Better signing than Isak: Arsenal in talks for 'one of the world's best'

da apostebet: This summer promises to be a huge one for Arsenal football club as they look to finally end their two-decade wait for a Premier League title at the Emirates.

da doce: Mikel Arteta’s side have finished runners-up in each of the last two campaigns, looking almost certain to finish in such a position at the end of 2024/25 – this time behind Arne Slot’s Liverpool.

The Gunners have done a tremendous job over the last couple of months considering the constant injury issues they’ve faced, losing countless key players in the process.

Bukayo Saka and Gabriel are just two of the players who have been absent for large spells, highlighting the lack of squad depth currently available to Arteta in North London.

The injuries have undoubtedly scuppered any title opportunity this season, showcasing the need for added reinforcements this summer, with one area of the pitch in the greatest need of new signings.

The latest on Arsenal’s hunt for a new striker

Over the last few months, a striker has been at the top of Arsenal’s shopping list, arguably being the missing puzzle in their quest for English top-flight glory.

The main name touted with a move to the Emirates is Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, with the Swede impressing in the Premier League over the last couple of years, notching 41 league goals in his previous 58 outings.

Newcastle United's AlexanderIsakcelebrates scoring their second goal

However, any deal for his services has been made almost impossible, with Eddie Howe’s side placing a £150m valuation on his head ahead of the summer window.

He’s not the only name in the mix with Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko, two other names also high on the club’s wish list – but like Isak, no progress has yet been made on any deals.

Despite the links, the Gunners have already started talks to land Lille striker Jonathan David this summer, according to Italian outlet Sempreinter.

They aren’t alone in their pursuit of the 25-year-old, with Bayern Munich also approaching the Canadian, who’s out of contract at the end of this season.

Lille'sJonathanDavidcelebrates scoring their fourth goal

Why David would be a better signing than Isak for Arsenal

Isak’s talents have been on show for every Arsenal fan to see over the last few months, none more so than his effort against the Gunners in the Carabao Cup semi-final.

His effortless ability to glide past the opposition has seen comparisons made to Premier League legend Thierry Henry, which has certainly produced more hype over such a move to join Arteta’s side.

However, if they were to land the 25-year-old, they would have to fork out an English-record fee for his signature, breaking the record set by Moises Caicedo after his £115m deal to join Chelsea in 2023.

Newcastle United's AlexanderIsakarrives at the stadium before the match

Given the added depth needed in key areas, splashing such an amount on one player would severely restrict the other business Arteta is able to conduct in the months ahead.

Such a deal may not be the supporters’ first choice, but when comparing the pair’s respective stats from the ongoing season, the Canadian has managed to outperform Isak in key areas, showcasing how much of a superb signing he would be.

How Jonathan David compares to Alexander Isak in 2024/25

Statistics (per 90)

David

Isak

Games played

44

36

Goals & assists

33

30

Shot-on-target accuracy

45%

44%

Pass accuracy

82%

73%

Take-on success

52%

49%

Fouls won

1.3

0.5

Aerials won

36%

34%

Stats via FBref

The Canadian, who’s been labelled “one of the best strikers in the world” by Tony Marinaro, has registered more combined goals and assists this campaign, showcasing the attacking threat he carries in the final third.

He’s also completed more of the passes he’s attempted, whilst also completing more take-ons, offering a more all-round option at the top end of the pitch – something which Arteta has greatly missed this season.

Whilst they will face stiff competition from various other European sides for his signature, from the stats produced, it’s evident that the Lille star would be a sensational addition, especially on a free transfer.

Isak will undoubtedly remain as the supporters’ main target this summer, but if the side are to improve in all areas ahead of next season, it’s pivotal that funds are available to edge them closer to title glory in 2025/26.

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Leeds could axe Farke by hiring "the most underrated manager in the PL"

da leao: Leeds United’s mammoth 6-0 win, coupled with Burnley’s triumph over Sheffield United on Monday, secured a return to the Premier League after a two-year absence.

da dobrowin: The Whites have bounced back excellently from their play-off final defeat against Southampton last season, having the chance to secure the league title before the end of the season.

Daniel Farke has secured his third Championship promotion of his career, undoubtedly cementing his place in the club’s history forever after such an achievement.

Leeds United manager DanielFarkeapplauds fans

However, the hard work undoubtedly starts now for the German, needing to make crucial moves in the transfer market if he is to buck the recent trend and keep the side in the top-flight.

Such a feat may not be achieved by the 48-year-old next season, especially if the latest rumours around his future at Elland Road are to be believed.

The latest update on Farke’s future as Leeds boss

In recent days, it was confirmed by the Daily Mail that the Leeds hierarchy could be tempted to part ways with Farke over the summer ahead of their return to the top-flight.

The German has achieved a 58% win rate over his two-year spell in Yorkshire, but it may not be enough to secure his long-term future at Elland Road.

The report claims that no decision has yet been made on his future, but that other candidates have already been lined up in case they decide to pull the trigger.

It remains unclear who the board could turn to should the German receive his matching orders, but that his lack of success in the top-flight could be a deciding factor in their decision.

Any decision to part ways would undoubtedly be a huge call given his achievements this season, but it could be one that would allow a proven top-flight boss to take the reins.

The manager who would be perfect to replace Farke at Leeds

Premier League safety is certainly the aim for Leeds next season, looking to be the side that prevents an unwanted record from happening in 2025/26.

It looks highly likely that all three promoted sides from the Championship have immediately returned back to the second tier – with Ipswich all but confirmed to be returning after just one year in the top-flight.

Investment is certainly needed, but questions will certainly be asked of Farke should he stay, given his previous inability to survive the drop at Norwich City.

As a result, the hierarchy could turn to former Everton boss Sean Dyche to fill the void should the German be sacked, offering the stability the Whites would need if they are to fight off relegation.

He was sacked from his role at Goodison Park back in January, but managed to secure the Toffees’ ever-present Premier League status in the two seasons prior.

Everton managerSeanDychebefore the match

The 53-year-old, who’s been labelled “one of the most underrated managers in the PL” by HLTCO, has a superb record in England’s top division, one that is better than Farke – handing the club the best chance of maintaining their status.

When comparing the duo’s respective figures during their time in the league, Dyche has achieved much more than Farke, further highlighting why he would be a superb appointment this summer.

How Sean Dyche compares to Daniel Farke in the PL

Statistics

Dyche

Farke

Games managed

333

49

Wins

93

6

Draws

91

8

Losses

149

35

Goals scored

323 (1.03)

31 (0.63)

Goals against

469 (1.4)

101 (2.06)

Win percentage

28%

12%

Stats via Premier League

He’s managed a higher win percentage during his time in the division, whilst also posting more goals scored per game and fewer conceded per game – offering an upgrade on the current manager.

His experience at the top of the English game could prove vital next season, with the club simply not being able to afford an immediate return back to the second tier.

It may not be the glamorous appointment many fans would be hoping for, but Dyche would certainly offer that know how that the side will need if they are to survive in 2025/26.

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Liverpool eyeing new £40k-a-week Premier League right-back to replace Trent

da apostaganha: Liverpool have reportedly “identified” a “fantastic” replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold this summer, with the player in question excelling in the Premier League this season.

Trent's Liverpool future still unknown

da bet7: With Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk tied down to their respective new two-year deals in recent weeks, Reds supporters have been able to breathe a huge sigh of relief.

That said, there are still huge doubts surrounding the future of Alexander-Arnold at Liverpool, with the vice-captain heavily linked with a move from his boyhood club to Real Madrid.

Liverpool'sTrentAlexander-Arnoldapplauds fans after the match

The fact that the 26-year-old has done little to play down the rumours at any point suggests that his head may well have been turned by a high-profile summer switch to the Santiago Bernabeu, in a decision that would have the potential to harm his legacy at Anfield.

If Alexander-Arnold does leave Liverpool this summer, it is vital that a top-quality replacement comes in, with SC Freiburg’s Kiliann Sildillia mentioned as a target. Bayer Leverkusen ace Jeremie Frimpong has also been backed to join the Reds, having shone under Xabi Alonso for the reigning Bundesliga champions.

Liverpool eyeing "fantastic" Trent replacement

According to an update from Caught Offside on Sunday, Liverpool have “identified” Nottingham Forest right-back Ola Aina as a new target and option to replace Alexander-Arnold at the end of the season, assuming he leaves.

The 28-year-old has shone for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side throughout the 2024/25 campaign, proving to be a key player in their push for unlikely Champions League qualification.

Ola Aina with Chris Wood for Nottingham Forest.

The £40,000-a-week Aina is a strong option for Liverpool alongside the likes of Sildillia and Frimpong this summer, with his performances for Forest showing what an asset he could be.

The Nigerian has averaged 2.9 clearances and 0.4 aerial duel wins per game in the Premier League across 30 appearances, which is superior to Alexander-Arnold’s tallies in that area, as the table below illustrates.

Aina vs. Alexander-Arnold in the PL this season

Aina

Alexander-Arnold

Appearances

30

28

Starts

30

26

Minutes played

2575

2158

Goals

2

2

Assists

1

6

Clearances per game

2.9

1.6

Aerial duel wins per game

0.4

0.1

Interceptions per game

1.0

1.1

Aina has also been lauded for one attacking moment of quality earlier this season, with Glenn Murray full of praise for his goal against Aston Villa:

“Sometimes when you come on to a shot like that the temptation can be to leather the ball with your laces. But, it’s a side foot, it’s controlled and it’s a fantastic finish, it really is.”

At 28, Aina is two years older than Alexander-Arnold, however, and wouldn’t necessarily represent a long-term option for Liverpool, which is arguably the biggest negative against them signing him.

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1

The Reds would arguably be wiser to look at younger targets, such as those mentioned above, allowing them to sign someone with more scope to improve as the years pass.

Everton weigh up bid for £40m ace who can usurp Ndiaye as their best player

da wazamba: We’re less than one month away from the end of the 2024/25 campaign, a year of shifting emotions for those of an Everton persuasion.

da betsul: The Toffees started off dismally, losing their opening four fixtures of the season under Sean Dyche’s wing and lacking any semblance of spirit or invention. When The Friedkin Group took over and ended the interminable pursuit of new ownership, they (re)appointed David Moyes in January.

Now, hope has been restored. Everton are 13th in the Premier League with just a few matches to go, relegation fears long in the past.

However, with as many as 15 senior players departing this summer, there’s plenty of work to be done, and who can argue that strengthening the frontline ahead of the move to Bramley Moore isn’t the priority?

Everton ready to sign new forward

The Toffees are rightly in the market for a new forward this summer, particularly given Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s struggles and the fact that his contract expires in a few months time.

So, who could head to the new stadium and join Moyes’ revolution?

Transfer Focus

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

Well, according to GIVEMESPORT, Moyes has decided to earmark Tottenham Hotspur’s Richarlison, with the Brazilian identified as the ‘dream’ target.

Richarlison, of course, spent four seasons at Goodison Park before transferring to Spurs in a £60m deal back in 2022, but it hasn’t worked out and both parties appear ready to cut their losses.

The 28-year-old wouldn’t come cheap, however, priced at no less than £40m, given Tottenham face a sell-to-buy scenario this summer.

Amid those claims, it’s stated that Everton are seriously weighing up a summer offer.

Why Everton should re-sign Richarlison

Richarlison is a versatile forward with a fiery personality that he uses to his advantage more often than not. It’s all come down like a house of cards at Tottenham, but that’s not to say he’s been poor, rebounding from a tough first season to provide a comparative clinical edge.

Former Everton forward Richarlison

If Moyes can get him firing, it would be sure to dynamise Everton’s frontline. Currently, Iliman Ndiaye carries quite a weight on his shoulders, recognised as a “relentless forward” by data analyst Ben Mattinson, who “could be at least a squad player in every Prem team.”

Having scored nine times across all competitions since signing for Everton from Marseille in a £15m deal, Ndiaye has been one of the brightest sparks, with his silky movements and sharpness in the danger area making him a dangerous presence against any opponent.

However, Richarlison at his best could be the new cream of the crop, having already proved himself a £60m player as a Blue in the past.

Although his debut campaign in the capital didn’t go to plan, Richarlison has returned to prolific form in the two terms spent under Ange Postecoglou. If Moyes can solve the forward’s injury problems, there’s no question that he could usurp Ndiaye and take the tag of Everton’s best player next season.

Richarlison: Premier League Career by Season

Season

Club

Apps (starts)

Goals

Assists

24/25

Tottenham

12 (3)

4

1

23/24

Tottenham

28 (18)

11

4

22/23

Tottenham

27 (12)

1

4

21/22

Everton

30 (28)

10

5

20/21

Everton

34 (33)

7

3

19/20

Everton

36 (36)

13

3

18/19

Everton

35 (32)

13

1

17/18

Watford

38 (32)

5

4

Stats via Transfermarkt

The stats are on his side. As per FBref, Richarlison ranks among the top 8% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for goals scored, the top 11% for assists, the top 19% for progressive carries, the top 14% for tackles and the top 2% for clearances per 90.

With a firmly embedded goalscoring quality, a raw athleticism and a tried-and-tested past on Merseyside, Richarlison could be a “constant nuisance for defenders” under Moyes’ wing, as he has been described before by Postecoglou.

Of course, there’s nothing to say that the two mavericks couldn’t work in conjunction at Everton next year, Ndiaye charging down the left flank while Richarlison looks to add to his 53 goals for the Merseyside outfit.

If the Tottenham man can reach his highest level, there’s no question he could be Moyes’ standout star.

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Wolves now in pole position to sign "incredible" 243 career-goal striker

da aviator aposta: Wolverhampton Wanderers are in the market for attacking reinforcements this summer and look to be at the front of the queue for a proven goalscorer, per recent developments.

Wolverhampton Wanderers' forward line could be altered

da dobrowin: Vitor Pereira is seen as a man of the people at Molineux and will likely be given the full support of both the club’s hierarchy and fans heading into the summer transfer window. However, Matheus Cunha’s uncertain future at Wolves is set to become one of the stories of the next few months amid rumours linking the Brazil forward with a high-profile move to Manchester United.

Matheus Cunha

After a return of 17 goals and six assists in 33 appearances, the 25-year-old has become one of the most sought-after forwards in the Premier League.

From a Wolves perspective, Cunha’s decision to sign a new deal earlier this year may offer some encouragement. Nevertheless, Arsenal, Aston Villa and clubs in the Saudi Pro League are also attentive to his situation.

Jorgen Strand Larsen is back in contention for the Old Gold off the back of missing out in their 1-0 defeat to Manchester City last weekend, which led to Jean‐Ricner Bellegarde operating as a central striker.

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The Old Gold are in the mix…

Clearly, rotational options are needed in the final third to handle the rough and tumble of juggling top-flight football with domestic cup competitions.

Hwang Hee-chan has struggled for rhythm this campaign, begging the question of whether one or two could move out of the forward line to make way for new blood.

While Wolves plot how they will scale up ahead of next season, they are now said to be ahead of the rest in the hunt for one of England’s most prolific forwards over recent years.

Wolves leading the race to sign Jamie Vardy

According to Football Insider, Wolves are in ‘pole position’ to sign Jamie Vardy once his Leicester City contract expires at the end of the season. The former Three Lions international, who has been labelled “incredible” by Gary Lineker, is seen as someone that could be a valuable option off the bench for Pereira moving into 2025/26.

Jamie Vardy’s career tally for club and country

Appearances

568

Goals

243

Assists

88

Leeds United and Wrexham are also in the hunt to sign the 38-year-old, though he would prefer to stay in the Premier League rather than dropping down to join the latter following the Foxes’ relegation under Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Intriguingly, the Whites are said to have doubts over his longevity, paving the way for Wolves to steal a march on Daniel Farke’s side to push a deal over the line.

Deemed to be making the ‘biggest move’ to sign Vardy out of all his interested suitors, the Old Gold could now be on the verge of securing the signature of a clinical striker who wouldn’t cost a penny to bring in.

Admittedly, there may be doubters who question his value beyond the short-term, but experience can be a priceless commodity that shouldn’t be underestimated.

Offers on the table: Rangers must now cash in on "anonymous" flop & Dessers

da jogodeouro: It is no understatement to say that Glasgow Rangers require a major overhaul this summer.

da betobet: Not just in the playing squad or staff members, but in mentality. Since the Ibrox side won the Premiership title in 2021, the Gers have won only two trophies since.

In comparison, Celtic have won every available league title on offer and have clinched a domestic double this season, although they did lose to Aberdeen in the SFA Cup final.

Rangers interim managerBarryFergusonbefore the match

Things have to change at Ibrox, and fast. The 49ers’ involvement should give those at the club a boost, but the priority is a new manager.

The likes of Steven Gerrard and Davide Ancelotti have been linked with a move to Glasgow, while several other candidates have been touted for the vacant role.

Whoever becomes the next permanent manager will have work to do in order to improve the first-team squad this summer.

There are various positions that need urgent improvement, no doubt about that. Furthermore, several players could be sold to raise funds and help reduce the wage bill.

Cyriel Dessers may finish the season as the top scorer in the Premiership, but if a reasonable offer comes in this summer, the club should cash in.

Why Rangers must sell Cyriel Dessers

Never has a Rangers player exuded more Jekyll and Hyde-like qualities than Dessers. One minute, he is simply unplayable, causing chaos for opposition defenders domestically and in Europe.

Next, he struggles with the easiest of chances and offers next to nothing in the final third.

There is no doubt about his record in front of goal for the Light Blues since he joined in a deal worth £4.5m from Cremonese in the summer of 2023. Indeed, the Nigerian striker has scored 51 goals and grabbed 16 assists across 109 games for the club during his first two seasons.

On the surface, this is an impressive record in front of goal. He has shone in Europe, with his display against Fenerbahce one of the finest by a Gers forward in quite a while.

Unfortunately, these performances are few and far between. Throughout the 2023/24 league season, Dessers missed a staggering 27 big chances across 35 matches.

Over the same number of games in 2024/25, he missed 21 big chances, a slight improvement, but still not great.

Cyriel Dessers’ league stats for Rangers

Metric

2023/24

2024/25

Goals

16

18

Assists

4

2

Shots per game

2.9

2.4

Big chances missed

27

21

Goal conversion percentage

16%

22%

Via Sofascore

During the winter transfer window, several clubs were linked with making a move for Dessers. Saint-Étienne, Cagliari, and Empoli were all showing interest in securing a move for the 30-year-old.

Much to the disappointment of large sections of the support, the centre-forward remained in Glasgow until the end of the season at least.

He has two years left on his current contract, which suggests now would be the ideal time to cash in and secure a decent fee for the player.

This could be used to fund future signings, especially a couple of younger players with a higher ceiling for growth.

Dessers shouldn’t be the only player to be moved on this summer by the new manager. Nedim Bajrami is reportedly attracting interest from afar, and now might be a good time to part ways with the Albanian.

Nedim Bajrami has offers on the table

According to reports in Albania (as relayed by Glasgow Times), Bajrami has two options on the table with regard to a summer exit away from the Light Blues.

One comes from the Italian top flight, while the other is from the Bundesliga, and the report states that the midfielder is likely to leave Glasgow when the transfer window finally opens.

Much will depend on the price, however, as the 49ers will be keen on recouping much of the £3.4m that was spent on the Albanian last summer.

It’s safe to say he hasn’t exactly enjoyed the most productive of campaigns in Scotland, despite arriving with plenty of hype.

What exactly went wrong with Bajrami?

Why Rangers must sell Nedim Bajrami this summer

The 26-year-old had impressed for his country at Euro 2024, scoring an incredible opener against Italy after just 23 seconds.

A move to Ibrox in the final days of the summer transfer window looked like a real coup for Philippe Clement.

What looked like a potentially transformative signing for the club eventually turned into a waste of money. Across 44 games for Rangers, he only scored five goals and chipped in with four assists, showing that he has rarely made a big impact at the top end of the pitch.

Considering the sum of money the club had paid, this was hardly the best of returns, especially following a decent start to life in Glasgow.

The midfielder only started 15 Premiership matches, creating only four big chances, averaging one key pass and succeeding with just one dribble per game in the top flight.

In Europe, Bajrami didn’t fare much better. Indeed, he could only muster a single goal from 11 appearances, winning less than half of his total duels per game and averaging 1.3 key passes per game, which shows how ineffective he has been on the European stage since his move to Ibrox.

Bajrami

The nadir came against Queen’s Park in the Scottish Cup back in February. Rangers suffered a shock 1-0 home defeat – arguably one of their worst domestic losses – but Bajrami was subbed at half-time following a dismal display.

Stevie Clifford, who runs Four Lads Had a Dream, criticised the Albanian a month before, saying:

“I’ll highlight it again, it’s not singling him out, but Nedim Bajrami is not offering enough at all.

“We need him to influence games & be involved, largely anonymous so far, again.

“£4m is big money to do it in these type of games & he’s miles off it so far.”

All of these points point towards a likely summer exit when the window opens next month. Should Rangers receive a bid that is deemed acceptable, then they must be ready to cash in.

He didn’t live up to initial expectations, and regardless of who the new manager is, Bajrami’s future already looks settled with the offers that are on the table from other clubs.

Hopefully, he can make better signings this summer.

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As bad as Martinez: Emery must offload Aston Villa star after 5/10 display

da pinnacle: Aston Villa missed out on Champions League football for next season with a controversial 2-0 defeat against Manchester United at Old Trafford yesterday.

da cassino: Amad Diallo and Christian Eriksen’s goals in the second half secured the win for Ruben Amorim’s side, confining Unai Emery’s men to Europa League football.

The Villans were handed an uphill task after goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez was given a straight red card after taking out Rasmus Hojlund after Matty Cash’s under-hit back pass.

However, the result could’ve been different for Emery’s men, after Morgan Rogers was adjudged to have fouled goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, leading to the club making a complaint to the Premier League over the officiating decisions.

Despite the defeat and the questionable decisions made by the officials, numerous players failed to deliver, leaving the club with some big decisions to make during the off-season.

Aston Villa’s poor performers against Man Utd

As previously mentioned, goalkeeper Martinez made a huge mistake that handed Villa a tricky task to try and claim all three points against the Red Devils.

The Argentine has been linked with a move away from the West Midlands in recent weeks, meaning that his disappointing display at Old Trafford may be his last for the club.

However, he wasn’t alone in producing a disappointing display, with left-back Ian Maatsen struggling to impress, even giving away the penalty for Eriksen’s goal.

His poor showing didn’t stop there, losing possession a staggering 13 times, whilst also losing 100% of the ground duels he entered, looking way off the pace and contributing to the defeat.

Both will likely be frustrated with their lack of impact, but despite their respective outings, one other player massively struggled, with Emery needing to make a bold decision on his future.

The 5/10 Villa star who needs to be sold this summer

After missing out on the Champions League, Villa now have a huge summer ahead of themselves to prevent breaking the Premier League’s strict PSR rules.

Aston Villa manager UnaiEmerybefore the match

The club have had to make sales over the last couple of summers, with this one likely to follow in the same vein given the failure to secure a place in Europe’s biggest competition.

Martinez is just one player touted with a move away from Villa Park, with midfielder Rogers another star who could see his future lie away from the club.

However, Emery must boldly sell fellow first-team member Ollie Watkins this summer, needing to cash in on the 29-year-old whilst his stock is at its highest.

He was subject to interest from Arsenal during the January transfer window, but the hierarchy rejected offers for their talisman, enabling him to play a key role in their Champions League aspirations.

However, his showing at Old Trafford was nothing short of a disappointment, failing to deliver the goods and once again going missing in a key encounter.

The England international featured for the entirety of the contest, registering just 21 touches – the fewest of any player who started the game – highlighting his lack of impact.

Ollie Watkins’ stats for Villa against Man Utd

Statistics

Tally

Minutes played

90

Touches

21

Shots taken

0

Dribbles completed

1/2 (50%)

Duels won

5/15

Passes completed

6/15 (40%)

Possession lost

12x

Stats via SofaScore

He also failed to register a single effort on goal and only completed 50% of his dribbles, further highlighting how poor he was when the ball fell his way.

Watkins’ disappointing showing didn’t end there, only winning five of the 15 duels he entered, often being dominated by the Red Devils’ backline in the defeat.

As a result, the striker was handed a measly 5/10 match rating by Birmingham World’s Charlie Haffenden – further demonstrating how poor he was yesterday.

After such a showing, the manager should look to offload him during the off-season, handing the opportunity for another player to thrive at the top end of the pitch.

Given the current financial situation, the hierarchy will face over the coming months, Watkins should be the first player sacrificed, offering Emery the chance to mount another Champions League push next season.

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The new Summerville: Leeds plotting move for "unbelievable" £13m EFL star

da luck: Leeds United’s attack has played a vital role in their success throughout the Championship title-winning campaign, producing the goods on countless occasions.

da betcris: Daniel Farke’s side registered a total of 95 goals in the 46 appearances, the most of any side in the division, undoubtedly playing a key role in their ability to finish top of the table.

Joel Piroe scored 19 times, the most of any player in the division, proving his worth at Elland Road after joining the Whites for a fee in the region of £10m in the summer of 2023.

However, despite the impressive form of numerous players in 2024/25, added reinforcements are needed in such a department if they are to secure survival next time around.

With the transfer window just around the corner, the hierarchy have wasted no time in identifying targets for Farke, as the German looks to establish the club as a Premier League outfit once again.

The latest on Leeds’ pursuit of new attackers this summer

In recent days, Leeds have been in the race to sign Newcastle United forward Callum Wilson this summer, with the 33-year-old’s deal set to expire at the end of June.

They’re not alone in their pursuit of the Magpies centre-forward, with West Ham United just another team in the race to land the striker, who’s scored 49 times in his 130 appearances for the club.

Newcastle United'sCallumWilsonsalutes their fans after the match

However, he’s not the only forward-thinking option currently on their radar, with Sheffield United star Gustavo Hamer another option considered by Farke, according to talkSPORT.

The report claims that the 27-year-old is set to depart the Blades this summer after their play-off final defeat, with the Whites just one of the sides mooted as a possible destination.

It also states that the hierarchy at Bramall Lane are resigned to losing him in the coming months, but it doesn’t say how much they will demand to part ways with him this summer. That said, Transfermarkt value him at around £13m.

Why Hamer could be Farke’s next Summerville

Winger Crysencio Summerville captured the hearts of the fanbase during his stint at Leeds, producing numerous moments of magic during his three-year stint in Yorkshire.

The Dutchman joined the club in 2021, originally linking up with the youth setup, before making the jump up to the first-team and being a monster hit at Elland Road.

He scored the winner against Liverpool at Anfield back in the 2022/23 campaign, but it wasn’t enough come the end of the season as the club dropped into the Championship.

Relegation would be a blessing in disguise for his career, registering 20 goals and nine assists for the Whites last season, leading to a £25m move to join West Ham United.

The supporters must wish they were able to keep hold of the 23-year-old, but they could land their next version of the Dutchman in the form of his compatriot, Hamer.

Like Summerville, he’s enjoyed his latest spell in the second tier, registering 18 combined goals and assists, possessing a similar playstyle to the departed attacker, with both liking to cut inside off the left onto their right foot.

How Hamer compares to Summerville’s last season at Leeds

Statistics (per 90)

Hamer (24/25)

Summerville (22/23)

Games played

41

43

Goals & assists

16

28

Progressive passes

6.4

4.4

Passes into final third

4.4

1.7

Passes into 18-yard box

2.2

1.7

Take-on success

54%

53%

Times dispossessed

0.7

1.8

Stats via FBref

The Blades star, who’s been labelled “unbelievable” by former teammate Ollie McBurnie, has managed to match or better Summerville in numerous key areas from his previous year in Yorkshire, showcasing how much of an excellent addition he would be this summer.

Whilst it remains unclear how much a deal would set the hierarchy back in the coming weeks, it would be a superb piece of business that would inject added quality into the front line.

If he manages to get anywhere near close to the levels produced by the departed Dutchman at Elland Road, he would be a potential bargain, strengthening their ambitions of staying in the Premier League.

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Birmingham could make "outstanding" signing who'd be even better than Poku

da fazobetai: Birmingham City’s recent seasons in the Championship have involved the Blues just attempting to keep their heads above water.

da pinnacle: This all came to a depressing close at the end of the 2023/24 campaign when the West Midlands giants finally fell through the relegation trapdoor, after their three finishes leading up to his dismal season saw them slump to 17th, 18th, and 20th before they were put out of their misery.

Birmingham City lift the League One title.

Looking back, this was just the reset needed for the Blues to believe again, with this relegation also coming at around the same time the mega-rich Tom Wagner became owner of the fallen titans.

Now, after a record-breaking title success in League One, Birmingham will be aiming to swim and not sink on their second-tier return.

But, it’s looking increasingly unlikely that Kwame Poku will line up for Chris Davies’ men when making this journey, irrespective of their long-term interest.

The Kwame Poku saga at Birmingham

It was first speculated back in the middle of April that Birmingham were keen on landing the Peterborough United ace, with journalist Graeme Bailey even suggesting that talks had already taken place for Poku to relocate to St. Andrew’s.

There has been no movement since, however, regardless of Poku’s name continuing to come up in Blues-related conversations, with GIVEMESPORT adding more fuel to the fire last month by stating Birmingham were one of a colossal 26 sides keeping tabs on the League One superstar.

With the calendar now reading June, Davies and Co. must be getting restless over whether a move to bring the 23-year-old to St. Andrew’s is actually feasible, especially with Premier League-bound Sunderland now allegedly in the intense race for his signature.

This could result in Birmingham switching up their priorities to land an equally as exciting attacker instead, with a bold argument to be made that their newer target is even better than the much-talked-about Ghanaian.

Birmingham's outstanding Poku alternative

After all, much like Poku, this new face being linked with a move to the on-the-rise giants has torn League One to shreds in recent times.

Indeed, GIVEMESPORT has recently revealed that Birmingham could be about to land Aston Villa youngster Louie Barry on a loan deal, regardless of any well-known hostilities between the two fierce rivals.

Any cross-city allegiances would be swiftly put to one side if Barry were to come in and take the Championship by storm like he managed in the league below with fellow loan employers Stoke City, with the audacious effort above just one of the many stunning strikes he registered donning Hatters blue.

He also shone for Stockport during their League Two promotion success the season before his third-tier explosion, meaning he is surely worthy of a shot in the second-tier now, with Barry a tricky customer to handle down either flank, much like Poku.

Barry’s L1 numbers for Stockport vs Poku (24/25)

Stat

Barry

Poku

Games played

23

27

Goals scored

15

12

Scoring frequency

120 mins

172 mins

Assists

2

8

Shots per game

3.1

2.4

Shots on target per game

1.6

0.9

Big chances missed

6

3

Big chances created

5

9

Stats by Sofascore

Staggeringly, despite all the hype and frenzy around Poku’s name at the moment, Barry would actually better the 23-year-old’s goal count this season in League One, even when playing five league games less.

On top of that, the “outstanding” Aston Villa youngster – as he’s been previously lauded by Villans great Gabby Agbonlahor – also lined up four times for Hull City last season in the Championship after his Edgeley Park spell was up, meaning he has had a more recent, yet brief crash course as to what the daunting level entails.

louie-barry-aston-villa

Unai Emery’s men won’t be writing off Barry as a future Villa Park star, but he needs to be handed more game time now as he just isn’t ready for the higher reaches of the Premier League.

Therefore, even if it’s Birmingham, this could be the best next destination for the spellbinding 21-year-old, with Davies’ men not turning their noses up at the prospect of landing the attacker whatsoever if a move for Poku remains stagnant.

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da bet vitoria: Birmingham City are in the market to bolster their squad in the summer transfer window after they secured an immediate return to the Championship.

da betsson: Chris Davies’ team racked up 111 points in League One in the 2024/25 campaign, winning the title, and they are now preparing for a season in the second tier.

One player the Blues have been linked with an interest in is Al-Ettifaq winger Demarai Gray, who left the club back in 2016, but he may not be a realistic option for them this summer.

Why Birmingham may not sign Demarai Gray

In a recent report for EFL Analysis, journalist Graeme Bailey explained that the forward is available for a fee of around £6m, but that his wage packet may block a move back to St. Andrew’s.

Transfer Focus

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

The reporter said: “His price has come down, but his wages are massive. We’re talking around £200k per week. It’s staggering. So, I don’t know whether he’d be willing to come back to the Championship. Obviously, we know Birmingham are not going to be paying him even a quarter of that.”

This suggests that Birmingham, whose top earner is reportedly Christoph Klarer on £22k-per-week, would not be able to fit him into their wage structure, which is why they may not sign him in the coming weeks.

The Blues should look elsewhere in the market to bolster their options out wide, and they have been linked with an interest in signing Tottenham Hotspur winger Mikey Moore on loan.

Why Birmingham should sign Mikey Moore this summer

Birmingham should swoop to sign the England youth international because he would be an even bigger signing than Gray, due to his potential to explode in the Championship.

Moore, who James Maddison described as “fearless”, has shown plenty of promising signs since he broke into the first-team at Spurs this season, providing one assist in three starts in the Premier League and impressing in the Europa League.

24/25 Europa League

Mikey Moore

Appearances

5

Starts

3

xG

0.68

Goals

1

Big chances created

1

Assists

1

Pass accuracy

83%

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the 17-year-old talent caught the eye with one goal and one assist in three starts in the Europa League for Spurs, as they went on to win the competition.

Moore, who was described as a “future superstar” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has burst into the first-team after impressing at youth level with a return of 19 goals and 13 assists in 24 matches for their U18s.

The teenage sensation provided goals and assists on a regular basis for Tottenham’s academy and has started to show signs of replicating that in their first-team, albeit he has not quite hit the same level yet.

Gray, meanwhile, did not provide a single goal or assist in 24 appearances in the Pro League for Al-Ettifaq in the 2024/25 campaign, which shows that he would be returning to Birmingham off the back of a poor season.

This means that Moore is a more attractive option for the Blues because they would be signing a highly exciting player who is on the up and showing plenty of promise, rather than a 28-year-old winger, in Gray, who is on the decline and coming off a disappointing year.

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Therefore, the Spurs youngster would be a bigger signing for Birmingham because they could have a “future superstar” on their hands, rather than a player whose best days look to be behind him.

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