West Ham United are admirers of an exciting young coach should they decide to sack David Moyes, according to a reliable journalist.

West Ham's up and down season continues

The Irons have made an extremely mixed start to the new campaign having won five, drawn two and lost five of their opening 12 games, meaning that they currently find themselves ninth in the top-flight table heading into the international break.

Following Sunday’s 3-2 Premier League victory over Nottingham Forest, which just about epitomised their campaign, Moyes’ side will have gained some confidence that they are able to go on a positive run of form upon their return to domestic action, but regardless, there have been some questions asked about the manager’s position in the dugout.

According to 90min, David Sullivan is happy for the Scotsman to see out his contract until the end of the season unless a candidate that fits the profile of what he’s looking for was to become available between now and then, but it’s not the first time that chiefs have assessed their options in the market.

The London Stadium outfit have previously been credited with an interest in Feyenoord’s Arne Slot and Lille’s Paulo Fonseca, as per the same report, and they have now set their sights on an alternative who has experience playing in the Premier League.

West Ham chiefs considering Michael Carrick

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Dean Jones revealed that Michael Carrick is of interest to West Ham and admitted that he has the attributes to match what the board are searching for.

“My expectation would be that they look to be forward-thinking. Unless West Ham suddenly find themselves in crisis and need crisis management, that's the only time I could see them going for somebody with huge experience as their next appointment.

“I would expect them though to go for somebody who's younger, more forward-thinking and is more in tune with the way that the game is heading in the next 10 years, rather than how it's been for the last 10 years. That's what I would be thinking. Carrick is a really interesting one, but we have to see which direction his career goes in right now. But he's definitely somebody who is on West Ham's radar.”

Michael Carrick's record at Middlesbrough

Since being appointed at Middlesbrough, Carrick has won 29, drawn eight and lost 16 of his 53 games in charge, taking a total of 95 points from a possible 159 whilst averaging 1.79 points per match (Transfermarkt – Carrick statistics), so he’s really settled into life at the helm at the Riverside Stadium.

The Wallsend-born coach, who is 42 years of age, was also named last week’s Championship Manager of the Week for successfully beating Leicester City, so he’s proven that he’s capable of overcoming a squad of mostly Premier League players.

Furthermore, Carrick, who is “perfect” at bringing out the best in his stars and developing younger talents, according to journalist Josh Bunting, led the northeast outfit to the second tier playoffs at the end of last season, so for a manager who already knows what it takes to compete and be successful under big pressure, he could be the ideal candidate for West Ham.

A takeover saga at Manchester United is still ongoing, and one reporter has shared another twist involving Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

Man Utd takeover updates

The Glazers first put the club up for sale 12 months ago, and it looked as if we were drawing closer to an announcement involving Ratcliffe taking a 25 per cent stake in the Red Devils. The 71-year-old has seemingly beaten off competition from Sheikh Jassim, who wanted to take 100% from the Glazers, however, they look set to stay for now, although Ratcliffe wants control over sporting decisions.

Key Man Utd takeover updates

Date

Glazers put club up for sale

November 2022

Ratcliffe and Jassim make bids

February 2023

Glazers split on a sale

February 2023

Ratcliffe and Jassim make second bids

March 2023

Ratcliffe and Jassim make third bids

April 2023

Ratcliffe and Jassim make fourth bids

May 2023

Jassim makes fifth bid

June 2023

Jassim withdraws from process

October 2023

Ratcliffe set to take 25 per cent stake

October 2023

Recent reports claimed that Ratcliffe could make some big changes at Old Trafford, with the futures of CEO Richard Arnold, football director John Murtough and director of football operations David Harrison all at risk.

In the transfer market, the Red Devils have now been linked with a double move for Monaco pair Vanderson and Youssouf Fofana. Erik ten Hag’s position in charge may also be in jeopardy, with Brighton & Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi lined up as a possible replacement.

However, despite claims that Ratcliffe will take charge on Monday, it doesn’t look as if that is the case. Taking to X, reporter Ben Jacobs, who has been on top of the whole takeover process, revealed that isn’t the case. He stated that at best, Ratcliffe will finally agree on a deal next week, but it won’t be completed for a few weeks in what is yet another twist.

“Sir Jim Ratcliffe remains on course to complete his 25% purchase of MUFC. However nothing will be announced on Monday. All focus on Sir Bobby Charlton’s funeral. A chance it’s agreed next week but that’s best-case scenario. Sources indicate it could yet take another few weeks.”

Ten Hag’s Man Utd future

It looks as if Ratcliffe could be extremely busy, should he officially take 25 per cent and sporting control at Old Trafford, with the likes of Arnold, Murtough and Harrison possibly on their way out. However, one of his biggest decisions could be on Ten Hag, providing the Red Devils’ poor start to the season doesn’t turn around under the Dutchman.

So far, United have lost nine games in all competitions, and there were previous claims that the Glazers and Ratcliffe agreed Ten Hag was the right man for the job. However, since then, there has been an EFL Cup exit to Newcastle United and another defeat in the Champions League to FC Copenhagen, so the pressure may be beginning to build on the manager.

As mentioned, De Zerbi is thought to be a possible replacement, should Ten Hag be relieved of his duties, so the quicker Ratcliffe can come in and look to make his mark off the pitch and in the transfer market, the better.

Arsenal have made a stellar start to the 2023/24 campaign, although Mikel Arteta and Edu Gaspar will be wishing time away to get to the January transfer window.

The Gunners sit just one point from the summit after 12 games played in the Premier League, however, injury has plagued the squad in the early moments of the campaign to resurface the issues relating to depth that cancelled the north Londoner’s plans of winning the league last term.

With key members of the XI absent, the upcoming January transfer window could shed some light on where Arsenal see their need for recruitment being, with the midfield said to be one of the primary areas to be assessed at the start of 2024.

Aside from the midfield, a recurring theme of the Gunners’ shortcomings in the side is the lack of potency in leading the line, with Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus the only two recognisable centre-forwards in the first team.

The January window could come at a perfect time for Arteta to strengthen his options going forward, with a few names already linked with a move to the Emirates.

Arsenal's January transfer targets

According to Football Transfers, Juventus talisman Dusan Vlahovic is the manager’s ‘preferred’ number nine target, with the 23-year-old renowned for his impact in the final third in Italy.

The report touches upon Arsenal’s past interest in the Serbian, who was linked with the Premier League outfit prior to his move to Juve in January 2022.

With a market value of €80m (£70m), the Serie A dynamo could be an expensive forward to acquire, particularly following his dip in form since his move to Turin, in which he has only netted 21 league goals for the Bianconeri in almost two years.

Closer to home, a more trusted figure could be an option for the Gunners to select to lead their line in the future, with links to Brentford’s Ivan Toney resurfacing.

After speaking highly of the north London club during the Diary of a CEO podcast, the Englishman has emerged as a potential talent for Arteta to eye, with several news outlets reporting Arsenal’s apparent interest.

A report from journalist John Cross, via The Mirror, back in September claimed that both Arsenal and Chelsea are eyeing the 27-year-old’s services in January, when his ban from football for betting infringements will expire.

Adding to the initial report, The Mirror relayed earlier this month that the Bees were to slap a £100m price tag on their star man to ward off interest from Arteta and Edu, however, things could take another twist.

This week, 90min reported that Toney is ‘demanding’ a release clause in his current contract that could allow interested parties to swipe him from Brentford’s grasp if the agreed fee is met.

The report also mentioned that both Arsenal and Chelsea have ‘held talks’ with the striker’s representatives, making his movements in the future an interesting narrative to follow.

Ivan Toney’s career in numbers

Once lauded as “remarkable” by manager Thomas Frank, it’s no surprise that Brentford want to keep hold of their forward, who has contributed heavily to the west London club since his arrival in 2020.

From League Two, to League One, to the Championship, to the Premier League, Toney has passed the tests of the top-four tiers of English football, scoring 165 career goals while representing a handful of clubs.

Appearances

Goals

Assists

53

11

5

165

65

21

45

31

10

68

32

9

Often, players are unable to replicate their form shown in the leagues below the top-flight, however, the Northampton-born star defies such woes having emerged as one of the most deadly forwards in the Premier League since the Bees’ promotion.

In his debut season at Brentford, the forward fired his new club to the top-flight, contributing to 41 goals in 45 appearances, scoring 31 and assisting ten to introduce himself to west London in stylish fashion.

Across his two campaigns in the Premier League at the Gtech Community Stadium, Toney has netted 32 goals, claiming 12 in his first term and 20 last season, ending the 2022/23 calendar as the league’s third-highest scorer behind Erling Haaland and Harry Kane.

With pace, power, strong finishing ability and most importantly, a proven spark in the top flight, the £100m price tag on the England international could prove to be priceless for Arsenal.

Why Ivan Toney would be a strong signing for Arsenal

It’s obvious that Toney would be a firm upgrade on the Gunners’ current strike options based on his scoring record alone, with his 32 Premier League goals in two seasons far beyond the capacity of Jesus and Nketiah.

The former Manchester City gem has netted 28 goals in his previous three full seasons in the league, while the 24-year-old is yet to hit 20 goals in his 101 appearances, reinforcing the added firepower that the Brentford man would provide.

Arsenal haven’t had an established striker since Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang, who is the first Gunners centre-forward to hit over 20 league goals since Robin van Persie in 2011/12, with winger Alexis Sanchez the only other player to overcome the 20 goal hurdle, via Transfermarkt.

While the north Londoners were in transition with managers, players and outside of the top four during the Gabon international’s time at the Emirates, his goalscoring streak provided the squad with a reliable outlet to show for the creativity within the side.

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

Ivan Toney

22

20

124 min

148 min

1.1

1.3

23

16

23%

21%

In signing Toney, Arteta could replicate the clinical streak of the former Borussia Dortmund talisman to his current squad, who are already making waves in the Premier League without the assistance of a prolific number nine.

Aubameyang arrived when the squad was in re-build and scored goals, whereas the 27-year-old could arrive at a time where he would be the missing piece to the manager’s puzzle, in a move that could transform Arsenal’s hopes of re-establishing themselves within Europe's elite.

A hefty price tag and a club that aren’t willing to give up hopes of keeping hold of their forward easily are what stands in the way of the Gunners securing Toney’s signature, leaving the Gunners with a lot to consider when weighing up the strength of their pursuit for the Englishman.

Newcastle United are believed to be in talks with an "incredible" player's agent over a move to St James' Park, according to a new transfer update.

Newcastle linked with striker

The Magpies came roaring back into form on Saturday afternoon, securing a fantastic 4-1 win at home to Chelsea in the Premier League, in what was an ideal return after the international break.

While clearly a brilliant result, it doesn't change the fact that Newcastle still need to be looking at making new signings in the January transfer window, with injuries hampering them so much this season.

Newcastle willing to pay £26m for “extremely agile” potential ace

Could he be an ideal Sandro Tonali replacement?

ByHenry Jackson Nov 26, 2023

Strike duo Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak have both found themselves in and out of the team with fitness issues in 2023/24, and it looks as though a striker could be high up on Eddie Howe's wishlist.

VfB Stuttgart star Serhou Guirassy is one player who has been linked with a move to Newcastle, with the 27-year-old enjoying a remarkable start to the season. The Magpies target has scored 15 goals in 10 Bundesliga appearances, only eight of which have been starts.

Newcastle in talks with Serhou Guirassy

According to an update from TEAMtalk, Newcastle are in talks with Guirassy's agent over a move to the club, as they look to get a deal over the line.

"TEAMtalk can confirm that Newcastle have begun the process of trying to bring Serhou Guirassy to the club and have spoken with the players’ agents and Stuttgart about the structure of a deal.

"Newcastle are set for a busy January as they look to strengthen their squad and cover a multitude of injuries and suspensions. Midfield and forward targets are on the club’s radar and they have already started to make moves on key targets such as Guirassy."

The report also goes on to add that Newcastle are "ready to pay the release clause in full", with £15m the amount needed to trigger it in January.

It really does look as though Guirassy is a genuine target for the Magpies, and his aforementioned record so far this season highlights what a spectacular signing he could be.

Granted, some players can simply go through purple patches and then struggle to replicate their previous brilliance, but Newcastle's potential new signing has 30 goals in 39 games for Stuttgart, as well as 30 in 53 Bundesliga outings in his career.

At 27, Guirassy is someone who has now been around for a long time, but is still young enough that he can still be a force for four or five years at the top level, at least.

Bundesliga

53

30

Ligue 1

109

31

The injury records of Wilson and Isak are problematic for Newcastle, as they look to seal back-to-back top-four finishes in the Premier League, but acquiring the services of the Stuttgart ace could make life easier for Howe, making their absences less of a concern if they keep happening.

A release clause of only £15m is also low for someone currently in such impressive form, so it is difficult to find many negatives when it comes to the Magpies signing him.

A Chelsea mainstay could now return to action after the international break following an injury blow he sustained, according to reports.

Pochettino picks up form

Since late September, the west Londoners have started to pick up real momentum following a pretty dismal start to the Premier League season and Mauricio Pochettino's reign as manager.

Indeed, Chelsea have lost just once in all competitions since beating Brighton 1-0 in the EFL Cup third round; sealing precious victories against the likes of Burnley, Fulham and Tottenham while also giving league champions Man City a real run for their money.

In what can only be described as the game of the season so far, Pochettino's men sealed a dramatic 4-4 draw against City at Stamford Bridge prior to internationals – a match which winger Raheem Sterling won't be forgetting in a hurry.

"We've played against one of the best, if not the best, teams from the past seven or eight years and we've had a right go at them," said Sterling.

"We played with such belief and intensity but, in the end, it's certainly a good point for us. It's been a good week [beating Spurs and drawing with City]. We've said for a while now, it's been stepping stones all season for us.

"Little things we've been working on we're starting to build on now and you can see the belief in the squad, as we've just gone toe-to-toe with one of the best teams in the world.

"It was important we stood up to City, because they're a team if you sit off them and show them too much respect, they can easily punish you. We stood up to them, were aggressive in our pressing and all the boys showed a real intensity. We showed real character and were rewarded in the end."

One player who missed the epic encounter was defender Levi Colwill, who was forced to sit out with a shoulder injury.

Colwill could now return vs Newcastle

The Englishman, who had started all 11 of Chelsea's league games prior to City, was also withdrawn from the Three Lions squad. Now, an update has come to light on his shoulder problem, with The Evening Standard claiming Colwill could return against Newcastle and play the clash with Eddie Howe's side.

The 20-year-old was thought to be a doubt for the game, but Colwill's reintroduction is now entirely possible as the Blues gear up for what will be a tough contest. During his loan at Brighton last year, the versatile ace earned many admirers with Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi heaping praise on Colwill and his "fantastic" ability.

Aerial duels

Passing

Concentration

“I think the best example of courage was Colwill in this game," said De Zerbi.

“We defended man-to-man and Colwill’s man was Odegaard. Colwill went 90 minutes to defend with Odegaard 80 metres from Jason Steele. This is courage.

“I would like to work with him for another two, three, four years because it’s difficult to find another left centre-back with his qualities.

“He’s a good guy, he’s improving a lot. This year his improvement has been fantastic and I hope he can stay with us.”

Arsenal have been given a boost after learning that one of their sidelined players is set to return from injury on international duty, according to a reliable journalist.

Arsenal injury news

The Gunners currently have Ben White, Thomas Partey, Emile Smith Rowe and Jurrien Timber out on the sidelines with their own respective problems as it stands, but the club have recently received an encouraging update on the fitness of Martin Odegaard. The Emirates Stadium captain is expected to be available for selection again upon the return of domestic action, and if the following update is to be believed, he might not be the only one who is ready to stage his comeback in the Premier League.

During October’s 2-1 victory over Sevilla in the Champions League, Gabriel Jesus sustained a serious hamstring problem and he’s been out ever since, but the striker was still surprisingly called up to represent his country, Brazil, over the international break.

Mikel Arteta’s centre-forward reported for duty despite knowingly missing the first fixture of the fortnight, though ahead of his nation’s second game vs Argentina on Wednesday, the 26-year-old has returned to the grass and is set to be at the disposal of his manager.

Gabriel Jesus expected to stage comeback

Taking to X, Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Jesus has returned to training and is expected to be in the matchday squad for Brazil's midweek encounter, which of course will be music to the ears of Arteta and Arsenal.

On Sunday, he wrote: "Gabriel Jesus in full training today for Brazil and ready to be part of Diniz's squad for the upcoming game. Positive news for #AFC as he’s set to be back with Arteta’s squad soon."

Arsenal have a "sensational" striker in Jesus

During his time at Arsenal, Jesus has racked up 24 involvements, 15 goals and nine assists, in 44 appearances since putting pen to paper (Transfermarkt – Jesus statistics), so the fact that he will soon be back in the starting line-up will be a huge boost for Arteta.

Sponsored by Adidas, Sao Paulo’s native ranks in the 96th percentile for most attacking touches in the opposition’s penalty area (FBRef – Jesus statistics), highlighting his desire to create as many chances as possible for himself and his peers in the final third.

Passing

Key passes

Dribbling

Finishing

Headed attempts

Defensive contribution (Data via WhoScored)

Furthermore, Edu’s talisman is even capable of operating out wide on both the left and right flanks alongside his usual role when leading the line through the middle, with his versatility making it easier for the manager to alter his team selection or formation should he want to have several of his best stars on the pitch at the same time.

As per journalist Josh Bunting, Jesus is a “sensational” player and the positive impact he's had on the side since joining last summer is clear to see, so his imminent return to top-flight action will be massively welcomed by everyone at the Emirates Stadium.

Newcastle United are in the midst of an injury crisis right now but have still managed to pick up some huge wins in the Premier League, particularly Saturday's 1-0 victory at home to Manchester United.

Eddie Howe has had to bandage his team up, but those who walk over the white line have certainly stepped up to the plate as of late for the head coach, having picked up massive results in recent weeks against the likes of the Red Devils, Arsenal, Chelsea and even Paris Saint-Germain.

The defence, in particular, has been left bruised and battered with injuries as Dan Burn, Matt Targett, Sven Botman and Nick Pope are all sidelined with long-term problems, meaning Newcastle's defence is quite a makeshift one.

Nevertheless, the back four have done really well so far, and one player in particular has exceeded expectations.

Tino Livramento's stats this season

Tino Livramento joined Newcastle United during the summer for £40m following Southampton's relegation from the Premier League. However, given the form of Kieran Trippier and Burn either side of the centre-backs, the young defender struggled to break into the first-team.

Heading into November, Livramento's only start for the Geordie outfit came in a 1-0 win at home to Manchester City in the EFL Cup back in September, although his display was certainly impressive.

Club legend Malcolm Macdonald called Livramento "faultless" throughout the game and admitted that Howe needed to find a place in the starting lineup for the exciting fullback, although it wasn't until Burn's injury that Livramento had the opportunity to shine for the Magpies, albeit at left-back.

Nevertheless, after a string of stellar performances on the left, the 21-year-old has made the position his own.

In fact, Livramento is outperforming Burn in a number of key metrics this season, meaning the latter could struggle to reclaim his starting place in the team upon returning from injury.

Assists

0.13

0

Expected Assists

0.07

0.02

Progressive Passes

4.36

3.16

Key Passes

0.91

0.23

Passes To Penalty Area

0.91

0.38

Passes To Final 1/3

2.91

2.93

Crosses

1.2

0.67

Progressive Carries

2.91

0.6

Tackles

2.91

1.73

Tackles Won

2.13

0.96

Interceptions

1.47

0.81

Errors

0

0.08

Livramento could have been seen as a long-term replacement for Trippier who is now on the wrong side of 30, but with the Chelsea academy product finding his feet on the left, perhaps another player in Howe's ranks could be his successor.

Harrison Ashby's stats this season

Livramento wasn't the only fullback Newcastle United bought this year. The club also managed to secure the services of Harrison Ashby from West Ham United for a reported £3m back in January.

Ashby was highly rated at West Ham United, with former captain Mark Noble even claiming that the wide defender has a "real physical stature". The 22-year-old had made seven appearances in all competitions for the Hammers over the past three seasons but appeared merely twice last term before making the switch to the Mags.

Nonetheless, after a handful of appearances in the Premier League 2 with Newcastle's U21s, Ashby was sent out on loan to Swansea City at the beginning of the current campaign. It's been a tricky season for the Swans, who recently sacked head coach Michael Duff, but Ashby is still playing plenty of first-team football, making 13 appearances so far, including 11 in the Championship.

Ashby has a bright future ahead of him and with Livramento looking likely to hold onto his left-back berth long into the future, the Swansea loanee could come for Trippier's place over the coming seasons, with the latter turning 34 next year.

Trippier is still outperforming Ashby by a large margin in attack but the young defender has performed quite well defensively in comparison to the England international.

Assists

0.12

0.51

Expected Assists

0.05

0.36

Progressive Passes

1.69

7.33

Key Passes

0.39

3.04

Passes To Penalty Area

0.65

2.07

Passes To Final 1/3

1.69

4.81

Crosses

3.37

8.32

Progressive Carries

1.3

1.85

Tackles

3.25

1.63

Tackles Won

2.44

0.88

Interceptions

2.33

0.88

Errors

0.13

0.07

Trippier is one of the best attacking fullbacks in the world so it'll always be difficult for a young player to reach his heights. However, Ashby is playing regular first-team football for the first time in his career and his numbers are certainly encouraging.

Former Swansea manager Duff even admitted that Ashby came to the Swansea.com Stadium with a "really positive character reference" from Trippier, whom the coach played with at Burnley for a few seasons before retiring.

Perhaps Howe may look to implement him into the team next season, handing Trippier a few nights off, with an eye to having a permanent changing of the guard between the pair.

On Sunday, Erik ten Hag was forced to rely upon the youth in his Manchester United squad versus Everton, with academy stars, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo, stealing the spotlight.

The 3-0 victory was the first time United had netted more than two goals in a game all season and it is clear that putting the ball in the back of the net has been a major issue, with the Red Devils scoring an average per game of 1.23.

The individual who has the potential to boost that output is an attacker with "amazing talent" – as per Tony Mowbray – yet he has just three career appearances in the Premier League, Amad Diallo.

A knee injury in pre-season has halted the winger’s progress, but once he returns, he may just have a Garnacho-esque impact on United.

The 3 most exciting young stars that Man Utd could unleash after Kobbie Mainoo

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ByMatt Dawson Nov 27, 2023 Man United’s right-wing issues

It is well-known that Manchester United are struggling to nail down an individual at right-wing, with Antony, Jadon Sancho and Facundo Pellistri all failing to impress the boss. The trio scored a combined ten goals last season in the Premier League, three less than what Amad netted in the Championship alone (13).

The 2023/24 campaign was supposed to be a fresh start for Sancho and Antony in particular, but they have both been unavailable for large spells, with the former now not allowed to train with the first team. This ultimately led to Ten Hag opting for an out-of-position Marcus Rashford on the right against the Toffees.

Diallo spent last season on loan at Sunderland, where he became instrumental to the way Mowbray’s side played. Ten Hag believed that the Ivorian needed an opportunity to “get strong physically and mentally”, luckily the winger who was signed for £37m in 2021 thrived in the second tier and the loan was successful.

Why Amad Diallo will be vital for Man United

Despite not winning the Player of the Match award, Mainoo looked like a seasoned professional against a physical Everton team, displaying confidence and eagerness to increase the tempo. Diallo holds a similar approach and his influence in and out of possession could elevate Ten Hag’s side to a new level.

Firstly, Amad will provide a much-needed balance to the United attack and due to the constant rotation in the right-sided role, relationships have been unable to form with Diogo Dalot or Aaron Wan-Bissaka at right back.

The 21-year-old is also left-footed, which helps improve passing angles into the central areas, but he also has the ability to go on the outside, giving him an edge of unpredictability.

Diallo isn’t blessed with blistering pace that will see him breeze past opponents due to pure speed, but he thrives when playing quick, one-touch football that can craft open opponents, with Mowbray naming him a “Magician”.

Although he can do a good job holding the width, he comes alive in a slightly inverted position, and as such, he will get the best out of Rasmus Hojlund, who loves to play with his back to goal.

Much like Mainoo, Amad oozes class and a high amount of potential whilst remaining composed. Slotting home three penalties last season for Sunderland also highlights that he is willing to take responsibility and that he doesn’t shy away from game-defining moments, the exact mindset that Manchester United have sorely missed of late.

Newcastle United are interested in a deal to sign a different Manchester United player as an alternative to Scott McTominay, according to a fresh report.

McTominay linked with Newcastle

Over the summer, Manchester United’s McTominay was heavily linked with a move to join the black and white stripes, and whilst a deal failed to come to fruition before the deadline, the northeast outfit still retain an admiration for their former target.

CBS reporter Ben Jacobs has revealed that while PIF and Eddie Howe are fond of the talisman, they are aware that he’s since become a more integral feature of his starting line-up, meaning that he likely won’t be made available for transfer in January.

The Magpies will have to assess other options in the market should that be the case, and it appears that they could try to strike a deal for his teammate in Donny Van De Beek, who has made zero starts and just one substitute appearance this season in the Premier League (WhoScored – Van De Beek statistics).

Erik Ten Hag’s central midfielder has recently admitted that he would be open to leaving during the upcoming window to get more regular game time under his belt, and if the following update is to be believed, the 26-year-old could be on his way to St. James’ Park.

PIF keeping tabs on Donny Van De Beek

According to Spanish reports (via The Hard Tackle), Newcastle are monitoring Van De Beek as they consider making an approach in January. The Magpies are “interested in acquiring the services” of the Dutchman and the hierarchy have set their sights on him as a potential target in the lead up to the new year.

The Red Devils star would certainly be given the chance to start a new chapter in his career should he put pen to paper, but whether this is a move that actually takes place yet remains to be seen.

Newcastle should avoid move for "invisible" Van De Beek

During his time at Man United, Van De Beek has actually secured two victories when playing against Howe’s side (Transfermarkt – Van De Beek statistics), but regardless of his decent record as part of the opposition, Newcastle should avoid this deal at all costs because he’s not good enough to upgrade the team.

Sponsored by Adidas, the out of favour Dutchman currently ranks as Ten Hag’s 26th best-performing player out of 26 squad members at Old Trafford (WhoScored – Man United statistics), so he doesn’t showcase what he’s capable of when he is handed the opportunity to play.

Regarding salary, PIF’s target pockets £120k-per-week at this moment in time (Man United salaries), which would make him the joint second-highest earner on their books alongside Alexander Isak and Kieran Trippier, and there’s no way that he’s worth investing that much considering his small impact.

Bruno Guimaraes

£160k

Alexander Isak

£120k

Kieran Trippier

£120k

Matt Targett

£100k (Data via Capology)

According to United fan and writer Terry Flewers, Van De Beek is typically “invisible” when he’s on the pitch, so the board should turn their attention towards other new signings who would at least match the ability of the existing team or even be an upgrade on them ahead of January.

It was always going to be difficult for Birmingham City supporters to take to Wayne Rooney, having succeeded a manager who took the side into the playoffs following a 3-1 win in the West Midlands Derby against West Bromwich Albion.

A good start to life in the dugout was what was required to ease pressure off his shoulders but Rooney has had anything but. In his nine games in charge so far, the Blues have suffered six defeats, drawn twice and picked up merely one win which came against Sheffield Wednesday, who had been bottom of the league at the time.

Nevertheless, every game offers a new opportunity to pick up some points and a win against Cardiff City tonight would give Birmingham a huge lift in their fight to climb back up the table. Here is the side's predicted lineup ahead of their visit to the Bluebirds.

1 GK – John Ruddy

Veteran goalkeeper John Ruddy has started in every single Championship game for Birmingham City this season and this likely won't change against Cardiff. On Friday night at the CBS Arena, the 37-year-old faced seven shots in total and the scoreline could have been a lot worse for the Midlands club had Ruddy not come to the rescue on a number of occasions.

2 LB – Lee Buchanan

22-year-old fullback Lee Buchanan struggled to get going against Coventry at the weekend. The former Derby County defender didn't put a single successful cross into the box and failed to complete one dribble throughout the game, offering very little on Birmingham's left side. Furthermore, Buchanan lost 88% of his ground duels, as per FotMob, in what was ultimately a subpar display.

Nonetheless, having started in every game since returning from injury in November and having played under Rooney at Pride Park as well, the manager will likely leave Buchanan in at left-back.

3 CB – Dion Sanderson

Dion Sanderson had been an ever-present member of the lineup across Eustace and Rooney's spells in the dugout. However, after Friday's clash with the Sky Blues, Rooney confirmed that the former Sunderland defender was absent from the team due to a "strange" foot injury. Sanderson is still being assessed ahead of kick-off tonight but will likely be rushed back into the first eleven as a result of Emanuel Aiwu's torrid display at Coventry.

The loanee failed to win a single ground duel and lost 75% of his aerial battles against Coventry's physically strong attacking duo of Ellis Simms and Haji Wright, who bullied the 22-year-old aerially.

If fit, Sanderson should return to add that bit of steel at the back, having won 55% of his aerial duels this season.

4 CB – Marc Roberts

Marc Roberts has been nothing but a bit part player this season. In fact, his start away at Coventry was his first of the season, having made merely four appearances in total in the Championship this term. The 33-year-old didn't cover himself in glory but still won 67% of his aerial duels which will matter against Cardiff, particularly with Ike Ugbo up top.

Roberts could keep his place and partner with Sanderson for the first time in the 2023/24 campaign as Rooney looks to add some defensive quality to a backline that is leaking goals at the moment, having conceded 11 in their last five outings.

5 RB – Juninho Bacuna

Juninho Bacuna is possibly the only player who is guaranteed to start tonight after Friday's display. The 26-year-old looked like Birmingham's most dangerous player, whipping eleven crosses into the penalty box and playing nine passes into the final third. Meanwhile, the fullback also made ten ball recoveries and three interceptions, according to FotMob.

6 LM – Jay Stansfield

Jay Stansfield struggled to make any impact against Coventry last week. The Fulham loanee failed to have a single shot on goal throughout the match before being hooked in the 70th minute by Rooney.

Nonetheless, the 21-year-old is Birmingham City's joint top scorer this season with five goals and still created two chances at the CBS Arena so will likely keep his place in the starting lineup.

7 CM – Krystian Bielik

Krystian Bielik had another off night against Coventry and hindered his team defensively.

The 25-year-old was dispossessed twice, leading to opposition counterattacks, while he also lost 57% of his ground duels and 60% of his aerial duels, and committed two fouls. Nevertheless, given Birmingham's lack of depth in the middle of the park, the Poland international will maintain his spot in the team.

8 CM – Jordan James

Jordan James has been making waves with the Midlands since making his debut two seasons ago. At the age of 19, he is already a Wales international and should be one of the first names on Rooney's teamsheet. Former manager Lee Bowyer once claimed that James can "be as good as he wants to be".

However, over the course of this season, James has been in the starting lineup just six times. If Rooney wants consistency from the young man, he'll need to start offering him some more regular appearances in the first eleven.

9 RM – Ivan Sunjic

Ivan Sunjic is a central midfield player but certainly has the legs to operate in the wide areas. The inclusion of the Croatian could offer Rooney some tactical flexibility.

The new boss has preferred to use a 4-4-2 out of possession, with two flat banks of four. However, when Birmingham have the ball, Sunjic can tuck inside, with Stansfield getting forward on the left to create a 4-3-3 which could offer a little more stability defensively and offensively for the Blues.

As a result, Sunjic would be replacing Koji Miyoshi in the starting lineup. After the defeat to Coventry City on Friday, Birmingham Live handed the Japanese playmaker a 5/10 match rating, describing his display as 'one of his worst of the season.

Miyoshi was replaced in the 70th minute and could find himself on the bench tonight.

10 ST – Lukas Jutkiewicz

Lukas Jutkiewicz was one of Birmingham's better players against Coventry. The experienced striker won more duels than any other player during the game and managed to get into three different goalscoring positions despite not tucking his chances away.

The 34-year-old is also the club's captain so it's likely that Rooney will keep him in the starting lineup once more.