All posts by n8rngtd.top

Sunderland are back in the Premier League and have now engaged in talks over a signing that would send out a signal of intent to their competitors, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Sunderland find out the latest in pursuit of Clement Bischoff

In the modern day, club chiefs speaking out on the availability of a player or their current situation isn’t an uncommon practice at this time of year.

Subsequently, it will come as no surprise to hear that Brondby sporting director Benjamin Schmedes has addressed rumours surrounding Sunderland target Clement Bischoff amid links between both parties.

He stated: “Clement has one year left on his contract, and that puts us in a situation where we’ve had strong discussions for a long time. But nothing is official yet, so there’s no agreement.

“We’re in dialogue, and we’ll see where it ends. Noah has two years left, so it’s a different case.”

Making strides ahead of their official Premier League return, Clermont Foot midfielder Habib Kieta is also on Sunderland’s radar and QPR, Stoke City and Crystal Palace are also believed to be in the running for his signature.

Sunderland in advanced talks to sell "fantastic" 22 y/o in permanent deal

Would moving him on be the right decision?

By
Henry Jackson

Jun 22, 2025

Inevitably, beating the drop will be the immediate priority for Sunderland in 2025/26. While Jobe Bellingham’s sale will enable money to be spent, they will need to invest wisely to compete with other financially secure competitors in the grand scheme of things.

Nevertheless, Sunderland hold a pull that is rare for a promoted side due to their rich history in the English top-flight, so it wouldn’t be a surprise to see someone like Jordan Henderson return to the North East if a deal were right for all parties.

Letting their presence be known to others, the Black Cats are now reportedly plotting a swoop for an international goalkeeper that would make headlines.

Romano: Sunderland in active talks to sign Marcin Bulka

Taking to social media platform X, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Sunderland are in ‘active talks’ to sign OGC Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka as part of their ambitious project to stay in the Premier League.

Despite being ‘approached’ by several other clubs, the Black Cats are the only side mentioned in the conversation and it remains to be seen whether further developments will occur down the line.

Labelled “superb” by PSG boss Luis Enrique, the Poland international kept eight clean sheets in 40 appearances last term and recorded a save percentage rate of 75.8% in Ligue 1.

Admittedly, Sunderland will need to rely on their goalkeeper next campaign to have a realistic chance of staying in the top-flight, so bringing someone of Bulka’s calibre in would certainly help, even if that puts Anthony Patterson’s future as number one in doubt.

Despite the addition of Florian Wirtz this summer, Liverpool have been aggressive in their efforts to improve Arne Slot’s backline.

The Reds certainly weren’t awful at the back in 2024/25, but with Trent Alexander-Arnold heading to Real Madrid, signing Jeremie Frimpong was a necessity.

At left-back, Milos Kerkez is set to arrive, replacing Andy Robertson whose best years look beyond him.

At centre-back, they may also require a replacement for French defender Ibrahima Konate. He’s wanted by Real Madrid and an exit grows more likely.

How Liverpool could replace Konate

Konate enjoyed a fabulous season for the Reds, partnering Virgil van Dijk in expert fashion.

While the Dutchman eventually signed a new contract at Anfield, he may not be joined by his partner in crime for too much longer.

Transfer Focus

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

Recent reports suggest that Real Madrid are interested in prising the French defender from Liverpool but there’s further interest from clubs in Saudi and Champions League winners, PSG.

So, with that in mind, Liverpool have been seeking alternatives. Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi has been earmarked, as too has RB Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba.

That’s according to journalist Lewis Steele who revealed on his YouTube channel that “Lukeba at Leipzig could be one to watch, it’s clear Liverpool have kept an eye on him.”

Steele added: “I’ve been told Liverpool have had scouts at many RB Leipzig games this season. He could be one as well to watch in terms of Liverpool trying to get the best young defenders on the market.”

Why Lukeba could be better than Guehi for Liverpool

While Wirtz signing for Liverpool was certainly the biggest news of the week out of Merseyside, news that the Reds could also make a move for Guehi was the second hottest topic.

Towards the end of the week it was revealed that Richard Hughes and Co were set to launch a bid to sign the England international this summer, while reports since then note that Liverpool are now closing in on an agreement on personal terms. Whether or not he joins this summer remains to be seen.

Valued at £70m by Crystal Palace, he could be available for as little as £45m, considering he has one year left on his contract at Selhurst Park but Guehi is allegedly willing to wait a year and leave on a free transfer if he doesn’t get to move now.

Premier League proven and having captained the Eagles, there is very little risk attached to his deal. Yet, could Liverpool actually sign a player with bigger potential in Lukeba? Quite possibly.

Said to previously be among the “best U21 CBs in Europe’s top 5 leagues” and described as “one of the best defensive prospects in world football” by data analyst Ben Mattinson, the Frenchman, who is now still only 22, has a skillset that perfectly encapsulates a modern defender.

Like a Jorrel Hato, a Josko Gvardiol, Lukeba possesses the tools to be able to play as a hybrid centre-back and left-back. That level of versatility already trumps Guehi, who is more of a traditional centre-half.

The skillset that the 22-year-old provides, however, is also incredibly exciting. He possesses excellent ball-playing ability, ranking inside the best 20% of defenders in Europe’s big leagues for progressive passes. He’s supremely comfortable with the ball at his feet, also sitting among the top 1% of centre-backs for progressive carries.

He’s truly elite in this department already, ranking as the fourth most progressive U21 centre half in Europe during 2023/24.

When comparing the two defenders’ numbers, it’s clear to see just how much more progressive Lukeba is. Guehi is certainly comfortable on the ball, but the Leipzig star is next level when it comes to advancing forward with possession.

Crucially, that doesn’t come at the expense of his defensive duties either. Despite not ranking highly for aerials won, as far as tackles are concerned, there’s not that much of a difference. Lukeba even makes more interceptions per 90 minutes.

So, while Guehi might well be a proven England international with Premier League experience, Lukeba has a special profile and boasts all of the talent to become one of the finest centre-backs in Europe.

He's a dream Isak alternative: Liverpool exploring move for £160m forward

Liverpool are hoping to sign a new centre-forward to replace the outgoing Darwin Nunez.

By
Angus Sinclair

Jun 19, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy is already working to back incoming new manager Thomas Frank, with the Dane closing in on a move to N17 as he replaces Ange Postecoglou.

Tottenham reach Thomas Frank agreement as transfer plans begin

Fabrizio Romano was first to give the ‘here we go’ on Frank’s switch to Spurs from Brentford, and now other reliable media sources are reporting that he’s about to become the Lilywhites’ fifth manager since 2019.

£70m star wanted by Thomas Frank is now tempted to join Tottenham

Spurs are considering a “bold” move.

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By
Emilio Galantini

Jun 11, 2025

Talks over backroom staff were apparently stalling preparations to announce Frank as Postecoglou’s immediate heir, specifically Justin Cochrane as the 51-year-old’s assistant, but the club now appear to have struck an accord.

With any doubt surrounding Frank’s move to N17 seemingly quashed, Tottenham can begin work on their summer recruitment drive sooner rather than later, which is vital considering their place in the Champions League.

Levy will not want to leave Frank in a similar position to that of Postecoglou last campaign, as the Australian had to deal with a plague of injuries throughout his squad on a consistent basis during the 2024/2025 season.

Securing much-needed strength in depth will be imperative if they wish to compete in Europe’s most prestigious competition and significantly improve on their 17th-placed Premier League finish.

Some reports suggest Frank is already making some intriguing transfer decisions behind-the-scenes ahead of his arrival in north London.

According to TEAMtalk, Frank is keen to keep hold of Mathys Tel on a permanent deal, and he’s also recommended Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze to Levy as a potential signing (GiveMeSport).

Tottenham are targeting a new forward as one of their summer priorities (Michael Bridge), with keen interest also shown in Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo.

Daniel Levy meets with Antoine Semenyo's agents over Tottenham transfer

According to talkSPORT and reporter Alex Crook, their fondness of the Cherries forward stretches far beyond just an admiring glance.

It is believed Levy has personally met with Semenyo’s agents to hold Tottenham talks, but Spurs’ high-ranking chief was told a key transfer condition, namely that Tottenham would have to smash their transfer record to strike a deal for the Ghanaian.

The 25-year-old scored 13 goals and bagged a further seven assists in all competitions last term, with the price for his signature coming in at around £70 million.

There is little doubting Semenyo’s quality, though it remains to be seen just how much Levy is willing to part with to make his signing a reality.

“He’s a lovely footballer to watch”, said Sky pundit Jamie Redknapp on Premier League productions late last year.

“The manager’s taken him to another level. He obviously has that capability because you saw it with Solanke. I’m just seeing him elevate his game right now, we’ll talk about why does that happen, a lot of it is purely on confidence.

“He looks like he’s enjoying his football, his shoulders are back, he’s relaxed, every time he gets it, he plays with a bit of a swagger. He’s actually a joy to watch right now.”

A “world-class” star is now pushing to seal a move to Manchester City quickly, but it will take a huge offer to secure his signature, according to a report.

Man City set to spend big despite lack of 115 charges verdict

Having endured a rare trophyless season in the 2024-25 campaign, Man City are set to spend big to rebuild their squad this summer, despite the fact they are yet to receive a verdict in their case against the Premier League.

Gary Neville has been particularly critical about the lack of a conclusion to the ongoing saga, saying: “That Manchester City case is a disgrace; it’s an absolute stain to the game.

“It has just been dragging on for years and years, it’s an absolute joke. Yes, City have been defending themselves, but they’ve been pushing it so far into the long grass that you end up losing the will to live on it and you forget about it. It just needs to be dealt with.”

Man City register interest to sign £205k-p/w PSG star who Pep called "top"

The Citizens could bring in some serious pedigree in their hunt to claim the Premier League title next term.

1

By
Sean Markus Clifford

Jun 2, 2025

The lack of a verdict seemingly isn’t dissuading players from moving to the Etihad Stadium, however, with Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Rayan Ait-Nouri expected to join Pep Guardiola’s side this summer, while Lyon’s Rayan Cherki has also said “yes” to a move.

Cherki isn’t the only midfielder of interest to the Blues, however, and there has now been a new update on their pursuit of AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders, with a report from Italy (via Sport Witness) revealing the midfielder is pushing to seal a move to the Etihad Stadium quickly.

City have already made an offer of €60m (£51m) for Reijnders, but Milan are set to hold out for a fee of over €70m (£59m), so the two clubs may still be a little way apart in their valuation of the 26-year-old.

"World-class" Reijnders could be statement signing for City

Erling Haaland’s willingness to sign a ten-year contract may have allayed some fears that City will receive a harsh punishment from the Premier League, when the verdict is finally reached, and signing the AC Milan star would also be a statement of intent.

The Dutchman enjoyed a very impressive 2024-25 campaign with the Italian giants, picking up 20 goal contributions in 54 outings, during which time he also received very high praise from CBS’ Matteo Bonetti.

An outlay of around £60m would be justifiable for Man City, given Reijnders’ ability, and the fact he is pushing to seal a move to the Etihad should give them an edge in negotiations with Milan.

If Richard Hughes isn’t careful, he’ll eliminate any chance of Liverpool supporters getting excited by the summer transfer window before it’s even begun.

This, of course, is because FSG are working overtime to wrap up three superstar signings before the 2024/25 campaign has even completely wrapped up. There are worse problems for fans to have, in fairness.

The defensive flanks are set to be secure for years to come, Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong having completed his medical and Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez currently the centre of advancing talks between Bournemouth and Anfield’s chiefs.

But it’s forwards the fans want. Always forwards. It’s forwards who are the seat-raisers, the ones who steal the headlines. The rumour mill’s spokes are spinning, and Liverpool are getting linked with a few interesting names, all right.

The latest on Liverpool's hunt for forwards

With a deal for Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz in the works, Liverpool are close to wrapping up their principal summer activity nice and early.

However, some would point to the number nine position as the area in most urgent need of improvement, and fixing that conundrum would require one or both of Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez to be sold, the latter of whom is wanted by Saudi suitors and in Spain.

Liverpool have bided their time in the transfer market, only bringing Federico Chiesa into the squad since Jurgen Klopp capped off his midfield rebuild with the arrival of Ryan Gravenberch in August 2023 (a £29m deal for goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili was agreed last summer, though he remained with Valencia this year).

But now is the time for action. Luis Diaz continues to be linked with Barcelona and, perhaps consequently, rumours of interest in Anthony Gordon have resurfaced, as per Football Insider.

However, Gordon is valued at £100m by Newcastle United and with Wirtz hopefully arriving, this doesn’t make a great deal of sense.

That said, Chiesa has struggled for minutes since joining, and Mohamed Salah isn’t getting any younger. Securing some fresh back-up on the right wouldn’t be a terrible idea.

Liverpool join race for new forward

According to Caught Offside, Liverpool are being considered one of the main suitors for Maghnes Akliouche this summer, with the French winger informed he can leave Monaco if their €70m (£59m) valuation is met.

A host of English outfits are keen, with Arsenal, Manchester City, Manchester United, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur all keeping tabs on his situation, although Liverpool are the club said to be ‘showing a strong interest’.

No talks have taken place with any suitor, so this may be a case of who can open contracts with Monaco and the player’s representatives first.

What Maghnes Akliouche would offer Liverpool

A creative player, the 23-year-old Akliouche has enjoyed a steady ascent since breaking from Monaco’s youth ranks and becoming an important part of their first-team plans.

He would have to contend with the competition of Salah for a starting berth, were he to join Liverpool, but this could prove worthwhile for a rising star looking to make their name, only two seasons into their professional career as a first-team regular.

Absorbing the fruits of the Egyptian King’s labours, Akliouche may well shape into one of the most dangerous wingers in the business, having already been hailed for his “ridiculous” quality by analyst Ben Mattinson.

This is backed up by the data. As per FBref, Akliouche ranks among the top 13% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues this term for assists, the top 11% for progressive passes, and the top 12% for tackles plus interceptions made per 90.

Sofascore’s data from the 2024/25 Ligue 1 campaign further highlights Akliouche’s creative capacity, having created 15 big chances across 27 matches, averaging 1.6 dribbles and 4.5 successful duels per game.

Moreover, talent scout Jacek Kuliig has hailed the “magician” for brandishing a “left foot made of gold” when arcing into space, in or around the danger area.

Remind you of anyone? Salah’s wizardry on the ball certainly suggests he too could adopt the ‘magician’ moniker, while his left foot is one of the most lethal weapons in football.

Joining Liverpool from AS Roma for £34m in 2017, Salah, 25 at the time, was looking to try his hand at the Premier League a second time after things didn’t work out at Chelsea.

Now, 401 games, 245 goals, 113 assists and many individual and team accolades later, the 32-year-old has achieved greatness, forging a career for himself that will have sold Anfield to hopefuls such as Akliouche, especially since he’s tempted by a move across the Channel and onto English shores.

Salah’s story isn’t ending yet, but we’re not that far away from the autumn of this legend’s Premier League career. It would help if Liverpool act prudently and bring in a player such as Akliouche, up-and-coming like the African icon was before signing.

Salah, one of the deadliest forwards the Premier League has ever known, will leave big boots to fill, but backing him up with a hungry prospect such as Akliouche could be a sure-fire way for Slot to challenge across multiple fronts next season, especially since the Liverpool superstar will miss a chunk of the winter period due to AFCON.

For what it’s worth, you’d think Akliouche would leap at the chance to move to Merseyside and work with the veteran, treading a similar sort of path in arriving from a competitive European outfit having shown his skills, but then learning at Anfield a new level of the craft which could take him into the realm of the world-class.

Van Dijk 2.0: £45m "revelation" has now "said yes" to joining Liverpool

Liverpool are looking to finish their shopping nice and early this summer.

By
Angus Sinclair

May 29, 2025

Everton are on the up once again, with David Moyes transforming the club since replacing Sean Dyche in January.

There’s plenty of work to be done over the coming months. The Friedkin Group are willing to hand the manager ample funds to make some impactful signings ahead of the new campaign.

While forwards are clearly required after another year of inconsistencies in the final third, Everton will need to get rid of some existing options first.

The future of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, approaching free agency, is up in the air, and the same could be said for loanee Jack Harrison, who should be cut loose at the end of the term.

Jack Harrison's Everton future

Harrison, 28, might be versatile and industrious, but all of an Everton persuasion will have been frustrated by his output at Goodison Park, especially this season.

Across 36 outings in all competitions, Harrison has scored just one goal and provided only one assist.

Moyes and Everton’s Director of Football, Angus Kinnear, may value the Leeds United man’s commitment and tenacity, but so much has been left to be desired this term.

Still, Moyes likes the player’s attitude and appears open to signing him permanently after the final fixtures of the term are dealt with.

However, Everton’s right side has lacked substance and potency this year, and right-back Nathan Patterson may well follow Harrison out the door.

Everton must sell Nathan Patterson

Everton signed Patterson from Rangers in a deal worth £16m back in January 2022. He was 20 years old and highly sought-after, but over three years later his value has actually diminished.

Transfermarkt record that Patterson bears a market value of just shy of £13m right now, having only started 12 Premier League fixtures since the beginning of last season due to incessant injury bother.

Harrison’s is marginally higher at £13.5m, but this does serve to underscore the depths to which Patterson has sunk, with his recent performances doing little to convince detractors that he’s got what it takes to earn a successful starting role in Moyes’ system.

The Royal Blue podcasters had already agreed that “Dyche doesn’t fancy him” before Moyes’ arrival, and it doesn’t look like the change in manager has raised his level, only afforded playing time in recent weeks because of James Tarkowski’s season-ending injury.

Given that club captain Seamus Coleman, 36, is slated to renew his contract and, furthermore, that Jake O’Brien has been so formidable in a moonlit right-back berth since January, it’s hard to envisage Patterson having a good shot at hitting the heights once touted.

Indeed, as per Sofascore, he’s struggled with his crosses in the top flight, connecting with only 36% of his efforts, while also losing over half of his contested duels.

Coleman will play a part that transcends that of a mere player. He will use his experience and leadership to guide the team forward in something of a hybrid role.

But nonetheless, it’s not a revelation that bodes well for Patterson, who has flattered to deceive when fielded this year, and admittedly, his chances have been few and far between.

Given that this young talent is worth less than Harrison, it might be time for Everton to cash in and make their move for a new, more reliable right-back.

Amazing Delap alternative: Everton in the race for "phenomenal" £40m star

Everton are looking to sign a new striker for David Moyes this summer.

By
Angus Sinclair

May 15, 2025

As rumours continue to arrive over Arsenal’s summer transfer plans, new sporting director Andrea Berta is now reportedly keeping a close eye on a somewhat cheaper attacking option who has scored 25 goals this season.

Arsenal looking to ease goalscoring woes

Whilst it’s easy to list the absurd number of injuries that Arsenal have suffered throughout the current campaign, their Premier League form since the return of Bukayo Saka has highlighted their clear problems for all to see. And Berta must address those issues in his first summer in charge.

Even though their form has come at a time when the Premier League title has drifted away from them and into Liverpool’s grasp as official champions, Arsenal still have Champions League qualification to worry about. Mikel Arteta, with three games to go, simply has to seal a place in the top five amid concerns that a disappointing campaign could still turn disastrous.

Mega upgrade on Odegaard: Berta lining up Arsenal move for £100m "machine"

The £100m-rated star would be a game-changer for Arsenal.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

May 7, 2025

The Spaniard recently had his say on Liverpool’s title win and the Gunners’ failure, telling reporters: “Winning trophies is about being in the right moment in the right place. Liverpool have won the title with less points than we have in the last two seasons. With the points of the past two season we have two Premier League [titles].”

What would certainly help ensure that Arsenal are in the right moment in the right place, however, is the arrival of a pure goalscorer this summer. Amid links to the likes of Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko, those in North London must get things right this summer and solve Arteta’s greatest problem.

Meanwhile, if it’s a question of money, then Berta may yet turn towards a cheaper options who could turn into the summer’s best bargain if all goes to plan.

Arsenal plotting £34m Patrik Schick move

According to Caught Offside, Arsenal are now plotting a move to sign Patrik Schick from Bayer Leverkusen this summer with Berta keeping a close eye on the Czech Republic forward. Valued at around €40m (£34m) by the Bundesliga club, the Gunners could swoop in and solve their attacking problems for far cheaper than if they signed Isak or Sesko.

Despite his bargain price, Schick has enjoyed a season worthy of a far higher valuation – scoring 25 goals in all competitions – and could yet prove that in the Premier League. At 29 years old, the only concern for Arsenal should be his age, but as Chris Wood has proved at Nottingham Forest this season, players are more than capable of making the difference even when outside of what are considered prime years.

Smashing his expected goals in the Bundesliga this season, Schick is the pure goalscorer that Arsenal have so desperately lacked all season. His name wouldn’t steal the same headlines as an Isak or Sesko, but he would arguably be just as clinical. Previously dubbed “great” by former Sampdoria boss Marco Giampaolo, Schick is one to watch this summer.

Everton are on the verge of entering a new era under David Moyes and he has now identified an exciting transfer target that their hierarchy are willing to heavily pursue, per reports.

Everton look forward to a new dawn under David Moyes

The Toffees are on the verge of ending their lengthy association with Goodison Park, and it isn’t in the least bit surprising that supporters are fighting tooth and nail to witness their final match against Southampton in L4. David Moyes has steadied the ship at Everton and secured their Premier League status for another year, paving the way for an exciting summer under the guise of The Friedkin Group.

PSR regulations will ensure that clever additions need to be uncovered to avoid any conflict, though it is fair to say the Blues aren’t alone in that regard. According to reports, Everton are eyeing a move for Lazio loanee Nuno Tavares, who is expected to complete a permanent switch to the Italian giants this summer and then be sold on for profit.

He could be set for an immediate return to the English top-flight if circumstances align. The former Benfica man could be joined by Emanuel Emegha after the Dutch forward emerged as another Toffees target.

Moyes' next Louis Saha: Everton desperate to sign £30m "battering ram"

Everton are in the market for a new centre-forward this summer.

By
Angus Sinclair

May 1, 2025

Richarlison arriving to kickstart Everton’s new era hasn’t been ruled out and fans are rightfully ecstatic at the prospect of heading for Bramley Moore Dock, albeit a little emotional about leaving Goodison Park behind.

Change is needed to a playing squad that looks set to encounter mass surgery, with several established stars leaving to make way for fresh blood. Now, further information has come to light on who Moyes could look to bring into the fold during the off-season.

Everton board ready to back Moyes move for Gustavo Hamer

Per Football Insider, Everton’s interest in Sheffield United midfielder Gustavo Hamer is growing as their hierarchy are willing to back Moyes with funds to strengthen their starting XI come the summer.

The Scot wants to add creativity to his industrious side and the former Netherlands Under-20 international is seen as an ideal option to help fashion chances from the engine room, having initially been added to a shortlist of several targets earlier this week.

Enjoying a campaign where he has been red-hot after winning the Championship player of the season award, Hamer has completed 45 successful dribbles and laid on 71 opportunities for his teammates.

Abdoulaye Doucoure’s uncertain future on Merseyside has hastened the search for a new midfielder as his contract runs into its final few weeks. Notably, West Ham United’s Tomas Soucek and Sunderland wonderkid Chris Rigg have been mentioned as alternative targets.

Furthermore, any move for Hamer may hinge on whether Sheffield United claim promotion from the Championship, where they are set for the playoffs after Leeds United and Burnley sealed a return to the top-flight.

Everton are in the market for talent to rejuvenate their squad and Hamer would be a terrific asset that would please supporters should he arrive this summer.

Patrick Dorgu has become a key player at Manchester United since his January move from Lecce. The Dane, who cost the Red Devils £25m up front, has already played ten times for his new club this term, although he did miss three games due to suspension.

The 20-year-old is yet to score or assist for the first time in a United shirt. However, he did win a penalty, which Bruno Fernandes converted in the Europa League Round of 16 against Real Sociedad, showing just how deadly he can be.

With that being said, it has not all been smooth sailing for the wing-back. Aside from his red card, he was recently rotated out of the team for United’s 4-1 loss away to Newcastle United, with Harry Amass stepping into his shoes.

Amass’ full debut for United

For a football fan, there probably aren’t many better birthday presents than making your professional debut, and for Man United, nonetheless. Well, that was the case for Amass, who made a substitute appearance away to Leicester City in the Premier League on his 18th birthday.

Just weeks later, the youngster, who was born in London and played for Watford’s academy originally, made his first start in the top flight. The youngster was selected to start ahead of Dorgu at left wing-back.

Indeed, it was an impressive showing from Amass, as the stats on Sofascore reflect. The 18-year-old had 31 touches of the ball, completed 85% of his passes and won two duels. He certainly performed well.

That was certainly a sentiment that football statistician Statman Dave seemed to agree with. He was full of praise for Amass, explaining that he “didn’t look out of place in senior football” at St James’ Park last weekend.

There is certainly no worry about squad depth for the Red Devils at left-wing back, with the emergence of Amass and the signing of Dorgu. Incredibly, they are adding to that depth over the summer with another new signing.

United’s latest left wing-back signing

One of the continents where big European clubs tend to find hidden gem players is South America. Well, United may have pulled off a masterclass of their own in that sense, with the signing of youngster Diego Leon.

In the middle of January, it was confirmed by BBC Sport that the 18-year-old undertook a medical at United’s Carrington training ground. The reported fee is £6m, with the left-back set to join in the summer.

Now, United are not just signing a player without first-team experience who could one day break into the fold at Old Trafford. No, Leon has actually had years of experience at first-team level for Paraguayan side Cerro Porteno.

He has already played 26 times for the club over the past couple of years, and has even managed three goals in that time, from left-back. His 2092 minutes so far equate to 23 full 90-minute games, showing his importance to the Cerro Porteno side.

In fact, his underlying stats via Sofascore from his time in professional football so far are impressive. For example, Leon played nine key passes last term, and five this season, as well as making 45 tackles and interceptions in 2024, and 11 in 2025.

One person who rates the youngster highly is football analyst Ben Mattinson. Discussing Leon in December 2024, just one month before his United medical, the analyst said he “runs like a steam train”, highlighting the physicality he will bring to Old Trafford.

Leon certainly seems like a player United fans can get excited about. The 18-year-old will bring first-team experience with him to the Premier League, and he clearly has final-third flair. He could be the perfect player for Amoirm to add to his wing-back options.

In The Pipeline

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

Both Amass and Dorgu may well need to watch out…

Upgrade on Rashford: Man Utd leading the race to sign £30m "monster"

Man Utd are looking for attacking reinforcements this summer

By
Joe Nuttall

Apr 16, 2025

Aston Villa stand on the edge of glory. While their Champions League may have ended by PSG, Unai Emery’s side have a wonderful chance to reach a first FA Cup final since 2015.

The club have not won this competition since 1957. Indeed, they haven’t won a major honour since 1996, and it would be fitting to finally end this drought under a man who has lifted them from the doldrums.

In midweek, the Midlands side suffered a 2-1 loss to Manchester City in the Premier League. While not disastrous, it represented a chance to cement their place in the top five of the table.

Several of the starting XI failed to perform as expected, most notably Boubacar Kamara in the heart of the midfield.

Why Emery must drop Boubacar Kamara

There is no doubt Kamara has been excellent when called upon this season, but against City, he didn’t quite look himself.

He played the full 90 minutes alongside Amadou Onana for Villa and succeeded with 87% of his passes, but the Frenchman could only win one of his seven contested ground duels, along with losing possession eight times.

Kamara also failed to make a single tackle during the match and was dribbled past on two occasions. Despite his tireless shift, it wasn’t enough to see Villa take home all three points.

With an FA Cup final place at stake this weekend, Emery might just switch things up ahead of the match against Crystal Palace.

This could see Kamara dropped from the starting XI, with Youri Tielemans slotting back into a deeper role.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

If so, there is only one man who should be deployed as Villa’s number ten – Marco Asensio.

Marco Asensio must be unleashed by Aston Villa

The Spaniard has been a truly inspired signing by Emery, even if it is just on a temporary basis.

Indeed, the former Real Madrid starlet has scored eight goals and chipped in with a solitary assist for the club across 20 matches.

In the Premier League, Asensio has created one big chance, averaging 1.3 key passes and succeeding in 58% of his dribble attempts.

These statistics are made even better considering he has started only five matches in the top flight since arriving back in January.

Dubbed as “world-class” by former Arsenal and Birmingham City defender Matthew Upson in March after his exploits against Club Brugge in the Champions League.

If the club have a chance of signing him on a permanent deal, then Emery must do everything in his power to do so.

Starting him against Palace at Wembley could give Villa the best chance of reaching the final of the competition, no doubt about that, because of the attacking quality that he can provide with his ability to both score and create.

The PSG loanee has scored twice in the tournament so far, netting a double against Cardiff. If he is unleashed, expect him to conjure up some more magic for the Villa faithful.

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By
Joe Nuttall

Apr 23, 2025