All posts by z3u9t.icu

Celtic need to add to their options in the wide areas before the summer transfer window officially slams shut for business at the start of September.

The Hoops have sold Nicolas Kuhn to Italian side Como and have lost Jota to a long-term injury in the last few months, and they are yet to replace either of them.

The pair combined for 17 goals and 11 assists in 43 games in the Scottish Premiership during the 2024/25 campaign, which shows how much quality Brendan Rodgers has lost from his side.

Jota could be out until February of next year with a knee injury and this means that the Hoops are particularly light on the left wing, especially if Rodgers wants to use Daizen Maeda through the middle.

Celtic have reportedly identified Royal Antwerp winger Michel-Ange Balikwisha as one of their top targets to come in to bolster their options on the flanks, and are in talks over a deal to sign him.

However, the Belgian side are currently sticking to their £5m valuation of the forward and it remains to be seen if an agreement can be reached.

What Michel-Ange Balikwisha could bring to Celtic

If the Scottish Premiership champions are able to get a deal over the line for the 24-year-old winger, Rodgers could have a very capable deputy for Jota until the Portuguese star returns next year.

Balikwisha played 90 minutes against USG in the opening game of the Pro League season on Saturday, creating one ‘big chance’ but failing to score or assist a goal in a 1-1 draw.

The Belgian whiz scored four goals and provided three assists in 17 appearances in all competitions during the 2024/25 campaign, and delivered ten goals and six assists in 42 outings in the previous season for Royal Antwerp.

These statistics suggest that Balikwisha could bring a decent threat as both a scorer and a creator of goals to Celtic, although he has yet to prove that he can score or assist goals at an exceptional rate as of yet.

24/25

3

205

29

23/24

1

49

10

22/23

2

103

14

21/22

2

51

10

However, as you can see in the table above, the £5m-rated star’s injury history over the last four seasons is a bit of a concern, as he has missed at least ten games through injury in all four years.

The Hoops must weigh up his potential quality on the pitch against the possibility that he could miss a lot of games through injury during the season.

That is why they may also look at alternative options if Royal Antwerp do not budge on their valuation of the forward, amid a reported interest in another left-sided attacker.

Celtic have long-term interest in Norwegian star

According to the Daily Record, Celtic maintain a long-term interest in talented Sarpsborg winger Sondre Orjasaeter, who they failed to sign in January.

The report claims that the Hoops were ‘close’ to signing the Norwegian star at the start of the year, but the 21-year-old whiz decided that he was not ready to make the step at that moment in time.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

It adds that Sarpsborg are currently looking for a fee of around £7m to part ways with the winger, who was the subject of a £4m offer from the Premiership champions in the January window.

The Daily Record states that Balikwisha is at the top of their shortlist of options to fill that left-wing spot, and reveals that Orjasaeter has fallen down the list, despite the club being long-term admirers of him.

Despite the current situation and where they sit on the club’s transfer priorities, Rodgers must now consider pushing for Celtic to swoop for Orjasaeter as he could be even better than Balikwisha.

Why Celtic should sign Sondre Orjasaeter

The Norway U21 international could be an even better signing for the club than the Belgian attacker for a host of reasons, not least because of his durability.

As per Transfermarkt, the Sarpsborg wonderkid has only missed two matches through injury in two-and-a-bit seasons at first-team level so far, which suggests that the Hoops could reasonably expect him to be available for selection week-in-week-out this season.

At the age of 21, the right-footed playmaker is also three years younger than Balikwisha and may, therefore, have more time left ahead of him to grow, develop, and increase in value, which may be why he would be worth the extra £2m that it could take to sign him.

Along with his durability and potential, Orjasaeter’s performances on the pitch in Norway suggest that he has the quality, particularly as a creator, to offer even more to the Hoops than Balikwisha could.

Appearances

41

49

Goals

6

11

Big chances created

23

13

Key passes per game

1.9

1.5

Assists

7

8

Dribbles completed per game

2.4

0.4

As you can see in the table above, the Norwegian talent has produced 29 goals and ‘big chances’ created in his last 41 league appearances for Sarpsborg, whilst the Belgian whiz has managed 24 in 49 games in his last two seasons in the Pro League.

These statistics suggest that Orjasaeter, who was once described as an “interesting” young prospect by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has the potential to offer even more of a threat in front of goal than Balikwisha, mainly as a creator.

The young whiz has been incredibly unlucky to only register seven assists in that time, as wasteful finishing from his teammates has let him down. In the 2025 campaign, for example, the Celtic target has only registered two assists from 11 ‘big chances’ created.

His vastly superior dribbling statistics also show that the £7m-rated star could be very useful when the Hoops need to transition up the pitch quickly, possibly in European matches where they are not expected to be as dominant in possession, as he can consistently dribble past opposition defenders.

This means that Orjasaeter could be more effective on the wing for Celtic in Champions League games, as a player who can drive the team up the pitch to gain territory.

Celtic can sign their next Engels in move for "elegant" £5m "orchestrator"

Celtic could land their next Arne Engels deal in a swoop to sign this £5m-rated talent.

ByDan Emery Jul 27, 2025

Overall, Celtic should consider swooping for the Norwegian youngster instead of Balikwisha because of his creative quality, his ball-carrying ability, his potential, and his durability.

Arsenal are reportedly about to win the race for another player, beating both Man City and Liverpool to the punch, with Mikel Arteta handed yet another transfer boost this summer after a plethora of major signings.

Arsenal could also terminate 23-year-old's contract after Takehiro Tomiyasu

He’s ready to accept an offer to leave.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Jul 16, 2025

The Premier League title hopefuls most recently sealed deals for both winger Noni Madueke, who joined the club in a £52 million transfer from Chelsea, and defender Cristhian Mosquera – after the Gunners shook hands with Valencia for the promising young defender.

They join Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard as Arsenal’s newest crop of players, with Mosquera boasting serious potential to keep both William Saliba and Gabriel on their toes next season, according to a former staff member at Valencia.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

25/26 – summer

£140m

“He is a player who has shown great potential in a short period of time,” he told Sky Sports.

“He became a very important for us and contributed a lot despite his age.

“He needs to work on some key aspects, like his decision-making. He is intense and aggressive in the way he defends but sometimes he needs to choose the right moments and understand when it would be better to drop back or hold his position.

“For a league like the Premier League, his aerial play isn’t a big strength, but he is quick on the cover, in defensive one-vs-ones and when running back towards his own goal.”

Arsenal are also on the verge of signing Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres after reaching a full agreement, and his medical could take place this week as the north Londoners iron out some final details (Florian Plettenberg).

Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze also remains a target for Arteta following talks with his representatives over the last fortnight, but according to The Sun, Arsenal are about to sign another forward.

Arsenal win race to sign Salford City striker Will Wright

Journalist Charlie Wyett, in a detailed piece for the outlet, claims Arsenal look to have won the race for Salford City striker Will Wright – after making the biggest offer for his signature.

Liverpool tabled a £100,000 bid for the 17-year-old in an attempt to lure him to Anfield, but Arsenal now hope they’ve sealed the transfer by submitting an offer worth £250,000 – plus “major add-ons”.

Man City also held an interest in the teenager, who played against them in Salford’s 8-0 FA Cup loss to the Blues last season, but it appears Arteta’s side are now poised to sign Wright.

The Englishman has been on fire in pre-season, scoring four goals in three games so far, but they could potentially be his last minutes for Salford as he closes in on a move to the Premier League.

He would initially link up with Arsenal’s Under-21s and develop in the academy before Arteta makes any decisions on first-team action, but he’s very “highly-rated” behind-the-scenes.

Since taking the job over five years ago, Mikel Arteta has helped to transform Arsenal.

He’s taken the club from one languishing in mid-table looking downwards to one that’s a genuine contender in every competition they take part in.

However, he has had to make numerous unpopular and difficult decisions during his tenure, such as terminating Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s contract in 2022.

It was the right thing to do, but it’s impossible to deny that the team could have used someone as prolific as he once was over the last few years, which could explain reports linking them to a certain attacker from the continent.

Arsenal target free-scoring forward

As things stand, this summer is shaping up to be quite exciting for Arsenal.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

The club have already announced the signings of Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard, Kepa Arrizabalaga and Noni Madueke.

Moreover, Spanish centre-back Cristhian Mosquera is set to be announced any day now, and Andrea Berta and Co seem to be finally nearing the end of their hunt for Viktor Gyokeres.

And yet, the Premier League runners-up don’t appear to be done yet, as they’re now looking at another prolific attacker from Europe, someone who could be Arteta’s new Aubameyang.

Yes, according to a recent report from TEAMtalk, Arsenal are one of several teams interested in Ademola Lookman.

The report has revealed that the Gunners have enquired about the player, who is also a target for Inter Milan.

While the competition could be a problem, the money involved is unlikely to be, with the report revealing that Atalanta want just £43m for their star attacker.

It’s still a sizable sum of money, but given Lookman’s ability and record, one worth paying, especially as he could be Arsenal’s new Auba.

Why Lookman could be Arteta's new Auba

While it might seem like an odd comparison to make, there are several similarities between Lookman and Aubameyang that make it easier to see how the former could be Arsenal’s new version of the latter.

The first couple, and certainly the most surface-level, are that the Nigerian international would be joining the Gunners from a team in one of Europe’s top five leagues and doing so at a similar point in his career.

When the Gabonese put pen to paper in North London, he was 28 years old, and in just over two months, the Atalanta ace will be as well.

The next similarity, which is more concrete, is that, like the former North Londoner, the 27-year-old star is more than capable of playing out wide or straight down the middle.

Likewise, during his time at the Emirates, the Laval-born goal machine spent a great deal of time playing off the left, as well as up top.

Finally, and this is the most critical comparison of them all, the London-born ace has become an output monster in recent seasons, just as the former captain was for most of his time in N5.

For example, across his 118 games for the Bergamo outfit, totalling 7538 minutes, the “world-class” attacker has scored 52 goals and provided 25 assists.

Appearances

33

45

40

Minutes

1858′

2809′

2871′

Goals

15

17

20

Assists

8

10

7

Goal Involvements per Match

0.69

0.60

0.67

Minutes per Goal Involvement

80.78′

104.03′

106.33

That means the 29-capped international has averaged a goal involvement every 1.53 games or every 97.89 minutes since joining the Serie A side.

For comparison’s sake, the former Arsenal star scored 92 goals and provided 21 assists in 163 appearances, totalling 12868 minutes during his time in red and white, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.44 games, or every 113.87 minutes.

Ultimately, they may not be exactly alike, but there are some undeniable similarities between Lookman and Aubameyang, and most crucially, the Nigerian superstar could have a similar impact at Arsenal that the Gabonese ace once had.

He's a dream for Xavi Simons: Arsenal expect to sign £55m star "soon"

Arsenal could seal a dream partnership by signing Xavi Simons and this centre-forward.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 21, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur’s rooted strategy in signing exciting young talents and developing them into high-class players capable of thriving in the Premier League preceded the glittery early days of Ange Postecoglou’s tenure.

But perhaps the Londoners lacked a bit of experience to help guide them through the stormy spells any season will bring. The lowly top-flight finish ended Postecoglou’s frenzied spell at the helm, a two-year stint that elicited every range of emotion from the Spurs faithful and culminated with triumph in the Europa League, thus restoring Tottenham’s place in the Champions League.

While the Lilywhites have created a foundation with their historic victory over Manchester United, it’s crucial that the secured silverware is used as a springboard for sustained success over the coming years.

In order to do this, Tottenham are going to need to hit the mark with their transfer priorities, piecing a team together that is fit for purpose at the highest level of the Premier League.

Spurs' transfer priorities this summer

Uncertainty continues to reign over Cristian Romero’s future in the English capital. The Argentina centre-back is being chased by Atletico Madrid, who are willing to spend around £60m to bring him over to La Liga.

Frank is desperate to keep hold of his defensive anchor. However, the Danish tactician does seem keen on bolstering his ranks with a slick attacking full-back – the £45m-rated Antonee Robinson is on the radar – and a winger to replace Heung-min Son, should the iconic captain leave.

While he wouldn’t have strictly been a direct replacement, the powers that be down at N17 were desperate to sign Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo as Tottenham’s new goalscoring winger supreme, but he’s rejected advances from all but United and is edging closer to a transfer to Old Trafford.

Midfield is in less need of reinforcements, but the pursuit of Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze denotes an interest in signing a creative midfielder to contest for a starting berth with the likes of James Maddison.

However, with Eze fixed in Arsenal’s sights, Daniel Levy seems to have shifted his attention elsewhere.

Spurs join race for sought-after midfielder

According to Caught Offside, Tottenham have joined the race for SL Benfica midfielder Orkun Kokcu, who is anticipated to be available this summer for the right price.

Kokcu would fetch a €40m (£34m) fee, having impressed across his two terms with Benfica. Spurs are alongside Manchester United, Tottenham and Inter Milan in their interest; however, the player is thought to favour a move to Premier League champions Liverpool.

The 24-year-old worked under Arne Slot at Feyenoord, but Frank’s new project, offering the promise of Champions League football, could see the Londoners sign an exciting new creative presence.

Why Spurs wants Orkun Kokcu

Kokcu is still young in his professional career, but he has already accomplished so much. Joining Benfica from Feyenoord for around €30m (£25m) in June 2023, he’s chalked up 19 goals and 22 assists over 98 appearances in all competitions.

Once heralded as “one of the best midfielders in the country” by football legend Jaap Stam, while plying his trade in Holland, Kokcu opted against taking a move to one of Europe’s elite and instead focused on fostering his talents with Benfica, now more complete for it.

And given that he’s been praised as a “leader” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, this rising star might turn out to be the galvanising midfield force to spearhead the Frank era.

Who knows, maybe he’ll even come to be an upgrade on Maddison.

Matches (starts)

33 (30)

31 (21)

Goals

7

9

Assists

7

7

Shots (on target)*

1.9 (0.7)

1.3 (0.5)

Big chances missed

2

5

Pass completion

86%

87%

Big chances created

12

6

Key passes*

2.3

1.3

Dribbles*

0.3

1.1

Ball recoveries*

5.6

2.5

Tackles + interceptions*

1.6

1.4

Duels won*

3.0 (47%)

4.3 (53%)

As you can see, Kokcu is more than capable of matching Maddison’s immense creative qualities – an aptitude which has indeed seen the England international hailed as a “magician” by the likes of statistician Statman Dave in the past.

Moreover, the 28-year-old playmaker’s two terms with Tottenham have been frustratingly defined by regular injury setbacks. Given that Kokcu is four years his junior, there’s plenty of scope for growth with Frank might want to take advantage of.

While Spurs’ man is somewhat more combative than Kokcu, the Turkey talent is even more creative and clinical besides. Indeed, having missed just two big chances in the Primeira Liga last season, scoring seven goals, he’s got the goalscoring edge that could be channelled in a similar fashion as his counterpart here.

And the proof is in the pudding, for Kokcu, indeed, has demonstrated his ability to stand out against high-level Premier League opposition.

While Maddison is an incredible, dynamic midfielder, he’s got his flaws, and in Kokcu, Tottenham could get their hands on a pass master with the ever-widening scope that is required for success at the highest level.

After all, he managed to throw down with the heavy hitters in last season’s Champions League, finishing the campaign ranked among the top 15% of midfielders for goals scored and shot-creating actions, the top 19% for progressive passes and the top 13% for completed through balls per 90, as per FBref.

Tottenham might not be able to sign one of their top targets in Eze, but by moving for Kokcu, Frank could get his hands on an astute signing who has so much room for growth – potentially even turning out better, more consistent, than Maddison.

Dele 2.0: Spurs open talks to re-sign the Championship's "best full-back"

Tottenham are looking to make some shrewd signings ahead of the 2025/26 season.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 4, 2025

As he attempts to rebuild a struggling Rangers side, Russell Martin could be dealt a double exit blow by Hamza Igamane and another key player this summer following a recent offer.

Lille open talks to sign Igamane

For all of Rangers’ struggles last season, they still had a number of standouts and the biggest one of the lot was arguably Igamane. The talented 22-year-old ended the campaign with as many as 16 goals to his name in all competitions to accompany his three assists and would have undoubtedly been earmarked as an important player upon Martin’s arrival.

Such an impressive season was always going to attract interest from elsewhere, however, and Lille look destined to hand all involved at Ibrox the ultimate blow this summer.

Having paid out around £1m to sign Igamane just last summer, the Gers will at least make some impressive profit if Lille do go on to complete their move for the young forward this summer. But how they choose to spend that profit will be the big question.

Already this summer the Scottish giants have signed Lyall Cameron from Dundee United and welcomed Bournemouth’s Max Aarons on loan, but there’s still work to be done.

Dream Raskin replacement: Rangers to ramp up move for "exciting" £4m star

Rangers are ready to step up their pursuit of a star who could be a replacement for Nicolas Raskin.

ByDan Emery Jul 1, 2025

Rumours have mentioned the likes of Conor Coady and Metinho, who has been dubbed the “Brazilian Paul Pogba”, in two deals that would hand Martin a further boost. Once again though, those deals may not come without a significant blow on the exit front amid rumours that another key man is the subject of interest from a European side this summer.

Besiktas submit opening Diomande offer

According to Fussball Europa, Besiktas have now submitted an opening offer to sign Mohamed Diomande worth around €12m (£10m). Given that the Gers paid just over £4m to sign the midfielder last summer, that £10m seems unlikely to be accepted by those at Ibrox and Besiktas could be forced to go again.

Fan account Let’s Talk Rangers said that they “can’t see Rangers entertaining a sale at that fee” and Diomande’s importance to the Gers should prove them right.

The midfielder scored six goals and assisted another nine in all competitions to hand Rangers an unexpected boost going forward and one that they should be desperate to keep hold of if Igamane leaves for Lille.

Described as a “complete midfielder” by analyst John Walker, Diomande is only just getting started in a Rangers shirt. At just 23 years old, the Ivory Coast international is someone that Martin should build his midfield around and one who is certainly more than the £10m that Besiktas have reportedly offered.

As Igamane edges closer to the exit door, keeping hold of Diomande should sit among Rangers’ top priorities this summer.

Looking to get their summer transfer business underway, Aston Villa have now reportedly made contact to sign a £400,000-a-week defender ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season.

Where Aston Villa stand with PSR

Aston Villa’s biggest concern after missing out on Champions League qualification on the final day came off the pitch rather than in Unai Emery’s dressing room. After missing out, those in the Midlands could now have PSR problems on the horizon which force them to sell at least one key man this summer.

As a result, one name that could be heading for the exit door is Emiliano Martinez. The goalkeeper looked emotional in Aston Villa’s final home game of last season and rumours have since linked the Argentine goalkeeper with a move to Atletico Madrid. Martinez, however, is reportedly waiting for Manchester United this summer.

After they finished sixth to follow up their Champions League qualification in the season prior, there will be plenty of questions about the PSR rules from those at Villa Park, but before they get answers they must find solutions.

He's like Palmer: Aston Villa could have bid accepted for £30m "machine"

Unai Emery is targeting several high-profile players this summer

ByRoss Kilvington Jun 14, 2025

Football finance expert Kieran Maguire delivered an explanation as to how Aston Villa found themselves in hot water financially, saying on Sky Sports: “And remember, Villa have done very well in that competition (UCL). So that will be a plus. And they have sold some players as well, in both the last summer market and the January one.

“But I think there is still a perception that Villa will have to box clever. And of all of the clubs under pressure to sell players by June 30, I guess they’re the ones who are the club that gives the most attention because their spending in the last couple of years before getting into Europe was so extensive.”

Aston Villa make contact to sign Laporte

The Villans seem to be in a defiant mood, however, and could still spend to welcome incomings of their own this summer. According to Spanish newspaper AS via Sport Witness, Aston Villa now made contact to sign Aymeric Laporte from Al-Nassr in an attempt to beat Arsenal to the defender’s signature in the coming months.

The Gunners have also reportedly made contact, as have Athletic Club, Marseille and Inter Milan. In a hectic race, it’s Villa who will hope to swoop in and make an impressive statement by welcoming a five-time Premier League winner.

Signing Laporte won’t come cheap, given that he reportedly earns around £400,000-a-week at Al-Nassr, but he has made it no secret that adjusting to life in Saudi hasn’t been easy.

The experienced defender told reporters last year: “It’s a big change compared to Europe, but in the end it’s all adaptation. They haven’t made it easy for us. In fact, there are many players that are dissatisfied. They do look after us but not enough for my liking. That is to say, in Europe they pay you a good salary, but they take better care of you.”

Everton are in the market for a forward this summer and could now be narrowing down their options to replace Dominic Calvert-Lewin when he leaves the club, according to a report.

Everton's uncertain situation involving Dominic Calvert-Lewin

The Toffees are settling into life at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, but there is still a question mark hanging over whether a couple of their established stars will be at the club beyond this summer.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin is out of contract at Everton and looks poised to leave the club despite the offer of a new deal being on the table, which could spell the end to his long-standing status as their number one striker.

71 goals in 273 matches is a respectable record considering the Toffees’ close brushes with relegation over the past few years, with the Three Lions international becoming a reliable focal point due to his hold-up play and instinctual nature.

However, injury struggles and a stalemate in negotiations over Calvert-Lewin’s wages have made him a prime candidate to move on unless an immediate agreement can be found.

In turn, David Moyes has begun his search for a new striker to fill the void, and Villarreal forward Thierno Barry could join Everton for £34 million amid reports they are ready to meet his release clause.

Everton plotting last-gasp move to hijack free signing of Argentina international

The Toffees could steal in ahead of Crystal Palace.

ByTom Cunningham Jun 13, 2025

Rangers striker Hamza Igamane is also on the Toffees’ radar, albeit West Ham United, Brentford, Lens, RC Strasbourg, Lille, and Stade Rennais are also tracking him.

Competition will be high for targets on the market this summer, meaning Everton need to harness their appeal in light of a new dawn for the blue half of Merseyside.

Scouring the market, they have now found a Premier League striker who could be available to make a switch that would create nationwide headlines.

Everton enter the conversation for Brighton & Hove Albion forward Evan Ferguson

According to The Irish Times, Everton are interested in Brighton & Hove Albion forward Evan Ferguson and he may be allowed to leave the South Coast on a permanent deal this summer.

Once valued at around £55 million, an unfortunate period of injury has seen the Republic of Ireland striker’s stock fall; however, he is still only 20 years of age and remains highly regarded among his peers.

Evan Ferguson’s Premier League record – could Everton reignite his fortunes?

Appearances

68

Goals

13

Assists

3

Labelled an “amazing player” by Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister, he was most recently on loan at West Ham United and failed to register a goal in eight appearances.

Nevertheless, he was found on the periphery in East London, so it is hard to judge his impact based on the fact that he only completed 151 minutes of football under Graham Potter.

Continuous game time is critical for Ferguson to find his mojo again, and Everton could be the perfect environment in light of their need for depth in the forward areas.

With the Europa League final looming, there no doubt remains a number of selection calls to make for manager Ruben Amorim, with there likely to be few nailed-on starters in Bilbao, not least considering the club’s continued woes domestically.

One position that, unfortunately, almost picks itself is the centre-forward berth, with the Portuguese coach forced to select the struggling Rasmus Hojlund by default, considering the lack of alternatives.

Indeed, the Red Devils suffered the blow of losing Joshua Zirkzee for what looks to be the remainder of the campaign, with the Dutchman notably netting against Real Sociedad and Lyon in successive away trips.

Equally, the decision not to include 17-year-old starlet, Chido Obi, in the Europa League squad has now potentially backfired, thus leaving Hojlund as the only senior striker available in the competition.

With Chelsea – and then Aston Villa – to come in the Premier League, however, it would be worth Amorim experimenting with a different approach, with the 40-year-old potentially overlooking a potential solution in the academy ranks.

How Man Utd can replace Hojlund

With a trip to Stamford Bridge in store on Friday – just five days prior to next Wednesday’s crucial clash with Tottenham Hotspur – it may be a wise choice to take Hojlund out of the firing line, not least with the Dane against drawing a blank against West Ham United at the weekend.

Touches

31

Pass accuracy

9/15 (60%

Shots on target

2

Shots off target

4

Key passes

0

Successful dribbles

0/2

Big chances created

0

Big chances missed

2

Possession lost

13

Ground duels won

1/6

Aerial duels won

3/8

That alteration could potentially see young Obi thrown into the mix, albeit with the teenager still far from the finished article, having also failed to find the back of the net himself in seven first-team appearances this season.

Something of “a goal machine” at academy level, according to analyst Ben Mattinson, the former Arsenal ace has found the step up to life in the senior ranks far more difficult, with journalist Samuel Luckhurst noting that he looked like an ‘an underdeveloped 17-year-old boy among men’, following his first start in the 4-3 defeat to Brentford.

Even Amorim subsequently admitted that Obi had been “naive” with regard to the use of his body against the Bees, with that outing seeing him register just nine passes, while winning just two of his nine attempted duels.

As his absence from the Europa League roster explains, Obi is perhaps not yet truly ready to be leading the line for the first team, having arguably been thrown in too soon due to Hojlund’s woes.

Further options could lie in the form of Kobbie Mainoo in a false nine role, with Bruno Fernandes or Amad also potential solutions in that berth, yet Amorim may wish to consider looking elsewhere in the academy ranks for an in-house alternative.

Man Utd could be brewing Amorim's next Gyokeres

Amorim must be tearing his hair out at the lack of a consistent striker in Manchester. Back in Lisbon, meanwhile, Viktor Gyokeres continues to go from strength to strength for Sporting CP, having racked up 95 goals in just 100 games for the club to date.

66 of those strikes came in just 68 games under Amorim’s watch, following the Swede’s arrival from Coventry City in the summer of 2023, with it no surprise that there has been talk of a reunion at Old Trafford ahead of next term.

That said, the new United boss may already have a prolific, exciting attacking talent of his own who he can mould into his next Gyokeres, with 18-year-old, Victor Musa, currently shining in the youth set-up.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast’s In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

A towering centre-forward – in a similar mould to the 6 foot 2 Gyokeres – Musa has been a revelation this season at U18 level, having previously been hampered by injury last term.

Indeed, the promising marksman has scored 16 times in just 19 games at U18 Premier League level in 2024/25, with that return including a brutal six-goal haul in the 13-1 win over rivals Leeds United last month.

That outing showcased the full array of his striking potential, with Musa leading the line in superb fashion, having regularly cut in off the right flank with devastating effect, while also possessing a poacher’s instinct in the penalty box.

A player who can also operate on the flanks if required – much like Gyokeres has done in his career previously – the versatile talent is now even at the centre of a tussle between Spain and England regarding his international allegiance, having thus far featured for both nations at youth level.

There had been reports that he is even being deemed to be United’s own version of Barcelona superstar, Lamine Yamal, a further nod to just how highly-rated the left-footer is right now.

With Hojlund needing a rest and Obi still looking too raw, Musa could be worthy of his own chance to impress against the Blues, be it off the bench or with a surprise start in west London.

Amorim, either through the transfer market or with an in-house option, needs to find his next Gyokeres-esque attacking figurehead. Why not give Musa the chance to showcase why he could be a homegrown alternative to the Swedish monster?

A worse signing than Ugarte: Amorim must axe "horrendous" Man Utd flop

Man Utd are in need of reinforcements all across the park this summer

1 ByRobbie Walls May 12, 2025

Arsenal have reportedly made a pre-summer offer to sign a Barcelona star for Mikel Arteta, with the La Liga title contenders and their president, Joan Laporta, responding to their ambitious approach.

Arsenal set to sign new defender for Mikel Arteta this summer

According to reliable media sources, the Gunners are set to try and sign a new defender for Arteta this summer.

Berta now planning "surprise" Arsenal move to sign unsettled Brazil int'l

He’s had a terrific season.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 25, 2025

Kieran Tierney is set to join Celtic in July after agreeing a pre-summer contract in the January transfer window, while it is believed Oleksandr Zinchenko has been put on the transfer list by Arsenal after falling down Arteta’s pecking order.

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Southampton (away)

May 25th

Jakub Kiwior has started four of Arsenal’s last Premier League matches, as well as both Champions League quarter-final legs against Real Madrid, but this is only due to Gabriel Magalhaes being out for the rest of the season with a hamstring injury.

The Poland international has performed impressively in that time, but that hasn’t stopped Arsenal from looking at new options in that position ahead of the summer.

Arsenal are one of the contenders to sign Bournemouth starlet Dean Huijsen, as per David Ornstein, and have held talks with the Spaniard’s camp already – so it is unclear what the future would hold for Kiwior if he were to come in.

In any case, it is clear that the north Londoners are in the market for another centre-back, and it is also believed Arsenal could move to bring in another full-back as Tierney and Zinchenko head towards the exit door.

One player who could reinforce both positions with serious quality is £223,000-per-week Barcelona star Jules Koundé.

The France international has proved indispensable to Hansi Flick’s title favourites, playing more La Liga minutes than any other player in his Catalans squad, with only Raphinha, Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Dani Olmo averaging more key passes per 90 than him in the final third (WhoScored).

Kounde’s contributed excellently, both in an offensive and defensive sense, leaving little wonder why Arteta is a big admirer of the ex-Sevilla sensation.

Arsenal make pre-summer bid for Barcelona defender Jules Koundé

According to reports in Spain, as cited by Football 365, Arteta has become “obsessed” with Kounde following his excellent 2024/2025 – and Andrea Berta has made an early attempt to back Arsenal’s manager with a swoop for the 26-year-old.

It is believed Arsenal have made a pre-summer offer worth £55 million for Kounde, but Laporta has swiftly responded with a polite no, as the defender is seen as far too important to even consider selling.

It was always a tall order for Arsenal to tempt Barca into selling their star man, who can play both centrally and a full-back, but it is clear to see why they made a bold attempt to do so.

“I played against him in the Champions League,” said France international teammate Dayot Upamecano.

“He’s a confident player and I hope things continue that way. He’s also a leader and he’s beginning to have a lot of experience. I wish him all the best.”

Manchester United are set to axe a £65,000-a-week player this summer who Ruben Amorim called out in his first game in charge.

Man Utd and Amorim preparing for summer after another defeat

The Red Devils can still salvage their season by lifting the Europa League, however, it has been a disappointing campaign on the whole.

Last time out in the Premier League, Man Utd suffered a heavy 4-1 defeat to Newcastle United, with Amorim critical of his side making numerous mistakes.

Man Utd making moves to sign "incredible" assist king for bargain £20m fee

The Red Devils are in pursuit of a playmaker, who is set to leave his club on the cheap this summer.

ByDominic Lund Apr 15, 2025

“We did a lot of mistakes and they were better than us, stronger than us. Suffering the second goal in the beginning of the second half hurt us a lot and then we did mistakes during the game that helped Newcastle to win the game.

“It’s a team thing [and not about individuals]. We are doing a lot of mistakes in certain games that give confidence to the opponent, give goals, and then it’s hard to cope with everything. We had the first chance, we didn’t score, [then] they have their chance, they score. Then they took control of the game. We scored to draw but then second half, we were suffering in the second play of the game, it’s hard for our team and we did a lot of mistakes.”

Man Utd vs Lyon

April 17

Man Utd vs Wolves

April 20

Bournemouth vs Man Utd

April 27

Brentford vs Man Utd

May 4

Man Utd vs West Ham

May 10

One player who was dropped for the trip to St James’ Park was Andre Onana, and there have been plenty of rumours that the goalkeeper is unsettled at Old Trafford and looks set to be sold over the coming months.

There is interest from Saudi Arabia in Onana, whereas Man Utd are looking at replacements and have recently shown an interest in Anders goalkeeper Yahia Fofana.

More Old Trafford exits are on the cards, though, and Fabrizio Romano has shared another Man Utd exit update.

Jonny Evans set to leave Man Utd – Fabrizio Romano

As per transfer expert Romano, Man Utd defender Jonny Evans and third-choice keeper Tom Heaton are both set to depart the club this summer when their contracts expire.

Evans, on £65,000-a-week, returned to the Red Devils in 2023 and has made 42 appearances in all competitions under Erik ten Hag and Amorim in recent years.

Now 37 years of age, the experience centre-back started Amorim’s first game as United boss against Ipswich Town back in November.

That was actually Evans’ last top flight appearance for United, with Amorim critical of the defender after the 1-1 draw.

“If you see the first half, we were a little bit afraid. The No.5 [Sam Morsy] was always alone, we have to jump on him. Hutchinson was always in the dead space, Jonny Evans should be pressing his guy, but when we don’t have the training and it’s hard to see say all the reactions to the players. We had two days, they are confused a little bit. If you stay here, you don’t run, you defend but you don’t run.”

Now, it looks as if Evans will be one of a number of Old Trafford players to depart, something that won’t come as a huge surprise due to his age and contract status.