All posts by n8rngtd.top

Wolverhampton Wanderers were able to avoid relegation to the Championship in the 2022/23 campaign as they finished 14th in the Premier League.

Julen Lopetgui guided the side to survival as they ended the season seven points clear of 18th-placed Leicester City and the Spanish head coach now has his first summer transfer window in charge of the club to add to his squad.

Goalscoring was a major issue for them in the top flight as they only found the back of the net 31 times in 38 matches, which was the worst record in the entire division – including all three of the relegated teams.

Wolves have confirmed that Spanish striker Diego Costa will be leaving Molineux upon the expiry of his contract at the end of this month and Lopetegui could land a big upgrade on the former Chelsea man by swooping for reported target Chuba Akpom from Middlesbrough, who could cost around £20m.

Would Chuba Akpom be a success at Wolves?

The Arsenal academy graduate could be a huge success for the Old Gold as the forward enjoyed a "remarkable" – as described by journalist Oluwashina Okeleji – season in front of goal for Michael Carrick's side in the Championship.

Akpom plundered an eye-catching 28 goals in 38 appearances in the second tier in 2022/23 and proved his finishing quality by doing that from 21.9 xG, showing that the attacker outperformed the quality of chances that his teammates provided him with.

The Englishman ranks in the top 1% of players in his positions in the Men's Next Eight Competitions over the last 365 days for non-penalty goals (0.70) and non-penalty xG (0.50) per 90), meaning that he is one of the best goalscorers around at that level.

Meanwhile, Costa found the back of the net just once in 23 Premier League matches for Wolves, despite racking up 3.2 xG. This shows that the Spanish dud underperformed in front of goal and should have scored more than once, marking a poor return from the former Atletico Madrid star.

To rubber stamp that underperformance, he ranks in the bottom 3% of players in his position in Europe's top five leagues for non-penalty goals per 90 (0.07) over the last 365 days.

This suggests that it would not take much to bring in a significant upgrade on the veteran forward and Akpom could be exactly that based on the marksman's exceptional performances for Boro in the Championship.

There is no guarantee that he will be able to translate that form over to the top-flight but it will take some going for him to offer less in the final third than Costa. Therefore, the 27-year-old could improve Lopetegui's side tenfold next season and solve their goalscoring woes.

Crystal Palace are keeping tabs on Steve Biko FC striker Adama Bojang ahead of a potential move to the Premier League, according to reports.

Who is Adama Bojang?

Bojang appears to be an exciting up-and-coming talent who plays his football for Abdoulie Bojang’s side in his homeland and the GFA League First Division, but it’s more so his performances for his country that have been catching the eye of potential suitors from all across Europe.

The Gambia international recently participated at the U20s World Cup in Argentina and reports have claimed that he wants to take these opportunities to put himself in the shop window in the hope of securing a move to a more high-profile club over the summer.

Back in April, The Daily Mail first credited the Eagles, and by extension chairman Steve Parish and sporting director Dougie Freedman, with an interest in the 19-year-old and suggested that they could look to sign him and then send him straight back out on a loan to further his development, and it sounds like Roy Hodgson is still very much hatching a plan to bring him to Selhurst Park.

Are Crystal Palace signing Bojang?

According to The Evening Standard, Bojang is being “monitored” by Crystal Palace and Chelsea, whilst Wolverhampton Wanderers have also joined the race alongside an “unnamed” fourth potential suitor in the Premier League. The SE25 outfit are “keeping a close eye” on the forward who is additionally grabbing the attention of Ligue 1 sides Eintracht Frankfurt and Lens, so this could be one to watch in the weeks and months ahead.

Should Crystal Palace sign Bojang?

Crystal Palace will know that Bojang is still in the very early stages of his development so sending him out on loan rather than throwing him straight into the first-team would be a more sensible option, but regardless, he could be a massively exciting signing for the future of the club.

Steve Biko’s “complete” striker, as lauded by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has clocked up a mightily impressive seven goal contributions (six goals and one assist) in nine international appearances since bursting onto the scene with Gambia's youth side so is already making a great name for himself.

Standing at 6 foot 3, the centre-forward could also be an ideal target man in the final third, providing a real focal point for his fellow teammates when it comes to getting on the end of long balls and set pieces, and there’s no doubt that he’s got a promising career ahead of him.

Tottenham Hotspur have made a €22m (£19m) bid for Galatasaray defender Victor Nelsson, according to recent reports from Turkey.

What's the latest Tottenham transfer news?

Tottenham have a number of defenders on their transfer shortlist this summer, with reports from Italy detailing they are admirers of AS Roma centre-back Roger Ibanez, who could be available for a fee of around €32m (£27m).

Spurs are working on a low-cost deal for Barcelona Clement Lenglet, who spent last season on loan in north London, and an agreement is now said to be close, with the La Liga champions keen to try and lower their wage bill as soon as possible.

Aymeric Laporte has also been linked with a move to the capital, owing to his lack of game time with Manchester City last season, and 90min report the Spaniard could be available for a sum of £40m.

The Man City defender is a very well-known name, however Tottenham fans may not be as familiar with Nelsson, who they have reportedly submitted an official bid for, totalling €22m (£19m).

However, Galatasaray are said to be holding out for a fee of €25m (£21m), which indicates they may reject the Lilywhites' bid, although Daniel Levy is already very close to matching the Turkish side's asking price.

The Galatasaray defender is also on the radar of Arsenal, as well as clubs from Italy, so Spurs may face some late competition in the race for his signature.

Who is Victor Nelsson?

Hailed as a "Danish lion" by Galatasaray board member Resit Omer Kukner, the centre-back made his breakthrough with FC Nordsjaelland, recording 98 appearances for the Superliga side, before moving to FC Copenhagen.

After earning himself a move to Galatasaray in August 2021, the 24-year-old has gone from strength to strength, cementing himself as a key player in the starting XI by making 33 league appearances this season.

An average of 3.3 clearances per game in the Super Lig ranked the Denmark international second in the squad, while 0.7 blocks places him first, displaying his defensive acumen.

That said, there are doubts about whether the 6 foot 1 defender is ready to make the step up to a club that will be aiming to push for the Champions League places, as he was ranked as just the 11th-best performing Galatasaray player in the league by Sofascore.

Nelsson could prove to be a really astute signing, however Spurs may be better off focussing on targets who are already proven at the top level, such as Laporte.

Aston Villa are reportedly eyeing Serie A ace Hirving Lozano as the Villans prepare to introduce reinforcements to their squad.

Unai Emery isn’t expected to be the only Spaniard with control in the market this summer, with former Sevilla sporting director Monchi sealing a move to Villa Park.

The club have been linked to a host of top talent already, with the latest link being a potentially strong suitor to partner Ollie Watkins.

What’s the latest on Hirving Lozano to Aston Villa?

As reported by various Spanish outlets this week, Aston Villa have emerged as a club interested in Napoli forward Lozano.

One report states that Villa have shown ‘clear interest’ in the Mexico international, who could depart Naples this summer due to a frailed relationship with the board.

It’s claimed the Midlands club are among the ‘most attractive’ options for the 27-year-old, with Villa planning a ‘formal offer’ believed to be in the region of €30m (£26m).

What could Hirving Lozano offer to Aston Villa?

Hailed as a “sensation” by broadcaster Bolarinwa Olajide, the forward could be a revolutionary addition to Emery’s attack.

Likened to Premier League ace Bukayo Saka based on statistics by FBref, the winger is a seasoned attacker, as supported by his career statistics representing PSV, Napoli and Pachuca.

As per Transfermarkt, the Mexican has contributed to 184 goals in 383 recorded appearances, scoring 113 goals and registering 71 assists in consistent streaks that convey a danger in the final third.

When speaking to The Athletic in April, Emery revealed his plans to sign a second striker to play either alongside Watkins or in rotation with the Englishman – which is something he could deliver in signing Lozano.

While the two are most notably strong in front of goal, they have opposing attributes that suggest they could form a complete partnership leading the line at Villa Park.

In the past, Lozano has been likened to Lionel Messi, with his low centre of gravity contributing to him being called “explosive and agile” by PSV director of football Marcel Brands, who formerly scouted the forward – as relayed by football.london.

As per FBref, the £97k-per-week attacker averages better than Watkins in areas that could greatly benefit the ex-Brentford man, registering 4.78 progressive carries per 90 to his average of 1.44.

Having a player that excels in progressive play beside him could be vital to taking the 15-goal striker to the next level, with an added benefit being the Napoli star’s ability to score himself.

Emery has a comprehensive right-winger already in his arsenal in Jacob Ramsey, but to adhere to the Spaniard’s aims of adding depth to his squad that will challenge in Europe next campaign, the move could be significant.

Lozano's contract in Naples expires next summer, so it’s likely that the Serie A champions will wish to cash in on his talents rather than see him leave as a free agent at the close of next season.

Nottingham Forest are considering a summer swoop to bring Fiorentina star Sofyan Amrabat to the Premier League, according to reports.

Where is Sofyan Amrabat?

Amrabat is a defensive midfielder who currently plays his football at the Artemio Franchi Stadium having moved there from Hellas Verona back in 2020, but with his contract set to expire at the end of next season, he could be on the move in the coming weeks should Vincenzo Italiano not want to lose him on a free in 12 months.

The Morocco international was one of his nation’s standout performers at the World Cup in Qatar, where he played more minutes than any of his teammates, via Transfermarkt, and it’s no doubt his displays at the major tournament that have caught the eye of Steve Cooper.

The Serie A outfit’s talisman himself has even handed the manager a transfer boost by publicly admitting that it would one day be “nice to play” in the top-flight, and should he want to make his dream a reality, he’s got two suitors waiting to snap him up.

Are Nottingham Forest signing Amrabat?

According to TuttoMercatoWeb (via Sport Witness), Nottingham Forest have made Amrabat a "target" for the summer alongside Premier League rivals West Ham United.

Fiorentina have placed a €30m (£25m) price tag on their midfielder's head, with the Reds and the Irons being named as the two "interested" parties. The City Ground outfit "like" the 26-year-old, and with Evangelos Marinakis' track record of splashing the cash, this could be one to watch in the weeks ahead.

Nottingham Forest will know that Amrabat is stronger in the natural defensive midfield aspect of his game having recorded just one assist last season, but having been lauded a “physical presence” in the centre by journalist Josh Bunting, Marinakis should definitely consider testing the waters this summer.

The 6 foot star averaged 1.3 tackles per league game during the previous term and had a 89.8% pass success rate, which was higher than any of the regular starters in the Midlands, so not only does he love to get stuck in but he’s also extremely calm and composed in possession.

Amrabat, who is a versatile operator with his ability to operate in eight various positions across the pitch, additionally shares the same agent, CAA Stellar, as six of the current players under Cooper, so this existing connection that his representatives have to the club could give them a small advantage when trying to get a deal over the line.

Rangers may not be bringing in Benie Traore this transfer window, with journalist Jonny McFarlane, via Ibrox News, reporting that a deal for the player could be expensive and that he isn't high up on their priority list as a result.

Who is Benie Traore?

The 20-year-old winger currently plies his trade in Sweden for Hacken and has made quite the impression already for the side despite his age. In the 2022/23 season, he bagged a total of 12 goals with two assists along the way.

That record is made even more superb when you consider that the youngster played in only 13 league outings for his side – meaning he averaged 1.10 goals or assists per 90 minutes played.

Whilst he is yet to be called up to his senior national team, his performances have led to him getting his debut for their Under-23 side. He represents the Ivory Coast when it comes to international football and they finally allowed him to star for them in March of this year – showing that his hard work on the field for Hacken is now paying off. It wouldn't be a surprise to soon see him line up for their first-team.

Are Rangers signing Benie Traore?

It's these showings that have since led to interest in his services from Rangers. However, a fresh report from journalist Jonny McFarlane, via Ibrox News, will not be news that Gers fans want to hear.

He states that the Scottish Premiership side do not have a deal for Traore as high up on their priority list as he could be "very expensive" if they were to push forward with a bid for the player – Alan Nixon reports there has already been one effort turned down, though it's not clear which side of Glasgow it came from.

McFarlane finished by saying that fans shouldn't "expect to see Benie Traore at Ibrox any time soon". Celtic could now be in the clear to sign him, with the Hoops also believed to be keeping tabs on the forward.

He said: "Yes there is interest [from Celtic as well] but Rangers see that as one that’ll be very far down the list. He will also be very expensive, based on what I’ve been told by people at the club."

It would be a shame for Rangers to not bring in a player such as Traore, who has already shone to those who have watched him. Football talent scout Jacek Kulig called him Hacken's "jewel" and added that he is another "highly-talented" player that the club have created.

It suggests that there is plenty of talent in his boots – but he may not get the opportunity to show it or to continue to try and fulfil his potential in Scotland with the Gers.

Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani’s proposed takeover of Manchester United is still up in the air, with the Glazers stalling due to family drama, according to reports.

What’s the latest Man United takeover news?

Jassim has made five separate bids to take 100% control at Old Trafford from the Glazers, with the most recent offer coming earlier this month. It has been relatively quiet in recent weeks in regards to a takeover, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe another who is keen and waiting to see if his bid has been successful.

Reports on Wednesday did claim that Jassim was growing increasingly confident he has won the bidding war, but a new report has thrown doubt into a deal, with the Glazers at odds.

According to Global Finance, Man United was about to get sold to Jassim, however, drama among the Glazers is stalling the sale. An M&A source close to talks at Old Trafford described the process as being a “shambles”, also saying:

“It’s getting the kids to agree. Not all five (Avram Glazer, Kevin Glazer, Bryan Glazer, Joel Glazer and Edward Glazer) want to do the deal.”

Is a takeover impacting Man United’s transfer plans?

As we know, the ongoing takeover saga has coincided with a slow start to the transfer window, with no major incomings or outgoings at Old Trafford and frustrations growing amongst supporters.

There were previous concerns at Old Trafford that the takeover process could derail Erik ten Hag’s summer plans, but Sky Sports have said the money is available to the Red Devils regardless of the outcome, which is at least some good news.

That is a boost for Ten Hag and United, and it looks as if the club are working on potential deals. Moises Caicedo appears to be the latest midfielder on the wishlist, with an approach expected to be made to Brighton over the coming days. As we know, a £55m bid for Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount is also still on the table.

However, should Jassim eventually get a takeover finalised, he could look to make an immediate statement signing to win over supporters. Recent reports claimed the Qatar group were planning a sensational move to sign Paris Saint-Germain superstar Kylian Mbappe, who will soon be entering the final 12 months of his PSG deal.

A lot needs to happen before supporters can think of Mbappe playing at Old Trafford under the ownership of Jassim, though, with the first being the Glazers coming to a final agreement over whether to sell or stay.

Manchester United are still no further along in the process of being taken over and the situation is 'very complicated' at Old Trafford to predict when it will come to an end, according to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano.

What's the latest takeover news involving Manchester United?

According to Qatari outlet Al Raya via The Mirror, Sheikh Jassim’s Nine Two Foundation could bring an end to the drawn-out takeover process at Manchester United and finally assume control at Old Trafford.

The report states that Sheikh Jassim is now confident that he can win the race to take over from the Glazers and a deal may be officially announced in the not-too-distant future.

Manchester United have been up for sale since last November as the Glazer family seek 'strategic alternatives', including 'new investment into the club, a sale, or other transactions involving the company'.

Sheikh Jassim wants to buy 100% of the Premier League giants while his main bidding rival, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his petrochemicals firm INEOS, are aiming to secure a majority share in the club that could still leave one or more of the Glazer family in minority stakeholding roles, as per The Guardian.

Despite the ongoing battle for control of Manchester United, the club have been active in the transfer market and Chelsea midfielder Mason Mount has completed his medical and will swap blue for red imminently, according to Sky Sports.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, journalist Romano has detailed that it still looks like there is no end in sight in the long battle for ownership at Manchester United.

Romano said: “It’s very difficult to predict this very complicated story. So, I don’t want to lie to Man United fans, I don’t know when it will be completed. Honestly, the expectation was to have news already in March, in April, now we are in July and the situation is still the same. So, it’s a very complicated story.”

What other matters do Manchester United need to get to the bottom of this summer?

Manchester United boss Erik Ten Hag will be focused on recruitment for the new season. However, there is no doubt that his endeavours to sign top talent are being impeded by the ongoing battle for control at Old Trafford.

As per The Daily Mail, Ten Hag wants new signings in place by next week to follow Chelsea ace Mount into the building, though 'budget restrictions' are getting in the way amid interest in Inter Milan goalkeeper Andre Onana and Feyenoord's Justin Bijlow, with a new goalkeeper said to be a main priority.

The Red Devils are keen to sign a striker this summer in addition to provide a focal point in attack and discussions with Atalanta rising star Rasmus Hojlund are continuing between both parties, as per 90min.

Sky Sports News have reported that Fiorentina enforcer Sofyan Amrabat is also on the radar at Manchester United as they continue to expand their transfer business as the window progresses.

Nevertheless, the takeover situation engulfing the club needs to be sorted out sooner or later, as Manchester United risk falling behind their rivals without the ability to effectively strengthen in key areas.

Tottenham Hotspur star Harry Kane wants to join Bayern Munich and is even ready to threaten Daniel Levy with a free exit next year, according to reports.

Who is leaving Spurs?

The 29-year-old isn't the only star to be linked with an exit from Spurs this summer, with Ange Postecoglou said to be plotting a major N17 overhaul.

The arrivals of goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, James Maddison from Leicester City and the incoming Manor Solomon hand Tottenham the task of both recouping funds and freeing up space in Postecoglou's squad.

Of the players who could leave north London, with midfielder Harry Winks already departing for Leicester City, there are a fair few.

Hugo Lloris, Ivan Perisic, Davinson Sanchez, Ryan Sessegnon, Eric Dier, Ben Davies, Giovani Lo Celso, Sergio Reguilon and Tanguy Ndombele hae been mentioned as candidates for the chopping block (The Telegraph), while midfield regular Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg is open to leaving this window.

Lloris has freely admitted he could seek a fresh opportunity, candidly telling Nice-Matin that this could be the end of an era after 11 years with Spurs.

"We have reached an important moment, whether it be for the club or me,” said Lloris

“It’s the end of an era. I have a desire for something else. I will carefully study what is possible. However, I haven’t forgotten that I have a year left on my contract at Tottenham, and in football, it’s always hard to predict what will happen."

Indeed, Tottenham supporters could be seeing a very different side next season, but one star Levy will be desperate to keep is Kane.

Bayern hold a very serious interest in the striker and their manager, Thomas Tuchel, is said to be pushing hard for him as he attempts to bring a world class forward to the Allianz Arena.

Sport Bild journalist Christian Falk, a Bayern insider, has shared an update on the matter – and it doesn't bode well for Tottenham.

Kane apparently "wants" to join the Bundesliga giants, and is even ready to threaten chairman Levy with a free transfer in 2024.

Tuchel is apparently in constant contact Tottenham's prized asset, with Kane making it very clear he is more than open to a Bayern move this summer.

Sharing details on a "secret meeting" between the pair in Kane's own house, Falk claims the Spurs star was left very impressed by the conversation with Tuchel. The former Leyton Orient loanee, following on from the discussions, "clearly assured" Bayern's manager that he is willing to join them.

After Levy thwarted Kane's exit in 2021, despite a supposed gentleman's agreement, the player is "ready to prevail" this time and could even float the danger of leaving for nothing.

The obstacle in all of this is Levy and his demands, but going by this update, the Tottenham attacker could make things very difficult for Spurs' chief by pushing for a move.

What's been said about Harry Kane?

Called a "world class" striker by Antonio Conte, the Lilywhites will be desperate not to lose Kane, who scored 30 goals in 38 league appearances last season (WhoScored).

"We are talking about a world class striker,” Conte said.

“In my career I didn't have great talent [so] for this reason I worked hard. What I liked about him from the first time was his ability. He was a big example for his team-mates."

Rangers are set for phase two of their transfer window in the coming weeks according to Dean Jones.

The Glasgow side have made seven signings so far this window, and their window is far from finished according to the journalist.

Who have Rangers signed so far?

Rangers have aimed to strengthen their squad this window with seven new arrivals at Ibrox.

Three forwards joined this summer, with Cyriel Dessers joining from Serie B outfit Cremonense on a four-year deal for a fee reported to be £4.5m. The Nigerian forward is joined by former Atalanta striker Sam Lammers, with the 26-year-old signing for the club for around £3m. Abdallah Sima was the final frontline addition this summer for Rangers, signing on a season-long loan from Premier League high-flyers Brighton and Hove Albion.

The Scottish league side also added four free transfers, with Kieran Dowell joining from Norwich, Jack Butland joining from Crystal Palace, Dujon Sterling moving from Chelsea and Leon Balogun returning to the club on a free transfer following the expiration of his Queens Park Rangers contract.

The club have lost some key names however, with Ryan Kent, Alfredo Morelos, Scott Arfield, Allan McGregor and Filip Helander all departing on free transfers this summer. It's a big overhaul in the Rangers side, with all five of those players who left having been major pieces to the club's most recent title win, where the side also went invincible, under former manager Steven Gerrard back in the 2020/21 season.

The Gers have been linked with further additions ahead of this season as Michael Beale attempts to close the gap on Celtic, with Nottingham Forest centre-back reportedly close to completing a move to Ibrox, whilst the club could once again move for Feyenoord target Danilo after they had their first offer rejected weeks ago. LAFC midfielder Jose Cifuentes has also been linked with a move to the club.

According to transfer insider Jones, before Rangers can make any more signings, they have to "trim the squad".

What has Dean Jones said about Rangers?

When asked about what the rest of Rangers window will hold, Jones told FootballFanCast that the club have to "trim the squad" but there is a "second phase coming" to this window:

"They're also having to implement a bit of an exit strategy for players in the next couple of weeks in order to trim the squad and then be able to improve it. I think Michael Beale will be very satisfied so far with what's been done, but there will be a second phase coming."

What players will leave Rangers?

A number of players will have to leave the club in order to reduce the size of the squad which sits at a bloated 36.

One player who looks set to depart this summer is Glen Kamara. The Finland international has reportedly "demanded" a transfer from the club this summer with interest from Turkish side Besiktas, and has not traveled to the side's current pre-season training camp. Manager Beale previously said that a fee in the region of £5m would be enough to secure the services of the midfielder who was a regular under previous managers.

According to another report from the Daily Record, three more players could follow Kamara out of Ibrox, with Ianis Hagi, Ben Davies, and Borna Barisic all available should Rangers receive a good fee. Barisic in particular could be let go of should the player and club fail to agree on new terms if the club hope to make any money on the 31-year-old fullback who was integral to the successful Rangers sides of the previous seasons.

It remains to be seen who will leave the Gers to fund the second phase of this transfer window, but fans should be excited as the club seem to mean business this summer.