da bet7： Sheffield Wednesday are looking to build the foundations for another tilt at the Championship playoffs next term, though they may now face a fight with Blackburn Rovers to sign a reported target.
Sheffield Wednesday remain in a state of limbo with Danny Rohl
da realbet： Usually, stability at a football club starts from the manager and filters down to his players, but the future of Danny Rohl at Hillsborough appears anything but certain at this point.
With the 36-year-old’s work in South Yorkshire not going unnoticed, interest is starting to mount in his services as clubs around Europe enter a period of change in the off-season.
If he were to leave South Yorkshire, where could the Sheffield Wednesday boss end up? Glasgow could be a potential destination after Rangers identified Rohl as a prospective permanent successor to Philippe Clement.
Fulham are another side intrigued by his managerial style, though ties haven’t been formally severed, which has led to a state of limbo involving all parties.
Regardless, Sheffield Wednesday need to start building for the new season. Some clarity over the direction of their squad has been found in Thursday’s retained list amid a lack of communication on matters at managerial level.
Related Sheffield Wednesday ready to make five new signings including Leeds 17 y/o
The Owls could welcome as many as five future stars.
Barry Bannan, Akin Famewo and Callum Paterson are in talks to stay, while Anthony Musaba, Michael Smith and Josh Windass have been tied to new deals following the club’s decision to trigger their options. Stuart Armstrong, Mallik Wilks and Marvin Johnson are among notable departures, paving the way for eventual reinforcements to take their place.
Undoubtedly, a feeling of anxiety exists over Rohl’s future, but forward planning is underway regarding their pursuit of a highly-rated defensive target.
Sheffield Wednesday make enquiry to sign Aston Villa youngster Rowe
According to Football Insider, Sheffield Wednesday are pursuing Aston Villa youngster Triston Rowe on a loan basis amid competition from Blackburn Rovers for his signature and have made a move by launching an initial enquiry.
The Villans have seen enough in the England Under-19 international’s development to decide on farming him out to the EFL Championship for further experience after his role in their Under-18 side’s treble victory.
Triston Rowe in 2024/25 – all competitions
Appearances
35
Goals
1
Assists
1
Primarily a right-back, Rowe can also deputise in central defence or further up the flank if needed and was previously called up to Aston Villa’s matchday squad in their 2-1 EFL Cup victory over Wycombe Wanderers last year.
Nevertheless, he isn’t yet viewed as a viable competitor to Matty Cash, so a loan move would allow him to continue developing without the spotlight of being thrust into a high-stakes top-flight environment.
Former Scotland international Liam Palmer isn’t getting any younger, which may have prompted Sheffield Wednesday to assess their own pecking order on the right-hand side of defence.
Now, their challenge will be to convince the youngster that Hillsborough is the correct environment to thrive while growing into the senior game next campaign.
da betcris： 16th in the Premier League table. A 17th top-flight loss of the season. As manager Ruben Amorim put it, Manchester United are now “losing the feeling of [being] a massive club”.
da winzada777： Those explosive words came amid a noteworthy post-match press conference from the Portuguese coach, following United’s dour 2-0 defeat to a struggling West Ham United side at Old Trafford.
While attention is now focused on next week’s Europa League final, the ex-Sporting CP boss appears furious with the manner in which his side are throwing in the towel domestically, having seemingly demanded a club-wide reaction to the team’s current malaise.
The only saving grace from this wretched league run is that Amorim has been afforded the time to figure out just who he wants to have onboard for next term, with work seemingly already underway in the background, ahead of the looming summer window.
Indeed, by all accounts, the Red Devils could be close to wrapping up a first deal, in the form of Wolverhampton Wanderers talisman, Matheus Cunha.
The latest on Cunha's move to Man Utd
While much of United’s summer business may depend on securing Champions League qualification, via Europa League glory, Amorim has already stated that no player who “only wants” the Champions League will be moving to Manchester – as he outlined in relation to reports surrounding Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres.
Matheus Cunha
Thankfully, as far as the 40-year-old is concerned, it would appear that Cunha is willing to move to the Theatre of Dreams regardless of what happens next week, with talks for the Brazilian forward already said to be advanced.
Indeed, reports last week even claimed that personal terms had been agreed with the 26-year-old, with the former Atletico Madrid man in line to depart Molineux in the coming months, provided any suitor matches his £62.5m release clause.
While there is rival interest from the likes of Arsenal, the suggestion remains that United are the side who are leading the race at present, with Cunha deemed to be the perfect fit for one of Amorim’s number ten berths.
A player with that Eric Cantona-esque edge to his game, the fiery forward has backed up his temperamental displays with a string of standout performances this season, having chalked up 15 goals and six assists in the Premier League to date.
Top Premier League goalscorers – 24/25
Player
Goals
Assists
Games
Mo Salah
28
18
36
Alexander Isak
23
6
33
Erling Haaland
21
3
29
Chris Wood
20
3
34
Bryan Mbeumo
18
7
36
Yoane Wissa
18
3
33
Ollie Watkins
16
7
36
Cole Palmer
15
8
35
Matheus Cunha
15
6
31
Jean-Philippe Mateta
14
2
35
Stats via BBC Sport
The in-form marksman has been a real star of 2024/25, albeit while having actually been outperformed by a figure of United’s recent past, across all competitions…
The Man Utd "disappointment" who's outperforming Cunha
United supporters are wise enough not to be getting too carried away over the prospect of Cunha joining the club this summer, having seen far too many marquee moves go south in recent years.
Where Are They Now
Your star player or biggest flop has left the club but what are they doing in the present day? This article is part of Football FanCast’s Where Are They Now series.
As club legend Gary Neville stated, Bruno Fernandes is the “only” player in the last decade to have lived up to expectations, after arriving at Old Trafford, with the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era having been littered with high-profile transfer mistakes – not least under former CEO, Ed Woodward’s watch.
Arguably the “biggest disappointment” in that period, as per Neville, was the capture of Angel Di Maria from Real Madrid on a £59m deal, with the Argentine sensation joining just a matter of months on from his Man of the Match display in the 2014 Champions League final.
Di Maria – Man Utd record
As the player himself later admitted, however, he never wanted to make the move to Manchester in the first place, having also described then-boss Louis van Gaal as the “worst boss I ever had”, following the dour nature of his time at the club.
There were flashes of quality, namely the playmaker’s delightful dink against Leicester City, although such moments were few and far between, with the mercurial left-footer swiftly departing for Paris Saint-Germain after just a solitary season, as Woodward and co cashed in for around £44.3m.
The now-veteran playmaker – who did rack up 15 goal involvements in 34 games for United – went on to register 212 goals and assists in Paris, prior to joining Juventus and then current side Benfica in recent years.
Back at the club where he made his name between 2007 and 2010, before moving to Madrid, the 37-year-old remains a central figure for the Lisbon outfit, amid their battle for the title.
Having re-signed in 2023, Di Maria has particularly impressed in the current campaign, after chalking up 15 goals and nine assists across 38 games in all competitions.
That return of 24 goal contributions actually places the ageing star ahead of that man Cunha, with the wantaway Wolves star registering 23 goal contributions for the Old Gold in 2024/25.
In truth, that return highlights the quality that United saw only too briefly during Di Maria’s time in Manchester, with the hope now that Cunha doesn’t follow suit, should he make his own statement switch in the near future.
Amorim’s side no doubt need a maverick, expressive talent like Cunha, although as Van Gaal found with Di Maria, the question remains as to how that individual asset will shine as part of the collective.
As Di Maria swiftly found out, no player is bigger than the club…
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He could be exactly what Ruben Amorim is looking for.
da betsul： Leeds United have a huge task to recruit well this summer, handing themselves the best possible chance of securing Premier League survival in 2025/26.
da imperador bet： Daniel Farke has done a superb job in leading the Whites back to the top-flight, but now needs to reestablish their status in such a division after a two-year absence.
It has previously been reported that the boss has a budget of around £100m to make new additions to make the improvements he desires to the current crop of players.
Leeds United manager DanielFarkecelebrates after the match
The funds may not be enough this summer, with Farke potentially needing more money at his disposal if he is to make key additions to the squad and offer needed depth, with quality and quantity desperately required.
With the transfer window rapidly approaching, numerous players have already emerged on their list, potentially moving to Elland Road during the off-season should deals be agreed.
The latest on Leeds’ hunt for new additions this summer
The Whites’ hierarchy haven’t been afraid to splash the cash in their recent stint in the Premier League, with the same expected during the next couple of months.
Everton’s Beto and Manchester City’s James McAtee have both already been tipped to make a switch to Elland Road during the off-season, but both could cost a pretty penny.
However, they aren’t the only Premier League talents linked, with West Ham United middle Tomas Soucek also on their radar, according to TBR Football.
The report claims that the hierarchy have already held talks with the 30-year-old Czech international, but could face stiff competition from Everton this summer.
It also states that he’s not seen as part of Graham Potter’s long-term plans at the London Stadium, opening the door to a potential exit, with the Hammers demanding a fee in the region of £20m.
Why Leeds’ £20m target could be Farke’s own Phillips
During Leeds’ previous stint in the Premier League, midfielder Kalvin Phillips played a key role in their success, often being the leading talent at the base of the side.
Former Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips.
He made 49 top-flight appearances for the Whites over a two-year period, helping them fend off any looming threats of relegation under Marcelo Bielsa and Jesse Marsch.
The now 29-year-old has since struggled to replicate such levels in recent years, leaving Yorkshire and joining Manchester City back in 2022 for a fee in the region of £45m.
It was an excellent fee received for an academy graduate, but they’ve since lost that commanding and battling presence – something which undoubtedly contributed to their subsequent relegation.
However, a move for Soucek could provide Farke with the combative player he needs for a Premier League season, with the Hammers star’s stats proving his quality this campaign.
West Ham's Tomas Soucek
The 30-year-old, who’s been labelled “sensational” by presenter Jim White, has managed to register 10 combined goals and assists from his holding midfield role – handing Farke added reinforcements aerially in the final third should he require it.
However, defensively, he could provide that quality missing since Phillips’ departure, winning 58% of the tackles he’s entered this campaign, along with a higher tally of clearances made per 90.
How Soucek compares to Phillips in the PL (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)
Soucek
Phillips
Games played
33
19
Goals & assists
10
0
Shot-on-target accuracy
28%
18%
Shot-creating actions
1.6
1.2
% of tackles won
58%
38%
Clearances made
2.9
2.7
Take-on success rate
50%
41%
Aerials won
58%
24%
Stats via FBref
His talents don’t stop there, completing more take-ons per 90 this season, offering the side a cool head when in possession – something which will likely be required if they are to avoid the drop.
£20m for an experienced player of Soucek’s quality could prove to be somewhat of a bargain, handing Farke the tools to have the best chance of maintaining their top-flight status.
Should he complete a switch to Yorkshire and get anywhere near the levels produced by the academy graduate, it would be a superb addition, injecting needed quality into the midfield department.
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da prosport bet： The celebrations stretched deep into the night. Liverpool won the Premier League last weekend, in case a reminder is due, after Arne Slot’s side gave Tottenham Hotspur a hiding to clinch the club’s 20th top-flight trophy.
da bet7： It was a poetic way to seal the title, the 5-1 victory a consummate showing of Liverpool’s attacking flair, their togetherness, their hunger.
Even Slot, who has been so businesslike and cool throughout his debut campaign in the dugout, allowed himself to get lost in the occasion, bellowing his predecessor’s name in the wake of his big win. A fitting tribute. Further evidence, if any more is needed, that he is the man to lead this bunch.
One season is all it takes for this brilliant coach, but he and his players will be desperate to consolidate this new chapter with more silverware in the coming years. That means signings are needed.
Federico Chiesa, whose impact has been minimal, remains the only first-team addition since August 2023, and while this is a balanced squad of ample depth, Andy Robertson, 31, looks a mite blunter than before, with the growing interest in Milos Kerkez evidence that left-back is a priority position for FSG.
Liverpool's pursuit of Milos Kerkez
Let’s remember from the off: Richard Hughes was the man who engineered Bournemouth’s signing of Kerkez two years ago, bringing the prospect, 19 at the time, in from AZ Alkmaar for a reported £15m fee.
The Cherries have most certainly got bang for their buck, but could strike richer still by selling him this summer. Kerkez feels destined for a transfer away to a team competing in the Champions League.
However, Liverpool are no bullies and won’t push for a deal until Andoni Iraola’s quest for a Europe-qualifying finish is wrapped up, one way or another.
The Times reported in March that Liverpool were actively pursuing the 21-year-old, who is valued at £45m. This is steep. Moreover, Sky Sports News have revealed that Manchester City and Real Madrid have now registered interest of their own.
Each party will be confident in the chips in front of them, but honestly, it’s too early to determine the likelihood of Kerkez’s direction until one or all show their hand.
However, though Liverpool admire the Premier League “revelation,” they know how it goes in the market and appear to have centred on an alternative, just in case.
Interestingly, though, this fallback may prove to be an even better signing than the Vitality Stadium man.
Liverpool eyeing Kerkez alternative
According to Sky Sports’ Lyall Thomas, Liverpool are interested in signing Wolverhampton Wanderers star Rayan Ait-Nouri.
Molineux are growing resigned to the fact that Ait-Nouri has earned the right to search for the next step in his career, should a suitable bid be received, having been one of their standout performers over the past several years.
Wolves player Rayan Ait-Nouri
The 23-year-old wouldn’t come cheap; in fact, with a supposed value of £51m, he’d cost FSG more than if they were to move for Kerkez. However, Ait-Nouri has the tactical grasp to slot right into Liverpool’s high-flying system.
Why Ait-Nouri would be perfect for Slot
Ait-Nouri might have made 131 appearances in the Premier League but he’s still so young, still has so much potential to tap into.
The Algeria international, born in France, was described as an “incredible talent” by ex-Old Gold boss Gary O’Neil, with his performances this season leading to four goals and seven assists across 33 Premier League outings. He also bagged against Bristol City in the FA Cup.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' RayanAit-Nouriin action
His eye for goal, both directly and through a playmaking lens, is something to behold, but it’s only one part of a completeness that few full-backs can harness.
Underscoring that point, he ranks among the top 6% of Premier League full-backs this season for goal involvements and the top 4% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref, emphasising that robust athleticism and attacking quality.
It’s worth noting Robertson has yet to score or assist in the Premier League this term, having typically been an unceasing source of output under Jurgen Klopp.
Liverpool's AndrewRobertsoncelebrates after the match
He’s still an experienced and valued part of the team, not least because of his deep-rooted connection with Virgil van Dijk, but Kostas Tsimikas has never managed to make the berth his own and will likely be sold to make way for one of Ait-Nouri or Kerkez this summer.
Looking more closely at the transfer targets in question, the case could be made that, yes, Ait-Nouri is the player to go for.
Prem 24/25 – Rayan Ait-Nouri vs Milos Kerkez
Stats (* per game)
Ait-Nouri
Kerkez
Matches (starts)
33 (33)
34 (34)
Goals
4
2
Assists
7
5
Touches*
61.8
59.1
Pass completion
86%
80%
Big chances created
8
7
Key passes*
1.1
1.0
Dribbles*
1.6
0.6
Ball recoveries*
4.0
4.5
Tackles + interceptions*
3.2
2.6
Clearances*
1.8
2.8
Duels (won)*
5.8 (54%)
4.1 (53%)
Stats via Sofascore
There’s a lot to unpack in that table, but you can clearly see Ait-Nouri is more energetic and active than his Bournemouth counterpart, edging him in creative metrics too.
If the Anfield test serves as an audition for potential targets, Ait-Nouri passed with flying colours back in February, subduing Mohamed Salah as Liverpool scraped their way to a nail-biting victory.
The Algerian won five duels, made two dribbles and made two further key passes, also making three clearances as he contributed toward a second half in which the Reds failed to attempt a single shot.
WolverhamptonWanderers' Rayan Ait-Nouri celebrates scoring their first goal
Kerkez has been one of the emerging success stories in the English top division this year, but Ait-Nouri has the sweeping skills to make a real difference in Slot’s team, combative and determined in defence with an offensive dimension that is singular in its residence on the left flank of the field.
He was even hailed as “one of the Premier League’s best players in 2024” by Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley. And you could change the four to five in that quote; Ait-Nouri has only gone from strength to strength under Vitor Pereira’s wing, instrumental in Wolves’ ongoing six-game winning run, striking a goal-and-assist performance against Spurs and assisting again during the recent 3-0 win over doomed Leicester City.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Either left-back would be a welcome and worthy addition to Slot’s project. But if we’re being pedantic – and you best believe Liverpool’s data-driven analysts are among the most scrupulous in the business – Ait-Nouri is the one to go for.
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da betano casino： Tottenham Hotspur are now eager to sign the Premier League’s “best” right-back, and they are expected to open agent talks soon, according to a report.
Spurs pursuing full-backs amid Udogie interest
da poker： Tottenham’s performances in the Premier League this season are a major cause for concern, but Destiny Udogie has done enough to attract the attention of Manchester City, with Pep Guardiola’s side pushing to sign the 22-year-old.
As such, Ange Postecoglou may be tasked with bringing in a new left-back this summer, should the 59-year-old remain in his post as manager, and AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez has now been identified as a key target.
There have also been suggestions that Spurs could look to strengthen on the opposite side of defence this summer, having opened talks to sign Flamengo right-back Wesley Franca last month, and a new target has now entered the frame alongside the Brazilian.
Related Kroos loves him: Tottenham keen to sign £8m midfielder who PSG also want
Spurs are in the race for a midfielder, who is also being targeted by Premier League rivals Chelsea.
According to a report from Caught Offside, Tottenham are now eager to sign Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina, with the Nigerian’s performances this season catching the eye of a whole host of Premier League clubs.
Newcastle United, Liverpool and Chelsea are also named as potential suitors for the defender, so there could be fierce competition for his signature this summer, and there is also a chance he remains at the City Ground.
Ola Aina with Chris Wood for Nottingham Forest.
Forest are looking to offer Aina a new long-term contract, in a bid to ward off the interest from elsewhere, but it could be difficult to retain his services, with Spurs expected to open agent talks in the near future.
The right-back’s current deal is set to expire at the end of the summer, which means he could be available on a free transfer, should he fail to agree fresh terms with Forest.
Tottenham Hotspur’s upcoming fixtures
Date
Liverpool (a)
April 27th
Bodo/Glimt (h)
May 1st
West Ham United (a)
May 4th
Bodo/Glimt (a)
May 8th
Crystal Palace (h)
May 11th
Aina now among Premier League's "best" right-backs
The 28-year-old has enjoyed a steady rise to the top, spending time with Hull City, Fulham and Torino before establishing himself as a key player for Champions League-chasing Forest in the Premier League this season.
Having impressed for the Tricky Trees, the London-born defender has been described as “the best right-back in the Premier League” by former Nigeria international Julius Aghahowa, proving himself as “effective” in both defence and attack.
Pedro Porro has received criticism for some of his defensive performances at times this season, which suggests it could be wise for Tottenham to bring in a new right-back this summer, despite Djed Spence being one of their “best performers”.
Aina has proven himself to be one of the best options available, given the level of his performances this season, and his potential availability on a free transfer is an added bonus for Tottenham.
da bet7k： After defeating Real Madrid in the Champions League last week, it’s safe to say Arsenal have demonstrated they are capable of battling with Europe’s elite.
da roleta： Mikel Arteta has transformed the side after taking the reins in December 2020, overseeing a transition that has taken them back to Premier League title challengers in recent seasons.
However, the Spaniard is yet to complete the job of winning the title, desperately needing to push for such an achievement in 2025/26 to cement his legacy at the Emirates.
If the 43-year-old is to go one better and end their two-decade wait for a title triumph, he will need the hierarchy to support him in the transfer market to allow him to have the best chance of success.
With the summer rapidly approaching, rumours have already been swirling over potential targets, with most of the links being in the same area of the pitch.
An update on Arsenal’s pursuit of new forwards
Over the last couple of days, Arsenal have received a huge boost in their pursuit of landing a new striker, with an update provided on the future of Sporting CP talisman Viktor Gyokeres.
New sporting director Andrea Berta has wasted no time in making the Swede his number one target after previously holding talks with his representatives over a move to North London.
However, the latest update has confirmed that he’s not interested in a move to fellow English side Chelsea, potentially putting the Gunners in pole position for his signature in the coming months.
He’s not the only attacker touted with a move, with the likes of Kingsley Coman and Nico Williams also hugely admired ahead of the summer window.
According to one Spanish outlet, the Gunners are already in advanced talks to land the Athletic Club star and are more than willing to trigger his £50m release clause in the coming months.
Why the £50m star could be Arteta’s very own Vini Jr
Real Madrid forward Vinícius Júnior has been one of Europe’s most deadly forwards in recent years, notching a tally of 45 goals across his last two seasons under Carlo Ancelotti.
Many thought he would win the Ballon d’Or for 2024, but was pipped to the post by Manchester City’s Rodri, with his standing in such an award highlighting how threatening he has been in Madrid.
However, in the recent Champions League clashes with the LaLiga giants, Arsenal managed to silence the Brazilian for large spells, only managing to get on the scoresheet after a mistake within the backline.
There’s no denying he is a hugely talented player, with Arteta able to land his version of the superstar this summer should they complete a deal for Williams.
The Spaniard has been labelled as a similar player to Vini Jr by FBref based upon their respective figures from 2024/25, showcasing how impressive the transfer target has been.
When delving into the stats, the 22-year-old has managed to match or better the Madrid star in numerous key areas, with any move undoubtedly improving the forward line in North London.
Williams, who’s been labelled “unbelievable” by Eduardo Hagn, may have registered fewer combined goals and assists, but has notched a higher shot-on target accuracy rate – highlighting his clinical nature in the final third.
How Williams compares to Vini Jr in LaLiga (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)
Williams
Vini Jr
Games played
27
25
Goals & assists
10
16
Shot-on-target accuracy
37%
30%
Shot-creating actions
5.2
5.2
Tackles won
0.8
0.2
Take-ons attempted
8.2
7.5
Aerials won
40%
12%
Stats via FBref
He’s also managed to win more of the aerial duels he’s entered, whilst also attempting more take-ons per 90, offering Arteta a real all-round threat within the final third should he join the club.
If the Gunners are to finally end their drought without a league title, it’s pivotal that the hierarchy back the manager with the right additions to help him in his quest.
The Athletic Club star ticks all the boxes with his pace, constant attacking threat, and his end product, with the £50m fee touted a potential bargain should he get anywhere near the levels produced by Vini Jr in recent years.
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da pixbet： Everton are in a fantastic position to kick on under David Moyes and could look to strike a deal for an exciting international to join their revolution at Bramley Moore Dock.
Everton ready for stadium move under David Moyes
da luck： Goodison Park will soon be consigned to the history books, and an emotional farewell to their home beckons against Southampton next month before moving across the city to the newly furnished Everton Stadium.
David Moyes will hope to take the Toffees’ magnificent form with them to new pastures. Following their last-gasp victory over Nottingham Forest, the Scot has lost just three of his 14 matches in charge, and his side are among the form teams in the Premier League.
Painting a pretty picture in the early stages of the Friedkin Group’s reign, Everton will hope to move the needle in the transfer market to bolster a squad in need of surgery.
According to reports, The Toffees are keen on Sevilla defender Juanlu Sanchez alongside a host of other clubs amid his potential availability for £15 million this summer.
Benfica striker Vangelis Pavlidis is also said to be on Everton’s radar, but the Greek striker’s mammoth £80 million release clause may complicate negotiations between all parties.
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1
Either way, there are plenty of decisions to be made internally before structuring the layout of Moyes’ options in 2025/26. Abdoulaye Doucoure is open to a new deal, though several of his teammates are out of contract or are coming to the end of loan stints on Merseyside.
While progress is made on tough decisions, Moyes and company are now eyeing an ambitious move for an international player that could be open to a change of scenery.
Everton look to sign Facundo Medina from RC Lens
According to CaughtOffside, Everton are closely monitoring Facundo Medina’s situation at RC Lens and may look to strike a deal north of £30 million to sign the Argentina international.
Open to a new challenge in the summer, the 25-year-old, who can play left or centre-back, is also on the radar of Newcastle United, Crystal Palace, Aston Villa, West Ham United, Bayer Leverkusen and AS Roma.
Intriguingly, Lens find themselves in financial disrepute, and they plan to sell the defender while his stock is high, alleviating pressure to balance the books. Labelled “elite” by Ben Mattinson, sought-after Medina has also completed 62 shot-creating actions on league duty, placing him in the 99th percentile for this metric among defenders in Europe’s top-five leagues.
Evaluating Everton’s situation, Jarrad Branthwaite is likely to attract interest this summer, and it may make sense to scope out potential replacements for the Three Lions international.
Medina is left-footed and has a similar habit of excelling in possession, creating suspicion that he may be the preferred option to become a long-term successor to the Toffees star.
da aposte e ganhe： Arsenal booked their place in the Champions League semi-final last night with a sensational 2-1 win over defending champions Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabéu.
da dobrowin： The victory secured a 5-1 aggregate win, putting a stop to the Spanish outfit’s chances of making it back-to-back European triumphs after their win at Wembley against Borussia Dortmund last season.
Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli’s second-half strikes were enough for Mikel Arteta’s men to advance to the next stage of the competition, subsequently setting up a tie with French giants PSG.
It was a superb showing from the Gunners in Madrid, restricting Carlo Ancelotti’s side to limited opportunities and preventing his star-studded side from making yet another miraculous comeback.
Numerous players starred during the victory, playing a pivotal role in their chances of landing their first-ever European trophy in the coming months.
Arsenal’s star performers against Real Madrid
Mikel Merino once again started as Arsenal’s main centre-forward, not looking out of place and producing yet another impressive showing at the top end of the pitch.
The Spaniard registered two assists in the win and completed four passes into the final third, providing numerous opportunities for other attackers, as seen by his assist tally.
Declan Rice picked up where he left off from the first leg, completing 96% of the passes he attempted, three of which were into the final third, starring with the ball at his feet.
Out of possession, the 26-year-old was just as impressive, winning 100% of the tackles he entered, whilst making four interceptions, restricting the likes of Kylian Mbappé and Vinícius Júnior for large spells.
Despite the showings of the aforementioned duo, one other player hugely impressed at the Bernabeu – easily walking into Madrid’s side after such a showing.
The 8/10 Arsenal star who showed he would walk into Madrid’s team
For many years, Madrid have been the golden boys of European football, as seen by their tally of 15 titles – the most of any side in the competition’s history.
Six of their victories have come since 2010, but Arteta’s side produced an incredible showing over two legs to stop their chances of extending their record as the most successful side in history.
Given the stature of the club, only the best talents in the world could be able to cement their place in the squad, but Gunners full-back Jurrien Timber certainly wouldn’t look out of place within their side.
The Dutchman produced a sensational showing against the Spanish outfit last night, arguably his best since returning to action after missing the majority of his debut season through injury.
Timber featured for 89 minutes of the clash, limiting Vini Jr to minimal chances throughout the contest, making four recoveries to stop their Brazilian.
Jurrien Timber’s stats for Arsenal against Real Madrid
Statistics
Tally
Minutes played
89
Touches
42
Passes completed
10
Passes into final third
5
Ground duels won
3
Times dispossessed
1
Tackles made
2
Stats via SofaScore
He also made five passes into the final third, with such a tally being 50% of all the passes he completed during the game, offering Arteta’s side a quick transition on the counterattack.
His impressive showing didn’t stop there, winning three ground duels, only being dispossessed once in what was a superb all-round performance from the 23-year-old – leading to one content creator labelling him as “phenomenal”.
To top off his excellent showing, he was handed an 8/10 match rating by the Evening Standard’s Simon Collings – further highlighting how much of a key role he played at the Bernabeu.
Given Madrid’s issues in the right-back role, there’s no denying the Dutchman would be able to star in their side, with the Gunners having a huge talent on their hands.
If they are to go all the way and win the competition this season, Timber will undoubtedly play a key role, potentially providing the difference in the next couple of rounds.
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da luck： As new sporting director Hugo Viana looks to make his mark, Manchester City are now reportedly battling Chelsea to sign a 6 foot 8 goalkeeper who could replace Ederson this summer.
Man City racing to sign Ederson replacement
da dobrowin： It’s set to be a summer of change at Manchester City as the Citizens look to make their way back to the top of English football following a disastrous campaign. As things stand, Pep Guardiola’s side remain on course to take the new Champions League place in fifth, but Erling Haaland’s injury is more than likely to throw a spanner in the works for the remainder of the season.
Following yet more injury news, those at the Etihad will simply be desperate to see their campaign come to an end before turning their attention towards a much-needed overhaul.
It’s then that Ederson could be replaced, with just over a year left on his current deal and reports suggesting that he could be among those shown the door this summer. If that is to be the case, then Viana could instantly welcome a fresh option between the sticks.
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This would be among the moves of the summer…
According to Calciomercato, Manchester City are now battling to sign Vanja Milinkovic-Savic ahead of Chelsea this summer. The Torino man reportedly has a release clause worth just €20m (£17m) and a fan in City sporting director Viana, who could welcome the first signing of a new era by securing the 28-year-old’s signature.
Standing at a staggering 6’8, Milinkovic-Savic could replace Ederson and hand City one of the most imposing goalkeepers in the Premier League.
"Unbeatable" Milinkovic-Savic is better shot-stopper than Ederson
Whilst there may be some that are concerned over Milinkovic-Savic’s age, the Serbian international is at the peak of his powers at 28 years old and could yet follow the familiar role of goalkeepers maintaining their place at the top well into their 30s. If he does do exactly that then City would be wise to secure their deal as soon as this summer.
League stats 24/25 (via FBref)
Vanja Milinkovic-Savic
Ederson
Clean Sheets
9
5
Save Percentage
77.5%
69.6%
Saves
104
47
Pass Completion
66.9%
87%
A level above Ederson in the shot-stopping department, Milinkovic-Savic certainly has the foundations to become a No.1 around Europe’s top sides, albeit whilst needing to work on his ball-playing ability.
Described as “unbeatable” by Opta Paolo after saving his fourth penalty of the season in February, the 28-year-old will be one to watch this summer if he decides to leave Torino.
With Chelsea also reportedly interested, Manchester City will hope to get one over on their Premier League rivals by swooping in and landing their own goalkeeping upgrade, replacing Ederson by doing so.
da poker： Everton are entering a critical summer window, one that could define their ambitions under David Moyes and the Friedkin Group.
da roleta： With creativity in short supply, the Merseyside club are looking for value in unexpected places.
Everton manager DavidMoyesreacts
Despite finishing the season with some of the league’s most resolute defending, their blunt edge going forward left much to be desired.
That’s why they’re targeting a player of rare pedigree, someone who can unlock defences, drag teams up the pitch single-handedly, and take the burden off the rest of the team.
It’s the same logic that saw them put their faith in a young Anthony Gordon, before his big-money and somewhat acrimonious departure to Newcastle.
Anthony Gordon
Now, they could be about to bring in someone Gordon himself has long looked up to.
Everton in talks to sign big-money player
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Everton are set to hold further talks with Manchester City over a sensational loan deal for Jack Grealish.
Manchester City's Jack Grealish
With the England international struggling for game time under Pep Guardiola last season, the Toffees see an opportunity to revitalise both their squad and the player.
Discussions have already begun over a potential temporary switch, with Everton making it clear they cannot accommodate Grealish’s current wages unless City cover a significant portion.
A permanent move has not been ruled out, but it would depend on the player agreeing to a steep salary reduction.
England manager, Thomas Tuchel, has already made it clear to Grealish that regular minutes will be essential if he wants to make England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.
Left out of City’s Club World Cup squad and featuring in just 20 Premier League matches last season, the message is clear: find football or fall further from contention.
For Everton, it would be a high-profile coup. Ashley Cole once described Grealish as having “that Eden Hazard quality. When you talk about little magicians who can win you games, he’s one of them.”
While Jamie Redknapp claimed he was “the real deal. He’s got everything if we play him in the right positions.”
Why Grealish could be Everton's next Gordon
While Grealish may be approaching 30 and Gordon only just 24, the stylistic parallels between the two are striking, particularly when comparing their best seasons.
Goal Involvements
Jack Grealish (2022/23)
21 (11 goals, 10 assists)
Anthony Gordon (2023/24)
12 (5 goals, 7 assists)
Source: FBref
According to data from FBref, the City outcast averaged 6.27 progressive carries per 90 minutes, compared to Gordon’s 4.30 in 2023/24.
Both players thrived as ball-carriers, routinely dragging their team forward. However, in terms of creative output, the margins are tighter than expected. Grealish posted 4.55 shot-creating actions per 90, with Gordon just behind on 4.45.
The former Villa man had the superior pass completion rate (84.1% vs Gordon’s 76.1%) and slightly more progressive passes (4.39 to 3.15 per 90), but Gordon’s energy without the ball stands out.
The Newcastle winger completed more tackles (1.71 vs 1.10) and blocks (0.84 vs 0.75) per 90, showcasing his suitability for Eddie Howe’s intense defensive structure.
One clear gap lies in the volume of involvement. Grealish averaged 42 carries and 33.9 touches in the attacking third per 90 minutes, both significantly higher than Gordon’s 29.8 carries and 22.8 touches.
But, context matters: Grealish’s City role demanded high possession involvement, whereas Gordon often thrived in a transitional system at Newcastle.
The most important takeaway is their shared strength as vertical threats. Both players can resist pressure, draw fouls, and win territory with the ball at their feet.
In Grealish, Everton would be gaining a player who can link play in tight areas, relieve pressure under a high press, and hold onto the ball in the final third.
Crucially, they’d also be securing a player with something to prove.
A steep drop in market value, from £86m in October 2021 to £24m today as per Transfermarkt, reflects both his limited minutes and age.
For Everton, this may be an opportunity to borrow a £100m-calibre player at a fraction of the price.
He could be the ideal short-term antidote to their creative drought and a mentor for the club’s emerging wide options.
With Gordon now thriving at Newcastle, this would be a compelling full-circle moment. Grealish, too, once broke through as the crown jewel of a relegation-threatened club.
A loan to Everton could see him return to those roots: carrying a team on his shoulders, delighting fans with flair, and reigniting his England ambitions.
For Everton, it’s a gamble – but one worth taking.
