All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

It wouldn’t be hyperbolic to describe the last few years as being incredibly hectic for Chelsea.

The Blues have seen new ownership come, have spent an enormous amount of money in a relatively short space of time, and have been through their fair share of managers.

However, even though there have been more than a few bumpy moments in terms of performances and results, it looks like the team are finally on the right track.

Enzo Maresca led his side to a fourth-placed finish in the Premier League last season, and on top of securing Champions League football, led them to Conference League glory.

Following the Argentine’s impressive first campaign, the board have already backed him in a big way this summer, with the likes of Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens all making their way to the King’s Road.

The wheeling and dealing looks far from finished there, though, so here’s what Chelsea’s dream squad could look like if everything goes according to plan this summer.

The Goalkeepers Emiliano Martínez takes the gloves

While Robert Sanchez improved towards the end of last season, it would be fair to say that many fans would still like to see an upgrade signed this summer.

That seems to be the opinion of the board as well, with reports linking them with Aston Villa’s World Cup-winning shot-stopper Emiliano Martínez.

The Argentine, who won last year’s Best Fifa Men’s Goalkeeper, is reportedly also a target for Manchester United and could end up costing around £40m.

That would see Sanchez become the number two, and with Đorđe Petrović looking set to join Bournemouth for around £25m, Filip Jorgensen could be third choice.

Full list of goalkeepers: Emiliano Martínez, Robert Sanchez, Filip Jorgensen.

The Defence Chelsea add promising depth

Chelsea managed to produce the third-best defence in the Premier League last season, conceding just two more goals than Liverpool and nine more than Arsenal.

So, instead of wholesale change, they would be wise to trim the fat and add a couple of exciting prospects to the group.

Funnily enough, that seems to be the approach the Blues are taking, with Axel Disasi and Renato Veiga looking likely to leave, while Jorrel Hato could make his way to West London from the Netherlands.

Alongside the West Londoners, the “exceptional” Ajax gem, as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, has been linked with a host of clubs and could be available for around £40m.

Appearances

111

Starts

102

Minutes

9121′

Goals

4

Assists

9

Goal Involvements per Match

0.11

Minutes per Goal Involvement

701.61′

Points per Game

1.86

It might sound like a lot to spend on a 19-year-old, but he’s already made 111 first-team appearances for the Amsterdam side, has six caps for the national team and can play as either a left-back or centre-back.

The young Dutchman probably wouldn’t start many games, at least not right away, but he’d be brilliant depth and help ensure Marc Cucurella isn’t played into the ground.

Full list of centre-backs: Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, Mamadou Sarr, Levi Colwill, Benoit Badiashile.

Full list of right-backs: Reece James, Malo Gusto.

Full list of left-backs: Marc Cucurella, Jorrel Hato.

The Midfielders Chelsea add an exciting talent

Arguably, Chelsea’s most stacked area of the squad is the midfield, and there isn’t a whole lot that needs to be done there this summer.

So long as they remain fit, the incredible Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernández will remain the first choice for the middle of the park.

At the same time, Andrey Santos and Roméo Lavia are excellent rotation options.

Moving up into attacking midfield and to the man who has to be the first name on the team sheet: Cole Palmer.

Appearances

96

Minutes

7770′

Goals

41

Assists

28

Goal Involvements per Match

0.71

Minutes per Goal Involvement

112.60′

While he is capable of playing out wide and on the wing, he can have a far greater impact on proceedings as the most advanced midfielder, and with a tally of 41 goals and 28 assists in 96 games for the Blues, Maresca will want him where he can have the most significant impact.

However, the club appear to be after someone who can cover for the sensational talent, and based on reports, that player could be Alejandro Garnacho.

The Argentine ace had a very public falling out with Manchester United and was told he would be sold this summer, and one of the clubs interested in the £60m ace is Chelsea.

While it might not be a move that excites the fanbase, the Madrid-born international wasn’t too bad last season, racking up 11 goals and ten assists in 3568 minutes, and spending most of the campaign in attacking midfield.

In all, Chelsea have an incredible array of midfield talent, and the United star could be great depth.

Full list of midfielders: Cole Palmer, Alejandro Garncaho, Moises Caicedo, Roméo Lavia, Dario Essugo, Enzo Fernández, Andrey Santos, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.

The Attackers Chelsea go huge on the frontline

Chelsea have already gone big when it comes to attacking signings this summer.

Delap cost them £30m from Ipswich Town, Pedro cost a cool £60m from Brighton & Hove Albion, and Jamie Gittens cost around £48m from Borussia Dortmund.

With all of that business in mind, plus the likes of Pedro Neto and Estavão looking ready for the new season, it makes sense for the club to be looking to sell a few players.

The most notable departure is undoubtedly Noni Madueke, who is set to join Arsenal for around £52m, but it also looks like João Felix could be on his way for close to £17m.

If the board can then get rid of Raheem Sterling as well, that would leave them with plenty of room in the wage budget to further bolster the attack, which seems to be the plan.

One of the names linked with the team this summer has been Malick Fofana, who has a price tag of around £50m.

The young Frenchman would be another signing for the future, but with a tally of 17 goal involvements in 41 games last season, he could still make an impact from the bench.

Finally, if Chelsea are able to amass their dream squad this summer, then they’ll surely get their hands on Hugo Ekitiké.

The Eintracht Frankfurt striker has been linked with a £85m move to Stamford Bridge this summer, and while that is a lot of money, it would be money well spent.

In 48 appearances last season, totalling 3644 minutes, the 23-year-old marksman scored a mammoth 22 goals and provided 12 assists to boot.

Appearances

48

Minutes

3644′

Goals

22

Assists

12

Goal Involvements per Match

0.70

Minutes per Goal Involvement

107.17

In other words, the Reims-born dynamo whom journalist Graeme Bailey once dubbed the “next Mbappé,” averaged a goal involvement every 1.41 games, or every 107.17 minutes.

Just imagine how dangerous he’d be playing in the same team as Palmer; that duo could be enough to fire the Blues into a title charge.

Full list of wingers: Pedro Neto, Estavo, Jamie Gittens, Malick Fofana.

Full list of strikers: Hugo Ekitiké, Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, Nicolas Jackson.

Chelsea "close" to agreeing "excellent" player's exit after Thursday update

The west Londoners need to trim their squad.

ByEmilio Galantini Jul 10, 2025

Newcastle United have “begun discussions” with a Premier League “leader” over a move to St James’ Park this summer, according to a new transfer report.

Centre-back a priority for Newcastle this summer

The Magpies are eyeing new signings all over the pitch, from James Trafford in goal to Anthony Elanga out wide, but a new centre-back is vital before the new season gets underway.

A freshness is required in that area of the pitch, especially with the likes of Fabian Schar and Dan Burn not getting any younger, and Marc Guehi is seemingly a front-runner to come in and bolster the options at Eddie Howe’s disposal. A £70m move to St James’ continues to be mooted.

The England international is far from the only defender being mentioned as an option for Newcastle, though, with Marseille ace Leonardo Balerdi linked with a summer switch to the Magpies.

Similarly, Atalanta central defender Giorgi Scalvini has also been toured as a potential signing for Howe before next season gets underway, and now another name has been thrown into the hat.

Newcastle in talks to sign Premier League "leader"

According to a fresh update from RMC Sport [via Sport Witness], Newcastle are among the clubs to have “begun discussions” with Axel Disasi over a summer move to the club.

The Magpies’ interest is described as being “particularly” strong, with the Chelsea defender valued at around £25.8m by his current club.

Disasi is another good option for Newcastle this summer, even though the jury may be out on him slightly more than someone like Guehi.

The Frenchman was deemed surplus to requirements by Chelsea last season, hence him being loaned out to Aston Villa midway through the campaign, but he is a player with plenty to admire in his game.

Appearances

7

Starts

5

Minutes played

488

Clearances per game

2.6

Aerial duel wins per game

1.1

Tackles per game

1.1

Pass completion rate

89.1%

Goals

0

The 27-year-old Disasi has won five caps for France, which is no mean feat, considering some of the elite centre-backs representing Les Bleus currently, including William Saliba, Ibrahima Konate and Dayot Upamecano. Meanwhile, journalist Nizaar Kinsella has hailed him as a “leader”, while Jamie Carragher lauded one performance from him last year.

Now back at Chelsea, it seems unlikely that he has a future there, with the above report stating that he has an “exit ticket” out of Stamford Bridge, and he could be a cheaper option than Guehi for Newcastle, albeit also being more of a gamble.

Newcastle likely to see £30m bid accepted to sign a Scalvini upgrade

Eddie Howe is keen to bolster his defence this summer at Newcastle United.

1 ByRoss Kilvington Jul 7, 2025

At 27, he is at a good point in his career to be an instant success, though, so the Magpies signing him would be far from a disaster.

Celtic completed their first signing of the summer transfer window last week when they confirmed the arrival of Kieran Tierney from Arsenal on a free transfer.

The Scotland international will officially link up with his new teammates when his deal with the Premier League giants expires at the end of this month.

Tierney is not going to be the last signing to walk through the doors at Parkhead this summer, though, as the Hoops are reportedly closing in on the signing of Sweden international Benjamin Nygren.

Sky Sports journalist Anthony Joseph claims that the club are close to agreeing a deal worth around £2m with FC Nordsjaelland to sign the right-sided attacker.

This means that the Scottish Premiership champions are set to dip into the Danish market, having raided England, France, Germany, Scotland, Belgium, and Spain.

One country the club have not done much business in since Brendan Rodgers returned to Parkhead is Japan, which is where they snapped Daizen Maeda up from.

Celtic have hit gold with Daizen Maeda

The Hoops swooped to sign the Japanese forward from J1 League outfit Yokohama F. Marinos in January 2022 on an initial loan deal, which was then made permanent that summer.

Maeda had scored 26 goals in 70 matches for Yokohama F. Marinos before his move to Scotland, but he was unproven in European football and it was a gamble by Ange Postecoglou to bring him to Glasgow.

It is one that has paid off big time for Celtic, though, as the Japan international has developed into a star at Parkhead, and could be sold for big money this summer.

The 27-year-old is coming off the back of his best season in the Premiership for the Scottish giants, having previously offered a decent threat in front of goal in the league in his first two-and-a-half years.

Appearances

16

35

28

34

Goals

6

8

6

16

Conversion rate

18%

21%

13%

28%

Big chances created

5

6

5

10

Assists

5

5

3

10

As you can see in the table above, scored more than twice as many goals and produced twice as many assists as he did in the 2023/24 campaign.

This has led to reported interest from Liverpool, Arsenal, and Leeds United, with a £25m price tag placed on his head, which shows that Celtic have hit the jackpot with Maeda, because he is now an incredibly valuable asset and star performer.

The Scottish giants have not made a signing from Japan since they made Tomoki Iwata’s loan permanent in the summer of 2023, but they are now reportedly eyeing up a new addition from the J1 League.

Celtic eyeing deal for Japanese defender

According to Celtic Way writer Stephen McGowan, Celtic are working on a deal to sign Albirex Niigata centre-back Hayato Inamura in the summer transfer window.

The report claims that the Hoops are interested in signing the 23-year-old defender to bolster their options at the back, as he provides versatility with his ability to play as a centre-back or as a left-back.

Transfer Focus

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

McGowan’s article adds that Nygren is ‘on the brink’ of signing for the Premiership champions, and that Fulham’s Callum Osmand and Aberdeen’s Ross Doohan are also set to join to bolster Rodgers’ options across the park.

Inamura could be another signing on top of those potential deals, in what Celtic Way journalist Ryan McGinlay described as a “surprise move” for the “versatile stopper”.

If the Hoops can get a transfer for the Japanese centre-back over the line in the coming weeks, then the 23-year-old star could be a Maeda repeat for the club.

Why Inamura could be a Maeda repeat for Celtic

As aforementioned, Celtic hit the jackpot with Maeda as they snapped him up from the J1 League and provided him with a platform to develop into a £25m-rated asset thanks to his performances in recent seasons.

The Hoops could strike gold from the J1 League one again by signing Inamura this summer, because he is an exciting young defensive talent who could come in to improve the manager’s options at the back.

Inamura is a left-footed centre-back, who can also play left-back, and this means that he would arrive at Parkhead to compete with Liam Scales and Auston Trusty for a starting berth in the team next to Cameron Carter-Vickers.

His performances in the J1 League during the 2025 campaign so far suggest that he has the potential to come in as an upgrade on Celtic’s two current options in that position.

Appearances

13

26

22

Tackles + interceptions*

1.7

1.9

2.3

Ball recoveries*

5.4

3.9

3.3

Clearances*

5.1

4.8

4.0

Error led to shot/goal

1

1

5

Penalties committed

0

1

0

As you can see in the table above, Inamura could make more defensive interventions per game for the Hoops, with far more clearances and recoveries than the Hoops duo.

He could also be more reliable as a defender. The Japanese titan has only made one error that has led to a shot, goal, or penalty in 25 J1 League games in his career, whilst Trusty, for example, made five such errors in just 22 league outings in the 2024/25 campaign.

Therefore, Inamura could come in as an upgrade on Scales and Trusty in the left-sided centre-back position by offering more quality defensively, and fewer big errors, which also may be why the club are eyeing up a deal to bring him to Glasgow.

If he can translate his J1 League form over to the Premiership, the 23-year-old enforcer could be a regular starter next to Carter-Vickers and establish himself as a star for the Hoops, which would make him a Maeda repeat as another successful signing from the Japanese market.

He's for sale: Celtic feel they can seal bargain deal to sign PL player

Celtic are looking to improve their options in the middle of the park this summer.

ByDan Emery Jun 15, 2025

FSG’s transfer ethos – getting their work done nice and early – often leaves Liverpool somewhat in the corner of the room while rivals party late into the market, enjoying the thrill of Fabrizio Romano and the rest’s transfer updates.

There are worse problems to have, it must be said. And the real success is found on the field. Liverpool are on the verge of signing Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez, having already added Jeremie Frimpong.

Now, it’s time to sign a centre-forward, for Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota left plenty to be desired as Arne Slot’s focal frontmen last season, actually paling in comparison to Liverpool’s wider forward.

Mohamed Salah

38 (38)

29

18

Luis Diaz

36 (28)

13

7

Cody Gakpo

35 (23)

10

5

Diogo Jota

26 (14)

6

4

Darwin Nunez

30 (8)

5

3

Federico Chiesa

6 (1)

0

0

Luis Diaz was even called into play as a makeshift number nine for much of the campaign, his false-nine-type qualities proving invaluable for the Reds as they marched toward the Premier League title.

Who, then, to sign? Targets like Hugo Ekitike, Viktor Gyokeres and Victor Osimhen would all do a job, but Alexander Isak is the cream of the crop, and sporting director Richard Hughes would rake in the plaudits if he got that one over the line.

The latest on Alexander Isak to Liverpool

It’s pretty clear Liverpool will sign a striker this summer. However, who that player might be is less certain. Liverpool can dream, though, and signing Isak would be an incredible way to cap off a wonderful summer.

As per transfer insider Ben Jacobs for GIVEMESPORT, Liverpool are prepared to break the British transfer record to sign Isak this summer, with Newcastle United valuing their striker at over £150m.

The “unstoppable” Isak, hailed by pundit Ally McCoist as “the best out-and-out forward in the league”, was outscored only by Mohamed Salah in the Premier League last season, his 23-goal return illustrating his elite ability.

However, Newcastle’s position on their talisman’s unavailability has been absolute (insofar as any stance can be absolute in the transfer market). Liverpool can dream, and it appears they will try, but don’t hold your breath.

Luckily, Liverpool are one of the most astute transfer operators, and they’ve already lined up the perfect alternative.

Liverpool line up Isak alternative

As per TEAMtalk, Liverpool have sounded out a potential move for Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez this summer, and while the La Liga side would be looking for an unrealistic £160m figure, Anfield hold a trump card.

Indeed, Diego Simeone is interested in bringing Nunez to the Wanda Metropolitano this summer, and previous reports even suggest personal terms have been agreed for around a month. As a result, TEAMtalk suggest that a swap deal is an avenue they are exploring this summer.

This would no doubt be a difficult one to get over the line, but Liverpool’s interest is long-standing and the Argentina forward would be perfect for Slot’s system.

Why Julian Alvarez would be perfect

Alvarez had been tracked by Liverpool during his time at Manchester City, where he scored 36 goals and laid on 19 assists across two trophy-laden campaigns, earning an £81.5m transfer to Atletico Madrid last summer.

His first term in Spain was his finest yet, posting 29 goals and seven assists across 55 matches, blending newfound potency with his robust and dynamic attacking style. Making a direct comment on his exploits in Spain, journalist Roy Nemer even described the player as “the best forward in the world.”

As per FBref, he ranked among the top 6% of strikers across Europe last year for passes attempted, shot-creating actions and progressive carries, the top 8% for progressive passes and the top 12% for successful take-ons per 90.

Already something of a nomad, the 25-year-old has demonstrated continual development and would now prove the perfect alternative to Isak, who is actually considered by the data-driven site as being one of Alvarez’s most comparable players.

River Plate

122

54

31

Manchester City

103

36

19

Atletico Madrid

53

29

6

Argentina

44

12

33

Liverpool need a new goalscorer to perch at the front of their ship, but they also need a centre-forward who will play with flair and bring the attacking players together.

One of the Merseysiders’ attacking staples is that when the frontline clicks, they perform in concert, effectively unplayable. Isak aligns perfectly in this regard, but Alvarez too could dovetail into Slot’s set-up and provide a higher level of goalscoring threat while using his technical skills and off-the-ball intelligence to open up a new dimension.

Isak’s completeness is echoed by Alvarez, but the roots of the South American’s style are shaped by a natural quality in front of goal. As per Sofascore, he only missed seven big chances in La Liga last season, scoring 17 goals and creating nine big chances too.

And this isn’t a simple anomaly. Across his two campaigns in the Premier League, the 2022 World Cup winner scored 20 goals from 44 starts, only missing 14 big chances.

It’s pretty clear he’d prove an upgrade on Nunez, and while Isak is FSG’s first-choice pick, Alvarez might just be the perfect fallback if ambitious efforts to bring Isak over from St. James’ Park don’t pull through.

The winds of change are blowing at Anfield, all right, but there’s more still to come for the Premier League champions, who are packaging a proven squad with exciting additions who might just solidify Slot’s early success, shaping it into a dynasty.

Huijsen was better: How Spanish media rated Trent's first game post-Liverpool

Trent Alexander-Arnold made his debut for Real Madrid in the Club World Cup.

ByMatt Dawson Jun 19, 2025

Newcastle United are thought to be showing serious interest in a player who has been likened to his team’s version of Lionel Messi, according to a new transfer report.

Newcastle preparing for vital final Premier League day

The Magpies are now so close to sealing a return to the Champions League that supporters can almost taste it, following an excellent season overall, not least the legendary EFL Cup triumph back in March.

Victory at home to Everton on the final day of the Premier League season on Sunday afternoon will secure a place back at Europe’s top table for Newcastle, with Eddie Howe fully focused on getting the job done this weekend:

“We’re still in a strong position and it’s in our hands, and I think we have to look at this as a positive. I think calmness is going to be key at this moment in time. It’s a week before we play. We’ve got to be very calm, make good decisions, and train and prepare well for the game. Nothing changes. The emotion will be there in the game, I don’t think we have to spell that out to the players.”

It has the potential to be a nervy afternoon at St James’ Park, however, with everyone associated with Newcastle aware that things could go wrong, ultimately having a major detrimental impact on their summer transfer business. Hopefully, Champions League football will be achieved, though, allowing them to target elite options.

Newcastle "very serious" about signing £20m+ goalkeeper

According to Sport [via Sport Witness], Newcastle United are “very serious” about signing Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia in the summer transfer window. Aston Villa, Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester United, Barcelona and Real Madrid are all mentioned, too.

It is claimed that the Magpies could snap him up for as little as £12.6m if his side are relegated from La Liga this weekend, but £21m is more likely to be needed as Espanyol are two points clear of the relegation zone going into the final day of the 2024/25 campaign.

Garcia is arguably one of the best goalkeepers in Europe currently, with WhoScored pointing out that he is in the top five highest-rated players in his position this season.

Not only that, but Manolo Gonzalez has even said that Garcia’s impact at Espanyol is akin to that of Lionel Messi, in terms of being a difference-maker on the pitch time and time again:

“Joan Garcia is going to be a global reference, no doubt about it. I really hope so, because he deserves it, both for his ability and for who he is. It’s like when Barcelona had Messi. There were tough matches, and Messi would resolve them. Well, we have that in goal with Joan Garcia.”

Newcastle in huge race to sign in-demand £10,000-a-week Liverpool talent

He took centre stage at St James’ this season.

ByHenry Jackson May 19, 2025

At 24, the Spaniard is still young, especially for a goalkeeper, and Newcastle could see him as the perfect long-term replacement for Nick Pope, who can arguably be improved upon at this point in his career.

Arsenal’s sensational showing against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu last night secured their place in the semi-finals of the Champions League, setting up a clash with PSG.

Mikel Arteta’s men produced a perfect showing in Spain, restricting the hosts to minimal chances and shutting down any chances of another famous comeback.

Two second-half goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli wrapped up a 5-1 aggregate triumph, dumping the current holders out of the competition.

Such a result has moved the Gunners within touching distance of a first Champions League final since 2006, with Arteta having the chance to write himself into the club’s history forever.

If they are to go all the way and lift the trophy, the side will have to replicate such a display in the following rounds, with numerous players catching the eye during the victory in Madrid.

Arsenal’s star performers against Real Madrid

After his huge rise to stardom in recent months, it’s easy to forget that left-back Myles Lewis-Skelly is just 18 years of age, with his showing last night way beyond his tender years.

He managed to win 80% of the ground duels he entered, making five clearances and two interceptions, playing a key role in preventing the hosts from getting back into the tie.

However, another academy graduate in the form of Saka also managed to produce an incredible display, with his latest goal taking him to four Champions League goals this campaign.

The 23-year-old registered a 100% shot accuracy, getting all three of his efforts on target, but also starring defensively, winning 100% of the tackles he entered against the Spanish giants.

The aforementioned pair certainly played a vital role in the quarter-final victory, but one other star has managed to repeat the feat of a fan favourite, given his showing in Madrid last night.

The player who has become Arteta’s new Henry

Back in the last campaign in which Arsenal reached the Champions League final, they also defeated Madrid en route, with forward Thierry Henry tearing the opposition apart.

His stupendous solo effort at the Bernabeu was the difference between the two sides over the two legs, with his moment of magic making the Gunners the first English side to win at the stadium.

Such a showing catapulted Arsène Wenger’s side to the latter stages of the competition, with his outing that night 19 years ago still living long in the memory of supporters.

However, the current generation has their own version of the Frenchman in the form of midfielder Declan Rice after his own showing against Carlo Ancelotti’s men last night.

The England international built on his two-goal haul in the first leg, securing the Man of the Match award for the second successive outing against the LaLiga outfit, highlighting how impressive he was in the triumph.

The 26-year-old completed 96% of the passes he attempted against the European giants, with three of which going into the final third, allowing the likes of Saka to kill off the tie.

However, despite his impressive showing with the ball, he was also just as effective without, winning 100% of the tackles he entered, offering a real commanding force at the base of Arteta’s midfield.

Minutes played

89

Passes completed

25/26 (96%)

Passes into final third

3

Tackles won

2/2 (100%)

Interceptions made

4

Clearances made

3

Blocks made

2

He also made four interceptions, three clearances and two blocks – leading to journalist Paul Hayward labelling him “superb” in what was one of his best performances for the club.

As a result of his display, Rice was handed a 10/10 match rating by The Express’ Fraser Watson, further indicating how sensational his showing was against the defending champions.

Whilst he operates in a completely different role to Henry, his outing at the Bernabeu was similar to that in stature of the forward, helping the side advance to the next stage of the Champions League.

If the Gunners are to finally get their hands on the trophy in the coming months, there’s no denying Rice will have a crucial part to play, with his big-money fee a bargain should he lead the side to European glory.

Better signing than Isak: Arsenal in talks for 'one of the world's best'

Arsenal could be about to pull off a deal that could see them forget about Alexander Isak.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 16, 2025

Manchester United are now ready to sign a “machine” midfielder this summer, with Ruben Amorim eager to bolster his options in the middle of the park, but a move may only be possible on one condition, according to a report.

Man Utd searching for a midfielder

Given that Casemiro’s days as a Man United player could be numbered, Amorim may be tasked with bringing in a replacement this summer, and a number of potential replacements have been identified.

The likes of Adam Wharton, Hugo Larsson and Joao Gomes are on the shortlist ahead of what is Amorim’s first summer transfer window as United boss, and the manager could have a major rebuilding job on his hands.

A 0-0 draw against rivals Manchester City at the weekend is not the worst result on paper, but it leaves the Red Devils 13th in the Premier League table, having fallen way below expectations, with a Europa League triumph their last chance of having a successful season.

Man Utd make Liam Delap top transfer target as Chelsea ready summer bid

United and INEOS are looking to beat Chelsea to a rising star.

ByBrett Worthington Apr 7, 2025

Winning the Europa League would, of course, grant qualification to the Champions League next season, which could be crucial for Man United’s summer transfer business.

That is according to a report from GiveMeSport, which states Man United are now ready to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson, should they manage to qualify for next season’s Champions League, with Amorim eager to bring in a midfield partner for Manuel Ugarte.

Man Utd’s upcoming fixtures

Date

Lyon (a)

April 10th

Newcastle United (a)

April 13th

Lyon (h)

April 17th

Wolverhampton Wanderers (h)

April 20th

AFC Bournemouth (a)

April 27th

The Atalanta star has a price tag of around £52m, so he will not come cheap, and the Italian club are determined to keep hold of him, given the level of his performances this season.

A deal would be easier to facilitate if Amorim’s side secure qualification for Europe’s elite competition next season, given the financial benefits provided.

"Machine" Ederson impressing in the Serie A and Europe

Atalanta are in a very strong position to qualify for next season’s Champions League, and the Brazilian has been one of the first names on the team sheet, making 30 Serie A appearances, during which time he has provided three goals and two assists.

While the 25-year-old is capable of being a threat on the front foot, he is also solid defensively, winning 100% of his tackles and aerial duels against Arsenal earlier this season, in what Statman Dave branded a “top display”.

It is not the first time the maestro has impressed in Europe in recent memory, with football writer Carlo Garganese branding him a “machine” after his performance against Bayer Leverkusen in Atalanta’s Europa League final triumph last season.

As such, Ederson could be a fantastic signing for Man United this summer, at which point it is vital Amorim brings in a midfielder, despite a recent improvement in Casemiro’s performances, with the 33-year-old midfielder making 11 tackles against Man City.

Liverpool are now racing Real Madrid to the signing of a promising defender, and one who former manager Jurgen Klopp is a big fan of, according to reports.

Reds pursuing centre-back with Van Dijk future uncertain

Virgil van Dijk’s future at Anfield remains very much up in the air, with the Dutchman yet to commit to a new contract to extend his stay at Anfield beyond the end of the season.

Losing his captain will be the last thing Arne Slot wants in the summer transfer window, particularly with Trent Alexander-Arnold also seemingly on his way out, with a move to Real Madrid looking increasingly likely.

As such, the Reds will have to remain proactive in the transfer market, in order to make sure they are not left reeling by a potential Van Dijk departure, and one replacement they have in mind is Ajax star Jorrel Hato.

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AFC Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen is another name on the shortlist, following the Spaniard’s breakout season with the Cherries in the Premier League, although there will be competition for his signature from Real Madrid.

Huijsen is not the only centre-back Liverpool may have to battle Real Madrid for, however, with a report from Sky Sports revealing the two heavyweights are both interested in signing Bayer Leverkusen defender Piero Hincapie.

A report from Spain has since gone into more detail about the pursuit of Hincapie, stating the defender has a market value of around €50m (£42m).

The 23-year-old has been linked with a move to Anfield in the past, at which point it was revealed Klopp is a big fan, but it could be very difficult to fend off Madrid in the race for his signature.

"Beast" Hincapie could be an excellent signing

The Ecuadorian has predominantly featured at centre-back throughout his career so far, but his versatility would make him a useful signing for Liverpool, given that he can also play at left-back, which is another area Slot is looking to strengthen.

The aforementioned report makes it clear Real Madrid are also considering a move for Ibrahima Konate this summer, however, and should Van Dijk decide to move on, signing a new centre-back is likely to be a priority, with the Bayer Leverkusen star fitting the bill.

The Esmeraldas-born defender places in the 85th percentile for tackles per 90 over the past year, when compared to his positional peers, and he is ranked among the best tacklers in the Bundesliga, given his rate of success this season.

Hincapie has proven he could be an excellent signing for Liverpool this summer, but their first priority should be to seal a new deal for Van Dijk, given that it would be extremely difficult to replace the 33-year-old.

Leeds United have now suffered a fresh injury concern alongside captain Ethan Ampadu, according to a new update from manager Daniel Farke.

Leeds frustratingly held by West Brom

The Whites had another opportunity to pull further clear at the top of the Championship on Saturday afternoon, as they hosted West Brom at Elland Road.

In the end, though, it proved to be a frustrating day for Farke and his players, with Junior Firpo’s opener cancelled out by a Darnell Furlong header before the break, and the scoreline remained 1-1 in the end.

The result was far from a disaster, though, and Leeds are still in a wonderful position, despite the fact that Sheffield United won 2-1 away to Queens Park Rangers. The Whites are three points clear of the Blades, and perhaps more importantly, eight ahead of third-place Burnley, who have one game in hand.

Injuries can have the potential to define any season, so Farke will be keeping his fingers crossed that as many key players stay fit as possible, but a worrying update has emerged regarding one individual.

Leeds suffer fresh injury blow

Speaking after the West Brom game on Saturday, Farke confirmed that Leeds ace Mateo Joseph has now picked up an injury alongside the influential Ampadu: “[We have] a few concerns over Mateo. He rolled his ankle a little bit. Hopefully it’s not so bad.”

Losing Joseph for a sustained period would be an undoubted blow for the Whites, but the manager does at least sound relatively hopeful about his absence not being too lengthy.

The 21-year-old may not always have been a regular this season, but he has still been an important squad player, chipping in with three goals and assists apiece in the Championship. He has made 23 appearances from the substitutes’ bench, adding quality when opposition legs are tiring, while Whites pundit Kris Smith has lauded him, saying:

“I have no doubt in my mind that Mateo Joseph is going to be a Premier League-quality striker in the near future. I don’t think he’s going to take him that long to get there. But the only thing standing in his way right now, for me, is being given the patience to work through his current weaknesses.”

At 21 years of age, there is still an understandable rawness to Joseph’s game, but he has a high ceiling as a player and would hopefully prove to be a hit for Leeds in the Premier League, as Smith alludes to.

There is still plenty of work to be done in the Championship promotion battle this season, however, and the Spaniard can have a big say in ensuring that his side swiftly return to the top flight.

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The sooner he returns from his ankle issue the better, and Farke will hope that he is available for next Sunday’s trip to Portsmouth, in another massive game, especially with Patrick Bamord showing no signs of returning.

Tottenham could bare witness to the departures of some high-profile names this summer, and not everyone will be along for the ride of Thomas Frank’s first full campaign in charge of the Lilywhites.

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After the signing of Mohammed Kudus from West Ham, which was confirmed earlier this week, Spurs now have around 24 non-locally trained men in their squad, which means they may be forced to sell at least one overseas player to comply with UEFA’s 25-man Champions League squad rules (The Telegraph).

The north Londoners have a host of options to choose from in their bid to balance the books, including the likes of Son Heung-min, Bryan Gil, Manor Solomon, Richarlison, Cristian Romero and Yves Bisssouma – who’ve all been linked with exits this summer.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Gil and Solomon are surely nailed on to leave Tottenham after spending 2024/2025 on loan at Girona and Leeds United respectively, and the latter’s sale would also count as pure profit in the eyes of PSR given the Israeli signed as a free agent in 2023.

Richarlison is also said to be attracting serious interest from Vasco de Gama after an injury-ridden season, with their president, Pedrinho, alleged to have personally phoned the Brazilian to gauge his current situation (Leonardo Lacerda).

The most unfortunate potential departures by a country mile would be those of Son and Romero.

Daniel Levy may be forced into the tough business decision of selling Son, amid interest from Saudi Arabia, the MLS and Turkey, given he’s now entered the final 12 months of his contract.

Meanwhile, Romero is rumoured to be keen on a move to Atlético Madrid, who equally want the Argentine themselves, so Tottenham could have to entertain a suitable bid from the La Liga side, if one indeed arrives.

As well as the aforementioned trio of senior first-teamers, another facing an uncertain future comes in the form of £100,000-per-week midfielder Yves Bissouma.

Fenerbahce chief travels to London for talks with Yves Bissouma

Bissouma is rumoured to be a realistic high-profile departure, with The Telegraph reporting that he’s “expected” to leave N17 this summer.

José Mourinho has also earmarked the Mali international as a top target for Fenerbahçe, according to Turkish journalist Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, who’s now shared another update on the Süper Lig side’s serious interest.

Sabuncuoğlu, taking to X, now states that a Fenerbahçe representative has travelled to London for talks with Bissouma, so this transfer is now starting to gain traction.

The 28-year-old, like Son, has just one year left on his contract at Spurs, so now absolutely could be the time to sell him.

Bissouma put in some impressive performances during Tottenham’s run to the Europa League final last season, and displayed real flashes of brilliance overall since his £25 million move from Brighton in 2022. However, there have always been concerns surrounding his consistency, even if he has a reputation for being an “underrated” ball carrier.

“Yves is a guy I appreciate a lot,” said teammate Pape Sarr to The Telegraph last year.

“We’ve both come over from Africa, and he gives me lots of advice. He behaves a lot like my big brother. He has such an important role within the team and the club. I always listen to what he’s got to say.”