus break from action, Arsenal are now gearing up for the new Premier League season and another opportunity to loosen Man City's stranglehold on the title.

Talks ongoing: Arsenal believe they'll sign £55m ace soon, he wants to join

The Gunners are still trying to make their third signing of the window.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Aug 13, 2024

The Gunners have fell just short of City in the last two campaigns, pushing Pep Guardiola all the way to the final day last term, but not quite possessing enough to leapfrog their arch rivals.

After signing Italy international defender Riccardo Calafiori, and potentially Real Sociedad midfielder Mikel Merino soon (Pete O'Rourke), Arsenal chiefs will be hoping Arteta's side can go that one step further and usurp City as the champions of England come next May.

Arsenal host Gary O'Neil's Wolves on Saturday in their bid to make the best possible start, with an array of tricky fixtures awaiting Arteta soon afterwards.

Team

Date

Wolves (home)

August 17

Aston Villa (away)

August 24

Brighton (home)

August 31

Tottenham (away)

September 15

Man City (away)

September 22

Arsenal will also be hoping for a near-fully fit squad for their clash at the Emirates this weekend, but it is believed versatile £100,000-per-week defender Takehiro Tomiyasu could well be on the treatment table.

Arteta set to promote Myles Lewis-Skelly after Tomiyasu injury at Arsenal

According to Football Transfers, Tomiyasu is facing a fresh injury setback which will keep him out for another month, resulting in a potential opportunity for 17-year-old academy gem Myles Lewis-Skelly.

The young midfielder, who featured often in pre-season preparations, could come in to replace Tomiyasu in the matchday squad. Indeed, Arteta is apparently expected promote Lewis-Skelly to the Arsenal first team following Tomiyasu's recent problem, where he will hopefully have a chance to impress.

The Englishman, who is yet to make his professional senior debut for Arsenal, is very highly rated at the club.

“You know when you see a player and you think, ‘yeah, you’re just a little bit different’," said journalist Charles Watts on his YouTube channel last year, after Lewis-Skelly's excellent performance against Man City in their FA Youth Cup semi-final win (via TBR).

“That’s the kind of impression you get when you sit there and watch Lewis-Skelly. His close control, his ability to get himself out of tight situations, the way he runs with the ball. Just his presence on the pitch, he’s got something special.

“You can see why there’s so much excitement about him at Arsenal. If anyone at Arsenal was going to get the winner last night, and deserved to get the headlines, it was probably him, as he was very good.”

Meanwhile, former Arsenal midfielder and Hale End academy coach Jack Wilshere has tipped the teenager for a very bright future at the club.

“We give him the tools he needs to develop, but you see certain moments that are not coachable," said Wilshere on Lewis-Skelly.

"Certain players can’t do that, only certain players can but there’s much more that comes with it like how he lives. He’s a top kid but he has to manage that going forward when he gets a bit more attention. He comes from a great family which is massive, and I know that they’ll steer his journey and be present throughout that, a bit like me with my dad and family. That’s so important.”

Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah are arguably Liverpool's most important and influential players, and all may depart on free transfers at the end of the campaign.

Liverpool's summer spending (or lack thereof) has left a disquieting air around the fanbase, though contextualising the situation is important.

Arne Slot inherited a top-class squad from Jurgen Klopp and has proven throughout an impressive pre-season and opening-day victory over Ipswich Town in the Premier League that he has the gumption and tactical sharpness to succeed.

There is also a reluctance to adopt the scattergun approach that has proved ineffective for several nameless rivals, instead, the right player, should an opportunity arise, will be pursued.

Liverpool's late-stage transfer plans

Liverpool have never been the thriftiest of spenders under FSG, but there's no doubt that an addition or two could make a world of difference for Slot.

Having recently completed sales of Fabio Carvalho, Sepp van den Berg and Bobby Clark – with more fringe outgoings expected – the Reds are banking a hefty sum this summer, and must redirect the transfer cannon toward a layer of depth.

Liverpool are stepping back into the revamped Champions League and will face a catalogue of gruelling fixtures in a league-table format, so it's likely that should Joe Gomez be sold, a new centre-back will be brought in.

A holding midfielder is also coveted on Merseyside, but a recent update from transfer insider Graeme Bailey reveals that Liverpool could actually strengthen further upfield, with Atletico Madrid's Samu Omorodion offered to the Reds.

Chelsea are out of the equation after looming near completing a deal earlier in the window, but Aston Villa are also admirers and will rival Liverpool for a £30m transfer – FSG need to weigh up quickly whether to get the move done.

Why Samu Omorodion rejected Chelsea

Omorodion is scarcely into his 20th year but has already garnered quite the reputation in Spain, with the Atletico Madrid striker having made his mark on loan at Deportivo Alaves last season, bagging eight goals and an assist across 34 La Liga matches (21 starts).

It's a little convoluted, but Omorodion actually started the 2023/24 campaign with a goalscoring performance against Atletico Madrid, bagging for Granada during the league opener before convincing Diego Simeone and his crew to activate his €6m (about £5m) buyout clause.

He hasn't actually featured for Los Colchoneros but his performances with Alaves did enough to entice Chelsea, though the move fell apart after differences in financial technicalities.

Reports from Spain suggested that Omorodion had rejected the Blues after they attempted to buy 50% of his rights, and now Liverpool could be free to complete a move themselves.

The door is now open for Liverpool to complete the transfer and sharpen Slot's frontline to a fine point, but whether he will sign remains to be seen.

Why Liverpool should sign Samu Omorodion

The interminable wait for that elusive first signing goes on. Liverpool have money to spend, though whether a deal will be sanctioned is another matter entirely.

The more pragmatic side of the argument would point toward Anfield's first-class frontline, with depth on the left and at centre-forward. Salah's possible departure and a lack of actual alternative on the right flank would suggest that there lies the pressing concern.

Omorodion is pretty much exclusive to the No. 9 position, but he would offer something different in that regard, with Cody Gakpo, Diogo Jota and even Darwin Nunez more fluid in their positional value.

Centre-forward

13 (5)

27 (12)

47 (16)

Left winger

14 (7)

12 (3)

7 (2)

Right winger

5 (3)

7 (1)

0 (0)

Attacking midfield

0 (0)

7 (0)

0 (0)

Spanish-Nigerian striker Omorodion has the pace and raw physicality to thrive in the Premier League while providing Slot with an out-and-out striker to shape over the coming years, having already been hailed as a "beast" by scout Antonio Mango.

His shifty movements and agility highlight the framework for a career of success, and while the powerful 6 foot 4 star's raw nature saw him miss 19 big chances despite only scoring nine in the Spanish top flight last term, it does suggest that he could outstrip Nunez.

Nunez joined Liverpool from SL Benfica in a move rising to a club-record £85m figure, but the 25-year-old's wastefulness across his two campaigns has left plenty to be desired.

Indeed, the Uruguay international has converted just 20 of his 67 big chances in the league for Liverpool, with his repeated efforts skewing every which way.

He missed 27 big chances last season alone in the Premier League, with his 11-goal haul only two strikes higher than Omorodion's tally.

Five years the Atleti starlet's senior, it makes a telling comment on the respective skillsets. Omorodion is young and unrefined; it's nothing to worry about that he's not yet a polished goalscorer of the highest standard.

Nunez is an incredibly dynamic and influential forward with a bundle of ways to inflict pain on his opponents, but he will need to improve swiftly under Slot, lest he lose his place in the Anfield squad.

And given that Liverpool's Dutch head coach has already proven that he has a ruthless streak about him, there's every possibility that he will move to sign Omorodion before the end of the month, for the young striker could truly grow into one of the Premier League's finest, boasting all the natural elements to do just that.

Liverpool hit gold on Klopp signing who's now worth more than Van den Berg

He could grow into a central role under Arne Slot.

ByAngus Sinclair Aug 23, 2024

With the January transfer window now shut, attention is now already turning to the summer window, and some clubs are still nervously sweating on the futures of some of their stars.

That comes with a slew of Premier League stars set to see their current contracts expire at the end of the current campaign, with 19 of the 20 clubs set to lose at least one player as a free agent as things stand and some clubs losing as many as eight members of their first-team squad.

Though there is still time for that to change in the months ahead, a massive 78 players across the top flight are set to walk away for absolutely nothing in June 2025 as it stands. Below, we’ve broken down each club’s current situation.

Arsenal 3 players

Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal are set to lose three players at the end of the season unless they take action in the coming months.

Kieran Tierney is set to finally end his torrid spell in north London, and has even reportedly agreed a return to Celtic, while Italian midfielder Jorginho is also out of contract and has been linked with a move to Flamengo when his deal expires.

Of their strongest first XI, they could also be waving goodbye to Thomas Partey as things stand, with the Ghanaian’s deal also coming to an end, though there is still time to change that.

Player

Age at expiry

Position

At club since

Kieran Tierney

28

Defender

August 2019

Jorginho

33

Midfielder

January 2023

Thomas Partey

32

Midfielder

October 2020

8 senior Arsenal players Arteta could sell in the summer

Arsenal could have a mass clearout this summer.

2 ByRoss Kilvington Feb 7, 2025 Aston Villa 2 players

Aston Villa are in a slightly healthier position than Arsenal, with only two players set to depart for nothing at the end of the current campaign.

Defender Kortney Hause and goalkeeper Robin Olsen are the two in question, with Hause having failed to make an appearance in any competition under Unai Emery this season, while Olsen has only managed two, suggesting that neither will be missed too much at Villa Park.

Bournemouth 0 players

Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth are the only side across the entire top flight without players set to be out of contract this summer, though they will lose Kepa Arrizabalaga as he returns to Chelsea from his loan spell at the Vitality Stadium.

The south-coast outfit are still likely to be busy in the summer, though, with their impressive form having caught the eye of plenty of clubs, with the likes of Milos Kerkez, Dean Huijsen and Antoine Semenyo all being linked with Europe’s elite in recent months, leaving the Cherries with a headache of a different nature as they juggle their own ambitions with potential significant windfalls.

Brentford 3 players

Thomas Frank set to lose two of his Brentford veterans as things stand. 35-year-old centre-back Ben Mee is out of contract at the end of the season, but has been largely phased out of the squad this term, making just six appearances in the top flight.

The same cannot be said for Christian Norgaard, who has been a key man for the Bees this season, but whose deal expires this summer. Though there is thought to be an option for a further year included, it has not yet been activated, and as it stands, the Dane will be seeking a new challenge away from the Gtech.

Also set to be a free agent is Josh Dasilva, who has not featured this season after undergoing knee surgery, and whose deal also includes the option of a further year yet to be exercised.

Brighton & Hove Albion 4 players

Tariq Lamptey leads four players set to depart Brighton this summer for nothing, with the young defender having struggled for game time under Fabian Hurzeler and his time on the south coast having been plagued by injury.

Also set to leave, and perhaps retire, is 39-year-old midfielder James Milner, who has struggled with a thigh injury all season and whose short-term deal will expire at the end of the season. Goalkeeper Tom McGill, who spent the first half of the campaign at MK Dons, is also set to become a free agent.

More concerningly for the Seagulls is that Joel Veltman’s contract is also up, with the Dutchman having been a key figure at full-back in recent seasons and making 18 appearances already this campaign. He is one that they will certainly need to renew or replace adequately.

Chelsea 1 player

Given Chelsea’s recent habit of offering extremely long contracts for most players they sign, it is probably little surprise to know that only Lucas Bergstrom is set to leave for nothing at the end of the current campaign.

The 22-year-old shot-stopper has spent this season at Stamford Bridge, but is well down the pecking order, and with both Mike Penders and Djordje Petrovic set to arrive back in west London, his future is clearly away from the Blues.

7 goalkeepers who could replace Robert Sanchez at Chelsea

Chelsea are in dire need of a new ‘keeper…

1 ByBarney Lane Jan 27, 2025 Crystal Palace 6 players

It is going to be a busy summer at Selhurst Park. While all the focus has been on Marc Guehi, whose contract expires in 2026, Crystal Palace are set to lose six players for nothing this summer.

There remains uncertainty over Tyrick Mitchell, with some suggestions that he has already penned a new contract beyond 2025, but they are certainly on course to lose Will Hughes, who has been a key man for Oliver Glasner amid injuries to his first-choice midfielders.

Meanwhile, long-standing servants Nathaniel Clyne and Joel Ward are both set to leave, with the pair having seen their roles reduced significantly this season.

Elsewhere, veteran goalkeeper Remi Matthews will see his deal expire, and talented 20-year-old winger Franco Umeh-Chibueze is also set to become a free agent.

Everton 8 players

As if Everton didn’t have enough on their plate with financial struggles and the move to a new stadium, they are also set to lose the joint-most players out of any Premier League outfit this summer.

Striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin leads a gaggle of first-team stars set to leave for nothing, a group that includes Abdoulaye Doucoure, Idrissa Gueye and Ashley Young, while squad players Michael Keane and Seamus Coleman are both also set to miss playing in the new stadium on Merseyside unless new terms can be agreed.

Fulham 6 players

Willian’s return to Fulham on a short-term contract means that he will again depart Craven Cottage at the end of the season as things stand. He leads a lengthy list for Marco Silva’s side, in which the most concerning name to fans will be Raul Jimenez, who has found the net nine times already this season.

Carlos Vinicius is set to leave, but there will also be concern over Adama Traore, Tom Cairney and Kenny Tete, all of whom are set to follow the Brazilian and who have combined for 55 Premier League appearances this season, with their exits representing a potentially massive blow to Silva’s squad depth.

Ipswich Town 3 players

There are bigger concerns in East Anglia than free agents right now, with Kieran McKenna’s Ipswich Town fighting for their Premier League lives.

However, in the upheaval that will accompany any potential return to the Championship, three players are set to leave for free. That includes 2023 arrival Axel Tuanzebe, though the club hold an option to extend his contract for another year.

The same can be said for defender Cameron Burgess, but Massimo Luongo has no such clause and is set to leave barring a late turnaround, with the midfielder having managed just 170 minutes of Premier League action this season.

Newcastle United missed the chance to reinforce their lofty Premier League position as they were given a thorough hiding against Champions League-chasing rivals Aston Villa.

A switch flicked in December and United charged their way into the ascendancy, winning the Carabao Cup off Liverpool in March and underlining their elite-level credentials.

Still third in the top flight, Eddie Howe’s side now need to regroup ahead of the crucial final stretch of the season, their six-match winning run snapped.

However, this was a bruising display that will have left stand-in manager Jason Tindall seething. So often so strong, the centre-halves were taken to the shops against Villa Park’s slick frontline.

Newcastle's defence falls against Villa

Newcastle have been in emphatic form in recent weeks, turning Crystal Palace over 5-0 in midweek. However, the relentless fixture list, having forced United into three games over six days, claimed a top outfit in this one.

Fabian Schar equalised before twenty minutes after connecting with the in-form Harvey Barnes’ whipped delivery, but it was not a good evening for the long-serving Swiss centre-back, who disappointingly lost all five of his duels.

Likewise, Dan Burn has been a pillar of strength this term but he failed to produce his best performance, skewing Youri Tielemans’ lunge into his own net to all but seal the hosts’ victory. He also struggled to impose himself against a lively frontline, winning just one of five duels.

Both Schar and Burn will recover over the coming days and gear up for next weekend’s crucial clash against Ipswich Town at St. James’ Park.

Options have been sparse in defence, but there’s one man who may be dropped going forward after being exposed against Unai Emery’s men.

Newcastle must now drop stalwart

Even with Lewis Hall sidelined for the rest of the season, Kieran Trippier surely needs to be benched for the tough run-in, with Howe perhaps shifting Tino Livramento back into his natural right-back berth and giving Matt Targett some rare game time from the outset.

26/04/25

Ipswich Town (H)

18th

04/05/25

Brighton (A)

10th

10/05/25

Chelsea (H)

7th

18/05/25

Arsenal (A)

2nd

25/05/25

Everton (H)

13th

Following the loss, the experienced full-back was branded with a 4/10 match rating by The Chronicle Live, who noted that he was run ragged by the Lions.

Ceding possession 16 times despite only making one key pass, as per Sofascore, Trippier’s ball-playing skills weren’t at their best, but more concerningly he only won one of his four contested ground duels, having a tough time against the dangerous Ollie Watkins.

Newcastle writer Thomas Hammond even made the scathing comment that “Trippier’s legs gave up on him.” Aged 34 and a true veteran of the game, it’s hardly surprising that this might be the case for the vice-captain.

Schar and Burns suffered rare off-days and you’d think that all of a Magpies persuasion will be able to rally ahead of the stretch ahead, but if faced with such intensity again, Howe and Tindall might want to consider dropping Trippier, who was already at risk of being sold during the winter transfer window and may well be in the coming months.

The concern, of course, is that the Toon face a testing finish to the season, one which they will need to pass with flying colours if a place back at the continent’s prized tournament is to be achieved, lifting a stunning campaign even higher.

Best signing since Isak: Newcastle hit the jackpot on "world-class" star

Newcastle’s signing has turned into one of the best players in the Premier League.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 18, 2025

Oliver Glasner’s Crystal Palace have largely been in excellent form since the start of 2025, only losing three times in their last 11 Premier League matches, keeping eight clean sheets in all competitions this calendar year and earning themselves a spot in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley.

The Eagles didn’t start the campaign at 100mph. After losing the likes of Michael Olise and Joachim Anderson in the summer, Palace had to reassemble their tools, find ways to recruit and replace those players and then begin to build.

After the first ten matches of the season, Palace found themselves 17th, only picking up seven points in that time.

But due to their excellent form since then, Palace now find themselves in mid-table in the Premier League, with the top seven not too far out of reach.

So why did it take a while at the start of the season, and how much did Glasner’s side miss Olise?

Michael Olise's creative burden

Olise was sold to Bayern Munich in the summer, joining the German giants for a fee of around £50m. Since joining Bayern, Olise has been in sublime form, making 43 appearances, scoring 13 goals, and providing 16 assists.

But, the Frenchman was key in his time at Palace, making 90 appearances in his three years at the club, netting 16 times, providing 25 assists and totaling 5,782 minutes played.

Having Olise on the right and Eberechi Eze on the left made it tough for teams to contain the Eagles, with the duo often combining to create chances out of nothing.

With Olise gone, more focus being solely on Eze and a right-hand side that had to be re-invented, it was always going to take some time to find the best way to replace the French wingers’ presence.

That being said, Glasner has certainly found a way to do it.

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Glasner's "spectacular" duo have replaced Olise

Crystal Palace signed Ismaila Sarr from Marseille in the summer, joining for a fee of around £12.6m. The 27-year-old was the clear signing destined to take the spot of Olise on that right-hand side, but the difference in overall quality is clear, and therefore, a new dynamic on that side would be needed.

Daniel Munoz, working in tandem with Sarr on the right, has been Glasner’s key weapon to replacing Olise’s output, with both players proving to be very direct, making clever runs in behind and stretching play for their teammates. This right side has proven to be a key outlet for Palace this season.

Goals

0.17

0.29

Assists

0.14

0.11

xG

0.15

0.33

xAG

0.14

0.26

Progressive Carries

1.51

2.52

Progressive Passes

2.44

2.91

Shots Total

1.04

1.93

Key Passes

1.22

1.41

Passes into Pen Area

0.72

1.41

Shot-Creating Actions

2.29

3.85

Successful Take-Ons

0.61

0.60

When looking at the pair’s underlying metrics this season, you can see how their combined effort has helped to replace the French star, both getting forward and getting shots off, both putting balls into the box, chipping in with output and contributing in build up.

Munoz was described as “spectacular” by Jefferson Lerma and that is certainly one way to describe the pair down that right-hand side, working in tandem to attack in a direct fashion and create chances for the team.

Whilst Olise will never fully be replaceable, losing a world-class talent is always tough to replace, even more so when you are a mid-table Premier League side.

Therefore, Palace fans must be fairly happy with their right-side rebrand, with Glasner proving he can make it work.

Contact made: Crystal Palace make move to sign "Pique-esque" £5m defender

The Eagles have made an approach for a defender, who is also attracting interest from West Ham United.

ByDominic Lund Apr 10, 2025

With an agreement for Tijjani Reijnders edging closer, another Manchester City target has now reportedly said yes to completing a move to the Etihad following talks with Pep Guardiola.

Man City pushing to sign Reijnders

Following their most difficult season yet under Guardiola, which still saw them finish as high as third to sum up just how high the Spaniard’s standards are, Manchester City are set to rebuild their midfield this summer. Already, the iconic Kevin De Bruyne has brought his incredible City career to an end, and he may not be the only one to depart in the coming months.

Jack Grealish looks likely to join the Belgian out the exit door. The England international was not included in Guardiola’s squad for the final game of the Premier League season against Fulham and the Citizens are now reportedly open to a loan exit for the midfielder. Amid interest from the likes of Everton, a departure would suit all parties.

What those exits will make room for, of course, is some much-needed fresh faces. And that looks set to include Reijnders. The AC Milan midfielder has been the subject of City’s interest in recent weeks and he has now reportedly said “yes” to completing a move to the Premier League giants.

With Rodri returning from injury this summer and Reijnders potentially arriving, Manchester City could put their midfield struggles behind them just one season after they emerged. It’s the type of ruthless operation which saw Guardiola and City become the first to win four Premier League titles in a row and the type that could see them enjoy an instant return to the top of English football.

Hugo Viana makes £40m+ Man City offer to sign Brazilian ahead of Man Utd

The Citizens are looking to steal a march on their rivals…

BySean Markus Clifford May 30, 2025

They’re seemingly not done after Reijnders, either. After missing out on Florian Wirtz, Manchester City have reportedly turned their attention towards an impressive alternative.

Cherki also "yes" to Man City move

According to Santi Aouna of Foot Mercato, Rayan Cherki has now said “yes” to Manchester City after holding talks with Guardiola. The talented Frenchman, with personal terms not a problem, looks increasingly likely to be on his way to the Premier League in a deal that could be worth €40m (£34m) this summer.

As Wirtz alternatives go, and bargain ones at that, Cherki is certainly an impressive option too.

Minutes

2,041

2,351

Goals

8

10

Assists

11

12

Key Passes

75

57

Whilst there has always been a concern about Cherki’s ability out of possession, his influence on the ball cannot be denied and Manchester City could be the perfect side for him as a result.

The Citizens are in possession more than most in the Premier League and that control would allow Cherki to flourish going forward. With Reijnders reportedly standing alongside Rodri behind the Frenchman too, City should not become as exposed in transition as they were this season which could prove to make all the difference.