All posts by z3u9t.icu

Rangers need to tie down Connor Goldson to a new long-term deal at Ibrox as his contract is due to expire at the end of the current campaign.

What’s the word?

Goldson has been a mainstay at the heart of defence for Rangers ever since joining the side in the summer of 2018 under the previous manager Steven Gerrard.

With his contract expiring at the end of the season, there has been no word of an extension from Giovanni van Bronckhorst and this is concerning.

Having featured in all 32 Scottish Premiership matches this season; Goldson would leave a massive hole in the Gers backline if he chose to leave the club.

Disaster if Goldson doesn’t stay

There is no doubt about it that Goldson has been key to Rangers’ success over the previous two seasons. Alongside Filip Helander, the Ibrox side only conceded Chelsea in 2004-2005.

Additionally, the defender also scored eight times during the campaign, including a brace against Celtic, and was arguably at his peak.

The start of this season saw the Gers struggle to replicate the highs of the previous campaign, being knocked out by Malmo in the Champions League qualifiers and stuttering in the league.

Following the 3-1 League Cup semi-final defeat to Hibernian at Hampden in November, Goldson said that Rangers had “lacked hunger” following their title win and this statement was not popular amongst the supporters.

The last few weeks have seen a resurgence in both Rangers and Goldson’s form, with progression in the Europa League following victory over Braga and an excellent win against Celtic in the Scottish Cup Semi-final, it could be a wonderful final few weeks of the season for the Ibrox faithful.

During that run, he hasn’t dipped an impressive SofaScore match rating of 6.9, with six of the seven appearances seeing him register a rating above 7.0, illustrating his importance during the back end of the term.

The £27k-per-week defender has been described as the “rock” that the side is built on, and after these last few weeks, it’s hard to argue.

Goldson will be a key protagonist if success is to be claimed and seeing him leave, despite the incoming arrival of John Souttar, would be a disaster for van Bronckhorst and co.

In other news, Sources: Huge transfer news emerges that could send Rangers into panic mode – opinion

Many Wolves fans have been left fuming after Saturday’s home defeat to Brentford left the club with an unwanted record.

First half goals from Ivan Toney and Bryan Mbuemo handed the Bees all three points in a comfortable afternoon for the west London side at Molineux, earning their first away win of the campaign.

The defeat is Wolves’ fourth defeat of the season, with their only win and goals scored coming in last week’s 2-0 victory at Watford.

It is now nine home Premier League defeats in 2021 for Wolves, more than any other current side in the top flight, as replayed by Talking Wolves in Twitter.

Two straight defeats to Everton and Black Country rivals West Brom in January started the rut, before Liverpool, West Ham United, Burnley and Manchester United all left Molineux will all three points in the final two months of last season.

This season, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United picked up narrow 1-0 wins in the Midlands before Thomas Frank’s side made it nine defeats at home for Wolves, who have lost their last four in a row on their home patch.

Many Wolves fans fume over home record

These Wanderers fans took to Twitter to lay the blame on different people at the club after the disappointing performance on Saturday left them with the “shocking” tag of the most home defeats among any top-flight club this year.

“Unfortunately a shocking and disappointing performance. We are so much better then this. Come on Wolves, sort it out…”

Credit: @AntAH56151940

“I am really, REALLY hoping this is a big wake up call for the team. So much potential here but we haven’t gotten to see it fulfilled yet this season! Let’s turn it around boys”

Credit: @brethewsbay

“In the players’ heads they think they are top 7 but on this form we are relegation material”

Credit: @Weatherer

“Shocking”

Credit: @danielpeters44

“It’s because we are spiralling out of control and need a leader to take control and steady the ship before we start attacking the enemy. Jury is out the Bruno knows how to do that. Nuno can. We need a mix of Bruno and Nuno”

Credit: @MichaelEKberg

“We could do with sorting this out a bit”

Credit: @TonyBel83049813

In other news: Many Wolves fans have been left fuming over comments made by a former Aston Villa striker. Find out more here.

A number of Liverpool supporters have reacted negatively to a report suggesting that the Reds are still keen on re-signing Phillipe Coutinho this summer.

The Brazilian enjoyed a superb spell at Anfield between 2013 and 2018, scoring 54 goals and registering 45 assists in 201 appearances.

However, he opted to join Barcelona in January 2018  in a move which irritated many Reds supporters in terms of the way he went about pushing through the transfer.

[freshpress-quiz id=“359326”]

Since then, the 29-year-old has had a forgettable time of things, failing to impress at Barca and even being loaned out to Bayern Munich.

According to Mundo Deportivo [via LFC Transfer Room on Twitter], Liverpool have ‘probed’ Barcelona about bringing Coutinho back to the club this summer.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/the-latest-liverpool-transfer-news-10/” title=”The latest Liverpool transfer news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

Liverpool fans don’t want Coutinho back

It isn’t an update which has gone down too well with some Reds fans, with these Kopites taking to Twitter to deride the latest links with the Brazilian.

“I highly doubt this happened. The little snake burnt his bridges”

Credit: @DarthMoaner

“No we haven’t lol”

Credit: @playmaker

“I’m happy with Elliott and Jones than us signing Coutinho”

Credit: @Ponnusudesh

“This comes around every few weeks, it’s not happening. Klopp doesn’t want Coutinho”

Credit: @EESX1LFC

“Absolutely no chance whatsoever, that ship has sailed”

Credit: @frankfrance12

“It’s not 1st April!!!”

Credit: @osprey23

In other news, one Liverpool player is close to completing a move elsewhere this summer. Find out who it is here.

Manchester United have reportedly entered the race to sign RB Leipzig forward Dani Olmo as manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer looks to add further additions to his first-team squad.

What’s the story?

The technically gifted 23-year-old was the subject of intense interest from Barcelona late on in the summer transfer window, the club he left as a teenager back in 2014, but Leipzig couldn’t find a replacement in time, meaning they rejected the Blaugrana’s bid.

And now, according to Spanish outlet Marca, the Camp Nou outfit remain keen to secure their former academy graduates services over the next few months, but face competition from several of European football’s heavyweights.

Marca’s report states that: “Barcelona continues to want to incorporate the forward, either in the winter market or next summer. However, it is very difficult to know what is going to happen at this point. First of all, because other clubs such as Manchester United, Juventus or Bayern also have their sights set on the footballer.”

Murtough must sanction Manchester United swoop

Olmo made the brave decision to depart his boyhood club as a youngster in search of first-team opportunities and was soon rewarded for his decision, becoming the youngest foreign player to play for Croatian outfit Dinamo Zagreb having made his debut at 16 years and nine months old.

The Spain international’s bold choice has certainly benefitted his career, with the versatile attacker already clocking up 46 goals and 41 assists in 186 appearances at club level, as well as three goals and four assists in 16 outings for his senior national side.

A recent scouting report perfectly summed up Olmo’s ability and key attributes, saying: “Olmo is seen as one of the most talented players in Spain’s latest generation of midfield maestros. The Catalan’s specialities which make him stand out are his technical skills with the ball at his feet.

“His close control is mesmerising to watch, and almost impossible to play against as an opposition defender. Olmo couples that ability with his will to drive the ball at goal, be that in his own possession or with threaded through-balls,” showcasing why so many big teams are believed to be interested in securing his signature.

Former La Masia coach Denis Silva Puig is someone who knows the skills and potential of his ex-pupil better than most, and previously gave an insight into his natural qualities (as relayed by Bundesliga.com).

“He was a typical forward, a very good finisher. He scored goals in every age category. He understood space well, so he could find room to score. He’s a natural-born goalscorer.”

Combine him with the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Jadon Sancho and Mason Greenwood and you could have an effervescent mouth-watering combination.

As the Red Devils gun for the Premier League title, this possible signing is certainly something to get excited about. It could just be the missing piece of the jigsaw.

Therefore, United’s football director must sanction a move for the £45m-rated gem, providing Solskjaer with one of the most promising young forwards around.

And, in other news…Fabrizio Romano drops exciting Man United update, fans will be absolutely delighted 

Craig Hope has now dropped an update on Newcastle United’s proposed arbitration case with the Premier League over the initially stalled takeover deal.

The Lowdown: Announcement imminent

As per Sky Sports, an announcement confirming the takeover of the St. James’ Park faithful by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) consortium is now imminent after recent work being done behind the scenes by all of the parties involved.

It is not yet clear how this would affect the arbitration hearing, which is due to take place on January 3rd.

The Latest: Arbitration update

According to Hope, sources have of course indicated that the proposed takeover is expected to go through, but The Daily Mail journalist also gave an update on arbitration:

“Sources indicate NUFC takeover is expected to go through after settlement of piracy issues between Saudi/beIN. I’m told arbitration may not be needed now piracy is resolved.”

The Verdict: Relief

It will certainly come as a relief to the Toon Army not only that it looks like that the takeover will now go through, but that the whole saga is coming to an end after years of waiting.

It is not clear whether the arbitration proceedings will still go ahead assuming an official announcement is made, but at least it looks like a deal will finally be completed soon.

Nonetheless, these are very exciting times for Magpies fans, who will no doubt want the deal to be concluded as quickly as possible.

In other news, find out when Steve Bruce could now be sacked here!

Nikola Milenkovic’s agent has reportedly travelled to Milan in an effort to try and close a transfer to West Ham United for his client [Viola News].

Giving a good account of himself in 2021/22, the Fiorentina colossus registered four goal contributions in 37 appearances in all competitions; one goal and three assists [Transfermarkt].

Now, he could be on his way to East London if recent media suggestions in Italy are anything to go by.

The 23-year-old’s agent is said to have been in Milan to try and secure a deal on Milenkovic’s behalf, whilst Schalke defender Matija Nastasic is expected to sign for Fiorentina as a replacement [Viola News].

In light of this news, loads of West Ham United diehards flocked to social media to share their opinions about the reported update.

West Ham United FC fans react:

Replying to popular West Ham United outlet West Ham Transfers, here is what some fans had to say about the Milenkovic news, with many seemingly skeptical of the agent’s movements in Italy:

“Why?”

Credit: @Peter_Zwill_9″Ah yes the famous Milan branch of the GSB empire”Credit: @stuseeds”Not happening”Credit: @Joe_Parker0″Not getting my hopes up”Credit: @dv0nch”This agent sounds as dodgy as Sully”Credit: @RobF_WHU”One more inch closer!! Should get our man by the close of transfer window in Jan 2022″Credit: @chingtoaIn other news, West Ham United are keen on a Czech top-flight ace. 

Newcastle United would need a complete disaster to unfold in order to suffer relegation this season, as the appointment of Eddie Howe has turned their season around – with the Magpies currently sitting 15th in the Premier League table.

And, the club could now be set for a further boost over their remaining games.

What’s the latest?

Eddie Howe took to his pre-match press conference ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Leicester City to give an important update on both Kieran Trippier and Callum Wilson.

Howe confirmed on Trippier: “Kieran, I think, is very slightly ahead of schedule. He’s beginning to run back on the grass with his boots on, so that’s a great sign for us.”

Adding a further promising update on Wilson: “Callum’s the same. He’s gradually building up to where he wants to be which is great to see.

“Personally, they’re OK because they’re both in a good place. They’re both improving in line with probably what we expected.”

Howe will be buzzingBoth players have made a great impact at St James’ Park during their time at the club, so Howe will be buzzing that they will be back in training and likely back on the pitch before the end of the season.Wilson has struggled with his fitness throughout his time in the North East, but has still bagged 18 goals and registered five assists in 43 appearances so far, with a goal contribution every 147 minutes played – an incredibly impressive feat considering he has spent 257 days on the injury table since joining in 2020.Trippier joined in January and was integral in the four Premier League outings he has made so far, with two goals from left-back in the 318 minutes he has played. Indeed, it was a huge disappointment when the influential 31-year-old broke his left metatarsal against Aston Villa back in February.Whilst it’s highly unlikely that the pair will be back imminently, their respective returns to the squad for training at Darsley Park and picking up some minutes in the last few games of the campaign would be a huge boost to see out the season.However, the Magpies will take on Leicester City without the duo on Sunday afternoon – with Howe certainly hoping that his team can pick up some form to further influence their move away from the relegation zone.Indeed, a win would put them on 37 points, something that could see the Magpies finish the weekend as high as 12th – if results go their way.AND in other news: Newcastle could finally axe shocking £55k-p/w liability with £40.5m-rated “tank”

Manchester United seemingly have a never-ending stream of highly-rated talent coming out of their famed youth academy, and Charlie McNeil could be the latest gem to make the step up to the senior ranks.

The 18-year-old’s journey has been far from straightforward, though. In 2013, the boyhood United fan decided to turn his back on the Red Devils and sign for local rivals Manchester City instead.

It’s believed that the clinical striker bagged over 600 goals for the Cityzens during his seven-year stay before turning down an extremely lucrative contract offer in order to return to the Old Trafford outfit.

A report in Goal outlined City’s hopes for the youngster a couple of years ago, claiming McNeil could fill the gap that Brahim Diaz and Jadon Sancho left following their departues to Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, respectively.

“McNeill is just 14 but has been making a name for himself in the City academy for the past few years,” Sam Lee wrote – now of The Athletic – in a piece titled ‘Brahim and Sancho gone – but Man City have other teenage sensations’.

“The tall forward has proven to be impressive with both feet and has scored a bagful of goals at all junior levels: 110 goals and 38 assists in 72 games for City’s U15s and England‘s U16s.

“Those familiar with the City youth set-up believe he is one of the best prospects of any age group and is definitely one to keep an eye on in the coming years.”

However, Pep Guardiola’s charges were forced to wave goodbye to a third talented prospect in quick succession after McNeil turned down their offer in favour of making his United comeback.

And the teenager has certainly lived up to expectations in the red half of Manchester. In 23 appearances for the Under-18s last term. McNeil bagged an incredible 25 goals, providing a further six assists for his teammates.

His outstanding displays for Travis Binnion’s charges earned him a call-up to the U23s setup for the current campaign, although he’s finding life slightly tougher.

A return of two goals and one assist in 10 has left room for improvement, but given time to adapt and mature, McNeil will surely prove himself to be as deadly as ever in the weeks and months to come.

The Telegraph have previously described the attacker as a ‘lethal finisher’ who is ‘comfortable with both feet’, giving United fans plenty of reasons to be excited over the Englishman’s future prospects.

And, in other news…Reliable journo drops big update on Solskjaer’s future, Man Utd fans will be intrigued 

Leeds United have been dealt a late setback ahead of their Premier League meeting with Crystal Palace this evening.

What’s the latest?

Speaking in his pre-match press conference (via the Yorkshire Evening Post), Patrick Vieira revealed that, despite being withdrawn in Palace’s 1-0 defeat to Newcastle United last week, Michael Olise could yet feature against Leeds at Selhurst Park tonight – with the winger due to undergo a late fitness test ahead of the clash.

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Concerning the winger’s current condition, the Frenchman said: “With Michael Olise – we were off [Thursay and Friday], so we have to wait until [Saturday]. But, yes, we took him off early in the [Newcastle] game as he wasn’t feeling 100 per cent.”

Marsch will be gutted

Considering how impressive the 20-year-old has been for Palace following his £8m move to south London last summer, the news that the Olise could yet play a role against Leeds on Monday evening is sure to have left Jesse Marsch gutted.

Indeed, over his 23 Premier League appearances this term, the £25m-rated talent has been a livewire in the Eagles’ attack, bagging two goals, providing five assists and creating seven big chances for his teammates, as well as taking an average of 0.7 shots and making 0.8 key passes per game.

These returns have seen the £47.5k-per-week forward average a SofaScore match rating of 6.87, ranking him as the Vieira’s seventh-best outfielder in the top flight of English football.

As such, should the France U21 international indeed be available for selection tonight, it is clear to see that this would come as a huge blow to Marsch’s hopes of taking something back to Elland Road – with a loss at Selhurst Park being a result that would leave the Whites’ hopes of survival this season very much in the balance.

AND in other news: Marsch must now unleash Leeds’ “next big thing” vs Palace, he’s “banging on the door”

Everton boss Rafa Benitez could be heading for an unforgivable transfer howler at Goodison Park amid a damning report over Allan…

What’s the story?

According to Italian publication Il Mattino, it’s suggested that the Toffees would be willing to let the Brazilian midfielder go amid some interest from Serie A giants Lazio.

The report adds that the 31-year-old is keen to reunite with former manager Maurizio Sarri at the Italian side – the duo worked together while at Napoli – and that talks have already begun between the two clubs.

Last straw for Benitez

Having managed to ostracise Digne and see the Frenchman on his way to fellow Premier League side Aston Villa, losing another key cornerstone of this Everton side in Allan would surely be the final straw for Toffees fans.

The Brazilian has been a key cog of the Everton midfield since Carlo Ancelotti brought him in a couple of years ago from Napoli, playing 43 times for the club, including featuring in every single Premier League game this campaign until early December.

It’s no surprise then that his teammates absolutely love him for the kind of dirty work that he does in midfield, with Michael Keane even saying: “He is a defender’s dream. He is always there on the striker’s toes, winning the ball back. He does a lot of running, puts in a lot of tackles.”

And, speaking during commentary for Everton’s clash against Sheffield United last season, Darren Fletcher said: “It does show these days how the role of the central midfielder has changed. He hasn’t got an assist or a goal yet this season for Everton, Allan, but nobody would tell you that he hasn’t been a vital piece of the picture for them in central midfield.”

Benitez is already in hot water with Everton fans for the club’s woeful run of form in the Premier League this season – the Toffees find currently themselves in 15th place – and his recent axing of Digne is hardly going to have made him more popular than he already was.

Signing off an exit for Allan would surely see Everton fans be completely unable to forgive him.

Meanwhile, Everton could finally axe this star by signing James Garner…