All posts by z3u9t.icu

Chelsea are now open to selling a 2023 summer signing just under one year after he put pen to paper on a move to Stamford Bridge, as the west Londoners look to trim their bloated squad as well as acquire upgrades.

Players who could be sold by Chelsea this summer

Romelu Lukaku, Armando Broja, Conor Gallagher, Malang Sarr, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Trevoh Chalobah, Ian Maatsen, Omari Hutchinson and Conor Gallagher have all been linked with the Chelsea exit door already, with Enzo Maresca looking to make room for key new additions.

Chelsea express desire to sign £102 million forward as exit wish confirmed

His agent’s comments have caused a firestorm.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 19, 2024

Gallagher is set to be the most headline-grabbing name of the aforementioned group, especially given his importance under Mauricio Pochettino last season. The 24-year-old, who was rewarded for his fine form with a place in Gareth Southgate's Euro 2024 England squad, became a Chelsea mainstay and supporters are keen not to see the boyhood supporter depart.

His contract expires next year, though, and with no extension in sight, Chelsea may have to make the ruthless business decision of finding a buyer for him this summer – or risk seeing him leave for nothing in 2025.

The likes of Lukaku, Broja, Maatsen, Sarr and Arrizabalaga appear out of favour at the club, so decisions on their futures will be much easier, but there are reports that Chelsea are open to offers for Chalobah despite the Englishman's re-emergence at the end of last season.

Pretty soon, a few of these players could join Thiago Silva in leaving Chelsea in the coming weeks, and it is believed that 2023 arrivals are not excluded from the chopping block. There have been suggestions that Chelsea want to attract bids for David Datro Fofana, who only joined last January from Molde.

Chelsea apparently don't need to sell players by June 30 of this year to avoid PSR sanctions, but they do need to sell in preparation for the June 30 deadline next year.

Moises Caicedo

£115 million

Enzo Fernandez

£107 million

Mykhalo Mudryk

£88 million

Wesley Fofana

£72 million

Marc Cucurella

£58 million

“We’re likely to see departures at Chelsea this summer, particularly with the players who are currently out on loan," said Fabrizio Romano to GiveMeSport.

“As previously reported, the plan is for Armando Broja to be sold once he comes back from his loan at Fulham, and Hakim Ziyech can already be considered to have played his last game for Chelsea.

“I also expect Romelu Lukaku and Ian Maatsen to leave Chelsea, but for the others, we have to wait and see what happens.”

Chelsea open to selling Lesley Ugochukwu

Now, alongside the likes of Fofana, it is believed midfielder Lesley Ugochuwku is being nominated for the transfer list.

The 20-year-old, who joined Chelsea from Rennes last summer and signed a seven-year contract, made 12 Premier League appearances last term. The Blues could send him out on a temporary deal to accumulate more game time, but journalist Simon Phillips also claims Chelsea are open to completely selling Ugochukwu for the right offer.

Less than 12 months into his long-term deal, it would be an unceremonious end for the Frenchman, especially after praise from Chelsea chiefs last year. Pochettino called Ugochukwu a "talented" player, while co-sporting directors Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley called him "impressive" (via The Metro).

Aston Villa have also made a bid to sign an "outstanding" player alongside left-back Ian Maatsen.

Maatsen to sign for Aston Villa

NSWE and Monchi appear to be closing in on their first marquee signing of the summer, with Chelsea full-back Maatsen on course to move to the Midlands.

The 22-year-old spent last season out on loan with Borussia Dortmund, helping them to the Champions League final. The Bundesliga giants had a chance to sign the Netherlands international for around £35m but have passed up on their option to buy.

Villa have swooped in, agreeing to pay slightly more than the £35m figure, with personal terms in place on a six-year deal at Villa Park.

It is believed that Champions League football with Unai Emery’s side has been seen as tempting for Maatsen, who looks set to battle it out with Lucas Digne and Alex Moreno for a regular starting spot.

After Maatsen, there are likely to be further arrivals, with Ross Barkley’s permanent move to the club expected to be announced next month, whereas Villa could still land some Juventus players in a swap deal for Douglas Luiz.

Alongside Luiz’s departure, Jhon Duran has been heavily linked with Chelsea, whereas young midfielder Tim Iroegbunam is set to join Everton. However, in response, Villa are looking to sign one of the Toffees’ youngsters.

Aston Villa make Lewis Dobbin bid

According to Sky Sports in the last 48 hours, who have been reporting on Maatsen’s pending move to the Midlands, Aston Villa have also made an offer to sign Lewis Dobbin from Everton.

They don’t say how much an offer is worth for the striker but deals for Iroegbunam and Dobbin should help both Villa and Everton when it comes to PSR.

Dobbin, who is 21 years of age, made 12 Premier League appearances and scored one goal last season. Prior to that, the forward spent the 2022/23 season out on loan with Derby County, making more than 50 senior appearances for the Rams.

He earned praise from manager Paul Warne during that time, who said: “All the players make mistakes and I’ve got no issue with that, but it’s all about being brave enough to keep doing things and that’s what Dobbs did.

“He did some things outstanding, some things good and some things poor, which was the same with all the players. But it was a good header. I’m being nice if I say headers are not among the best of his attributes but for him to score his first league goal like that and for it to be the winner is a great feeling for the kid.”

Dobbin can play as a left winger, right winger, striker, second striker or attacking midfielder, so it’ll be interesting to see how Emery uses him in the long run, should a transfer go through.

Arne Slot sat in Jurgen Klopp's seat, and it was as if he had been there for years.

Liverpool underwent the change of all changes last month, with Slot leaving Feyenoord of the Netherlands to try his hand at Anfield's helm, tasked with succeeding a lionised and irreplaceable figure.

Klopp's brood will now find the chance to stretch out and prove itself worthy of further success down the line, with Slot striving to lead the Reds toward further silverware, further success.

Fans might be trying out for fresh faces but the plain truth is that Liverpool are blessed with a rounded, deep, and dynamic squad. Slot, indeed, has inherited a team with the tissue of winners.

Personable and persuasive, the Dutch coach welcomed certain members of his first team back to Kirkby on Friday ahead of pre-season, and a picture of who might be signed to strengthen this strong crop will begin to look clearer.

Liverpool transfer news

According to Football Insider, Liverpool will have to fork out £40m to prise Crysencio Summerville away from Leeds United this summer, with the Championship side having mitigated their financial concerns following the £30m sale of Archie Gray to Tottenham Hotspur.

Liverpool have been persistently linked with left wingers this summer despite the form of Barcelona-targetted Luis Diaz toward the end of the 2023/24 campaign.

Newcastle United, fraught by PSR, offered Anthony Gordon to the Merseysiders last week but, according to BBC Sport, Liverpool flat-out refused to entertain the notion given the Magpies hopes to include Jarell Quansah in a player-plus-cash deal.

Still, Liverpool admire Gordon, and the addition of a left-sided forward would help the club immeasurably.

Why Liverpool admire Anthony Gordon

Gordon might have cut his teeth as a young Everton star, but the England international is a boyhood Red, having been released from the club's academy during his formative years.

He had his doubters throughout English football when signing for Newcastle in a £45m deal in January 2023 but the 23-year-old has since gone from strength to strength, posting 12 goals and 11 assists across all competitions during his first full season at St. James' Park, en route to the Magpies' Player of the Season award.

Praised for his "unbelievable" campaign by teammate Bruno Guimaraes, Gordon has a remarkable blend of athletic qualities and an always-sharpening quality in front of goal, as evidenced by his haul from last term.

As you can see in the graphic above, Gordon showcased his attacking quality in the Premier League last season with 22 direct goal contributions for the Magpies.

He's a top-class player, but given that reports are suggesting that he could fetch a price of up to £100m now that Newcastle have swerved past a potential PSR sanction, Liverpool will likely turn their attention elsewhere, and Summerville could be the perfect alternative.

Imagine Crysencio Summerville under Slot's management

He didn't make much of an impact during the 2022/23 campaign, young and unable to save Leeds from falling from the Premier League, but Summerville, aged 22, did score the winner at Anfield to condemn Klopp's Liverpool to a demoralising defeat, setting the tone for the season to come.

Last term, however, The Whites' return to the Championship proved to be an auspicious move, with the Dutchman crowned the division's Player of the Season after scoring 21 goals and supplying ten assists as his side agonisingly lost the play-off final.

Praised for his "world-class" ability with the ball by journalist Jake Winderman, Summerville is shaping into every bit as rounded and deadly forward as Gordon, and given that he would probably cost less than half the price, it feels like a no-brainer.

Goals

0.39

Top 5%

Assists

0.23

Top 15%

Shot-creating actions

6.10

Top 1%

Progressive carries

5.04

Top 7%

Successful take-ons

2.52

Top 9%

Ball recoveries

3.78

Top 57%

While the Championship does not hold the same overall quality as the Premier League, the wily winger's nimble, progressive style to make a real mark under Slot, whose forward-moving, energetic system calls for this kind of winger, who will create, create, create and stretch defences with his loping strides.

Therefore, Liverpool must make their move with haste; Summerville is not exactly short of suitors and he would be a real coup for a side fighting for the biggest honours around.

Liverpool hit gold on Klopp superstar who's worth more than Anthony Gordon

This talented player could explode under Arne Slot’s management.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 5, 2024

Everton are eyeing up a fresh face to lead their line for the new Premier League season, according to a recent report.

Toffees yet to settle on a striker

Goalscoring has been one of Everton's achilles heels for several seasons now, and despite their efforts to address it every season Sean Dyche seems unable to find a solution as of yet.

Their 40 goals scored across the 2023-24 campaign was the second worst in the division with only Sheffield United managing fewer, while expected goals suggested that the Toffees scored 20 fewer than they should have according to the model.

No one has managed more than seven Premier League goals in an Everton shirt in a single season since Richarlison's departure two years ago, and the Brazilian was the only one to hit double figures in his final term at Goodison Park.

The injury-prone Dominic Calvert-Lewin has not managed 10 or more since the 2020-21 season, in which he scored 16 times, more than he has in the three seasons since.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin's struggles for fitness and goals

2020-21

2021-22

2022-23

2023-24

Appearances

33

17

17

32

Minutes played

2876

1287

1175

2186

Goals

16

5

2

7

Minutes per goal

180

257

588

312

Beto was signed last summer, but he failed to have an impact and started just nine Premier League games, while Youssef Chermiti remains a work in progress.

This summer, they have already made one move to sign a new striker, with Iliman Ndiaye arriving from Marseille after a tough season in Ligue 1, where he found the net four times for the French outfit. But now, reports claim that they could be set to move for a more natural goalscorer.

Toffees among sides interested in PL outcast

That comes with Everton named as one of the sides in the running to sign Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah this summer. The England international struggled for game time at the Emirates Stadium last season, starting just ten games but failing to be named in a starting XI in 2024.

Despite this, he found the net on five occasions, including a hat-trick against Sheffield United, and Mikel Arteta spoke highly of the 25-year-old Englishman.

“Well to me he is top level,” Arteta said via arsenal.com. “He’s started nine out of our ten Premier League games, so that tells you how much we trust him and the importance he has in the team. I’m really happy for him, an academy player to experience a Premier League hat-trick. He needs to enjoy the moment, he fully deserves it, and hopefully there are many more to come.”

Despite this praise, his time in north London appears to be over, with Arsenal ready to let him leave this summer should someone meet his £50m price tag amid interest from the Premier League and abroad.

Rejected: Everton move for £75k-p/w ace over as he's now chosen his club

The Toffees will have to look elsewhere for reinforcements this summer.

1 ByBen Browning Jul 11, 2024

As per CaughtOffside, Everton are one of five Premier League sides keen on the Englishman, though his future could well be tied to that of Calvert-Lewin amid previous interest in the ex-Sheffield United man from Newcastle United.

They suggest that a fee closer to 40m euros (£33m) may be more accurate for Nketiah, which is the same fee as Joshua Zirkzee is moving to Manchester United for.

For Everton, there may well be more pressing areas of need, but Nketiah's impressive goal record could be a tempting option for a side that notoriously struggles to find the back of the net.

Celtic's wait to add a new outfield player to their squad goes on as they have just over a month left before the summer transfer window officially slams shut.

The Hoops have added two players to the group so far this summer but both of them have come in to compete for the number one shirt that was vacated by Joe Hart.

Danish titan Kasper Schmeichel has joined on a free transfer and young starlet Viljami Sinisalo has been snapped up from Aston Villa on a permanent deal to provide him with competition.

A new left-back appears to be on the agenda for Brendan Rodgers amid links to Wolves full-back Hugo Bueno, but the Spanish ace is not the only reported target in that position.

Celtic linked with Croatian gem

The Daily Record recently relayed reports that Celtic are interested in a potential swoop to sign Dinamo Zagreb left-back Mauro Perkovic this summer.

It also carried a claim from outlet 24Sata that that Croatian giants are looking for a fee within the region of £1.6m in order to cash in on the defender.

Meanwhile, teams from the Bundesliga and from Saudi Arabia are said to be eyeing up moves for the 21-year-old battler, which means that the Scottish giants could face plenty of competition for his signature.

If the Hoops do decide to act upon their interest in Perkovic and swoop to bring him to Parkhead then Rodgers could end up unearthing an upgrade on current first-choice Greg Taylor.

Why Celtic should sign Mauro Perkovic

The Croatian youngster is a fantastic talent who could come in and give the Scotland international a real run for his money, if he can translate his form from his home country over to the Scottish Premiership.

In the HNL last season, Perkovic showcased maturity and physicality beyond his years with dominant performances on the left side of the Zagreb defence.

Capable of playing at wing-back or on the left side of a back three, the Celtic target could either slot in as a centre-back or a left-back for the Hoops when needed.

Appearances

35

21

Pass accuracy

82%

86%

Assists

4

0

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.2

3.5

Ground duel success rate

57%

65%

Aerial duel success rate

46%

67%

As you can see in the table above, Perkovic could come in and immediately be an upgrade on Taylor due to his reliability in and out of possession.

The Scottish ace is more creative, with four more assists in the league last term, but the Zagreb whiz could offer more control on the ball with a higher pass accuracy.

Their respective defensive statistics suggest that Perkovic would be a huge upgrade on Taylor off the ball, as he can win possession back far more frequently whilst also winning a far higher percentage of his duels on the deck and in the air.

Imagine him & Carter-Vickers: Celtic targetting swoop for £20k-p/w "leader"

The Hoops are reportedly interested in a deal to sign the central defender this summer.

ByDan Emery Jul 27, 2024

Therefore, Rodgers must swoop to sign the 21-year-old starlet, who was dubbed "highly talented" by scout Jacek Kulig, to come in and provide his team with more defensive stability, which could be particularly key in Champions League matches against high quality opposition who will ask questions of the Celtic defence.

As the new campaign approaches, Leeds United have reportedly joined the race to sign a Championship star in an attempt to beat a number of Premier League sides to his signature.

Leeds transfer news

The Whites have so far endured a difficult transfer window, losing both Archie Gray and Glen Kamara in two major blows to Daniel Farke's side following the heartbreak of play-off failure at the end of last season. But things could yet look up for those at Elland Road, who have reportedly tabled an offer to sign FC Koln midfielder Dejan Ljubicic, who could replace Kamara.

What's more, Leeds have also been linked with Blackburn Rovers forward Sammie Szmodics following his standout campaign in England's second tier last time out. If the Yorkshire club were missing any firepower, he would certainly add that in abundance, having won the Championship's Golden Boot last season. Before they potentially move for Szmodics, however, Leeds and the 49ers Enterprises may well turn their attention towards another midfield reinforcement for Farke.

According to Corriere dello Sport via MOT Leeds News, Leeds have joined the race to sign Gabriel Sara from Norwich City this summer alongside the likes of Leicester City, Crystal Palace and Galatasaray. As the Canaries earned a play-off place, before suffering a defeat against Leeds last season, Sara was a standout in David Wagner's side. Earning plenty of interest as a result, the midfielder may now have a decision to make.

Leeds lodge bid for £14k-p/w star who can finally replace Phillips

Leeds United could finally get a midfielder in the building of Kalvin Phillips’ ilk again with this summer buy.

1 ByKelan Sarson Jul 26, 2024

Those at Elland Road may hope that, if Sara does decide to leave Carrow Road this summer, then he chooses a move to Yorkshire and the chance to compete for a promotion to the Premier League, but Norwich could be reluctant to let their star man leave.

"Outstanding" Sara can replace Gray

Whilst Gray filled in at right-back for the majority of the last campaign, his natural role remains in midfield to create an absence that Sara could yet emerge to fill at Elland Road in the coming season. Earning a reported £19k-a-week at Norwich, the 25-year-old is not someone who would disrupt the wage bill at Leeds and certainly proved last season that he can replace Gray and unleash Georginio Rutter even further in the process.

Goals

13

0

Assists

12

2

Key Passes

119

17

Ball Recoveries

226

196

After a staggering 25 goal involvements across the campaign, it's no surprise that former Norwich boss Wagner was full of praise for Sara, saying via The Pink Un last season: "He works hard. He can easily run between 12 and 13 kilometres and has great vision. He is an outstanding player and a top professional.

"He always has 'team first' in his head, and it is something very special to have a player who is producing these numbers but has this in their head. It's a pleasure to have him in the team. You have seen how hungry and greedy he is to make something special out of this season."

Manchester United have already shown their ambition in the transfer market this summer, with new owners INEOS flexing their financial muscles to acquire highly-rated defender Leny Yoro from Lille, and striker Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna.

After their disappointing 2023/24 Premier League campaign, finishing eighth, United saved their season with an FA Cup victory, beating rivals Manchester City at Wembley 2-1, with goals from Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo in the first half.

This FA Cup triumph saved United's European hopes next season, gaining them qualification to the Europa League. However, with the heavy investment, the aim will be to return to the Champions League for the 2025/26 campaign.

Latest Manchester United transfer news

According to reports from Football Transfers, one of Manchester United's alternative options for PSG midfielder Manuel Ugarte, is PSV Eindhoven star, Joey Veerman.

Scott McTominay is reportedly the midfielder likely to make way in order for United to pursue an acquisition in this area of the pitch, with the Red Devils asking for £40m for the Scotland international.

Veerman, who is valued at £34m by Transfermarkt, made 41 appearances for PSV in all competitions last season, scoring seven goals, providing 19 assists, and totalling 3,420 minutes played.

Veerman vs Rodri comparison

Using FBref's "similar players" feature, one of Veerman's top ten comparisons from Euro 2024, is none other than Manchester City midfield star, Rodri. As United are looking to replace Casemiro and acquire a new midfield partner for Mainoo, this could be a perfect addition.

Rodri's statistics from Euro 2024

If Veerman could offer the same technical security on the ball that Rodri does for City, whilst also screening the defence effectively, breaking down opposition counterattacks, and controlling the overall tempo of the game, this could be an ideal partner to unlock Mainoo further forwards.

Non-Penalty Goals

0.19

0.22

0.13

Shots Total

2.19

1.84

1.84

Assists

0.60

0.27

0.08

Shot-Creating Actions

9.48

5.06

1.93

Passes Attempted

83.99

113.85

63.69

Progressive Passes

11.86

12.28

5.15

Progressive Carries

1.96

2.85

0.54

Key Passes

4.91

1.61

0.71

Tackles

2.57

2.08

3.73

Aerials Won

1.17

1.46

1.76

Veerman, described as a "box crasher" by analyst Ben Mattinson, shows a whole host of other assets to his game, even away from his impressive 0.19 non-penalty goals per 90 from midfield.

The 26-year-old's creative passing metrics are excellent, making 4.91 key passes per 90, and 11.86 progressive passes per 90, akin to Rodri who makes 12.28 progressive passes per 90, and is viewed as one of the best in the world for this. Why is Rodri so far ahead? Well, City are one of the most possession-dominant sides on the continent.

His technical security on the ball, and high pass volume, attempting 20 more passes per 90 than Casemiro, allows him to dictate the game from a deeper area of the pitch, something we saw from Veerman for the Netherlands in Euro 2024, which drew comparisons to Rodri.

The extra technical qualities, passing variation, and ball carrying from midfield would help United in their build-up, whilst freeing Mainoo to move higher up between the lines, and into more dangerous areas.

And it isn't like Veerman lacks defensive qualities either, making 2.57 tackles per 90, 1.13 blocks per 90, and winning 1.17 aerials per 90, similar numbers to that of Rodri, and still close to Casemiro, who is steadily declining in this aspect due to his age and ability to cover ground.

Yoro's partner for a decade: Man Utd want "one of the most impressive CB’s"

He is also wanted by Chelsea this summer

ByJoe Nuttall Aug 4, 2024

Glasgow Rangers face a crucial final few weeks of the transfer window, especially if they wish to add another few players that can bolster their first team squad.

The opening few weeks of the 2024/25 campaign have already seen the Ibrox side drop points in the Premiership, while the club has crashed out of the Champions League following a 3-1 aggregate defeat to Dynamo Kiev.

Philippe Clement may not entirely be at fault considering the shortcomings of the board and the whole debacle surrounding the delay in getting Ibrox ready for the new season, but he will soon have to get things right on the pitch.

The starting XI that took to the Hampden pitch on Tuesday evening was arguably just as bad as the dross supporters had to put up with during the first few seasons the club spent in the top flight following promotion in 2016.

Opponent

Date

St Johnstone (League Cup)

August 17

Ross County (Premiership)

August 24

Celtic (Premiership)

September 1

Dundee United (Premiership)

September 15

Hibs (Premiership)

September 28

Via Sky Sports

All areas of the pitch need improvement, but it is clear the Light Blues haven’t really replaced Steven Davis in the heart of the midfield. The Northern Irishman was able to control games with ease, even during his later years.

Steven Davis’ Rangers statistics

His first spell may have been more successful, winning eight trophies between 2008 and 2012 before his departure to Southampton, but his second spell saw Davis really emerge as an icon in the light blue.

He initially signed on loan from the Saints in January 2019, before joining on a permanent deal that summer and his acquisition was one of the best pieces of transfer business Gerrard conducted during his time in charge.

He made 43 appearances during his first full season back at Ibrox, dropping into a slightly deeper role than his first spell due to his advancing years, which allowed the player to use his wonderful passing range to dictate games, both domestically and in Europe.

The 2020/21 campaign would prove to be his nadir for the Northern Irishman during his second spell. Not only did he miss just three league games in the Gers' unbeaten title-winning season, but Davis also shone when compared to his teammates across a range of metrics.

Indeed, he ranked second for accurate passes per game (64.2), while also ranking second for accurate long balls per game (3.7), third for tackles per game (1.7) and second for interceptions per game (1.2), showcasing his passing skills and defensive abilities.

Season

Games

Goals

Assists

2022/23

16

2

0

2021/22

33

1

1

2020/21

49

2

3

2019/20

43

1

3

2018/19

18

0

3

2011/12

39

5

14

2010/11

53

5

12

2009/10

50

4

16

2008/09

39

6

12

2007/08

22

1

6

Via Transfermarkt

His appearances became more limited during his final two years at Ibrox, before he suffered a serious injury towards the end of 2022, which eventually forced the midfielder to retire.

Despite Clement signing Connor Barron and Mohamed Diomande in recent months, Rangers have still to replace the qualities of Davis in the heart of their midfield.

Could a recent transfer target potentially have the profile that would fit into the current Gers team? As the Belgian is turning towards the Bundesliga…

Rangers showing interest in Bayer Leverkusen midfielder

According to Danish outlet Tipsbladet last week, Rangers were one of the clubs who were showing interest in Leverkusen midfielder Gustavo Puerta ahead of making a potential swoop for the player.

There were several other clubs keen too, including Blackburn Rovers, Anderlecht, and Danish side Brondby, with the player dealing with plenty of offers.

The report also stated that the Belgian side were looking to seal a season-long loan deal with an option to buy for around €6m (£5m).

Indeed, journalist Dominik Schneider claims that the midfielder is dealing with three offers, with a decision to be made by Sunday, and it could either be a loan or a permanent move.

This suggests the Light Blues may have a chance at securing his services, but they will have to present a solid offer in order to bring him to Scotland.

If they do, Clement might finally fill the Davis-shaped void in the Rangers squad.

Gustavo Puerta’s season in numbers

The youngster may have won the Bundesliga title as part of Leverkusen’s stunning, invincible squad, but he made just seven appearances in the top flight, starting no games throughout the 2023/24 campaign.

During his fleeting appearances in the league, Puerta did succeed with 95% of his passes while succeeding with 100% of his dribbles and winning 67% of his total duels, showcasing his talents, albeit briefly.

Prior to the transfer window, Rangers Journal founder Kai Watson examined the midfielder, lavishing praise on the youngster, saying: “If you watch the footage below you’ll see a technically gifted midfielder with an incredible range of passing.

“A central midfielder that is comfortable receiving and carrying the ball under a pressure.

“A player that also comes with that South American flair and doggedness.”

He did start two matches during the Europa League group stage last season, demonstrating his sublime passing skills in those matches.

When compared to his peers during the competition last term, Puerta ranked in the top 3% for both passes attempted (86.17) and pass success rate (91.7%) per 90.

He even ranked in the top 9% for successful take-ons (1.91) per 90 and while this may only be over three matches, it proves how impressive he was when coming out of the wilderness to immediately perform to this level.

This sort of passing ability hasn’t truly been seen at Ibrox since Davis retired, and it is desperately needed, especially following the poor start to the season.

It looks as though Clement has plenty of competition for the midfielder and will have to present an attractive offer to Leverkusen if he hopes to land the youngster this summer.

If he was given a regular run in the starting XI, Puerta could turn into one of the finest players at the club, due to his metronomic play in possession.

Much could depend on whether the Light Blues manage to sell a few players, but priority should be made in bringing Puerta to Glasgow, preferably before it is too late.

Morelos 2.0: Rangers lining up a dream £1.7m signing for Cerny

Philippe Clement appears to be in contact with a young striker ahead of a potential move

ByRoss Kilvington Aug 15, 2024

After an opening game that didn't go to plan last Monday, Tottenham Hotspur made amends by blowing Everton away at home on Saturday to pick up their first win of the Premier League season.

Ange Postecoglou's side looked incredible going forward and reasonably solid at the back in a performance that should leave fans feeling encouraged about their prospects over the next ten months.

Alongside club captain Son Heung-min, who scored twice, last summer's £40m man, James Maddison, looked excellent in the middle of the park, picking up an assist and reminding people just how good he can be.

However, with the right players around him, he could reach another level and avoid the collapse in form he suffered last season. Interestingly, the club were linked to a player who'd help unlock the Englishman earlier this summer.

James Maddison's season of two halves

Maddison's arrival in North London last summer was greeted by a massive amount of excitement from the fans, and considering he had just produced 19 goal involvements in 32 games for a relegated Leicester City, it was entirely justified.

Moreover, it didn't take long for the former Foxes ace to show just how talented he was, as in his first ten league games for Postecoglou's new-look Spurs side, he scored three goals and provided five assists and looked as if he'd end the season as a nailed on starter for England and as one of the best attacking midfielders in the Premier League.

Unfortunately, in the club's shocking 4-1 loss at home to Chelsea in early November, the Coventry-born dynamo suffered an ankle injury that would see him sidelined until the end of January, and while there was an expectation that he'd pick up where he left off for the Lilywhites, that didn't happen.

Appearances

11

17

Goals

3

1

Assists

5

4

Goal Involvements per Match

0.72

0.29

In his final 17 league games, the 27-year-old could only muster one goal and four assists, which was a far cry from the form he showed before his injury.

However, in his defence, following that defeat to Chelsea, the team seemed to morph from a lean mean winning machine to one incapable of keeping a clean sheet and one prone to throwing away points, which continued when he came back from injury, making his job far harder than it needed to be.

So, a new tenacious and hardworking midfield partner could be the perfect signing to make before the window closes to help Maddison maintain his impressive start to the season, and the club don't even have to look that hard to find the perfect candidate, as they were linked with him earlier this month: Joao Gomes.

How Joao Gomes could unlock Maddison

Yes, the midfield signing that could help Maddison play to his best ability this season is Wolverhampton Wanderers ace Gomes, who, according to a report earlier this month, was supposedly 'in the sights' of the club.

That report claimed that if Levy and Co wanted to pursue the Brazilian, they would have to stump up around £50m to secure the 23-year-old's signature, and while that's a lot of money, it would be well spent.

For example, one of Gomes' biggest strengths is that while at his best he is an "all action eight", as dubbed by data analyst Ben Mattinson, he can also play in the six role if needed, meaning that he would be more than capable of helping out with the defensive work in the middle of the park, thus freeing up the Englishman to focus on happenings at the sharp end of the pitch.

In fact, Mattinson goes on to describe the eight-capped international as a "dog of a ball winner", which makes him sound like the ideal sort of player to ensure Postecoglou's side aren't overrun in midfield, and his underlying numbers only further solidify his defensive attributes.

For example, according to FBref, which compares players in similar positions across Europe's top five leagues, the Champions League and the Europa League, the Rio de Janeiro-born ace sits in the top 1% of midfielders for tackles, the top 2% for tackles won, the top 3% for tackles plus interceptions, and the top 7% for blocks, all per 90.

Lastly, the 5 foot 9 international has been playing in the Premier League for a season and a half now and, as such, is far more experienced than some of the alternative options the club could potentially be looking at, so he should come in and hit the ground running.

Ultimately, Spurs cannot afford for Maddison to have another season in which he falls away in the second half, and one way to ensure that does not happen is to sign a tenacious, hard-working, Premier League-proven eight to play alongside him who can do all the dirty work and in turn, help the club maintain an element of control in matches, and Gomes fits the bill perfectly.

Therefore, while it would be an expensive transfer to get over the line, Levy and Co should do what they can to bring the Brazilian to N17 before the window slams shut on Friday night.

Watch out Son: Spurs have discussed signing £34m forward before Friday

The experienced international would be an incredible signing.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Aug 27, 2024

Despite a slight stumble against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday that wasn't entirely their own fault, Arsenal have started their Premier League campaign in reasonably impressive form, beating Wolverhampton Wanderers and Aston Villa.

However, happenings off the pitch have been a little more mixed. While the signings of Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino certainly improve the squad, some fans feel they aren't enough, a feeling only compounded by the latter's recent injury.

That said, Edu Gaspar and Co did do one final piece of business on deadline day by bringing in Raheem Sterling on a season-long loan from Chelsea, which could prove to be a masterstroke if Mikel Arteta can coach the best back out of him like he did when the pair were at Manchester City.

Nevertheless, as exciting as the Englishman's arrival is, he's still worth considerably less than a previous deadline day signing when adjusted to 2024 money.

Sterling's move to Arsenal

It may have taken quite literally the entire summer, but Arsenal finally brought in some attacking reinforcements in the shape of Sterling in what feels like more of an opportunity signing than one planned out months in advance.

That said, the reason why Edu and Co decided to bring in the Englishman no longer matters, and while there may be some detractors out there, bringing the former City ace to the Emirates for a season-long loan feels like a great bit of business.

For example, at his best, the 29-year-old is a force of nature, and his time at the Etihad, in which he scored 131 goals and provided 73 assists in 339 games, is a testament to that.

Appearances

129

339

81

Goals

23

131

19

Assists

18

73

12

Goal Involvements per Match

0.31

0.60

0.38

Moreover, while he hasn't been at his electric best in West London over the last couple of seasons, he has still been relatively effective and perhaps a little more impactful than people have given him credit for.

For example, in 43 appearances for the Blues last season, he scored ten goals and provided eight assists, equating to an impressive average of a goal involvement every 2.38 games.

Sterling is not going to win Arsenal the league, but he is certainly a brilliant addition to Arteta's squad. However, he's not the most valuable deadline-day signing the club have made; that title belongs to someone else.

Mesut Özil's valuation in 2024

Yes, the player in question is former Arsenal star Mesut Özil, who famously joined the club from Real Madrid for around £42m on deadline day 2013.

Now, the German's fee is already more than Sterling's recent valuation of €46m – £39m – from Football Transfers, but it is significantly more when we adjust the fee for the rapid inflation football has experienced in the 11 years since the transfer has happened, and we can do that thanks to the clever people at Totally Money.

They have worked out that in today's market, the Gunners would have paid a fee in the region of £77.5m for the former Real star's services, which would make him the club's second most expensive signing of all time, behind only Declan Rice, and while that's a massive amount of money, he still would have been worth it.

For example, while his time in North London did eventually come to a rather unsavoury end, when he was at his best, the Gelsenkirchen-born midfielder was a simply mesmerizing footballer to watch and undoubtedly one of the best passers in the game.

During his time with the Gunners, the "fantastic" ten, as dubbed by Ian Wright, scored 44 goals and provided 75 assists in just 254 appearances, meaning he averaged a goal involvement every 2.13 games for what was, at the time, a fairly average side.

Moreover, he helped the club end their eight-year trophy drought with the 2014 FA Cup and left the club with three more under his belt, along with two Community Shields to boot.

Ultimately, while he didn't quite achieve everything fans were hoping he would at Arsenal, Ozil will go down as one of the club's most gifted players in recent history and quite possibly their best deadline-day signing ever.

Arsenal sold amazing star for £540k, now he's worth far more than Sterling

The talented attacker would be a valuable squad player for Arteta.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Sep 3, 2024