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West Ham United has made the headlines this week as the club nears the completion of signing James Ward-Prowse and Harry Maguire, as per the Guardian.

The latter is set to be signed from Manchester United for around £30m, with David Moyes leading the charge to sign the Englishman.

Another defensive target that has been linked to the London Stadium in recent weeks is Perr Schuurs.

What’s the latest on Perr Schuurs to West Ham?

According to Calciomercato.com, an offer of €40m (£34m) would be for Torino to sanction his exit.

Read the latest West Ham transfer news HERE…

Alongside the Hammers, Crystal Palace and Liverpool are also keenly tracking the centre-back, who could be set to leave Italy this summer.

Would Perr Schuurs be a good signing for West Ham?

Last season, across 30 appearances for Torino, Schuurs managed 88% pass accuracy, averaged 3.2 clearances and 1.7 tackles per game, won over half of his duels, and didn’t make any errors leading to a shot or a goal.

Moreover, the Dutch, labelled as “dominant” by journalist Josh Bunting, also ranks impressively across the continent, sitting within the best 20% for tackles per 90, as well as the highest 19% for successful take-ons per 90.

The 6 foot 3 titan has previously been described as a “great Dutch talent” by Marc Overmars and after spending five years playing for Ajax and Torino, he looks ready to make the next step in his career.

Meanwhile, after building up a commendable reputation at Leicester City that eventually prompted Man United to spend £80m has unravelled into disaster.

Since Erik ten Hag’s arrival, the Englishman has fallen behind in the pecking order to Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, and Victor Lindelof, with the manager even opting to play Luke Shaw as a centre-back on eleven occasions.

It is a damning indictment of how Maguire’s reputation has brutally crumbled and the decision to strip the underperforming defender of captaincy, in favour of the indomitable Bruno Fernandes, is indicative of his sudden decline.

Former Premier League player Paul Parker underlined the 30-year-old’s poor form earlier in the year, saying:

"Harry Maguire is not able to hold a line. He can’t do that. He wants to defend deep, which is why he ideally should move to a club that is playing with a deep line. Of course, he can't play for a club in the top 10. He might be able to play for one of the teams below that if they are defending deep. He can’t play for a progressive team.”

Parker’s point is particularly relevant to this debate as Moyes and ten Hag have vastly different philosophies, and with less pressure to play out from the back and occupying a deeper line, Maguire could be far more suited to East London.

However, in English football, he has been so regularly scrutinised that every mistake he makes is heightened to the maximum.

After winning the Europa Conference League in June, West Ham will compete in European football for a third consecutive season, and tasking Maguire with performing consistently on multiple fronts for a team looking to get back into the top half is a questionable strategy.

In Schuurs, the Irons could rely upon a more dynamic, composed, and confident asset, who comes to the Premier League with a fresh and exciting slate.

Chelsea have “verbally agreed” personal terms with Ajax attacking midfielder Mohammed Kudus over a potential switch to Stamford Bridge, according to reliable journalist Rudy Galetti.

Is Mohammed Kudus leaving Ajax?

The Ghana international still has another two years remaining on his contract at the Johan Cruyff Arena, but with Mauricio Pochettino’s side having "registered their interest" in securing his services, which will cost them £40m, there’s a chance he could be on his way out.

The Independent’s Miguel Delaney previously reported that the Blues are currently ahead of Arsenal, who also hold an interest, in the race for the 22-year-old as a result of having a more convincing package on offer to their target, and chiefs appear eager to wrap up a deal as quickly as possible to avoid any potential hijack from their rivals in the Premier League.

Read The Latest Chelsea Transfer News HERE…

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano claimed that Todd Boehly and Co have spoken to the central talisman’s camp to “ask about the conditions of the deal” and are “informed” on what it would take to get the move over the line, something which seems to be edging ever closer if the following update is to be believed.

Are Chelsea signing Mohammed Kudus?

Taking to Twitter, Galetti revealed that Chelsea have been given the green light to sign Kudus on the player’s side and are now simply waiting for the two parties to complete the remainder of the deal. He wrote:

“#Chelsea had first contacts with #Ajax for Mohammed #Kudus. Understand that #CFC have verbally agreed the personal terms with the player: now it’s up to clubs to find an agreement. Other 2 [English] teams have showed a concrete interest in him: evolving situation.”

In the Eredivisie last season, Kudus posted 15 goal contributions (11 goals and four assists) in 30 appearances which is an impressive return for an attacking midfielder, and there’s no doubting that it could prove to be a massive coup should he seal a move to Chelsea.

The Supernova Management client also ranked in the 99th percentile for successful take-ons and pass completion, showing that he loves to dribble past his marker and link up the play with his fellow peers in and around the opposition’s area to try and create as many chances as possible.

Ajax’s “unpredictable” star, as lauded by teammate Steven Berghuis, also has the flexibility to operate in three roles in the centre of the park, out wide on the right wing and even up top as a striker so he would add excellent versatility to Pochettino's ranks and be a great option for the boss to have at his disposal.

According to Sky Sports, Chelsea are believed to have agreed a deal to sign Rennes midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu, but with the boss having not yet decided whether to utilise him immediately or send him out on loan, Kudus coming in may not make a difference, so it’s likely that he could be the next to follow in the 19-year-old’s footsteps by writing on the dotted line in the near future.

Liverpool have been linked with a move for Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti, and the player himself has given the green light to a potential move.

Do Liverpool want to sign Marco Verratti?

The Reds and Jurgen Klopp have already brought in two new midfielders this summer in Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai from Brighton and RB Leipzig.

However, a number of midfielders have departed Anfield such as James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Naby Keita after their contracts came to an end. Jordan Henderson has also left to join Steven Gerrard in Saudi Arabia, and Fabinho could well follow suit, leaving Liverpool on the search for another midfield signing.

Southampton’s Romeo Lavia appears to be one of the top targets on Merseyside, with the Reds even having an opening £40m offer turned down. Reporter James Pearce has said that an improved offer is being prepared, but it looks as if Verratti is another player of interest ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

Paisley Gates relayed an update from Spain in the last 48 hours regarding Verratti, who wants to leave PSG and has contacted many 'top' clubs.

La Liga sides Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid are named in the report, as are Liverpool. It is believed that Verratti has very quickly agreed to move to Anfield by giving the ‘OK’, should the two sides agree on a fee, with Klopp also happy with a potential move.

However, since then, Fabrizio Romano has reported that the midfielder is also attracting interest from Saudi Arabia, with PSG wanting more than €30m to sell the Italian.

How good is Marco Verratti?

Verratti has been on the books with PSG since 2012 after leaving Italian side Pescara. In total, the 30-year-old has made 416 senior appearances for the French giants as a central or holding midfielder.

The Italy international has won nine Ligue 1 titles, nine French Super Cups, six French League Cups and six French Cups during his time in Paris. Hailed as "extraordinary" by Thomas Tuchel, the former PSG boss also described Verratti as "one of the best midfielders in the world".

"As I often said, Marco is very important. He's a key player. He's one of the best midfielders in the world.

"There is always room for improvement but he's highly reliable. He has loads of responsibilities inside the group. He always thinks about others and their happiness. He's a team player. Coaching Marco is the best that can happen to a coach."

Verratti has shown that he is still one of the best around over the past 12 months. As per FBref, the £238,000-a-week star has ranked in the top 1% of midfielders in a whopping 10 passing statistics, including passes attempted and completed.

Off the ball, Verratti even ranks in the top 3% for tackles won and dribblers challenged, which shows how he could be a shrewd addition to Klopp’s side. However, with a move to Saudi Arabia being spoken about, the Reds may need to make their move quickly, especially with the player himself being keen on moving to Anfield.

Celtic’s move for Maik Nawrocki is on the verge of being completed, according to an update from reliable reporter Mark Hendry, sharing an update on Saturday morning.

Who have Celtic signed in 2023?

The Hoops have enjoyed a fairly productive summer transfer window so far, with Norwegian prospect Odin Thiago Holm, exciting attacker Hyun-jun Yang, Aussie star Marco Tilio and midfield enforcer Tomoki Iwata all arriving through the doors at Parkhead to work under new boss Brendan Rodgers.

There is still plenty of work to be done to tailor the squad to the returning manager’s liking though, especially after Ange Postecoglou’s star man, Jota, left to join Al Ittihad in a record departure worth close to €30m (£26m).

A centre-back looks to be next up on the agenda, with reports emerging late last week that the Bhoys board have lined up a move for Nawrocki, a promising 22 year-old Poland youth international who currently plies his trade for Ekstraklasa club Legia Warsaw.

Reports in the player’s homeland broke the news that Celtic had “entered the game” for the youngster and would compete with Turkish Super Lig club Galatasaray for his signature, and it appears the Parkhead outfit have now won the race.

Taking to Twitter from Japan on Saturday, where the Hoops were in action against Gamba Osaka, Football Scotland’s Hendry said: “Nawrocki is in the UK to do medical tests and sort out his contract details with fine tooth comb. Expect real (deal*) to be completed soon.”

Is Maik Nawrocki good?

Celtic fans can be forgiven for not knowing much about their imminent new arrival, but the 6 foot 2 ace certainly looks like a player with real potential. He's been in the Polish top flight since he was 19, starting with Warta Poznan before moving to Warsaw.

His first season in the capital didn’t exactly go to plan, as one of the country’s biggest clubs slumped to 10th in the final league standings, but he did manage 18 starts in the top flight, forcing his way in as a regular feature in the first XI.

His second campaign with the club – this season just finished – Nawrocki started 23 games in the league as they shot up to a second place finish, and he actually proved to be a consistent source of end product from set pieces too, scoring four times and providing one assist to boot, averaging a direct goal contribution one out of every five lots of 90 minutes, an impressive rate for a centre-back.

The youngster has yet to make his mark on the senior national team setup. He has been able to break into the fold for their Under-21 side though, making his debut for them in 2021 having already featured at various youth levels for the Under-15, 16, 17, 18 and 19 sides, so one would have to assume it’s only a matter of time before that progression leads him into the senior set-up.

What probably appeals most to Rodgers is the defender’s versatility, as not only is he equally comfortable on either side at centre-back, but he can also function as a full-back or even further ahead in defensive midfield, which likely reminds the boss of another towering player he had at his disposal during his last stay in Glasgow, Brentford’s Kristoffer Ajer.

Everton may be plotting a move for Boulaye Dia if they can shift Neal Maupay to Serie A.

What’s the latest on Boulaye Dia to Everton?

According to Gazzetta dello Sport (via Sport Witness), Salernitana are interested in a move for Maupay, which could open up the possibility for both clubs to do business given the Toffees' interest in the Senegalese.

It is understood that Dia has a release clause of around €25m (£22m), but a deal could be made simpler if it involved a player plus cash.

The report details that Maupay is looking for a change of scenery and is open to a move to Italy.

Football Insider revealed that a new number nine is a key priority for Sean Dyche, with the Toffees scoring the second-lowest number of goals in the league last season.

Would Boulaye Dia be a good signing for Everton?

Described as “incredible” by journalist Josh Bunting, Dia has enjoyed a phenomenal season in Italy. In 27 Serie A starts, the 2022 African Cup of Nations winner bagged 22 goal contributions.

This impressive record meant he was the division’s third-highest scorer, despite playing for Salernitana, who finished in 15th position. This potency meant he netted more than the likes of Dusan Vlahovic, Romelu Lukaku and Olivier Giroud at a commendable rate of 0.57 goals per 90.

Dia is probably not especially popular across Campagna, as his fizzing left-footed strike stalled Napoli’s title celebrations as he earned his side a 1-1 draw. In that affair at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, the forward recorded 3/3 successful dribbles, won five ground duels, managed 81% accuracy, and of course netted that stunning equaliser.

Across the continent, the 25-cap international has also tremendously excelled, ranking within the best 22% for successful take-ons, pass completion, assists and non-penalty goals per 90.

This signing could finally give Dwight McNeil someone to constantly look out for. Last season in the Premier League, the winger averaged the most dribbles per game (1.5) and the second-most key passes per game (1.4) in the Everton squad to show is an instrumental figure within offensive sequences.

Furthermore, the former Burnley livewire created the second-most chances in the squad, with 48 made in 39 outings, and was also the top goalscorer with seven goals.

Back in 2019, Dyche tipped the “outstanding” attacker to have a huge future, saying: “That young man's got a massive chance of being a top, top player in my opinion.

"He continues to grow. Every time I wonder whether I should leave him out, I think, 'No, keep the boy playing'. It's good for him and it's good for us.

"If he keeps his head down and keeps working like he is doing, he's got a massive future."

You can argue that Dyche’s prophecy has been somewhat fulfilled as McNeil now finds himself as one of Everton’s most important performers. His two goals in the unexpectedly emphatic 5-1 win over Brighton in the latter stages of the season were one of the principal reasons for the Merseyside outfit’s survival.

Therefore, the possible arrival of Dia would take the goalscoring burden off McNeil, whilst also drastically improving the Toffees' current striking options.

Aston Villa are reportedly eyeing Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho, as links re-emerge between player and club.

Unai Emery and Monchi are aiming to build upon their first summer signings of Youri Tielemans and Pau Torres, marking a statement of intent ahead of the eagerly anticipated 2023/24 campaign.

Could Aston Villa sign Jadon Sancho?

Last month, FootballTransfers reported that Villa were one of the clubs ‘keen’ on signing Sancho, who could leave United this summer.

An updated stance coming this week via GIVEMESPORT relayed the news, recharging the spark that the Villans could secure the talented Englishman’s signature.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, journalist Rudy Galetti named the 23-year-old as one of the “many names” on Emery’s list to “strengthen the wing”, adding that the club have “asked for information” on the forward.

Potentially available in a swoop worth £50m, according to other reports, Monchi and Emery could highlight Villa’s ambitions going forward in signing the Londoner.

How good is Jadon Sancho?

In a move that was so highly anticipated, the Englishman has struggled to seek his form on display in Germany at Old Trafford.

In 79 total appearances so far for the Red Devils, Sancho has recorded 18 goal contributions, highlighting his difficulty in finding his feet on his return to Manchester.

It’s been a challenging period both on and off the pitch for the 23-year-old, who has come under intense scrutiny for his inconsistent form, however a move this summer could give the dynamic whiz a chance to breathe and re-capture his true ability.

Hailed as a “phenomenon” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, the former Manchester City academy starlet was electrifying when adorning the yellow of Borussia Dortmund, making a monstrous 114 goal contributions in 137 appearances for the club.

Such talent doesn’t simply disappear, and in signing Sancho, Emery could nurture and promote the skill of the England international, giving him a licence to roam in his free-flowing attack.

Being one of the most talked about English talents for his time in Germany, Villa could capture a marquee deal if they can strike a deal with United for the winger, who could bring stardom back to Villa Park in a way many have seen before.

Likened statistically to former Villa hero Jack Grealish by FBref, Emery could unearth his own copy of the treble winner, in the bid to take the club further up the ranks.

Similarly to the Birmingham-born gem – who was described as "almost unplayable" by BT Sport pundit Rio Ferdinand earlier this year – Sancho is a clever player for his exploits on the flank, seeing him hailed for his “explosiveness” when in possession by U23 scout Antonio Mango.

Such praise is supported by his numbers, averaging 4.62 progressive carries per 90 over the past year, excelling in a similar way to Grealish who averaged a monstrous 7.08 per 90 in his final season at Villa.

The 23-year-old also averaged an impressive 1.86 successful take-ons per 90, and exercised his impressive creative attributes with an average of 2.30 key passes per 90 in the league last season, with the City ace enjoying a similar record having averaged 1.97 successful take-ons per 90 and 2.19 key passes per 90.

Those of a Villa persuasion are no doubt fully aware of what the 27-year-old is able to produce, having registered 75 goal involvements in 213 games during his time with the Midlands side, prior to leaving for the Etihad on a £100m deal in 2021.

Hiring a player in the calibre of Grealish, could be fundamental to the progression of success at Villa Park, with Sancho able to unlocked and rejuvenated under the watchful eye of Emery.

It’s easier to say who hasn’t made the move to Saudi Arabia these days rather than those who have, such is the high number of stars opting for the big-money transfer, rather than remaining in Europe.We’ve seen Karim Benzema make the switch, with N’Golo Kante joining him. Meanwhile, many other Chelsea stars also jumped ship to swap Stamford Bridge for Saudi Arabia.Players in their prime have even been making the move, too. Ruben Neves ended his time at Wolverhampton Wanderers, before Celtic star Jota also made a similar move, despite still only being 24.And it seems as though Paul Pogba could potentially be about to follow suit, in what would be one of the biggest transfers yet. After all, the Frenchman was pictured in Saudi Arabia recently sparking a great deal of speculation.

What’s the latest on Paul Pogba and Juventus?

Playing for Juventus right now isn’t exactly the easiest of rides. The Italian giants were handed a point deduction in Serie A last season after Financial Fair Play issues, placing them in a Europa Conference League spot. And if things couldn’t get any worse, they were then kicked out of that spot altogether, forced to settle for a campaign without European football.

As for Pogba, he endured arguably his most frustrating season yet as a player. This comes from a midfielder who had a spell to forget at Manchester United, too.

The France international is yet to really get going at Juventus, in truth. Every time it looked like he might last season, an injury occurred. In total, in the last campaign, he missed 52 games. That is, give or take, the entire season.

For a player who was meant to find his feet again after leaving Old Trafford, it’s not exactly an ideal situation.

From Pogba’s perspective, too, not getting any younger, his ambition may not lie at a club without European football. After failing to ever make an impact at United, he will not want to waste any more time in what once looked like a career destined for greatness.

With that in mind, his next career step is certainly something to keep an eye on this summer.

Paul Pogba pictured in Saudi Arabia

Sparking even more rumours about his future in Italy, Pogba recently took to Instagram to post pictures in Saudi Arabia. With that, many jumped to the conclusion that a transfer could be possible this summer – while a video also emerged of him.

As per Fabrizio Romano, however, sources close to the 30-year-old have since poured cold water on the rumours of a potential move this summer.

The journalist explained: “Paul Pogba on Instagram after links with Saudi clubs — already denied by several sources close to Paul tonight.”

Of course, things can change quickly in football and it would be unwise to rule out a Saudi move just yet.

Even so, with that said, it looks as though Pogba is set to remain a Juventus player for the time being. No doubt, the focus will instantly turn to regaining their Champions League place next season, and potentially winning the Scudetto once more.

It’ll be far from easy, though, given last season’s struggles alongside the chaos off the pitch, culminating in a deduction of points. All in all, for Pogba and Juventus, it was a season to forget so it’s no shock it had led to a summer of uncertainty and speculation.

Southampton are “looking at a deal” for Leicester City midfielder Hamza Choudhury, who spent last season on loan at Watford, according to reports.

Who will Southampton sign this summer?

So far, there has been very little in the way of transfer activity at St. Mary’s, which is hardly surprising given their relegtion from the Premier League and loss of finances that come with it.

The Saints have an almighty task to bounce back at the first time of asking, though major clubs from the top flight are reportedly looking to steal away some of their best squad members.

Midfielder James Ward-Prowse, who starred as Southampton’s arguable best player last season, is attracting interest from the likes of Fulham and West Ham with the Englishman also open to leaving.

Meanwhile, other big sides are chasing Belgium international starlet Romeo Lavia, with Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool all linked to the 19-year-old recently.

Mislav Orsic has since departed on a transfer to Trabzonspor, while Mohamed Elyounoussi and Theo Walcott left the club on Bosman deals following their contract expiries.

Given Russell Martin could see some stars depart this summer, supporters will be eager to hear news of any potential incomings, with The Telegraph now sharing it.

Reliable journalists Mike McGrath and John Percy, writing for the outlet, claim Southampton are “looking at a deal” for Leicester’s Choudhury.

The Englishman, who was a regular on loan at Watford last season, could be allowed to leave the King Power but that final decision ultimately rests with Enzo Maresca.

Not much else is said in regards to Choudhury, but it appears Martin and co do have a few transfer targets in mind this summer.

What’s been said about Hamza Choudhury?

The 25-year-old was practically undroppable for Watford last campaign, playing the fourth-highest number of Championship minutes for them (WhoScored).

In that time, no other Hornets star made more tackles or interceptions per 90 than Choudhury, with the defensive midfielder proving to be a rock in front of Watford’s back four (WhoScored).

The former England Under-21 international has also been praised by members of the press, with Ben Jacobs calling him an “all-action” midfielder.

Commenting on Choudhury’s previous links with Newcastle, the reporter lauded his “tremendous vision”.

Arsenal are reportedly eyeing PSV sensation Xavi Simons, as Mikel Arteta seeks upgrades to his squad ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.

The Spaniard enjoyed a title-challenging season with the Gunners, however, it will be a transfer window objective to equip the tools necessary to close the gap on Manchester City.

In bolstering his side with a player as talented as Simons, Arteta could build something special this summer.

Indeed, with Kai Havertz now confirmed as a Gunner, the Emirates may see a new dawn of talent in the squad especially if rumours regarding Simons’ future are to be believed.

As reported by French outlet L’Equipe – relayed by Get French Football News – earlier this week, the Dutchman is ‘against’ a reunion with Paris Saint Germain despite the club potentially wanting to exercise their €6m buy-back clause.

It’s stated that the 20-year-old is ‘leaning towards a new challenge’, with Arsenal named as one of the clubs aiming to snatch the midfielder.

Most prominently, the report adds that the PSV star could choose his destination, as long as the €6m (£5m) buy-back fee is matched, making him a huge bargain with his estimated valuation being €60m (£52m).

What could Xavi Simons offer to Arsenal?

Hailed as “innovative” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, the graduate from La Masia could excel in Arteta’s side, particularly with other speculated arrivals in mind.

While Arsenal’s ploy for Havertz is complete, Simons remains as speculation, but the Gunners could form a partnership for the ages by equipping both in midfield.

The German was predominantly played as a forward at Chelsea, however, excelled in the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen when occupying the number eight and ten roles.

In four seasons, the 24-year-old established himself as a key player for Die Werkself and contributed 61 goals and assists before heading to the Premier League.

Arteta could unlock the player that shone as one of Germany’s best by playing him in the middle of the park, with his attributes suggesting that he could have a perfect partner in an individual as similarly versatile as Simons.

Capable of playing central and on the flanks, the 20-year-old netted a monstrous 19 goals and registered nine assists in Eredivisie last campaign, showing his innate ability in the final third from midfield.

When comparing his blockbuster season to Havertz’s final term in the Bundesliga, via FBref, it’s clear to see the impact the two could have by playing in a midfield pivot as both flex strengths in areas key to progressing in Arteta’s set-up.

Last campaign, Simons averaged highly in terms of progressive play, averaging 4.82 progressive passes and 4.75 progressive carries per 90, numbers that are almost mirrored by Havertz back in the 2019/20 season.

The Aachen-born star scored an average of 5.10 progressive passes and 4.36 progressive carries, showing his capabilities in playing slightly deeper than the role he’s accustomed to in England.

Both players possess the ability to get among the goals, not just highlighted by their individual tallies in the respective campaigns, but their off-ball efforts.

Simmons averaged 7.93 progressive passes received this season, while Havertz received a monstrous 9.17 for Leverkusen, communicating how potent they could be at the Emirates, as per FBref.

Such numbers are expected of midfielders in Arteta’s side, with high-scoring skipper Martin Odegaard ending the season with an average of 5.55 progressive passes received and 2.39 progressive carries, via FBref, indicating that the duo could slot perfectly into the Spaniard’s system.

The summer is about adding significant depth to Arsenal, which Arteta and Edu could do by signing Simons, who would be a perfect addition to the midfield.

Manchester City confirmed on Monday that central midfielder Ilkay Gundogan is set to depart the club on a free transfer at the end of the month to join Barcelona.

The 32-year-old dynamo is poised to end his seven-year spell at The Etihad after 304 competitive appearances and 14 trophies won, with three of those coming in the season just gone.

Who could replace Ilkay Gundogan at Man City?

TEAMtalk revealed earlier this month that the Citizens are one of three Premier League teams to have shown an interest in signing Real Madrid central midfielder Federico Valverde.

Liverpool and Chelsea are also said to be in the mix for his signature. However, it is claimed that the player, who is valued at €65.9m (£57m) by Football Transfers, is not currently keen on a move and the Spanish giants are in no rush to cash in on him.

Pep Guardiola must now attempt to convince the Uruguay international to ditch Los Blancos as the Spanish head coach could forget about Gundogan by securing the Real ace's services this summer.

Valverde, who was once hailed as "untouchable" by boss Carlo Ancelotti, averaged a Sofascore rating of 7.25 across 34 LaLiga outings, which would place him seventh in the City squad – ahead of the likes of Gundogan, Phil Foden, Riyad Mahrez, and John Stones.

He also contributed with seven goals and four assists from the middle of the park, whilst he also created eight 'big chances' for his teammates.

Gundogan, meanwhile, averaged a Sofascore rating of 7.08 across 31 Premier League matches and chipped in with eight goals and four assists to go along with six 'big chances' created.

As you can see in the graphic above, as provided by Opta, the pair have a similarity score of 80.7%. Indeed, they are both excellent contributors in possession but are not particularly active in the defensive side of the game.

Both players rank in the top 8% of midfielders in the Men's Big Five Leagues and European competitions for non-penalty expected goals and expected assiststed goals combined per 90 over the last 365 days, which essentially means they are adept at getting into excellent scoring positions and are capable of providing their fellow attackers with high-quality chances to score from.

This is backed up by their aforementioned statistics in their respective leagues as they are both capable of being difference-makers in the final third by bursting from midfield to win games with goals and assists.

Valverde, whose number one player comparison on FBref is Gundogan, would be an exceptional replacement for the Barcelona-bound general as the £135k-per-week ace is a midfielder who has proven himself to be capable of making a huge impact at the top end of the pitch.

At the age of 24, the Real Madrid star would also arrive at Manchester City with plenty of time to improve and develop and would, therefore, be a long-term signing to take Gundogan's place. That would no doubt be perfect for Guardiola as it would give him time to work with the midfielder in order to implement his ideas.