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Though Liverpool’s opening Premier League fixture against Bournemouth will have the undivided attention of the club’s supporters, the prospect of Alexander Isak leading the line will linger as an underlying thought in their minds.

The transfer saga has muttered and rumbled like faraway thunder this summer, with the hopes of welcoming “the best striker in the Premier League”, as Isak has been called by Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher, rising and falling over the weeks.

But with Hugo Ekitike having signed and already scored for Liverpool, the forthcoming fixture against the Cherries will be met with the confidence that Arne Slot’s side have the means to make it a successful start to their title defence, having won the league so confidently last year.

Isak isn’t the only one on FSG’s radar. Anfield’s summer transfer charge has been led by Richard Hughes, and Hughes has used his Italian connections to strike a stunning deal for Parma’s Giovanni Leoni, one of the most talented teenage centre-backs in Europe.

With a bid for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi ongoing, it feels like Liverpool’s work is almost done, but there’s actually a case to be made for another midfielder too.

Why Liverpool need a midfielder

Florian Wirtz might have been called “the best midfielder in the world” by former Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrick Helmes, but the German ten operates more within the cracks between the front and middle thirds, pulling strings and making stuff happen.

Liverpool must give some thought to those housed behind the German, the industrious pack at the heart of the engine.

Palace outfought Liverpool at Wembley, with Sofascore recording the Eagles to have won 60% of the ground battles. Ryan Gravenberch was absent and Alexis Mac Allister only played 19 minutes off the bench, but the disparity in steel and tenacity was clear.

Liverpool need someone to slot into the anchor and organise and tackle and promote the flow of the build-up play, someone to contrast with Gravenberch in the deep-lying position.

Well, that someone could be Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, with recent reports suggesting that the England international is a long-standing target at Liverpool.

However, Palace value Wharton in excess of £100m, and with Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and even Real Madrid all keen on signing the 22-year-old, FSG might want to use their channel of negotiation with Selhurst Park to their advantage, and put in the groundwork that would seal a stunning signing.

After all, Wharton is one of the biggest English talents out there, with enough potential to even outstrip his teammate Guehi.

What Adam Wharton would bring to Liverpool

In January 2023, Crystal Palace signed Wharton from Blackburn Rovers in the Championship, and he has since bloomed into one of the most exciting midfielders in English football.

Instrumental in helping Oliver Glasner’s side toward winning the FA Cup last season, before following that up with a commanding display over Liverpool during last week’s Community Shield, Wharton has been described as a “passing machine” by journalist Henry Winter.

The statistics back that up, no question there. FBref have recorded Wharton to rank among the top 9% of midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for progressive passes and the top 7% for shot-creating actions per 90, emphasising his ability to influence an attacking transition from deep and promote build-up play.

Given that Liverpool’s build-up fulcrum has retreated inward under Slot’s wing, with Klopp and now Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departures reorienting the playmaking focus to the middle lane, Wharton could be perfect for the Merseysiders, finding a role that would allow him to grow into one of the very best in the business, across the world, and become a superstar with the Reds.

In this way, Wharton might actually be a bigger talent than Guehi, especially as he’s nearly four years his countryman’s junior and is already being considered by teams like Liverpool and Real Madrid.

Considering how the Three Lions maestro compared to Slot’s centrepiece, Gravenberch, last season in the Premier League, it’s fair to suggest that a few years under Slot’s tutelage could see him settled as a world-class player, conducting not just as the heartbeat of Liverpool’s team but the England Men’s side too.

Games (starts)

20 (16)

35 (35)

Goals

0

0

Assists

2

4

Touches*

45.7

66.4

Pass completion

79%

89%

Key passes*

1.3

0.7

Dribbles*

0.1

1.0

Ball recoveries*

5.1

5.3

Tackles + interceptions*

2.7

3.5

Duels (won)*

3.2

5.0

In spite of his injury problems last season, the metrics reveal Wharton to have made his mark, matching Gravenberch’s athleticism and more than holding his own from a defensive standpoint – even maintaining a steadier creative flow than the Liverpool star, whose incredible form led to being awarded the Premier League Young Player of the Year.

His first foray into the English top-flight yielded even riper results, with Wharton averaging three tackles per game and swiftly turning the heads of the division’s elite members.

Though Guehi has what it takes to become a mainstay in Liverpool’s backline over the coming years, especially once Virgil van Dijk has hung up his Red laces, Wharton, already considered a £100m player, is a “very special player in the making”, as has been noted by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Might Liverpool be looking at Thiago Alcantara reborn in this Eagles prospect? Certainly, he has the flair, finesse and intelligence to head right to the very top.

Transfer Focus

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

Though completing a deal this summer might be a stretch too far for FSG, it’s unlikely Wharton’s sale will be sanctioned at all before 2026, and given Liverpool’s long interest in the player, they might be primed to strike in the future, beating a whole host of top outfits to his signature.

Their new Trent: FSG’s key target flying to sign for Liverpool on Thursday

Liverpool are looking to seal a few exciting signings to close the transfer window.

ByAngus Sinclair Aug 14, 2025

Everton are believed to be in talks over the signing of a “fantastic” Premier League hero this summer, with the player in question even called better than Harry Kane in the past.

Moyes wants "five or six" new signings at Everton

The Blues have had a productive summer in the transfer market to date, not least acquiring the signature of big-money attacking signing Thierno Barry from Villarreal.

David Moyes will want to build on an excellent start to life back at Everton, however, with the Scot admitting that he still wants plenty of new faces through the door before the window slams shut on September 1st.

“Well, we’ve signed three, so if you take that off, we’re still in the need of maybe five or six players. That’s what we have to try and do. I’ve never had one of these times. In the past I have had to sign a lot of players, but I’ve never had to do so many in one window.”

While Barry has come in as an exciting new striker for Everton, they may well feel the need to add further depth there, especially following the exit of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and the potential departure of Beto. Now, an intriguing name has been thrown into the mix to add more firepower to Moyes’ squad.

Everton in talks with Premier League legend Vardy

According to a report from Spain, Everton are in talks with Jamie Vardy over a move to the club this summer, in what would arguably be a shock piece of business. The Blues are the club who have “taken the initiative most seriously”, while the conversations are said to be “on the march” with the striker’s representatives.

The 38-year-old is a free agent after leaving Leicester City at the end of last season, following a legendary stint there that included winning the Premier League title back in 2015/16.

Vardy may not be the force he once was, given his age, but it is easy to see him being a good squad player at Everton for a year or two.

The Englishman still possesses plenty of pace and an eye for goal, and Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca even once claimed he is better than Kane and Wayne Rooney among the leading strikers of their generation, having worked with him at Leicester.

“Vardy is fantastic and people don’t realise how good he is. I know that England has been quite lucky with strikers, like Kane, Rooney and many others, but if you ask me he has been the best one. He can do many things, like run in behind and finish, but the best thing for me is his open mind.”

The fact that Vardy would be available on a free transfer almost makes him a gamble worth taking, and if he joins Everton and simply doesn’t have the impact of the past, it would be no disaster.

Moyes' new Declan Rice: £42m star is pushing to sign for Everton

Everton are closing in on signing a new midfielder

1 ByRoss Kilvington Jul 29, 2025

On the flip side, though, he could be a great option off the substitutes’ bench, popping up with goals in key moments and becoming a crowd favourite with his infectious personality, having scored seven times in 16 appearances against the Blues.

For many fans, Arsenal have acted in an unrecognisable manner this summer.

Instead of sitting idly by and waiting until the closing stages of the transfer window to try and complete their deals, the Premier League runners-up have been incredibly proactive.

There is still well over a month left in the window, and the club have already announced the signings of Martin Zubimendi, Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard, and Noni Madueke, with Cristhian Mosquera to be announced any day now.

On top of that, Mikel Arteta looks to have finally got his number nine in Viktor Gyokeres, and now the North Londoners look set on adding another attacker to the squad, someone who’d be an even more exciting signing than the Swede.

Arsenal move for a more exciting signing than Gyokeres

Arsenal’s hunt to sign Gyokeres over the last few weeks has undoubtedly been one of the biggest stories of the window thus far.

Transfer Focus

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

It was clear for some time that the Swedish international was desperate to join the North Londoners, and while a base fee of £55m was agreed upon well over a week ago, talks over the significant add-ons dragged on.

Fortunately, fans were able to finally celebrate their new striker yesterday afternoon when the deal received the ‘here we go’ treatment from transfers expert Fabrizio Romano.

There can be no denying that this is one of the most exciting moves of the summer, at least for the Gunners faithful, but now it looks like the club could do one better.

At least that’s according to Romano, who, in a recent update, revealed that Arsenal are still very interested in signing Eberechi Eze.

The Italian journalist has reported that the Crystal Palace star remains the North Londoners’ “top target” for that position on the pitch, and that they’ve already had positive talks with his camp.

It wouldn’t be a cheap deal to get over the line, though, as the Englishman has a release clause worth around £68m in his current contract.

Yet, it’s one Arsenal should pursue, as Eze’s more than proven he’s ready to step up and fight for titles, and for our money, his signing would be more exciting than Gyokeres’.

Why Eze would be a more exciting signing than Gyokeres

Okay, so the first thing to say here is that we aren’t disputing that Gyokeres is an incredibly exciting signing, as he most certainly is.

However, there are several reasons why we’d lean towards Eze being that bit more this summer, with the first being his experience.

For example, while the Sporting star has played in the Champions League, the Championship, and the Primeira Liga, he has never actually played a minute of football in a top-five league.

In other words, we have no idea just how well his numbers will translate to what is officially the toughest league in the world, especially when the one he’s spent the last two campaigns playing in ranks as just the eighth.

Appearances

36

43

Minutes

2285′

3303′

Goals

11

14

Assists

6

11

Goal Involvements per Match

0.47

0.58

Minutes per Goal Involvement

134.41′

132.12′

In stark contrast, the Palace star has more than proven his ability in the Premier League, as he racked up eight goals and eight assists last season alone, despite playing for a mid-table side at best.

Moreover, FBref ranked him in the top 6% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the league for shots last season, the top 10% for successful take-ons, and the top 11% for shot-creating actions, all per 90.

What those statistics tell us is that the Englishman is a creative machine, and aside from goals, what tends to get fans on their feet? Players who take on and beat opposition defenders.

Finally, while we expect the former Coventry City star to help the Gunners over the line in at least one competition next season, his lack of experience in the toughest competitions means we must have faith that he’ll do so.

On the other hand, the former QPR gem, who analyst Ben Mattinson described as a “superstar,” showed us he’s capable of doing that last season, when he scored in the quarter-final, semi-final, and final of the FA Cup to win his side their first-ever major trophy.

Ultimately, Gyokeres is an excellent signing for Arsenal, and he could be the missing piece for them in attack. However, given his own record and body of work, we’d argue that Eze would be a more exciting signing.

50% duels won, only 6 passes: 5/10 Arsenal star must now be axed for Eze

Arsenal started their pre-season with a 1-0 win over AC Milan.

ByMatt Dawson Jul 23, 2025

It’s a step into the unknown for West Bromwich Albion next season with Ryan Mason at the helm.

Appointing the 33-year-old rookie boss is a bold next step that might well pay off for the Baggies, but he will have his work cut out for him from the get-go, with the likes of Grady Diangana, who had been a part of the furniture at the Hawthorns for some time, now heading out the exit door.

After those high-profile departures soured the mood somewhat, the ex-Tottenham Hotspur coach has been backed, notably with Aune Heggebo leaving Brann behind for a fee around the £4.7m mark to join the Championship side.

The additions up top might not grind to a halt here, however, despite the Nordic striker’s lavish fee, as more attacking signings look to be prioritised.

West Brom's next moves in the market

Diangana isn’t the only notable name in attack that could desert the Hawthorns, with Mikey Johnston still likely despondent after a £5m move to Flamengo fell through at the last minute.

Transfer Focus

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

Spurs youngster Mikey Moore might well be on the West Brom shopping list to bolster down this depleted left-hand side, therefore, but Heggebo could also have competition up top very shortly if the West Midlands outfit power on to snap up an EFL-experienced striker for free.

Indeed, a new report by the Sheffield Star has revealed that Rhian Brewster is unlikely to pen a new contract at his current employers Sheffield United, which will open the door for a suitor to snap up the ex-Liverpool forward for nothing.

The Star further indicates that Sunderland are looking at the hit-and-miss Blades striker, but a report by SportsBoom right at the start of July also suggested that the Baggies were keen on a move for the free agent.

This interest might well accelerate back into motion now this exclusive development has come to light, with West Brom perhaps eager to work their Josh Maja magic again on the former Blades number seven in unearthing a goalscoring diamond in the rough.

How West Brom can work their Maja magic on Brewster

Before transforming into West Brom’s number one option in attack, Maja had been through the wringer during his often bumpy playing days.

The one-time Nigeria international would initially come onto the radar of English football fans when rising the ranks at Sunderland, with Maja powering home a promising seven strikes from 29 Sunderland U23 appearances, before taking it up a notch even further when finding the back of the net 17 times in the senior picture.

However, everything started to unravel when he left the comforts of the Stadium of Light behind, with his spell at Bordeaux ridden with injuries, whilst then struggling to find his feet back on English soil with the likes of Stoke City and Fulham.

West Brom have managed to get the best out of the unfortunate 26-year-old again, with an impressive return of 12 strikes coming his way last season in Championship action, but he is still prone to an extended stay in the treatment room.

Games played

190

Goals scored

48

Assists

18

Games missed through injury

158

Days missed

1157

Brewster has an eerily similar story to Maja’s, considering the 25-year-old once had the world at his feet when leading the line for Liverpool in the U23 scene, before finding the men’s game to be a cruel beast.

He has since found his way back on the horse despite an injury-plagued few seasons in South Yorkshire, with a promising seven goal contributions coming his way last season, which led to his then-Blades boss Chris Wilder heralding him as “amazing” for his perseverance.

He might well be Mason’s very own Maja-like project if a move is sealed, with the London-born forward amazingly ahead of his Nigerian counterpart in terms of second-tier strikes bagged, as seen in his 18 strikes and counting, next to Maja’s 15.

With Brewster missing only seven clashes last campaign through injury, the hope will be that he can kick on and reclaim his former Reds magic – which saw him net a blistering 13 U23 goals at Anfield – only this time around it could secure a promotion in the senior game.

West Brom could land the dream Johnston replacement in "future superstar"

If Mikey Johnston does end up finalising a move away from West Bromwich Albion, this rising star could be a perfect replacement.

ByKelan Sarson Jul 8, 2025

Birmingham City are now in talks to sign a right-back who has been likened to Newcastle United’s Kieran Trippier, according to a new transfer report.

Birmingham City sign wingers Gray and Osayi-Samuel

The Blues have been busy in recent days, bringing back academy graduate Demarai Gray on a permanent deal ahead of the Championship season.

Gray returns to St Andrew’s from Saudi Arabian side Al-Ettifaq and penned a three-year deal in the Midlands.

Birmingham City enter race to sign £6m "monster" ahead of Sheffield United

The Blues have joined the race to sign a defender from a Premier League club.

2 ByBrett Worthington Jul 2, 2025

Shortly after, Birmingham also announced a permanent transfer to sign Bright Osayi-Samuel after he left Fenerbahce, with the versatile winger also signing a Blues contract until 2028. Talking after making the move to Birmingham, Osayi-Samuel said:

The club and co-owners Tom Wagner and Tom Brady aren’t stopping there, though, with striker Kyogo Furuhashi also in advanced talks over a move from Rennes.

With all these attacking additions, Chris Davies and co also want to strength at the back, and now, a new full-back is also of interest.

Birmingham City in talks to sign right-back compared to Trippier

According to reports in Sweden, relayed by Sport Witness, Birmingham City are one of the clubs in talks to sign SC Braga right-back Joe Mendes.

Mendes spent last season on loan at FC Basel, however, the Swiss side have decided against signing the 22-year-old on a permanent basis.

Championship rivals Sheffield United and Southampton are also in discussions for Mendes, as are German side Union Berlin and Turkish outfit Samsunspor. The talks are described as concrete negotiations, with Mendes set to be on the move over the coming months.

Kieran Trippier

Newcastle United

Ferland Mendy

Real Madrid

Angelino

Roma

Aleksa Terzic

RB Salzburg

Manuel Lazzari

Lazio

Should he end up at St Andrew’s, Birmingham will be getting a right-back who has been labelled as “another gem” from the AIK academy, providing conception to Ethan Laird in the process.

As can be seen, FBref have likened Mendes to Newcastle star Trippier among others following his displays in the 2023/24 Champions League, so he could be another exciting addition ahead of the new campaign.

Crystal Palace have now held direct talks with a Brighton & Hove Albion player over a potential summer move to Selhurst Park, according to a report.

Palace awaiting Europa League verdict

Despite Palace finishing below rivals Brighton in the Premier League table, a move to Selhurst Park could be the more attractive proposition this summer, given that they secured qualification for the Europa League courtesy of their FA Cup triumph.

However, there is still no clarity as to whether the Eagles will be allowed to take part in the competition next season, given issues surrounding multi-club ownership, with UEFA’s decision recently being delayed until Monday.

Despite Lyon being relegated to Ligue 2 due to financial issues, the French club have struck a deal to compete in the Europa League next season, which could also be a blow to Oliver Glasner’s side’s chances of taking part even after the news of John Textor’s sale to Woody Johnson.

Crystal Palace now in "negotiations" to sign "dominant" 21 y/o defender

Oliver Glasner has reportedly “approved” the signing.

ByHenry Jackson Jun 20, 2025

It remains to be seen whether Crystal Palace will be allowed to compete in Europe, but in the meantime they have been pressing on with their summer transfer business, with approaches being made for Andy Diouf and Ousmane Diomande.

According to a report from El Diario Vasco (via Sport Witness), Palace have also made a bold attempt to sign a Brighton player, having directly spoken to Igor Julio over a potential summer move to Selhurst Park.

A phone call has been held with Igor, but the Eagles are not the only club in the race for his signature, with Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers also expressing an interest, alongside La Liga side Real Sociedad.

A move to Sociedad appeals to the Brazilian, as he wants to seal a move away from England this summer, but the Spanish club are concerned that Palace or Wolves could outbid them, considering the English sides have ‘plenty of money to burn’.

Igor could be "excellent" signing for Palace

Not only would the addition of the 27-year-old allow Palace to get one-up on their major rivals, but there are signs he could be a solid addition to Glasner’s squad, with the manager in need of greater depth if his side are to embark on a European campaign.

Journalist Lorenzo Lepore has singled the defender out for particularly high praise in the past, saying: “Igor is a really great defender, who is capable of helping his team in both phases of play: he’s competent with his feet and in defence.

“He has excellent technique and he is a capable playmaker, too. He is strong, he is good in one-on-one situations.”

Since then, the £15m defender has also gone on to prove himself in the Premier League, featuring regularly for the Seagulls when fit, although there may be some concerns about the former Fiorentina man missing 18 games through injury last season.

Igor could be a solid signing for Palace, who may have to bring in a new centre-back this summer, amid Marc Guehi’s uncertain future, but it would be surprising if Brighton are willing to strengthen a rival club.

As Graham Potter looks to shape his West Ham United side ahead of his first full season in charge, the Hammers have reportedly made contact to sign an impressive Serie A midfielder who once pocketed Declan Rice.

West Ham keen on attacking additions

It’s a big few months ahead for Potter and his side following a tough start to life at the London Stadium for the former Chelsea manager. After arriving to replace the struggling Julen Lopetegui, many expected Potter to make his mark from the off and ensure that any Stamford Bridge failure became an afterthought. That new manager bounce never truly came, however, and the pressure is now on.

Games

20

Wins

6

Draws

5

Defeats

9

Following just six wins in his first 20 games and a frustrating 14th-place finish in the Premier League, Potter and West Ham must ensure that they get off to a quick start next season.

What should help that is their potential work in the summer transfer window. Already, they’ve reportedly set their sights on attacking additions such as Adama Bojang and AS Roma’s Tammy Abraham.

Major club ready to sell decorated star amid West Ham race for Kudus replacement

The Hammers are beginning to be proactive on the market…

BySean Markus Clifford Jun 23, 2025

The latter would be a particularly wise addition given his past Premier League experience and the Hammers could yet land a relatively routine deal following his struggles on loan at AC Milan last season.

Abraham, like West Ham, endured a season to forget last time out and could certainly do with a return to the Premier League if he is to rediscover his best form in the next campaign.

It’s not just their frontline that West Ham must improve, however. Amid previous reports that David Moyes’ Everton side are interested in signing Tomas Soucek this summer, those at the London Stadium could be forced to find a replacement. And what better way to replace the towering midfielder than by signing a player who “shut down” former star Rice?

West Ham make contact to sign Musah

According to TeamTalk, West Ham have now made initial contact to sign Yunus Musah from AC Milan this summer. The American international initially looked on his way to Serie A champions Napoli in a deal worth €25m (£21m) before Milan changed their stance and demanded that price as well as add-ons. Now, the Hammers have a chance to sneak in ahead of Napoli.

Whether West Ham are willing to do what Napoli are not will be the big question, but their interest in Musah should come as no surprise. At 22 years old, the midfielder already has some impressive experience under his belt at the top level, including at the 2022 World Cup.

It was in Qatar that the Milan man caught the eye for the USA, especially against England as he helped his side earn a 0-0 draw against the Three Lions. Earning the praise of Jacek Kulig as a result, the scout claimed that both Musah and Tyler Adams “shut down” an England midfield which included Rice and Jude Bellingham.

Next season is set to be another new dawn for Tottenham Hotspur.

Daniel Levy and Co. made what looks to have been the unpopular decision to sack Ange Postecoglou last Friday and, in his place, hire Thomas Frank.

While fans might’ve liked the club to back the manager who ended their trophy drought, the Danish coach is an exciting appointment, as he took Brentford up from the Championship and turned them into one of the most exciting teams in the Premier League.

Unsurprisingly, then, the North Londoners have been linked with one of the Bees’ best players, Bryan Mbeumo, but if reports are to be believed, they could decide to sign someone else, someone better.

Tottenham Transfer news

Before getting to the star in question, it’s worth looking at some of the other talented players touted for a move to Spurs in recent weeks, like Eberechi Eze and Xavi Simons.

Transfer Focus

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

The former has been a long-term target for the North Londoners, and while his £68m release clause would represent a significant investment, his tally of 14 goals and 11 assists in 43 games this season suggest he’d be more than worth it.

Likewise, the £67m it would reportedly take to secure Simons’ services this summer may sound like a lot – because it is – but when you consider he’s still just 22 years old and was able to score 11 goals and provide eight assists in just 33 games this year, it doesn’t sound so bad.

However, another Premier League-proven attacker has entered the frame for the North Londoners, someone who could be better than Mbeumo: Antoine Semenyo.

Yes, according to a recent report from Sky Sports, Spurs have maintained their intense interest in the Bournemouth star, even though that interest originated prior to Postecoglou’s sacking.

The report does not mention a potential price for the Cherries ace, but stories from earlier this month claimed that he could be available for close to £70m.

It would likely be a costly and complicated transfer to get over the line this summer, but given Semenyo’s immense ability, it’s one Spurs should be all over, especially as he could be an even better signing than Mbeumo.

How Semenyo compares to Mbeumo

Okay, so we know that Mbeumo is one of the most talked-about targets in England at the moment, and understandably so, as in 42 appearances this season, he was able to score 20 goals and provide nine assists.

But for our money, Semenyo would be the better signing, and there are several reasons why.

Firstly, while he wasn’t able to produce quite as many goal involvements, the Ghanaian international was still an incredibly effective attacker, scoring 13 goals and providing seven assists in as many appearances for Bournemouth.

Moreover, as we all know, a winger is and should be judged on more metrics than just his goals and assists in the modern game, and when we take a look under the hood at their underlying numbers, the Cherries ace starts to come out on top.

For example, while the former Troyes gem does better in some metrics like shot and goal-creating actions as well as progressive passes, the former Bristol City star comes out on top in the majority of relevant metrics, such as non-penalty expected goals plus assists, progressive carries, shots and shots on target, passing accuracy, tackles and more, all per 90.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.44

0.42

Progressive Passes

3.06

3.72

Progressive Carries

3.93

3.43

Shots

3.49

2.08

Shots on Target

1.11

0.94

Passing Accuracy

73.4%

66.1%

Non-Penalty xG

0.28

0.20

Shot-Creating Actions

3.71

3.80

Goal-Creating Actions

0.37

0.53

Tackles

1.54

1.29

Blocks

1.88

0.69

Successful Take-Ons

1.94

1.37

Ball Recoveries

4.44

4.12

Aerial Duels Won

1.85

0.90

Moreover, on top of being the more statistically well-rounded player, the 25-year-old “monster,” as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, is incredibly versatile.

For example, thanks to him being ambipedal – equally able to use both feet – he’s more than happy playing off the right as he is on the left and can even play up top or in midfield if he’s needed to.

Therefore, the dynamic “maverick,” as dubbed by Mattinson, could come in and fill in wherever he’s needed, in turn giving Frank far more tactical flexibility than he’d get from someone only dangerous off the right.

Ultimately, either Mbeumo or Semenyo would be excellent additions for Spurs, but thanks to the latter having the more impressive and promising underlying numbers, combined with his ability to play almost anywhere, we reckon he would be the better signing for the North Londoners.

Alongside Son: Frank must axe £165k-per-week Spurs "monster"

It would be best for Spurs to cash in and help Frank kickstart his time at the club.

3 ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 13, 2025

They might have finished second in the Premier League and made it to the semi-finals of the Champions League, but we aren’t sure anyone at Arsenal would consider this season to be a success.

Long gone are the days in which a top-four finish was celebrated like a trophy at the Emirates, as, thanks to Mikel Arteta and Co, the team are now serious contenders for every competition they enter – meaning a third runners-up medal in as many league campaigns is far from ideal.

Considering the team created the best defence in the league while scoring 17 goals fewer than the eventual winners, it’s pretty clear that to help the squad get over the line next year, the board must invest in offensive players.

This line of thinking may help to explain Arsenal’s reported interest in Aston Villa’s brilliant Morgan Rogers, although even if he were to join the club, he’d be worth millions less than one of his new teammates.

Why Arsenal want Rogers

So, if the reported price tag of around £100m proves to be true, just why do Arsenal want to spend that sort of money on one player, and would he even be worth it?

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

Well, the answer to the second question is most certainly yes, and there are a few reasons why, starting with his output.

For example, in 54 appearances for Villa this season, totalling 4496 minutes, the Halesowen-born star was able to score 14 goals and provide 15 assists.

That comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.86 games or every 155.03 minutes, and that is just the sort of offensive capability the North Londoners need in their squad.

For example, Martin Odegaard is the team’s current starting attacking midfielder, and while he’s been brilliant in seasons past, he really struggled this year, ending the campaign with six goals and 12 assists in 45 appearances, totalling 3447 minutes, which comes out to a goal involvement on average every 2.5 games, or every 191.5 minutes.

Just imagine if Arteta could take the Norwegian off, or rest him completely, and start the dynamic Englishman in his place.

Finally, at just 22 years old, the five-capped international could grow alongside some of the team’s other younger stars, and then there is his ability to play in multiple positions, from midfield to out wide.

Left Winger

83

21

9

Attacking Midfield

46

14

10

Right Winger

39

9

13

Centre-Forward

21

6

4

Left Midfield

8

3

1

Right Midfield

6

1

3

Second Striker

1

0

0

Yet, even then and at the fee reported, Rogers would be joining Arsenal with a lower valuation than one of his new teammates.

The Arsenal star worth millions more than Rogers

Now, while Arsenal are blessed with a host of incredibly talented players these days, from Declan Rice and David Raya to William Saliba and Jurrien Timber, it’ll likely come as no surprise that the star in question is none other than Bukayo Saka.

The Hale End superstar has developed into a talismanic figure in North London since his debut under Unai Emery, and his valuation reflects that, with the CIES Football Observatory pricing him at a whopping €157m earlier this year.

That converts to a staggering £132m, or £32m more than Rogers could end up costing the Gunners this summer, and while that is a sizable difference, it would be hard to argue it’s not fair.

Appearances

37

54

Minutes

2619′

4496′

Goals

12

14

Assists

14

15

Goal Involvements per Match

0.70

0.53

Minutes per Goal Involvements

100.73′

155.03′

For example, even though the 23-year-old missed over three months of the season with a hamstring injury that required surgery, he was still able to rack up a sensational haul of 12 goals and 14 assists in 37 appearances, totalling just 2619 minutes.

That means the North Londoners’ “future legend,” dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, maintained an average of a goal involvement every 1.42 games, or 100.73 minutes, which is not only better than the Villa ace managed but also simply world-class.

Okay, how do their pair stack up against one another when we look at their underlying numbers, then? The Claret and Blue star did spend a sizable part of the season out wide.

Well, rather unsurprisingly, it’s the 43-capped superstar who once again comes out on top, doing better in almost all relevant metrics, such as actual and expected non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive passes and carries, shot and goal-creating actions, successful take-ons, tackles, shots and shots on target, key passes and more, all per 90.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.71

0.42

Non-Penalty G+As

0.78

0.52

Progressive Passes

3.65

3.55

Progressive Passes Received

13.3

5.43

Progressive Carries

5.00

3.29

Shots

3.44

1.59

Shots on Target

1.15

0.58

Passing Accuracy

75.5%

73.2%

Expected Assists

0.41

0.15

Key Passes

3.02

1.47

Passes into the Final Third

0.78

2.11

Passes into the Penalty Area

1.98

1.62

Crosses into the Penalty Area

0.63

0.09

Live Passes

33.5

24.7

Shot-Creating Actions

6.09

3.04

Goal-Creating Actions

1.20

0.46

Tackles

1.51

1.24

Blocks

1.15

0.75

Interceptions

0.16

0.17

Clearances

0.42

0.58

Successful Take-Ons

2.14

1.91

Ball Recoveries

3.65

3.44

Ultimately, Arsenal should be looking to sign Rogers this summer, as he’d add far more creativity and attacking flair to the team, but he’d have to hit the ground running to see his valuation even approach Saka’s.

Arsenal set to submit bid for "incredible" star who's like Rodrygo & Yamal

The impressive winger would be a great addition to Arsenal’s squad.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 9, 2025

With the summer transfer window fast approaching, Manchester United are now reportedly shock contenders to sign a struggling player from arch-rivals Manchester City this summer.

Of course, this wouldn’t be the first time that a player has crossed the Manchester divide. The likes of Carlos Tevez and Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel spring to mind in what is a list full of controversy. Tevez’s switch proved to be particularly successful too, with the Argentine winning the Premier League ahead of his former club whilst at The Etihad.

Appearances

99

148

Goals

34

73

Assists

14

32

Since the talented forward, many have decided against crossing the divide between the two Manchester clubs. The trend isn’t completely dead just yet, however.

Across the last 12 months, as Leroy Sane has deliberated over a new contract with Bayern Munich, Manchester United have reportedly been offered the chance to sign the German winger alongside many others. Sane, of course, enjoyed great success at Manchester City but could now join the Red Devils on a free transfer when the summer arrives.

What is clearer than ever is that the narrative has flipped between the two sides. Whilst in the Schmeichel era, it was the Citizens watching on with envy, hoping to steal Manchester United’s stars, it is now the complete opposite. The Red Devils would likely take several of Pep Guardiola’s stars in a heartbeat at Old Trafford, especially following such a disastrous campaign.

Man Utd set to sell star Amorim texted Ratcliffe about in major overhaul

The Manchester United manager isn’t messing around.

ByTom Cunningham May 23, 2025

On course to finish as low as 16th off the back of already losing the Europa League final, Manchester United and Ruben Amorim must get things right this summer. In a desperate position, it could be the perfect time for a Manchester trend to reappear in the transfer window.

Man Utd shock contenders to sign Grealish

According to The Independent’s Miguel Delaney, as relayed by GiveMeSport, Manchester United are now shock contenders to sign Jack Grealish from Manchester City this summer in a deal that all parties could yet be happy to complete. The former Aston Villa star has struggled to take his place in the spotlight for some time at The Etihad despite taking home over £15m each year in wages, so City would be happy to sell while the player himself wants a regular starting role.

One Manchester club’s trash may well prove to be another’s treasure, then. For all of Grealish’s struggles, he remains a three-time Premier League winner full of the experience that Amorim desperately needs at the heart of his side.

Even though he has failed to break into his strongest side too, Guardiola has shared plenty of praise for Grealish – telling reporters following an impressive performance in the FA Cup against Leyton Orient: “Both wingers have been outstanding; Savinho and Jack were outstanding, they created chances.

“I’m pleased for Jack. Jack has the sense of the street, a player from the street. Most of the players, for our fault – the manager – are so academic. Jack is one of those players that came to fight in these stadiums when the people shout; he is a fighter.”