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Leeds United have welcomed Sean Longstaff to Elland Road as their latest arrival of the summer transfer window, after they officially announced a deal for the midfielder on Friday night.

Fabrizio Romano reported that the Whites have paid a fee in excess of £12m to Newcastle United to bring the experienced midfield star to West Yorkshire ahead of next season.

The Magpies academy graduate may not be the only central midfielder to come through Thorp Arch this summer, though, as Hoffenheim’s Anton Stach has also been linked with a move to the club.

Leeds have reportedly held talks with the Bundesliga club and agreed personal terms with the players, but they are yet to agree a fee for his services.

Leeds enquired about LaLiga star

Whilst they appear to be heavily pursuing a deal for Stach, the Championship champions also have other options on their shortlist of targets to bolster their options in midfield.

Transfer Focus

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

According to The Athletic, Leeds United made contact with Getafe over a potential deal for versatile star Christantus Uche several weeks ago this summer.

The report claims that the Whites enquired about his situation and did not opt to make an official offer for his services, although it remains to be seen if they are planning to submit a bid for him later in the window.

It adds that the 22-year-old talent has a release clause of around £22m (£21.6m) in his contract with the Spanish side, which means that Leeds could trigger that to land him.

The Athletic also reveals that the Nigeria international, who made his debut for his country in May, is open to the idea of joining a Premier League club.

Leeds could find their own Joelinton

Daniel Farke could unearth his own version of Joelinton by signing Uche and moulding him into a midfield destroyer to bolster his team ahead of next season.

The Brazil international joined Newcastle United as a striker for a reported fee of £40m from Hoffenheim in 2019 under Steve Bruce, before Eddie Howe spotted his potential to be a central midfielder.

Since making the transition, Joelinton has emerged as one of the Premier League’s top midfield destroyers, making 2.8 tackles and interceptions and winning 5.7 duels per game in the division last term.

Uche has started more games as a striker (18) in his career than any other position, but has also started 15 times as a defensive midfielder in the past, and U23 scout Antonio Mango claimed that he could be turned into a “midfield monster”.

Tackles won

0.76

Top 11%

Duels won

8.13

Top 13%

Aerial duels won

3.31

Top 28%

Interceptions

0.36

Top 25%

Ball recoveries

3.96

Top 8%

Possession won in the final third

0.90

Top 11%

Fouls committed

1.98

Top 29%

As you can see in the table above, the 22-year-old star thrived out of possession in LaLiga for Getafe last season, ranking highly among forwards in a host of defensive metrics, notably winning duels and recovering the ball off the opposition to regain possession for his side.

Meanwhile, the Leeds target only scored four goals in 33 appearances, along with six assists, which does not suggest that his future lies as a prolific centre-forward option, just like when Joelinton scored two goals in 38 Premier League games in his first season at Newcastle as a striker.

Therefore, Farke could be the coach to help Uche follow in Joelinton’s footsteps by transitioning from a low-scoring, defensively savvy, centre-forward into a ‘midfield monster’, as Antonio Mango put it.

The Getafe attacker has played in midfield before, as aforementioned, and has the strong physical and defensive attributes to suit playing as an enforcer in front of the back four, which is why this is a move that could be a very interesting one for Leeds to make.

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ByDan Emery Jul 15, 2025

It may now be down to Leeds to decide whether they want to go through with a swoop for Stach or if they want to activate Uche’s release clause, so there could be an intriguing few weeks to follow.

Arsenal are at the centre of many intriguing transfer stories this summer, and there is no sign of things slowing down at the Emirates Stadium with new sporting director Andrea Berta working tirelessly to reshape the squad.

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He’s prioritising a move to north London.

ByEmilio Galantini Jul 1, 2025

Mikel Arteta is already poised to welcome the arrivals of Spain international duo Martin Zubimendi and Kepa Arrizabalaga.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

Zubimendi was in London last month to finalise a move to Arsenal, while Kepa has been confirmed as a new Arsenal player after he completed a medical last week.

football.london have reported that Arsenal could announce the transfer Zubimendi in the next few days as well, following the start of football’s new financial year – which allows them to register both Kepa and the 26-year-old as part of the 2025/2026 balance sheet.

Arsenal have also agreed a near-£15 million deal for Brentford midfielder Christian Norgaard, including add-ons, with the Denmark international set to replace Thomas Partey.

Norgaard will step into the shoes of Partey, who’s now officially a free agent after deciding to call time on his five-year stay in north London.

Arteta wanted Partey to stay, and Arsenal did hold negotiations to extend the African’s former £200,000-per-week contract, but both the club and player amicably decided to go their separate ways.

“The relationship between Thomas Partey and Arsenal is still solid, even though today will be his last day as an Arsenal player,” said Nigerian journalist Buchi Laba, giving his verdict on the reaction to his departure.

“Arteta did his all to keep him, but they didn’t agree on terms. I have seen Arsenal fans insult Thomas Partey and that’s very unfair. Football is about give and take and players come and go. A player has the right to request and the club has the right to reject, thats why it’s called negotiation.

“I believe Partey did his best for Arsenal, and it’s for the betterment of the player and club that he’s leaving. There’s nothing more he can offer Arsenal and nothing more Arsenal can offer him too. It’s business at the end of the day. The club and player has decided what it’s good for both.”

Thomas Partey in talks to join Galatasaray after leaving Arsenal

The former Atlético Madrid star, called “sensational” by La Liga expert Gerry Armstrong, enjoyed his best-ever campaign at Arsenal last term – making over 50 appearances in all competitions and playing a key role under Arteta.

The question now is; what’s next for Partey?

Well, according to TBR Football and journalist Graeme Bailey, Partey is now in talks to join Turkish Süper Lig champions Galatasaray after quitting Arsenal, with Okan Buruk’s side also opening discussions for Man City star İlkay Gündoğan as they look to reinforce their midfield with proven quality.

A Süper Lig switch, where Partey will also have the chance to compete in the Champions League next season, could be an ideal next move as he enters the twilight phase of his career.

He’d also have the chance to add a league title to his CV, as Galatasaray are most likely set for another interesting title race with José Mourinho’s Fenerbahçe next season.

NBA superstar Kevin Durant, one of the highest earning basketball players of all time, has purchased a minority stake in football club Paris Saint-Germain.

Durant, 36, has signed a partnership with Qatar Sports Investments, the club’s majority owners, to explore a wide range of commercial, investment and content production opportunities.

He joins a growing list of American sports stars venturing into football, as perhaps the greatest NFL player of all time, Tom Brady, is a minority owner of English Championship club Birmingham City, while the likes of J.J. Watt, LeBron James and Patrick Mahomes have all invested in clubs dear to their hearts.

But as Durant teams up with one of the richest organisations in professional sports – QSI have a net worth of roughly $450bn – where does he stand amongst the highest earning athletes on the planet when off-field earnings are added to salaries?

Highest earning athletes in 2025 – total earnings (salary/wages + off field earnings)

10.

Kevin Durant

Basketball

$101.4m

9.

Shohei Ohtani

Baseball

$102.5m

8.

Karim Benzema

Football

$104m

7.

Juan Soto

Baseball

$114m

6.

LeBron James

Basketball

$133.8m

5.

Lionel Messi

Football

$135m

4.

Dak Prescott

American Football

$137m

3.

Tyson Fury

Boxing

$146m

2.

Stephen Curry

Basketball

$156m

1.

Cristiano Ronaldo

Football

$275m

10 Kevin Durant – $101.4m

Durant is one of the greatest basketball players of all time, known primarily for his offensive abilities, where his 6 foot 10 frame and effortless jump shot make him a nightmare to defend.

A two-time NBA champion and one-time NBA MVP, his future is one of the biggest talking points of the upcoming off-season, with one-year remaining on his contract worth over $54m.

9 Shohei Ohtani – $102.5m

At 30 years old Ohtani is widely considered the best player in Major League Baseball due to his ability to both pitch and hit to an extremely high level.

The Japanese superstar signed a 10 year, $700m contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024.

8 Karim Benzema – $104m

Benzema won the UEFA Champions League five times during his time with Real Madrid, but has signed the largest contract of his career with his current club, Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Ittihad.

The Frenchman, who has scored 37 goals in 97 appearances for his country and won the Ballon d’Or in 2022, earns over £800,000-a-week in Saudi Arabia, which is about $57m-a-year.

7 Juan Soto – $114m

Soto is a Dominican baseball player for the New York Mets, making the controversial switch from the New York Yankees in 2025.

He will earn a whopping $765m over the course of his 15-year contract with the Mets, but falls behind the top of the list due to lower off-field earnings.

6 LeBron James – $133.8m

Regarded as one of the two greatest basketball players of all time along with Michael Jordan, James takes a huge amount of his earnings from his sponsorship deal with Nike.

On the court, the NBA legend is owed over $50m by the Los Angeles Lakers in 2025-26.

5 Lionel Messi – $135m

Perhaps the greatest footballer of all time, Messi opted for Major League Soccer in the USA over the riches of the Saudi Pro League, but still rakes in $135m courtesy of his contract with Inter Miami and sponsorship deals with companies such as Adidas.

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ByBarney Lane Dec 26, 2024 4 Dak Prescott – $137m

Prescott signed the largest contract in American Football history in 2024, penning a four-year extension with the Dallas Cowboys making him the first NFL player to cross the $60m-a-year barrier.

The 31 year-old was the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2016 despite being drafted in the fourth round with the 135th pick.

3 Tyson Fury – $146m

Fury, one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time, took home $146m this year after his unanimous decision defeat to Oleksandr Usyk in December.

2 Stephen Curry – $156m

Curry, the greatest shooter in NBA history, has won four NBA titles with the Golden State Warriors and been crowned the league’s MVP on two occasions.

He is owed over $60m by the Warriors next season and rakes in millions through his commercial deals with the likes of Under Armour, Callaway and Subway.

1 Cristiano Ronaldo – $275m

A five-time Ballon d’Or winner, Ronaldo’s current contract with Saudi side Al-Nassr is worth over £3m-a-week or around $4.5m, while he also earns an additional $50m in sponsor deals with the likes of Nike and Binance.

Tottenham Hotspur are working to back new manager Thomas Frank in the transfer market this summer, with the north Londoners not exactly resting on their laurels after sealing a cut-price deal for Mathys Tel.

"Special" Tottenham forward spotted at another club amid talks to leave

Spurs are in negotiations over his exit.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 17, 2025

Despite agreeing an option to buy Tel for around £45 million in January as part of his initial loan, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy managed to negotiate a lower fee with Bayern Munich, with the Frenchman making his stay permanent for £30 million instead.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Bayern sporting director Max Eberl admitted last week that Tottenham were in ongoing talks over Tel’s transfer, and those negotiations were concluded pretty quickly, as Spurs announced their capture of the 20-year-old on Sunday morning.

However, Tel’s arrival is by no means the end when it comes to their pursuit of new forwards.

In January, Spurs held “concrete” talks with the representatives of Southampton winger Tyler Dibling, and he’s now re-emerging on their radar.

The 19-year-old impressed for an otherwise dismal Saints side who finished at the foot of the Premier League table last season, chalking up four goals and three assists in all competitions whilst cementing himself as a firm regular under both Russell Martin and Ivan Juric.

Dibling is a “world-class talent” boasting enormous potential, amid comparisons to treble-winning Man City star Jack Grealish, but his price tag has been a major stumbling block for interested sides like Spurs.

Southampton were demanding as much as £100 million to let Dibling go earlier this year, as reliably reported by The Times, but Southampton’s relegation to the Championship could see him depart for significantly less.

Tottenham consider Tyler Dibling move after near-£50m price drop

According to CaughtOffside, Southampton now value the teenage sensation at around £51 million, and Frank’s side remain in the running for his signature.

As per their information, Tottenham are considering a summer deal for Dibling, with Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle United all named as fellow English contenders.

RB Leipzig have also seen a £30 million bid rejected for the Englishman, so the Under-21 international could soon be at the centre of a tug of war between sides both domestically and abroad.

Dibling is fast garnering a reputation as a creative player with excellent technique on the ball, mobility, acceleration, agility and good passing range, but it remains to be seen if the near-£50 million price drop will still be enough to entice Levy into making a formal bid.

Even his heavily discounted new valuation could still be seen by many as a major gamble, especially if Levy wants to reinforce other areas of the squad with Tottenham’s Champions League riches.

Already closing in on Bryan Mbeumo, Manchester United have now reportedly submitted an opening offer to the representatives of an ex-Manchester City defender who is desperate for a move this summer.

Man Utd closing in on Mbeumo as INEOS ramp up summer plans

Despite finishing closer to the relegation zone than any European place and compiling their misery by suffering defeat in the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United remain an attractive club. Already, their name has carried enough weight to lure Matheus Cunha to the club and it looks as though Mbeumo is set to follow suit.

Recent reports even suggested that those at Old Trafford are ready to offer the Brentford star a stunning contract worth as much as £13m-a-year to complete a move to Manchester United this summer. If there was a collective belief that the Red Devils were entering this summer with financial limits, then that has already been put to bed somewhat.

INEOS may not be done there, either. They will be well aware that two arrivals won’t do the trick for Ruben Amorim’s side. The former Sporting Club boss needs an overhaul, not just Cunha and Mbeumo. The attacking duo represent the perfect start, however.

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He could join Cunha at Old Trafford.

1 ByTom Cunningham Jun 6, 2025

With that said, Sir Jim Ratcliffe could yet set his sights on defensive additions now that United’s attack is about to be handed the injection of talent that it so desperately needed. And if that does prove to be the case, then Manchester United may even reportedly seal a deal to sign a former Manchester City star.

Man Utd open talks to sign Laporte

According to reports in Spain, Manchester United have now opened talks to sign Aymeric Laporte, making a bid to the defender’s representatives. The centre-back is reportedly desperate to leave Saudi Arabia for European football once again and has been public with his complaints about life at Al-Nassr in the past – sparking exit rumours.

As ever, though, the deal won’t come cheap. Al-Nassr are reportedly keen to recoup the €27m (£23m) that they initially paid out to secure Laporte’s signature in 2023, whilst the defender himself reportedly earns as much as €15m-a-year (£13m-a-year) at the Saudi club.

Whether Manchester United deem that price affordable remains to be seen. However, in terms of quality and experience, Laporte would certainly offer Amorim a much-needed upgrade within his backline. The Spaniard played a huge role in Manchester City’s historic treble in the 2022/23 campaign and could now come back to haunt the Citizens, years after signing for what was then their club record of £57m.

Described as “incredible” by Pep Guardiola in 2022, Laporte could yet return to the Premier League and earn similar praise at the home of his former club’s biggest rivals. The move would be full of controversy, there’s no doubt about that. But it would also hand Manchester United an instant upgrade.

Public disputes with players have become the norm for Manchester United managers in recent times, stretching back to Jose Mourinho’s falling out with Paul Pogba, to Erik ten Hag’s exile of Jadon Sancho and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Marcus Rashford, too, was also something of an issue during the Dutchman’s final full campaign, having notably been forced to sit out the FA Cup trip to Newport County following a night out in Belfast.

That has since been followed by the breakdown of the Englishman’s relationship with Ruben Amorim, with the 27-year-old having not been seen in a United shirt since being left out of the Manchester Derby in early December, alongside Alejandro Garnacho.

Despite working his way back into favour since then, the young Garnacho looks destined to follow a similar path to his senior colleague, with Amorim reportedly telling the 20-year-old – in front of his teammates – to find a new club, following the Europa League final.

While that decision may prove to be one that United regret if the Argentine goes on to shine elsewhere, the former Sporting CP coach is rightly showing a zero tolerance attitude with regard to any player who is trying to rock the boat.

With a price tag of £60-£70m mooted, the mercurial winger is almost certain to leave this summer – as noted by Fabrizio Romano – with a replacement perhaps already being lined up.

Man Utd's search for a forward

It’s no real secret that the top end of the pitch is Amorim’s priority this summer, with Matheus Cunha already in the door, and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo seemingly set to follow, should a deal be agreed.

With the likes of Rashford, Jadon Sancho and Antony all expected to be on their way, however, alongside Garnacho, further firepower is surely still needed – not least with Rasmus Hojlund also the subject of interest from Inter Milan.

With that in mind, reports in Spain have indicated that United could be ready to battle Bayern Munich for the ambitious signing of AC Milan star, Rafael Leao, with the Portuguese international seeking an exit from the San Siro.

Transfer Focus

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

The suggestion is that both the Red Devils and the Bundesliga champions have already begun talks over a potential move for the 25-year-old, with the player said to be a ‘priority target’ for the Old Trafford side.

A potential sticking point could be the asking price, however, with the Serie A outfit likely to demand in the region of €100m (£84m), with three years left to run on his existing deal.

The former Lille man – who has also courted interest from Chelsea, reportedly – will certainly not come cheap, although he could represent the perfect upgrade as far as Amorim’s attacking options go.

How Leao compares to Garnacho

A man with Sporting CP connections – like Amorim, Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes – Leao rose through the youth ranks in Lisbon, prior to sealing a switch to France in the summer of 2018.

Following just a solitary season in Lille, however, the 6 foot 2 sensation has since spent the last six years in Italy, racking up 132 goals and assists in 260 games for his current side to date.

While typically a winger by trade, Leao’s flexibility to feature centrally could ensure he proves a particularly valuable option for Amorim, with the wantaway star comfortable operating in any of the forward roles in the 40-year-old’s 3-4-3 system.

Such adaptability is beautifully merged with the forward’s mesmeric ability, particularly as a ball-carrier, with Portugal boss Roberto Martinez hailing him as “one of the best players in the world in exploiting spaces and in one-on-one duels”.

That is evidenced by the fact that he notably ranks in the top 5% of wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref, with the lively Garnacho, for instance, ranking in just the bottom 30% in that regard.

Games (starts)

36 (23)

34 (25)

Goals

6

8

Goal conversion

7%

12%

Big chances missed

14

8

Assists

2

8

Big chances created

4

10

Key passes*

1.0

1.7

Pass accuracy*

83%

77%

Successful dribbles*

0.7

1.7

Total duels won*

38%

50%

As showcased above too, it is Leao who also comes out on top across a string of other metrics, having notably missed just eight ‘big chances’ in Italy last season, while Garnacho missed 14 in the Premier League.

Equally, the Milan man also racked up 25 goals and assists in all competitions in 24/25, placing him ahead of Garnacho’s own return of 21 goal involvements across all fronts back in Manchester.

While Leao does boast the benefit of being five years older than his attacking counterpart, his remarkable consistency has seen him rack up ten assists in each of the last four Serie A campaigns, scoring a total of 43 league goals in that time.

Garnacho could get to that level eventually, although with United in desperate need of instant improvement, the Portuguese speedster could represent the ideal upgrade that Amorim is in need of.

A better signing than Mbeumo: Man Utd plot move for "ridiculous" £29m star

Manchester United can forget about Bryan Mbeumo with a move for another attacking star.

3 ByEthan Lamb Jun 6, 2025

Arne Slot might not be a manager, framed as Liverpool’s head coach, but the Dutchman still has a significant say in Anfield’s comings and goings.

Working with sporting director Richard Hughes to improve Liverpool’s Premier League-winning squad this summer, the strategy appears to be working, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez slated to upgrade the defensive flanks while Florian Wirtz is targeted as the new playmaker-in-chief.

Engaged in direct and progressive talks with Bayer Leverkusen for Wirtz, 22, Liverpool are on the cusp of breaking their transfer record and signing one of the game’s most sought-after and talented forwards; the German is renowned for his vision, athleticism and output.

Trent Alexander-Arnold might be leaving, but wrapping said deals up will assuage the malaise surrounding the vice-captain’s expected free transfer to Real Madrid.

And with Liverpool planning to remodel the frontline, too, Slot’s side could even raise their level for the 2025/26 campaign.

How Slot is remoulding Liverpool's frontline

Mohamed Salah extended his contract by two years last month, and it’s a good thing too. The right-winger broke the record for goal involvements in a 38-game Premier League season, hitting 47, and claimed the full gamut of accolades.

However, he’s 33 next month and needs more support. That’s why a concerted effort to sign Wirtz has been mounted, with Liverpool looking to sign a new striker in Eintracht Frankfurt’s £84m-rated striker Hugo Ekitike too.

It’s not just incomings, though. Barcelona are known admirers of Luis Diaz, while Bayern Munich have recently registered their interest in Cody Gakpo.

There’s also the Federico Chiesa conundrum. According to The Athletic, a return to Italy is a strong possibility, though perhaps a loan move would be more plausible. Chiesa, 27 and wracked by injuries in recent seasons, has featured peripherally this year after joining from Juventus for a cut-price £12.5m fee last summer.

He may well leave. However, Salah’s getting on a bit and Slot has hinted that the Italy international will be afforded the chance to prove himself during pre-season, so a resurgence isn’t off the cards.

The £150k-per-week forward has been unfortunate, and fans would love nothing more than to see him turn his Premier League career around and play an important part for the Reds next term.

The same could be said for Darwin Nunez, however, after three seasons that have left plenty to desired, it’s crucial that, unlike with last summer’s recruit, the 25-year-old is sold during the looming off-season.

Why Liverpool must cash in on Darwin Nunez

It’s simple: if FSG fail to engineer an exit for Nunez this summer, Liverpool will not play the upcoming season with a much-needed new number nine.

It’s been an up-and-down journey for the Uruguay star, and certainly not without its entertainment, but Nunez needs to leave Liverpool for the good of his career.

He’s stagnated, staled, lacking the intensity and tenacity which characterised his maverick style upon arriving on Merseyside. Now, he’s been hammered into a shape that’s left him unfit for purpose in Slot’s system, too erratic and instinctive to absorb and implement the Dutchman’s sharp tactics.

Given that he arrived from Benfica for a fee rising to a club-record £85m, the disappointment is understandably palpable.

24/25

45

1,982′

7

7

23/24

54

3,026′

18

15

22/23

42

2,366′

15

4

It’s rather telling that Nunez has struggled to adapt to Slot’s vision. Take Ryan Gravenberch; take Gakpo; take, even, Salah. Players have raised their game, all right, but Nunez has regressed.

Given that he takes home some £140k per week, it’s clear Liverpool need to move him on and bid for a more effective class goalscorer, especially when considering how much more he earns than top target Wirtz.

The German superstar takes home £73k per week, which is a little over half of Nunez’s earnings. Of course, he’s in line for a bumper pay rise when concluding his transfer to Liverpool, but it goes to show how disappointing Jurgen Klopp’s signing has been, scorer of 25 Premier League goals across three campaigns having never fallen to a lengthy injury.

Slot has been displeased with the South American’s application, at times, speaking of his “disappointment” in the talisman and even stating he “can’t accept” his perceived lack of work-rate back in February.

This, of course, combines with the plain truth that Nunez’s finishing simply hasn’t come on. As per Sofascore, he’s missed 55 big chances across his three terms in the Premier League, only scoring 25 goals.

You might think that Wirtz would be the perfect player to resurrect the centre-forward’s English career, and indeed, his playmaking prowess suggests he stands a stellar chance of at least raising Nunez’s game, but it’s not a risk Slot can afford to take, especially if attacking threats such as Gakpo or Diaz were to part with the Premier League champions.

Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak was the club’s top target, but he’s reportedly not going anywhere after Eddie Howe’s side succeeded in securing a place in next season’s Champions League.

If Liverpool find they must make their move for Ekitike instead, Slot will still get his mitts on “one of the best strikers out there,” as the Frenchman has been dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson.

As discussed earlier in the article, Ekitike would cost a significant outlay, maybe even scratching the same ballpark as Wirtz, but it would be money well spent for a player who would surely represent an upgrade on Nunez, who has sadly fallen by the wayside.

While there’s substance to the argument that Chiesa should stay on, providing cover for Salah, Nunez has failed to perform across three season, and now must be axed. It’s sad, for all of a Liverpool persuasion want him to succeed, but at this stage it would be a risk to keep him on with the league champions.

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Liverpool are ready to make a series of sales in the transfer market this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 26, 2025

This summer presents a huge opportunity for Leeds United to strengthen their first-team squad, bolstering the ranks ahead of their return to the Premier League in 2025/26.

Daniel Farke has created an excellent squad at Elland Road over the last two years, leading the club to Championship glory this season, notching a staggering 100 points.

The midfield has been crucial to their success, with Ao Tanaka undoubtedly being the star in such a department, featuring 43 times and being named in the EFL’s Team of the Season.

Brenden Aaronson, Ethan Ampadu and Joe Rothwell have all also played their part, with the latter returning to parent club Bournemouth as a result of his loan ending.

However, if the side are to remain in the top-flight at the end of next campaign, additions are needed during the off-season, with work already being made to land new stars for Farke’s side.

The latest on Leeds’ pursuit of new midfielders

Manchester City star James McAtee has been constantly on Leeds’ radar in recent weeks, reemerging after previously being a loan target 12 months ago.

The 22-year-old looks set to leave the Etihad this summer, with the Whites battling Nottingham Forest for his signature, but he may cost a pretty penny with Manchester City demanding £35m for his signature.

However, another name has emerged on their shortlist in recent days, with Everton’s Abdoulaye Doucoure of keen interest, according to Africa Foot’s latest report.

The report claims that the Whites are battling Roma for the 32-year-old, who after signing for £20m a number of years ago, is out of contract at the end of the campaign, with the Malian appearing to wave goodbye at Goodison Park on Sunday.

It also states that he could be tempted by an offer to remain in England’s top-flight, extending his stint in such a division after spending the last nine years between Watford and the Toffees.

Why Doucoure has shades of Kalvin Phillips

Midfielder Kalvin Phillips undoubtedly remains one of the best players to come out of Leeds’ Thorpe Arch academy, developing through the youth levels before making his mark at Elland Road.

The 29-year-old made a total of 234 appearances, helping the side secure promotion in 2020, before cementing their place in the Premier League – something which Farke will be desperate to do this campaign.

He caught the eye with his passing ability and ball-winning talent, whilst also registering numerous goals and having a positive impact within the final third when the ball fell his way.

Phillips would depart to join Manchester City in a £45m deal back in the summer of 2022, already being linked with a return to Yorkshire after his dismal stint under Guardiola.

However, the club should steer clear of any reunion and pursue a move for Doucoure, with the Malian international having the tools to be the club’s next version of the academy graduate.

Whilst he’s featured in a more attacking role than Phillips this campaign, he has still managed to thrive in and out of possession, whilst handing the manager an added threat in the final third.

Doucoure, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by one journalist, has registered five combined goals and assists this campaign, whilst also notching a higher shot-on-target rate – highlighting his clinical edge in attacking areas.

Games played

32

19

Goals & assists

5

0

Progressive carries

1.5

0.3

Shot-on-target accuracy

29%

18%

Pass accuracy

80%

79%

Tackles won in the defensive third

0.8

0.5

Take-on success

53%

41%

Aerials won

41%

24%

He’s also completed more of the passes he’s attempted, whilst registering more progressive carries – handing Farke an excellent option in possession throughout what’s likely to be a difficult campaign.

The Toffees star’s dominance doesn’t stop there, winning more tackles in the defensive third and coming out on top in more aerial battles, offering the added defensive talent needed in the club’s midfield.

Given the fact that he’s available on a free transfer this summer, it’s a no-brainer that the Whites need to snap up a deal for Doucoure, with the Malian offering an experienced option in the middle of the park.

If he can get anywhere near the levels achieved by Phillips at Elland Road, he would be one hell of an addition, potentially playing a massive role in their chances of achieving survival next campaign.

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Chelsea are now aiming to seal the signing of a key target by the end of this month, according to Fabrizio Romano, and Enzo Maresca’s side are very keen to strike a deal for the player as soon as possible.

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Chelsea will be fully aware of the tough task facing them on Sunday, having already lost at St. James’ in the Carabao Cup this season, but they’ll also go into the contest on a high after beating Premier League champions Liverpool last weekend.

Newcastle (away)

May 11th

Man United (home)

May 16th

Nottingham Forest (away)

May 25th

Maresca’s side have picked up form again, winning their last three league games, with Newcastle coming as a very well-matched opponent. Both sides are level on points and goal difference, but a win up north has the power to all but seal Chelsea’s place in the Champions League draw next season, depending on results elsewhere.

“It’s a big one, it’s a huge one,” said Maresca on Chelsea’s clash with Newcastle.

“United will be a big one, Forest will be a big one. Now we have three more games, all of them are going to be big games. For sure, Sunday is a chance to start in the right way. We are on a good run, in a good mood, and hopefully, we can play a good game and win the game.”

Maintaining their place in the top five and qualifying for the Champions League will also have a knock-on effect when it comes to their summer transfer plans, as already confirmed by Maresca, so a lot is on the line.

Chelsea want to sign Dean Huijsen "by the end of May"

One of their top targets, according to widespread reports, is Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen.

The Spaniard’s £50 million release clause has piqued interest from across England and beyond, with Chelsea reliably believed to have held serious talks with Huijsen’s camp ahead of the summer window, which opens on June 1.

According to Romano, speaking on his YouTube channel, Chelsea now want to seal a deal for Huijsen by the end of May, as they seek to finalise an agreement as soon as possible amid the fierce competition for his signature.

“The idea of the three main Premier League clubs involved in this story, Liverpool, Chelsea, Arsenal, is to do the deal now as soon as possible,” said Romano.

“Now it means by the end of May, so to close the deal this month.”

The 20-year-old has seriously impressed over his debut campaign in England, with Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp lavishing praise on Huijsen as an already “complete” defender.

“If you’re creating a footballer, the modern-day centre-back, you’ve got a bit of the influence from the Netherlands, the influence from Spain, where they come out with the ball and all the great defenders they’ve had,” said Redknapp.

“And then you’ve got that Italian mark on it as well, so the journey, the mixture that he’s got, is pretty perfect, and now he’s found himself in the Premier League. The elements are good, everything is right for him. You have to get all the right ingredients to be a top player.

“He’s a complete player, this young man.”

Tottenham Hotspur are believed to be on the verge of appointing a 52-year-old, following some private talks with chairman Daniel Levy in early April.

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Over the course of a campaign hampered by injuries and poor form, matters are made worse by reports that Levy and co are likely to employ a ‘sell to buy’ policy when the transfer window reopens this summer (The Telegraph).

West Ham (away)

May 3rd

Crystal Palace (home)

May 10th

Aston Villa (away)

May 18th

Brighton (home)

May 25th

The Lilywhites could see the likes of Richarlison, Cristian Romero and even Pedro Porro depart before 2025/2026, according to some reports, while Spurs attempt to garner enough funds to reinforce their squad across the board.

Tottenham want a new centre-back and are targeting Dean Huijsen, while it is believed Postecoglou’s side are eager to acquire a central midfield player too, leading to their interest in Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Hugo Larsson (GiveMeSport).

Spurs are also boldly eyeing a move for West Ham forward Jarrod Bowen, which may seem far out of the club’s reach.

All of these ambitious plans will require an astute operator when it comes to behind-scenes transfer dealings, and ex-managing director Fabio Paratici will soon be available for hire again.

The Italian resigned from his post in 2023, after being slapped with a worldwide ban by FIFA, but that is due to expire on June 30th.

According to reports from his homeland, back in late March, Paratici held talks with Levy over re-joining Tottenham, and it was claimed at the time that they were ready to make him a rich offer.

Fabio Paratici "will sign with Tottenham"

After his failed switch to AC Milan, Italian media sources started reporting yet again in the last few days that Paratici’s return to Spurs is possible, with newspaper Corriere della Sera now sharing a pretty significant update of their own.

It is now believed that Paratici “will sign for Tottenham” once again, and he is likely to return to the same role he once took before the 52-year-old was forced out.

His return has been tipped for some time, with pundit John Wenham anticipating it after he was spotted at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for their clash against Eintracht Frankfurt.

“If Postecoglou is sacked, I’m not sure who will come in until the end of the season,” Wenham said to Tottenham News.

“We will have to wait and see. However, we saw that Paratici was at the stadium again on Thursday, sitting with the club legends. Therefore, it looks like he is coming back, and perhaps he is already lining up a new manager to replace Postecoglou.”

If confirmed, his hire would be seen as a major boost by some, considering the plaudits he received and how Paratici grew in popularity during his time at N17.