All posts by z3u9t.icu

Lots of Everton fans have been left buzzing as the Goodison Park faithful released their new Hummel third kit ahead of the 2021/22 season.

The kit is now available to but on their official website, and boasts a predominantly white colour, with a blue stripe running down the middle with yellow outlines.

Shirt sponsor Cazoo is located in the middle with the Toffees crest and Hummel logo either side in what is a very aesthetically pleasing jersey overall.

Rafa Benitez’s team may not be able to wear the kit that much in the new campaign given that it is the third strip, but when they do, it will come as a treat to the Blues supporters.

The new Premier League season is only a matter of weeks away, and releasing the new shirt has added to the excitement.

Everton fans on third kit

These EFC fans buzzed as the kit was shared on Twitter, with one Evertonian even going as far as to claim that it was ‘amazing’:

“Oh my dayyyys that amazing that’s actually up there with the best kits”

Credit: @efcowen1

“That’s a beauty!”

Credit: @IanG1878

“Insane”

Credit: @five15design

“Fantastic kit, very happy with that.”

Credit: @UpperGwladysBlu

“Wow”

Credit: @SP0RTSEDlTS

“Top class”

Credit: @Roundhouse1878

In other news, find out what Bramley-Moore Dock update has been lauded by Toffees here!

Manchester United defender Axel Tuanzebe has been heavily linked with a loan move away from Old Trafford this summer.

What’s the story?

According to the Manchester Evening News, fellow Premier League side Newcastle United are in pole position to sign the 23-year-old over the coming months, although Aston Villa are also interested in securing his signature.

The report states that Tuanzebe feels he deserved more opportunities to impress last season and received a lack of recognition for his performances, meaning a temporary move away from his boyhood appears to be something he is keen on.

He’s not good enough

Tuanzebe found regular game time hard to come by in 2020/21, making just 19 appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils.

He received widespread adulation for his outstanding performance against French giants Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League group stages in what was his first start for a year, but the youngster started just eight more matches throughout the campaign.

And with the imminent arrival of World Cup-winning centre-back Varane expected to push Tuanzebe even further down United’s pecking order, a loan move may be the best solution for all parties.

The former England Under-21 international’s lack of first-team minutes likely indicate that Ole Gunnar Solskjaer doesn’t believe he’s good enough to be a regular for the 20-time English champions at this stage in his career.

Therefore, the Norwegian tactician must let the £7.2m-rated Tuanzebe leave this this summer, allowing him to prove his worth and showcase his quality week in week out.

Newcastle manager Steve Bruce signed the pacey defender in back-to-back seasons while at the helm of Villa during their time in the Championship, meaning a move to either St. James’ Park or Villa Park would offer a comfortable setting with some familiarities.

Whether Tuanzebe can ever force his way into United starting XI on a regular basis remains to be seen, but a temporary transfer away from the Old Trafford spotlight is certainly a wise decision for the player’s future prospects.

He’s not been good enough to get regular game time for United, but that could change in the fututre if he can get a full season of Premier League football under his belt.

And, in other news…Man Utd suffer potential blow over “incredible” £63m-rated beast, Ole will be gutted 

West Ham United could become regular members of the Premier League’s top six if they enjoy a successful end to the transfer window, according to journalist Sam Inkersole.

The Hammers are set to be involved in the Europa League after recording a club record Premier League points tally and sealing sixth place last term.

West Ham boss David Moyes will be keen to build on a stellar campaign and has signed Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Alphonse Areola on a season-long loan to provide competition for first-choice shot-stopper Lukasz Fabianski.

The deal for Areola, who made 37 appearances for Fulham last term, includes the option to buy and Moyes is looking to bolster his options further before the transfer window slams shut at the end of the month.

West Ham have been linked with a host of strikers, including Chelsea’s Tammy Abraham, and central defenders.

Inkersole, of football.london, believes the east Londoners need to show more ambition if they want to enjoy another successful campaign.

He told Football FanCast: “I think they need at least three, if not four, new players to really compete in not only the Europa League but to then try and sustain this progress they’ve made in the Premier League.

“It’s all well and good reaching the top six but if you’re going to have a mid-table finish, you’ve gone backwards. West Ham are well primed to hold their position in the top six, I think, because they’ve got a good manager and some incredibly talented players.

“The foundations are there and it’s just a case of adding to them. If they can do that, they could be a perennial top six team. It’s all down to their ambition and that of the club owners.”

TalkSPORT pundit Gabby Agbonlahor has predicted that Ryan Christie will sign a new contract at Celtic, with question marks over his future continuing to circulate [Football Insider].

The Lowdown: Christie contract situation rumbles on into 2021/22 season

Facing a pivotal season in 2021/22 with automatic Champions League qualification on offer for the winners of the Scottish Premiership [BBC], Ange Postecoglou will be keen to ensure he secures the future of his best players in order to come out victorious in the title race.

One man who faces an uncertain next few months at the Hoops is 26-year-old Christie, who’s contract is due to expire in January 2022 [Transfermarkt].

Despite this, the Scotland international is reportedly open to signing a new contract at Celtic [The Scottish Sun].

The Latest: Agbonlahor believes it’s only a matter of time

Speaking in an interview with Football Insider, ex-pro turned pundit Agbonlahor was very optimistic on Celtic star Christie putting pen to paper on an extension, stating:  “They want him to stay and I think he will stay eventually.”

The former Villa man also added: “I think he’s just waiting for that big new deal. When he’s putting in performances like he did last weekend, I think it’s only a matter of time.

“It’s positive times for Celtic after recent results. Things might be starting to look a little bit on the up.

“With Rangers losing their last couple of games, it shows that if they get their act together they’ve got a good chance of making a much closer title race”.

The Verdict: Celtic should do everything in their power

Becoming a pivotal part of Postecoglou’s new-look Hoops outfit, Celtic will be doing everything they can to keep Christie in Glasgow beyond the expiration date on his current deal.

Adept in leading the press from the front as well as providing creativity and energy, Christie has rightfully attracted adulation for his performances in recent times, labelled as ‘outstanding’ by former Scotland manager Alex McLeish last year [Football Insider].

Starting off 2021/22 in striking fashion, the Inverness-born midfielder has registered four goal contributions from six appearances; one goal and three assists [Transfermarkt].

Furthermore, his rate of 4.5 key passes per game proves he is one of Celtic’s most influential players so far this campaign [WhoScored].

Celtic must look to tie Christie down to a new deal before it is too late.

In other news, Celtic have been linked with a Republic of Ireland international.

Tottenham Hotspur could launch a surprise bid for James Ward-Prowse before the end of the transfer window…

What’s the word?

That’s according to the Telegraph’s Mike McGrath, who claims that Spurs are among the teams prepared to test Southampton’s resolve after losing star striker Danny Ings, with Jannik Vestergaard also likely to depart.

Mauricio Pochettino wanted to sign the 26-year-old during his time in charge of the Lilywhites, having once dubbed him the “perfect role model” when in charge at St Mary’s Stadium, and he remains highly-rated within the North London club.

However, they face fierce competition from Aston Villa, who have him as their no.1 target to bolster Dean Smith’s midfield and have certainly splashed the cash throughout the summer so far.

Eriksen’s heir

After securing the signature of Cristian Romero, Spurs’ attentions are believed to have turned to adding creativity to Nuno Santo’s squad, so that could explain why Ward-Prowse has now emerged as a serious option.

The North Londoners have struggled to provide goals outside of lethal frontline duo Harry Kane and Heung-min Son and the issue may stretch back to the departure of Christian Eriksen to Inter Milan some 18 months ago.

Indeed, the England international bagged 54.4% of all their league goals scored last season, whilst the pair both hit double figures for assists and they also led the squad for key passes (1.4 and two) per game, via WhoScored.

[snack-amp-story url= “https://www.footballfancast.com/web-stories/spurs-latest-team-news-transfer-rumours-gossip-more” title= “Read the latest Spurs news, transfer rumours, gossip and much more!”]

It’s evident that the likes of Tanguy Ndombele (0.4), Dele Alli (0.6) and Giovani Lo Celso (0.8) have failed to step up ever since the Dane’s exit.

Ward-Prowse would provide Nuno with a much-needed threat that could help take the burden off of Kane and Son, even more so with his set-piece ability, another attribute that has been lacking for the past season or so.

Match of the Day 2 pundit Peter Crouch described him as “[David] Beckham-esque” last season, via the Daily Echo. “We know how deadly he is from set-pieces. It’s just undefendable at times,” he added. “When you’ve got someone in your team like that, who can deliver on a sixpence. It’s just so key.”

The £27m-rated dynamo, who has now been capped eight times by England, delivered eight goals and seven assists for the Saints, even despite their late-season struggles.

No player still at the club, besides the aforementioned duo, managed more than seven goal contributions in 2020/21.

Ward-Prowse averaged 1.6 key passes per game last term, which was more than Kane and just behind Son, so that only reinforces just how impressive his creative exploits could be in North London.

Back in January, Saints boss Ralph Hasenhuttl lauded his midfield maestro as “unbelievable”, having racked up more minutes on the pitch than anyone else.

He told their official website: “Ward-Prowse played once again but he’s a machine. He can play all the time he’s unbelievable. He, in the last week, is always the guy who runs the most, fighting for everything and a real captain today on the pitch.”

It remains to be seen if the south coast outfit would be prepared to sell their captain, and at what price, but if Fabio Paratici and Daniel Levy see an opportunity to do so, then they must splash the cash.

Spurs could be about to finally replace Eriksen and that’s a prospect that should delight Nuno and the fans alike.

AND in other news, Fabrizio Romano drops exciting Spurs transfer claim that’ll leave fans buzzing…

Leeds United are looking increasingly unlikely to sign Rangers winger Ryan Kent this summer, according to an update from journalist Alan Nixon.

The Lowdown: Kent a key man for Rangers

The Gers have enjoyed a great period under Steven Gerrard and Kent has been one of his team’s star players, helping them win the Scottish Premiership title last season.

The 25-year-old has scored 27 goals in 132 appearances for the Scottish giants, wreaking havoc with his pace and trickery out wide.

Leeds have been linked with a move for Kent in the past, but a fresh update has now been provided on the situation.

[freshpress-quiz id=“359346″]

The Latest: Journalist provides update

In response to a follower’s query about Kent on Twitter, Nixon replied that Leeds would need to fork out around £15m to sign the attacker, adding the five-word verdict of “I doubt that just now” on the chances of the transfer happening.

It appears unlikely that the Whites will be willing to pay that amount juding by the journalist’s update, so a different wide attacking target may be sought in the final two weeks of the transfer window.

[web_stories_embed url=”https://www.footballtransfertavern.com/web-stories/latest-leeds-united-news-12/” title=”Latest Leeds United news!” poster=”” width=”360″ height=”600″ align=”none”]

The Verdict: Slightly overpriced

Kent is a very talented player who Gerrard has described as “sensational”, but £15m is a lot of money for someone who doesn’t have a single Premier League appearance to his name.

It’s one thing to stand out in Scotland, but the English top flight is a much higher level, and Leeds need to be sure they sign someone who is up to the challenge when investing that much money.

Kent could be capable of making the transition, but spending that much on him could be deemed a big gamble, so it’s understandable why the Whites have their doubts about committing to a deal for him.

In other news, Leeds are still reportedly trying to sign one player this summer. Find out who it is here.

Everton have had to work with minimal finances in the ongoing transfer window and it’s so far led them to a grand total of four new acquisitions.

Demarai Gray remains the most impressive capture after his first goal for the club last weekend but there is still plenty of work for the Toffees to undertake.

What’s the word?

One of the biggest priorities this summer has been addressing their limited options at right-back.

Seamus Coleman is out of contract next year and consequently, Everton have targeted the likes of Denzel Dumfries, who has joined Inter, and Aurelio Buta of Royal Antwerp.

The last name on the right-back shortlist is Rangers youngster Nathan Patterson.

The 19-year-old is behind Marcus Tavernier in the pecking order at Ibrox and Benitez looks keen to capitalise on that.

According to The Athletic’s Jordan Campbell, they made an offer for the defender that went in on Friday.

However, fresh reports believe that bid was actually rejected.

Fans must be excited

After missing out on Dumfries to Inter Milan, supporters had every right to be frustrated.

We know the Toffees don’t have much to spend this summer but the Dutch wing-back only moved for a total of around €12.5m.

In a regular window, that would have been a piece of cake for Everton who are used to spending hefty sums.

Focusing on Buta as an alternative hardly pulled up any trees but Patterson seems to fit the bill more.

The teenager already has experience of British football and has the commitment and will to learn that would enthuse those who watch him play at Goodison Park.

Capped two times by Scotland, Patterson doesn’t actually have too much experience under his belt. The full-back has only played for Rangers on 17 occasions but has caught the eye when taking to the field.

He was described as “outstanding” by David Weir after an Old Firm derby last term, hailed for his ability to play without any fear.

Coleman is a fearless character at full-back and if they can eventually replace him with a player of a similar personality, it should make the Irishman’s departure a seamless one.

That provides another reason for fans to be pleased about their interest in the youngster but the main point is that he can defend and attack astutely.

During Rangers’ Europa League campaign last season, Patterson won a mightily impressive 2.3 tackles and made 1.5 interceptions a match.

Furthermore, the full-back has produced 0.8 key passes in the Scottish Premiership so far this term.

He is a rampant threat down the right-hand side and possesses all the energy that made Coleman such a wily character during his prime.

AND in other news, Everton submit bid to sign “formidable” 30-goal wizard, Benitez will be elated…

Many Everton fans have been left lauding a transfer update involving Richarlison.

Speaking in his pre-game press conference ahead of the match away at Brighton and Hove Albion in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon, Rafa Benitez claimed that the Goodison Park faithful are ‘not considering’ selling the Brazil international, and added that ‘hopefully he can score a lot of goals this year’ for them, further cementing their stance on the player.

There have been a number of recent reports linking Richarlison with a move to PSG should Kylian Mbappe end up going to Real Madrid, but it now seems as if he will be staying at the Merseyside club with just a few days left of the summer window to go, barring a remarkable offer.

The striker has got off to a good start in the 2021/22 season, scoring one goal and making one assist in two games in the Premier League (Transfermarkt), and will be a key player if the Toffees are to achieve their goals at the end of the campaign.

Everton fans on Richarlison transfer update

These Blues supporters lauded the transfer update as it was shared on Twitter:

“Is right Rafa lad”

Credit: @_jennifer1878

“Chant worthy. Cheers boss”

Credit: @samkelly1878

“Yesssssss Raffa lad, that’s the spirit!”

Credit: @ChrisConnolly3

“Ohh Rafa I love you”

Credit: @seanpowell18781

“I’m really starting to like Rafa”

Credit: @LiamMarshall91

“Literally couldn’t have answered any better”

Credit: @JackB644

In other news, find out what transfer update has Evertonians buzzing here!

Chris Waugh says Newcastle United’s summer business may not be done despite a report to the contrary. 

The lowdown

The Telegraph’s Luke Edwards tweeted earlier on Tuesday that the club had briefed him that no more senior signings would arrive.

Newcastle have only made one addition so far this summer, bringing in Joe Willock from Arsenal for a fee in excess of £20million.

And given that Willock spent the latter half of the 2020/21 campaign on loan at St James’ Park anyway, it could be argued that the Magpies have yet to truly strengthen.

The latest

Speaking on The Athletic’s Live Transfer Deadline Day stream at lunchtime, club correspondent Waugh refused to rule out further Newcastle incomings.

He stressed that ‘at the moment it isn’t looking like’ new faces will arrive but suggested that ‘the next 90 minutes could be crucial’.

He ‘still thinks there’s a chance’ that Hamza Choudhury, Steve Bruce’s primary defensive midfield target, will arrive on loan from Leicester City before the deadline. That deal is described as being ‘in the balance’.

The verdict

There’ll be some satisfaction on Tyneside if they can find the funds for this Choudhury deal, but it’s also worth noting that Bruce will ‘almost certainly’ (in Waugh’s words) fail to land both a midfielder and a centre-back.

Newcastle, then, will still be looking light, and once again only look to have the tools to compete for a lower mid-table finish.

Given that just mere months ago there was still hope of a takeover going through this summer, it’s fair to say this window has been a disaster for the Toon Army, despite the ray of hope Waugh has shared.

In other news, this teenager is poised to join the club.

According to Roker Report, Sunderland are in talks to sign Leon Dajaku from Bayern Munich.

The Lowdown: Busy summer for Sunderland

The Black Cats have been busy so far this summer, bringing in seven new players either on a temporary basis or permanently (Transfermarkt).

However, it seems that their transfer business might not be done just yet.

The Latest: Dajaku talks

As per Roker Report, Sunderland are interested in signing Dajaku from six-time European champions Bayern.

Dajaku is currently with Union Berlin on a temporary basis, but has made just two Bundesliga appearances for the capital club.

The Verdict: A talent

While £1.62m-valued Dajaku has not yet made the transition to the elite, his record at youth level suggests that he has plenty of talent and ability. In 60 games for VfB Stuttgart’s development sides, he scored 41 goals, showing that he can be prolific. Also, Bayern clearly saw enough in him to give him three appearances for their first team.

At the age of 20, it is now time for him to make his mark and start to develop. It remains to be seen whether Sunderland can get a deal done before tonight’s transfer deadline.

In other news, Sunderland fans were livid with this former player’s comments.