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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.

Positivity has been a short-lived thing at Manchester United in recent times, although the past week has provided reason for optimism, following a pivotal few days off the field.

With manager Ruben Amorim confirming his future at the club ahead of the final game of the season against Aston Villa – which ended in a rare victory – the Red Devils were further boosted by the news on Tuesday that his compatriot and captain, Bruno Fernandes, has turned down a move to Al-Hilal.

Despite admitting to having held talks with the Saudi side, the 30-year-old outlined that he remained committed to the Old Trafford outfit, with the club seemingly only intending to cash in had the playmaker requested to leave.

Elsewhere, meanwhile, United have also confirmed that an agreement has been reached for the signing of Wolverhampton Wanderers talisman, Matheus Cunha, with that £62.5m deal looking set to be followed by the capture of Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.

The latest on Mbeumo's move to Man Utd

Much to the irritation of rival supporters, a United side who finished 15th in the Premier League last season still appear to have some of the old magic left, having been able to convince Cunha into sealing a move, despite the lack of European football next term.

The same looks to be true in the case of Mbeumo, with The Athletic’s David Ornstein breaking the news on Monday evening that the Cameroon international wants to join the Red Devils, with club-to-club talks set to take place with the Bees.

Ornstein revealed that despite rival interest from the likes of Arsenal, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur – all of whom have qualified for the Champions League – the 25-year-old’s preference is to move to Manchester, should a deal be agreed.

While a stumbling block could emerge amid reports from The Times that the winger is set to demand a wage increase to £250k-per-week, it would be a surprise not to see the former Troyes man lining up under Amorim next season.

With Cunha and perhaps Mbeumo in the bag, United could now turn their attention to another Premier League star in the bid to bolster the forward line.

Man Utd keeping tabs on Premier League forward

The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell – writing in the Transfer Deal Sheet – noted that the ‘priority’ for United this summer is ‘adding goals to the team’, with the top-flight strugglers netting just 44 times in total in the league. For context, Cunha and Mbeumo alone scored 35 league goals between them.

Transfer Focus

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

That search for more firepower has led to INEOS turning their attention toward Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, with Whitwell outlining that the Ghanaian is a player being ‘looked at’ by the club.

This follows prior reports which indicated that United were actually leading the race for the 25-year-old’s signature, albeit with it yet to be seen if they would be willing to meet the Cherries’ reported £60m asking price.

Having already missed out on Chelsea-bound striker, Liam Delap, moving for another Premier League-proven talent like Semenyo could be the perfect solution for Amorim this summer.

Why Semenyo can thrive with Mbeumo

While there will be the question of whether Mbeumo will be able to replicate his recent heroics amid the pressures that come with playing for the Red Devils, there will also be an intrigue as to whether he can thrive without his current partner-in-crime, Yoane Wissa.

Indeed, under Thomas Frank’s guidance in 2024/25, the United target scored 20 goals in the top-flight, with the 28-year-old Wissa registering a remarkable tally of 19 league goals of his own.

That deadly and fluid combination saw the in-form pairing dovetail beautifully as the spearheads of Brentford’s frontline, with the duo both able to operate on the flanks or in a central role.

It could be argued that bringing Semenyo into the fold could allow Mbeumo to find his new Wissa in the process, with the former Bristol City man also a highly flexible and versatile asset who can thrive out wide, through the middle or even in a wing-back role.

Described as “almost unplayable on his day” by journalist Ed Aarons, Semenyo enjoyed a positive season of his own at the Vitality Stadium, having registered 11 goals and five assists in the Premier League, after previously racking up eight goals in 2023/24.

The beauty of the 6 foot 1 sensation is just how two-footed he is, with the record above outlining his similarity to Wissa, with regard to his ability to score with either foot, thus making him a particularly dangerous proposition.

What is particularly key regarding the Wissa-Mbeumo combination has been their speed on the counter-attack, something that pundit Danny Murphy noted last year, after highlighting the “width and pace with Wissa and Mbeumo, two players playing with confidence with a real threat.”

Non-penalty goals

0.31

Top 24%

Assists

3.51

Top 5%

Shots

0.14

Bottom 43%

Shot-creating actions

3.71

Top 34%

Pass completion

73.4%

Bottom 35%

Progressive carries

3.06

Bottom 42%

Progressive passes

3.93

Top 29%

Successful take-ons

1.94

Top 20%

Tackles

1.55

Top 40%

Aerial duels won

1.85

Top 8%

*compared to attacking mid/wingers in PL

Those attributes are certainly shared by the Bournemouth man, his former Bristol boss Nigel Pearson having described him as “very difficult to play against” due to his “power and pace”.

Semenyo’s ability to thrive in tandem with his fellow forwards is also showcased by the fact that he created 11 ‘big chances’ in 2024/25, while averaging 1.2 key passes per game, thus ensuring that Mbeumo would again have quality service to thrive off.

While not an orthodox striker by trade, having Semenyo operating through the middle could then allow Mbeumo to flourish alongside him, with that final attacking berth taken up by the aforementioned Cunha.

Having so often witnessed a limp attacking unit at the Theatre of Dreams of late, what a mouthwatering prospect that trio would be.

He's outscored Mbeumo: Man Utd weighing up bid for £40m Delap upgrade

Manchester United are preparing a move for a star who could thrive at Old Trafford.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 4, 2025

Aston Villa are planning talks to complete the signing of a “fantastic” player with a huge future, with Donyell Malen potentially part of the deal.

Aston Villa want Douglas Luiz reunion

The Villans continue to work hard on new signings ahead of the upcoming Premier League season, as they look to push on and get back into the Champions League.

Arguably the most intriguing current Villa-related transfer story has seen them linked with a move for former midfielder Douglas Luiz, with the Brazilian seemingly allowed to leave Juventus this summer.

Luiz was a popular figure during his first stint at Villa Park, bagging 46 goal contributions in 204 appearances from the middle of the park, and Unai Emery described him as a “very important” figure. For that reason, he could love the idea of bringing him back to the club this summer.

Elsewhere, Barcelona forward Ferran Torres has been linked with a move to Villa before next season gets started, with the Spaniard not a key man at the Camp Nou. He has Premier League experience from his time at Manchester City, and he could add much-needed firepower, potentially even replacing Ollie Watkins at the heart of Emery’s attack.

Aston Villa ready talks for "fantastic" £18m forward

According to a new report from Aksam [via Sport Witness], Aston Villa are interested in signing Besiktas star Semih Kilicsoy this summer, with talks planned over a possible move to the club. The likes of Newcastle United and Leeds United have also been mentioned as suitors for the 19-year-old recently, who could be on the move for around £18m.

It is also claimed that Malen could head in the opposite direction as part of a swap deal, with the Dutchman falling out of favour at Villa Park.

Kilicsoy is a player with a big future in the game, having already achieved plenty at the age of 19, becoming an important figure for Besiktas.

The young centre forward has 16 goals in 85 appearances at senior level for his current side – he netted an impressive 42 times in 64 outings for the Under-19s – and football talent scout Jacek Kulig has described him as “fantastic” in the past.

While Kilicsoy isn’t yet the finished article, given his tender years, he could be a great squad signing for Villa from the off, before maturing into more of a star figure as the years pass.

Big McGinn upgrade: Aston Villa make contact to sign £138k-p/w "engine"

Aston Villa are set to target a new midfielder this summer

ByJoe Nuttall Jul 9, 2025

If the Villans were able to sign him and a more experienced striker this summer, it will stand them in good stead moving forward, especially if Watkins moves on to pastures new.

And with that, the Premier League is done and dusted for another year. Arsenal, the division’s second place side, ended things with a win but the real work starts now for new sporting director Andrea Berta.

Mikel Arteta declared post-game on Sunday that work for the new season would commence quickly.

Where do they need to strengthen?

It’s pretty obvious unless you have been living under a rock.

For the first time since the 1923/24 season, yes, over 100 years ago, Arsenal failed to find a player who scored double figures in a league season.

Injuries have no doubt led to this but so has the club’s poor recruitment over the last 18 months.

A new striker and potentially also a winger simply has to be sourced this summer.

Arsenal’s transfer plans post-season

It’s set to be out with the old and in with the new this summer for the Gunners.

Kieran Tierney scored on his final outing for the Gunners at Southampton but it may not have been just his final outing.

Indeed, Raheem Sterling will head back to his parent club while Thomas Partey and Jorginho see their contracts expire in a few weeks time.

Leandro Trossard – linked with Saudi last January – could sign a new deal at the Emirates Stadium this summer, but that is unlikely to have an impact on whether or not they sign a new forward.

For that central berth, the likes of Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko seem the most likely of candidates but there’s also the potential for a new winger to arrive in the shape of Real Madrid star, Rodrygo.

The Brazilian isn’t the only wide player on their shortlist with reports in recent weeks suggesting that Arsenal have been working on a deal for Rafael Leao.

The Milan star is also wanted by Bayern Munich this summer but there’s has been a new development in Arsenal’s chase.

Transfer Focus

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

That’s according to French publication, Foot Mercato, who suggested over the weekend that while the Portuguese winger is on the club’s ‘shortlist’, Berta actually had a phone call with the player in the last two weeks.

The purpose of that call was to tell Leao that there is definite interest in him from the Gunners.

Arsenal don’t have an endless supply of cash this summer, and with other areas needing to be improved, they will have to spend wisely. Thus, a reported £145m release clause is unlikely to be met too well by the club’s recruitment team.

How Rafael Leao compares to Rodrygo

Speaking last week ahead of the game with Southampton, Arteta was actually asked about the prospect of signing Rodrygo from Real Madrid.

While he didn’t explicitly reveal that Arsenal were interested, he was slightly more open to the prospect of discussing transfers than he was a week or two ago, stating: “If you want to win titles, you have to be the best in the market. The teams that win have the best players.”

Well, speaking of the best players, who would be the better option here?

Rodrygo is an electrifying talent and there is a belief that if he moved away from the Bernabeu and was the main man, he’d be a genuinely scary proposition. After all, this is a player who has scored 50 goals since the beginning of the 2022/23 season.

In comparison, Leao – who’s actually been compared to a young Thierry Henry for his play style on the left flank – has scored 43 times in the same time frame.

So, with fewer goals, why is the Portuguese more exciting?

Goals

0.40

0.34

Assists

0.31

0.24

Shot on target %

36.0%

36.3%

Key passes

2.06

1.91

Progressive passes

4.12

3.76

Shot-creating actions

4.60

4.71

Successful take-ons

2.64

2.56

Progressive carries

5.20

5.63

A genuine speedster, the Milan forward has notably been described by the Athletic’s Alex Barker as “one of the best dribblers in the world”, the numbers certainly showcase that.

He ranks within the top 5% of wingers in Europe’s top five leagues this season for successful take ons per 90 minutes with 2.84. In contrast, Rodrygo only ranks among the best 23% with 2.08 per 90 mins in 2024/25.

Evidently both very capable dribblers, over the last three seasons it’s the Milan superstar who comes out on top in most areas, most importantly producing more end product (goals and assists) every 90 minutes.

Leao isn’t just a dribbler and a goalscorer, but he’s also capable of providing assists, delivering more key passes and progressive passes than Madrid’s wing sensation.

It’s likely the latter would be a cheaper acquisition but based on the numbers it’s the Portugal international who looks like the more exciting talent.

Combine that with comparisons to Henry and you have a genuine world beater here capable of getting Arsenal fans off their seats again.

It’s safe to say they’ve lacked that star quality and X factor on too many occasions this season.

Arsenal struck gold on "unplayable" star worth way more than Nico Williams

The incredible talent is going to be a superstar for Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 22, 2025

Manchester United have a huge summer ahead of them to help Ruben Amorim in his quest to be a success during his stint as manager at Old Trafford.

The 40-year-old took the reins from Erik ten Hag back in November, but has so far been unable to transform the club’s fortunes – especially in the Premier League.

The Red Devils currently occupy a place in the bottom half of the table, on course to register their lowest-ever finish in the Premier League era, with just two games remaining in 2024/25.

It’s safe to say that if the situation is to change at the Theatre of Dreams, incomings and outgoings are massively needed this summer to prevent a repeat of the dismal campaign.

With the summer transfer window now just a couple of weeks away, work has already begun to make key additions, handing Amorim with the ammunition he desperately needs.

The latest on United’s pursuit of new additions this summer

Attackers have been the main focus for United ahead of the summer window over recent weeks, with countless names thrown into the mix over an off-season switch.

Liam Delap, Matheus Cunha and Viktor Gyokeres are just three names touted with a move to Old Trafford, but none are nearing their conclusion despite talks being held to sign some of the trio.

However, the midfield department could also be bolstered in the next few months, with Atalanta star Ederson the latest player on their list, according to TuttoAtalanta.

Their report claims that the Red Devils have once again entered talks with the Serie A side over a move for the Brazilian international after previously trying to land him in previous windows.

It also states that Atalanta are unwilling to part ways with the 25-year-old, but that Amorim sees him as the perfect profile for a player he wants to take his side forward during his reign.

The United target who would make Bruno unplayable

Bruno Fernandes has often been United’s shining light throughout 2024/25, producing countless moments of magic which have catapulted them to a Europa League final.

The 30-year-old, who’s the club’s captain, has 36 combined goals and assists in his 54 appearances across all competitions, by far and away the most of any player in the first-team squad.

11 of which have come in Europe, making him the player with the most combined goal contributions in the history of the Europa League – highlighting his importance in such a competition.

It’s unthinkable to imagine where the club would be without his efforts this campaign, undoubtedly holding the keys to any future success during Amorim’s tenure.

However, he’s often been forced to play in a deeper role than he’s used to at times this campaign, with Ederson’s potential arrival freeing up the opportunity for the former Sporting CP star to feature in his natural number ten position.

The Atalanta ace has produced numerous stats this season that would make him the perfect deep-lying ball-winner the side have been craving, which could perfectly benefit Bruno in the process.

Ederson, who’s been labelled “unbelievable” by former United star Owen Hargreaves, has won 61% of the tackles he’s entered in Serie A this season, showcasing his dominance out of possession.

Games played

35

Goals & assists

5

Pass accuracy

87%

Chances created

1.2

Tackles won

61%

Duels won

5.6

Interceptions made

1.2

He’s also won 5.6 duels per 90 and made 1.2 interceptions per game – handing Amorim the added defensive presence he’s often lacked since his appointment.

The Brazilian has also impressed with the ball, completing 87% of the passes he’s attempted, creating 1.2 chances per 90, handing Bruno added ammunition to improve his own tallies in the process.

It’s unclear how much a deal for the 25-year-old would set the hierarchy back this summer, but it’s a deal that simply must be completed to help restore their former glory.

Should he have the desired impact at both ends of the pitch, any deal would prove to be a bargain, having all the tools to cement his place at the heart of Amorim’s side for many years to come.

He's a dream for Amad: Man Utd to bid for "one of the best CFs in Europe"

Manchester United could be about to land a star who would bolster Ruben Amorim’s front line.

1 ByEthan Lamb May 15, 2025

The campaign is still a month away from completion, although attention at Manchester United is swiftly turning toward the summer transfer window and the need to bolster Ruben Amorim’s ranks.

While it would be foolish for anyone of a United persuasion to be too optimistic regarding the impact of potential new signings, amid the club’s wretched recruitment record over the last decade or so, it is difficult to argue that this side is in need of major surgery once again.

With departures expected to reach double figures, ahead of next season, there is likely to be something of an overhaul at Old Trafford, with drastic improvement needed amid the Red Devils’ place in the bottom half of the Premier League table.

Much could depend on whether or not Champions League qualification is secured, via Europa League glory, although regardless of what occurs on the continent, it looks as if the INEOS regime are already closing in on the signing of wantaway Wolverhampton Wanderers man, Matheus Cunha.

The latest on Man Utd's move for Cunha

It’s fair to say that Cunha can’t have done much more to catch the eye of those at Old Trafford this season. Indeed, during Wolves’ 2-0 win over United on Boxing Day, the Brazilian was simply sensational for the hosts, having scored directly from a corner, while also teeing up Hwang Hee-chan for the second of the day.

That was followed by the 25-year-old’s impact in Sunday’s 1-0 win for the Old Gold, as it was actually his surging run which earned the free-kick that Pablo Sarabia duly converted.

Now onto 14 league goals for the season, Cunha appears all but certain for a Molineux exit this summer – following prior January interest – having already outlined his desire to “take the next step” in his career.

As widely reported, that ‘next step’ looks set to lead the former Atletico Madrid man to Manchester, with positive talks having been held regarding the forward’s potential contract at the Theatre of Dreams.

That move for the £62.5m sensation could represent the first piece of business in a potentially hectic summer for the Red Devils.

Man Utd readying offer for new midfielder

Alongside that interest in the Wolves ace, it would appear that United are also keeping a close eye on Ipswich Town starlet, Liam Delap, with the Englishman set to be available for £30m amid the Tractor Boys’ impending relegation.

Transfer Focus

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

Elsewhere, meanwhile, reports in Spain have suggested that Amorim and co could also go back in for a long-term target, in the form of Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong, with the Dutchman said to be ‘back on the Red Devils’ radar’.

As per the report, United are ‘willing to present a proposal’ in order to entice the LaLiga giants into a summer sale, with the Premier League said to be ready to ‘test the limits’ of Barca’s resolve.

The 27-year-old was famously linked with the Old Trafford side back in the summer of 2022, during Erik ten Hag’s first window in charge, albeit despite an agreement on a fee, a deal for the former Ajax midfielder couldn’t get over the line amid issues regarding personal terms.

There may be a feeling of De Jong’s chance having come and gone, although United should still jump at the opportunity to land such a statement signing.

How De Jong could fit in at Man Utd

There could well be a fresh look to Amorim’s 3-4-3 set-up next term, with a new goalkeeper and centre-forward seemingly set to be prioritised, while Cunha would likely line up in one of the two number ten berths.

The Wolves talisman has already thrived in a similar system under Amorim’s compatriot, Vitor Pereira, in recent months, with his overall record in England’s top-flight now standing at 39 goals and assists in just 77 games.

What the one-time RB Leipzig man will need, however, is quality service from those around him, hence why bringing De Jong into the fold could be a dream scenario.

Likely to operate as part of the midfield two – potentially alongside Bruno Fernandes or Manuel Ugarte – the Netherlands international is simply a master at progressing play, as emphasised by the fact that he ranks in the top 9% of European midfielders for progressive passes, and the top 16% for progressive carries per 90, as per FBref.

Also ranked in the top 1% for pass completion, the experienced metronome has rightly been lauded as “one of the best midfielders in the world” by former boss, Xavi Hernandez, ensuring he would be a worthy upgrade in Amorim’s ranks.

Non-penalty goals

0.12

Top 25%

Assists

0.12

Top 28%

Shot-creating actions

2.59

Top 36%

Passes attempted

82.09

Top 4%

Pass completion

93.8%

Top 1%

Progressive passes

7.17

Top 9%

Progressive carries

2.09

Top 16%

Passes into final third

9.20

Top 3%

Tackles (in attacking 3rd)

0.49

Top 10%

As stated, that forward-thinking ability that De Jong provides would ensure he is the ideal figure to pick out the likes of Cunha ahead of him, as indicated by the fact that he also ranks in the top 3% for passes into the final third, at an average of 9.21 per 90.

What also sets the 5 foot 11 maestro apart is just how effective he is at regaining possession too. As evidenced last season – considering he has only started seven league games this time around – De Jong averaged 2.2 tackles per game, having also recovered the ball 5.9 times per game in LaLiga.

For context, United’s ball-winning monster, Casemiro, has only recovered 3.9 balls per game in the Premier League this term – albeit while enjoying a far superior record with regard to tackles made (3.5).

For De Jong to then have such quality both in and out of possession would ensure he can comfortably cope in a midfield two, with United having the chance to acquire two players entering their peak years, in the form of him and Cunha.

After Cunha: Man Utd in talks to sign a "monster" upgrade on Delap

Man Utd could be set to land another sparkling forward this summer, alongside Matheus Cunha

ByRobbie Walls Apr 22, 2025

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.

Chalkboard

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

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.

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A Manchester United regular under Ruben Amorim is unsettled at Old Trafford and is set to be sold by INEOS.

Man Utd regret signing player who could now leave

It looks set to be a busy summer in the transfer window ahead of Amorim’s first full season in charge, with the manager, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and co ready to move on 10 Man Utd players this summer.

Talking earlier this month, Ratcliffe didn’t hold back on some signings in the past who the Red Devils are still paying for today.

“If you look at the players we are buying this summer, that we didn’t buy, we’re buying Antony, we’re buying Casemiro, we’re buying Onana, we’re buying Hojlund, we’re buying Sancho. These are all things from the past, whether we like it or not, we’ve inherited those things and have to sort that out.”

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One of those who Ratcliffe named, goalkeeper Andre Onana, has been heavily linked with an exit in recent weeks. In fact, there have been claims in 2025 that Man Utd regret signing Onana, who is on £120,000 per week, which works out at more than £6m per year.

He has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia with Man Utd set to sell the shot-stopper, and now, another update has emerged on Onana and Amorim’s thoughts on an exit.

Andre Onana unsettled at Man Utd and set to be sold

According to talkSPORT, Onana is ‘unsettled’ at Man Utd and has been for some time. Therefore, he is open to a move away from Old Trafford and the club are willing to let him go.

The report adds that the Man Utd boss ‘is not against selling Onana to bring in his own man between the sticks’ and there is serious interest in the Cameroon international from the Saudi Pro League.

The 28-year-old has been a regular under Amorim, starting every Premier League fixture this season, however, he has come in for criticism in the media for a number of errors he has made.

Former Man Utd forward Louis Saha didn’t hold back earlier this season when talking about Onana, saying: “If you don’t have a confident goalkeeper he has to be challenged. Those performances are unacceptable, it’s not normal!

“There is a need for every player at Manchester United – apart from Bruno Fernandes – to feel threatened with competition. No one has shown that they deserve anything in the next game. The manager can challenge and criticise them because it’s not good enough.

Games

91

Goals conceded

136

Clean sheets

22

“Unless you can guarantee that you’re not going to make mistakes, you should not be considered as a guaranteed starter in any position. None of those players should be guaranteed anything.”

Now, it looks as if his days are numbered in Manchester, and it seems as if all parties involved are happy to part ways.

Glasgow Rangers and the transfer market have not exactly been the best of friends over the previous few years.

Since securing promotion back to the Premiership ahead of the 20161/7 campaign, the Ibrox side have made plenty of dismal signings. Where to start?

Pedro Caixinha spent money on the likes of Carlos Pena and Eduardo Herrera, who both failed to live up to expectations, while even Steven Gerrard made a few howlers, especially during his early transfer windows.

The former Liverpool captain signed flops such as Umar Sadiq and Eros Grezda in 2018, a few years before spending money on Juninho Bacuna and Cedric Itten.

Sam Lammers, Ben Davies and Jose Cifuentes are just a few of the players who have been signed by managers since Gerrard left, with all three struggling to perform in Scotland.

While these types of signings typically outweigh the positive ones, when the club do sign a player who has excellent potential, it usually ends up rather well.

Joe Aribo was sold for around £10m in the summer of 2020, having cost the Gers just £300k three years previously. Of the current squad, Hamza Igamane looks certain to make the Light Blues a significant profit due to his performances this season.

One of the club’s finest signings – from a financial point of view anyway – was Calvin Bassey. The defender is now playing in the Premier League for Fulham, but Rangers gave him his big break.

Why Calvin Bassey was sold for a club-record fee

In the summer of 2020, Gerrard added a few players to his squad in a bid to challenge Celtic for the Premiership trophy during 2020/21.

Ianis Hagi signed permanently, while Cedric Itten, Kemar Roofe and Leon Balogun also arrived at Ibrox. It was the deal to bring Bassey to Scotland which looked the most promising, however.

Due to cross-border rules, the left-back cost just £200k in a compensation fee from Leicester City, and he was one for the future.

Indeed, Gerrard utilised his talents on just 15 occasions throughout the 2020/21 season, but things were about to get better.

With a defensive injury crisis hitting the squad hard during the early stages of the following campaign, Bassey was deployed as a centre-back alongside Connor Goldson and it soon progressed into a solid partnership.

Metric

Premiership

Europa League

Accurate passes

52.3

37.4

Tackles

1.5

1.6

Total duels won

5.2

4.1

Interceptions

0.7

1.4

Balls recovered

0.4

0.1

Once he got his chance in the starting XI, Bassey never left, making 50 appearances in all competitions as the Gers reached the Europa League final while winning the Scottish Cup for the first time in 13 years.

These performances would ultimately lead to the Nigerian international departing the club, with plenty of European sides showing interest that summer.

In the end, Ajax secured his services on a permanent deal for a fee of just under £23m, which was a club-record transfer.

It’s fair to say that he has been one of the finest signings of modern times, but is there a player in the current squad who has surpassed him recently?

Rangers' best signing since Bassey

Losing Scott Wright last summer meant Philippe Clement had a single right-winger in the squad – Ross McCausland – which meant this area needed a swift upgrade.

There were several players linked with a move to Ibrox, but due to limited funds being available, the Belgian manager had to rely on a loan signing, which saw Vaclav Cerny join the Light Blues on a temporary deal until the end of the current season.

Having scored five goals for Bundesliga side Wolfsburg during the 2023/24 campaign, Cerny looked like an exciting wide option for Rangers. He also scored against Celtic for Ajax, which would certainly help endear him to the supporters during his early weeks.

These first couple of weeks were mixed. The Czech star delivered a few decent displays, but he was poor against Lyon in a 4-1 Europa League defeat. He missed a big chance during that game and lost possession 11 times.

Two goals against St Johnstone just a few days later proved that his woeful European display was just a one-off and he has kicked on since then.

Overall, the loanee has netted an impressive tally of 17 goals across 44 matches, chipping in with seven assists too. The 27-year-old has saved his best football – minus the Lyon clash – for the Europa League, netting six goals in Europe’s secondary competition.

Furthermore, the winger has created two big chances, averages 1.3 key passes per game and succeeds with 2.3 dribbles each match, showcasing his skills against superior opposition.

Rangers won the recent Old Firm derby against Celtic 3-2 courtesy of a late winner by Igamane, who lashed in an effort when it appeared as though the match was going to finish as a draw.

The real hero of that game was Cerny, however, who ended up soaking Celtic supporters with a bottle of water while celebrating the goal.

Journalist Matthew Lindsay praised the winger, describing him as a “cult hero” following that “moment of madness”

According to Transfermarkt, Cerny is now valued at €9m (£7.5m) and, given his displays for the Gers recently, he will be a man in demand this summer.

Whoever becomes the new permanent manager of Rangers will have to decide whether spending money on Cerny is worth it, especially as there are other areas of the squad requiring some investment.

Cerny has endeared himself to the Ibrox faithful with his goals and antics during the latest derby win. If he did join the club this summer, could he be one of their best signings in recent memory?

The next few months will be interesting indeed.

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