Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy reportedly has one tactician at the top of his list of potential targets to replace Ange Postecoglou, and the man in question has now confirmed where he’ll be next season in a statement.

Tottenham now '50/50' over sacking Ange Postecoglou after Europa League win

Spurs ended the campaign with an historic Europa League triumph in Bilbao, at the expense of Man United, which ended their 17-year wait for major silverware and secured their first European trophy since 1984.

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1 ByEmilio Galantini May 23, 2025

Their 1-0 victory over Ruben Amorim’s side at the Estadio de San Mamés also presented Levy with a major conundrum, which he must now resolve in quick fashion after the conclusion of this Premier League campaign.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Postecoglou paraded the Europa League trophy around Spurs’ stadium after their 4-1 defeat at home to Brighton on Sunday, which confirmed their 17th-placed finish in the table after a dismal 22 league defeats in total.

While the Lilywhites lifted their first piece of silverware in nearly two decades and qualified for next season’s Champions League, their league form has been simply unacceptable, so you can see why Levy and the Spurs board are reportedly ’50/50′ over sacking Postecoglou right now (Football Insider).

“My gut feeling is I feel right now that I’ve done something that no one believed I could,” said Postecoglou when asked about his future after their loss to Brighton.

“And I shouldn’t be sitting here talking about it (my future). That’s my feeling, but it is what it is. I just want to go on a break and enjoy my family and reflect on being part of something unbelievably special, unbelievably special. I’ve been fortunate to be in this position a number of times, but seeing those scenes Friday, and people have reached out and talked to me about how it has affected them, what has happened over the last couple of days, it’s a beautiful thing and I just want to enjoy that.”

Tottenham manager target Marco Silva confirms where he'll be next season

In terms of possible replacements for Postecoglou, Sky Sports reporter Gianluca Di Marzio recently reported that Fulham boss Marco Silva was the “first name” in their target list.

However, they’re now set to run into a brick wall regarding his appointment, with Silva now confirming that he’s staying at Fulham.

The 47-year-old has done an impressive job at Craven Cottage on a shoe-string budget, and briefly had them contending for Champions League qualification before they ultimately fell out of the race.

This would’ve undoubtedly turned Levy’s head, but after Silva confirmed his intentions, he must now look to other Postecoglou alternatives.

Tottenham’s list of managerial candidates is also said to include Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth), Oliver Glasner (Crystal Palace), Thomas Frank (Brentford), Scott Parker (Burnley), Jürgen Klopp (Head of Global, Red Bull), Niko Kovač (Borussia Dortmund), Edin Terzić (free agent), Xavi (free agent) and Francesco Farioli (free agent).

It’s safe to say this has been a perplexing season for Arsenal, who are now very likely to finish second having secured Champions League football for next season.

It came in the 37th gameweek as Mikel Arteta’s men defeated Newcastle 1-0. It was a game that rather typified the Gunners’ recent form, truth be told. Arsenal didn’t create a huge number of openings and left themselves exposed at the back.

This time, they had Man of the Match David Raya to thank for their victory with the Spaniard making a number of high-class saves in the opening 45 minutes. While Arsenal don’t need a goalkeeper, their end-of-season form has showcased where they need to strengthen.

Fortunately, writing before the game in the programme, Josh Kroenke spoke of the club’s summer plans and indicated that they will spend, sparking excitement for what’s to come.

So, speaking of transfers, who is likely to come through the door?

Arsenal ramping up summer transfer plans

While the biggest box to tick this summer is that of a shiny new centre forward, the Gunners must also hone in on a new winger after inconsistent campaigns for both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard.

Martinelli has found form in the back end of the campaign but has only scored on eight occasions in the Premier League. As for Trossard, he’s netted the same number in top-flight action.

As a result, we’ve seen continued links to Spanish winger Nico Williams and a suggestion that Arsenal are fans of Newcastle’s Anthony Gordon.

Despite their need for a new winger on the left, they could actually bolster the right-hand side too. That’s because, according to new reports, they are interested in signing Brentford talisman Bryan Mbeumo.

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That’s the word of club insider Teamnewsandtix, who wrote in his latest Patreon entry: “After the data team identified him last summer, Arsenal are targeting Bryan Mbeumo again. I’m told talks are progressing, but they aren’t the only team in for him.”

The Cameroon international has been nothing short of a sensation this summer and is also attracting the interest of Manchester United, according to other reports.

The forward is allegedly valued at around £51m by the Bees.

Where Mbeumo would fit into Arteta's Arsenal team

With Bukayo Saka very much still the leading light in Arteta’s lineup, fitting Mbeumo into the equation may be hard.

Described as a “Mini Salah” by talkSPORT pundit Jason Cundy, the Brentford star has made a living out of cutting inside from the right and bamboozling defenders on his stronger left foot. As the compliment suggests, he’s like Salah and, as a matter of fact, he’s very much like Saka in that regard.

While Arsenal do need to find someone who’s capable of giving the England international a break every now and then, spending £51m on a right winger when they are arguably more in need of a left forward perhaps doesn’t make too much sense.

Well, fortunately, Mbeumo is a versatile player, most notably playing six times as a centre forward this season, scoring four goals in the process.

Meanwhile, he’s played off the left on nine occasions in his career and he’s also featured behind the main striker as a no.10 or second striker 43 times. While that may well take away his strongest asset, cutting inside from the right, he certainly has the ability to make a difference in more central areas.

So, how does he compare with Saka?

Mbeumo vs Saka – 2024/25 league only
Stat (per 90 mins)	Mbeumo	Saka
Goals	0.51	0.19
Assists	0.32	0.53
Shots	2.09	3.39
Key passes	1.84	2.96
Progressive passes	3.71	3.54
Shot-creating actions	3.82	5.93
Successful take-ons	1.38	2.12
Progressive carries	3.39	4.97
Stats via FBRef.

Mbeumo has been in remarkable form this season and ranks fifth in the race for the Premier League Golden Boot, having bagged 19 goals. In all competitions, he’s also produced nine assists for his troubles.

When analysing their respective numbers, it’s clear the Brentford star is a more clinical player in front of goal. Despite taking fewer shots per 90 minutes, he’s scoring more regularly than Saka.

However, this would certainly be to the advantage of Arteta’s team. While Mbeumo may well be the better goalscorer, Saka is one of the most creative wingers in the world and is streets ahead in metrics like key passes and shot-creating actions.

Yes, there would likely be confusion about Arsenal signing a natural right winger, but supporters shouldn’t turn their noses up at more goals. This term, the league’s second-placed side have scored 67 goals in the top-flight, 16 fewer than Liverpool.

On that basis, it’s not a surprise to see that the Reds run away with proceedings.

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By
Matt Dawson

May 19, 2025

Manchester United’s 2024/25 campaign was certainly one to forget for the club and their supporters, falling way below the levels the side have set for themselves over recent years.

The Red Devils finished 15th in the Premier League, with Ruben Amorim unable to turn the club’s fortunes after taking the reins at Old Trafford back in late November.

He did lead the side to the Europa League final, but lost 1-0 to fellow English side Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao, restricting them to no European football for 2025/26.

It may prove to be a blessing in disguise for the manager as he attempts to build a squad capable of mounting a challenge for a spot in the top four next campaign.

The transfer window presents the 40-year-old with the perfect opportunity to improve his squad, adding needed quality and depth in numerous key areas of the side at the Theatre of Dreams.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

After Matheus Cunha joined United last week, the club have continued to make moves in the transfer market, making an opening offer for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo in the last few days.

The Red Devils placed a £55m bid that was swiftly rejected, with the Bees demanding a fee in the region of £70m, with the winger wanting a switch to Old Trafford this summer.

However, the 25-year-old could be joined at the club by Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, with the Swede once again emerging on their radar, according to reports in Italy.

They claim that they’re set to enter talks with the talisman who’s registered 54 goals this campaign, potentially setting up a reunion with Amorim after plying his trade under him in Portugal.

It also states that he could be available for a fee in the region of £55m this summer, with fellow Premier League side Arsenal also firmly in the race for the 27-year-old’s signature.

Why United’s £55m target could be Amorim’s next Bruno

Bruno Fernandes has been the shining light in what’s been a dismal year for United, with it unthinkable to imagine where the club would be without his contributions.

The Portuguese international registered 37 combined goals and assists despite the team’s failures, by far and away the most of any player in the squad – highlighting his importance to the side.

Such form didn’t go unnoticed, with Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal willing to pay up to £100m for the 30-year-old star, which could prove to be the Red Devils’ last chance to cash in on his services.

However, he rejected the interest earlier this week, turning down a contract in the region of £700k-per-week, showcasing his loyalty to helping the side turn around their recent fortunes.

Fernandes joined the club from Sporting CP back in 2020, which Gyokeres having the opportunity to follow suit in the current window, potentially following in the midfielders’ footsteps.

The £55m fee touted for his signature appears to be a potential bargain, especially when delving into his underlying figures from 2024/25, having the tools to offer the club a leading talisman.

Gyokeres, who’s been labelled “world-class” by one analyst, has registered a staggering 2.6 shots on target per 90 – certainly aiding his goal tally, which saw him net a hat-trick against Manchester City in the Champions League.

Games played

33

Goals & assists

46

Shots on target per 90

2.6

Successful dribbles

1.9

Touches in opposition box

10.5

Aerials won

51%

Chances created

2.1

He’s also completed 1.9 successful dribbles per 90, along with 10.5 touches in the opposition box per 90, handing the club that fox-in-the-box type forward they’ve craved over recent months.

The Swede’s talents don’t end there, winning 51% of the aerials he’s entered, offering the club a focal point that can score and tee up other forwards within the final third.

It’s safe to say the attacking department is high up on Amorim’s demands this summer, looking to add key depth as seen by the moves for Gyokeres, Mbeumo and Cunha already this summer.

Should he complete a move to Old Trafford and get anywhere near the levels achieved by Fernandes in Manchester, it would be a superb addition and one that could play a huge role in their ambitions of rising up the table in 2025/26.

He's "better than Haaland": Man Utd in talks for £67m Gyokeres alternative

Manchester United can forget about Viktor Gyokeres with a move for another attacking star.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 6, 2025

It may be odd to argue, amid what was a wretched campaign for Manchester United as a whole, although 2024/25 was in many ways a season of redemption in some quarters, with Harry Maguire re-establishing himself as a central figure under the new Ruben Amorim regime.

Thrust into an unorthodox number nine berth during United’s Europa League run, in particular, the England international delivered arguably the greatest Old Trafford moment in recent years, following his last-gasp winner against Lyon.

Once written off under Erik ten Hag, having been stripped of the captaincy amid talk over a move to West Ham United, the 32-year-old, to his credit, fought his way back from the brink, having notably been hailed as “perfect” for the 3-4-3 system by Amorim.

Fittingly too, that heroic winner against the Ligue 1 side had been supplied by another man on a mission, in the form of Casemiro, with the Brazilian having also delivered the assist for Kobbie Mainoo just minutes earlier – alongside winning the prior spot-kick.

Central to that comeback, the 33-year-old is in many ways the comeback kid, having shaken off the disappointment of being left out of the starting lineup for last season’s FA Cup final, to then edging out Manuel Ugarte to get the nod for the Europa League showpiece 12 months later.

That resurgence has been a joy to behold, although the fact remains that his £70m addition was perhaps a costly, long-term mistake. Could something similar soon be repeated?

Latest on Man Utd's transfer search

Speaking of fixing prior mistakes, the Red Devils appear to be searching for a suitable successor to Andre Onana between the sticks, with the 29-year-old facing an uncertain future at the club after just two years in Manchester.

Linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, the £47.2m signing made a catalogue of errors again in 2024/25 – including three leading to a goal in the Premier League – with it no surprise that Amorim is reportedly seeking a replacement.

As noted by journalist Rudy Galetti, United are said to have “renewed interest” in Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen, with the club holding “internal talks” over whether to make a move for the German.

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Writing in his attached piece for TEAMtalk, Galetti notes that the 33-year-old has emerged as a ‘leading target’ for the Red Devils, amid their search to replace Onana this summer.

The veteran goalkeeper – who is said to have also been considered by Chelsea – is facing his own uncertainty back in Catalonia, amid the potential arrival of Espanyol’s Joan Garcia.

Why Ter Stegen could be another Casemiro for Man Utd

It is heartwarming that a man who won the lot at Real Madrid – namely five Champions Leagues – appears to simply love life at Manchester United, with Casemiro memorably collapsing to the floor in delight following the wild celebrations after Maguire’s Lyon winner.

The one-time Porto man has looked back to his first season best in recent months, having notably described 2022/23 as the “best” individual campaign of his career, with Erik ten Hag having hailed him as the “cement” in the side at the time.

Frustratingly, however, such performances were not maintained in the following year, with Casemiro described as looking like he’s playing “in Soccer Aid” by pundit Jamie Redknapp, having failed to justify his reported £350k-per-week salary.

Games (starts)

28 (24)

25 (24)

24 (18)

Goals

4

1

1

Assists

3

2

0

Big chances created

7

2

3

Key passes*

1.0

0.6

0.9

Pass accuracy*

79%

83%

80%

Tackles & interceptions*

4.4

4.0

4.1

Balls recovered*

N/A

5.3

4.3

Dribbled past*

1.6

2.2

1.2

Total duels won*

55%

52%

64%

Despite his recent renaissance, the decision to plump for the ageing talent remains a costly one then, with the same potentially set to occur with regard to Ter Stegen – a player who takes home £102k-per-week in Barcelona.

Like his former Madrid rival, the 44-cap Germany international could bring a wealth of experience to United, undoubtedly, having racked up 422 appearances for the club to date, while winning a plethora of major honours.

Much like Casemiro too, Ter Stegen has repeatedly delivered the goods at the elite level over a consistent period, having previously been described as “extraordinary” and “among the three best keepers in the world” by former boss Xavi. Former Borussia Dortmund goalkeeper Mitchell Langerak also stated that it is “is crazy the way he can make some saves”.

The problem is, however, that at 33, the former Borussia Mönchengladbach man would hardly be a long-term solution, not least considering his unfortunate injury woes of late.

Indeed, last season, the long-serving Barca star made just nine appearances in all competitions, having only recently made his return from a lengthy stint on the sidelines due to a tendon issue.

That spell out of action – which saw Ter Stegen miss 51 games for club and country – follows a previous period of absence in 2023/24, in which he missed a further 19 games with a back injury.

For a club like United who have endured frequent injury setbacks in recent times, that must surely have alarm bells ringing, with Amorim unable to afford further disruption in such a key position.

Yes, like Casemiro, the 6 foot 2 ace – who ranked in the top 7% in LaLiga in 2023/24 for save percentage – can be a quality asset on his day, but those days may prove to be few and far between as his career reaches its climax.

As United found with Casemiro – and Raphael Varane before him – Spain’s elite clubs are rather canny at affloading ageing stars at the right time. United simply can’t prove another victim of that this summer.

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ByDan Emery Jun 8, 2025

Is it set to be a busy summer at Celtic?

After missing out on the treble, beaten on penalties by Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup Final, the Hoops are expected to heavily reinforce their squad this summer.

Well, with a crucial Champions League play-off tie circled in red on the calendar, taking place at the end of August, Brendan Rodgers will want his summer business to be done early, so are the Premiership champions about to land a new recruit?

Celtic targeting a new midfielder

Defenders are certainly the order of the day for the Celts this summer with Kieran Tierney’s return to Parkhead one of Scottish football’s worst-kept secrets.

However, the full-back isn’t the only player who could be closing in on a move to Paradise according to reports.

As per Portuguese outlet A Bola, Celtic have ‘opened initial talks’ to sign midfielder Demir Ege Tıknaz.

They outline the fact that the 20-year-old spent this season on loan at Rio Ave from Beşiktaş, and the Portuguese club have an option to make this move permanent for €5m (around £4.2m).

However, given interest from Celtic, as well as Lille, Rio Ave are preparing to make a quick profit on Tıknaz, placing a €10m (around £8m) price-tag on his head.

So, would he be a good signing for the Scottish champions, and which former Celt is he reminiscent of?

Demir Ege Tıknaz: the next Nir Bitton?

Writer Ryan McGinlay believes that Tıknaz’s ‘resemblance in play-style to Nir Bitton is uncanny’ and, should he arrive, if the Turkey international had even half as successful a Celtic career, he’d be doing well.

Bitton signed from FC Ashdod in 2013 and would remain at Celtic for nine years, making 271 appearances and winning 18 major trophies.

Naturally a defensive midfielder, the Israeli international would frequently fill in at centre-back too, with Kieran Devlin of the Athletic praising Bitton’s ‘reading of the game’ and ‘composure in possession’, with Joe Sullivan labelling him ‘versatile and highly reliable’.

So, could Tıknaz be something similar?

Well, analyst Ben Mattinson believes the Turkiye U21 international ‘reads the game well’ allowing him to ‘step up and intercept​​​​​​​’, praising his ‘timing of tackles​​​​​​​’ and ability to ‘steal the ball’, adding that he possesses a ‘decent passing range’ too.

Meantime, in an interview with Sarah Shephard of the Athletic, Tıknaz​​​​​​​ himself says he has a similar playing style to that of Sergio Busquets, stating “I always want to have possession… I’m kind of a playmaker… I can play box-to-box too”.

Well, according to Aryan Suraj Chadha of Goal, the Turkish youngster is one of the most ‘sought-after talents across Europe’, so let’s assess his statistics in the Primeira Liga this season.

Tıknaz Primeira Liga statistics 2024/25

Statistics

Tıknaz

Primeira Liga rank

Minutes

1,976

107th

Completed passes

826

82nd

Pass completion %

85.1%

45th

Passes into the final third

99

34th

Progressive passes

96

62nd

Tackles

35

15th

Interceptions

47

3rd

Ball recoveries

132

21st

All statistics courtesy of FBref.com

​​​​​​​

Worth stating first and foremost that, according to a study by Bernd Frick, Tommy Kweku Quansah and Markus Lang, the Primeira Liga is one of the ‘least balanced leagues’ in European football, so the fact that Tıknaz was playing for Rio Ave, who finished 11th, makes his statistics all the more impressive.

Demir Ege Tıknaz (Tiknaz)

The Turkish midfielder ranks highly for metrics both in and out of possession, sat third when it comes to interceptions, while also registering noteworthy numbers when it comes to his pass completion percentage as well as passes into the final third.

Thus, all available evidence suggests Tıknaz is a high-quality, high-potential player, one that Celtic should absolutely be looking to snap up.

​​​​​​​

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Celtic played their final away game of the Scottish Premiership season on Wednesday night and secured an emphatic 5-1 victory over Aberdeen.

Brendan Rodgers named a much-changed side and got the win thanks to goals from Maik Nawrocki, Hyun-jun Yang, Luke McCowan, Johnny Kenny, and Adam Idah.

It was a night for the rarely-seen Celtic players, including the likes of Viljami Sinisalo and Paulo Bernardo, and Nawrocki is certainly one of those who grasped his chance.

Why Rodgers should be impressed by Nawrocki

The Polish defender made just his third start of the Premiership campaign and caught the eye with an impressive display at the heart of the defence.

Playing on his favoured right side for the first time this term, Nawrocki completed an eye-catching 130 of his 136 attempted passes on the night and only lost possession nine times in total, as well as scoring the opener from a corner.

Defensively, the former Legia Warsaw star made five clearances, two blocks, and two interceptions to keep Aberdeen at bay, including one huge sliding block when facing a one-on-one in the box in the second half.

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Rodgers should, therefore, have been impressed by his combination of composed play in possession and stoic defensive work, but the manager should have been encouraged by Johnny Kenny’s display in the centre-forward position.

Why Johnny Kenny is now unsellable

The young marksman had not had many opportunities to impress in the second half of the season, with just six substitute appearances in the league, and his lack of game time may have led to question marks over his future heading into the summer transfer window.

However, the 21-year-old striker was finally given a chance to show his quality from the start and showed why he should be unsellable this summer for the Hoops, with a performance that shows that he can be part of the first-team squad next season.

Celtic need another number nine option to compete with Idah and Daizen Maeda, and Kenny’s showing against Aberdeen suggests that he can be that man.

Minutes

70

Shots on target

2

Goals

1

Passes completed

8/11

Duels won

3/4

Aerial duels won

3/3

As you can see in the table above, the Ireland U21 international scored with one of his two shots on target, with a well-placed header from McCowan’s cross, and showcased his physicality by winning all of his aerial duels.

Kenny scored 13 goals in 19 starts in the Irish Premier Division in 2024 on loan at Shamrock Rovers, and has now shown a glimpse of the kind of goalscoring quality he can bring to Celtic.

He is an exciting young striker with the physical qualities, as shown by his statistics against Aberdeen, and the goalscoring record to develop into a fine option for Rodgers, as proven by his performance on Wednesday.

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Therefore, the club should not look to move him on this summer, despite his general lack of game time in the last few months, and the manager should, instead, make him a regular player off the bench and occasionally from the start.

Chelsea have reportedly submitted their opening offer for a Serie A star who’s openly admitted that he’ll consider offers to leave his club, with Enzo Maresca’s side expected to move quickly in the transfer market after their Conference League victory.

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Former Real Madrid star Isco gave them a hard time in the first-half, with Moises Caicedo struggling to contain the Spaniard, and it didn’t take long for Betis to secure a surprise early lead through Abde Ezzalzouli on the nine-minute mark.

Chelsea failed to kickstart any sort of momentum until midway through the second period, when Maresca’s side suddenly came to life and sparked a tremendous comeback against Manuel Pellegrini’s underdogs.

Goals from Enzo Fernández, Nicolas Jackson, Jadon Sancho and Caicedo, in the space of just half an hour, put the result beyond all doubt, with Chelsea taking home the Conference League spoils and confirming Maresca’s first piece of silverware since taking over as manager last year.

“We’ve improved a lot since we started,” said Maresca about Chelsea’s evolution in the last few weeks.

“We also started to win games in an ugly way. That is something with a young squad that you struggle to do that, but I think, for instance, in the Nottingham Forest game we won in a little bit of an ugly way. We found the way to win the game, that was very, very important.

“And then the best picture for me for tonight that made me understand that we were in the right direction is when we scored the first two guys to celebrate was Malo Gusto and Benoit Badiashile. The two that we changed. And this, probably sometimes we judge games, but this for me, for a manager, when you change players that they are not playing good and they are the first that they enjoy the celebration, that means a lot.”

Palmer in particular was vital in their comeback against Betis, putting in a genius attacking display, and BlueCo reportedly have every intention of providing the England international with quality new teammates this summer.

Chelsea submit opening bid for Lazio star Mario Gila

One of the key items on their agenda is the signing of a centre-back, according to Simon Phillips and other reliable sources. Chelsea held rounds of talks with Dean Huijsen before his switch to Real Madrid, but they haven’t given up on their chase for a new defender after missing out on the 20-year-old.

According to newspaper Il Messaggero, Lazio centre-back Mario Gila has now found his way onto Chelsea’s shortlist of targets as they seek an alternative to Huijsen.

The 24-year-old was a mainstay of Lazio’s backline throughout 2024/2025, with only midfielder Matteo Guendouzi playing more league minutes for them than Gila. However, he may well have played his final game for Marco Baroni’s side, and admitted midway through the campaign that he’s ready to listen to other offers despite becoming a “special” figure in Rome.

“I am very happy. Since last year, I started playing midway through the season, and everything is going very well. For a player, being a special figure is very important,” said Gila.

“At this moment, I am happy to be here. After that, whatever happens, I am ready to listen to everything. I have ambitions, and if there are options, I will listen to them and evaluate them. But I am very happy here; the team values me.”

Now, it would appear the Blues have taken him up on this.

Il Messagero reports that Chelsea have made an offer of around £29 million for Gila, but Lazio value him somewhere closer to £44 million, given his key player status and the fact Real Madrid possess a 50% sell-on clause – meaning they’d get half of any transfer fee received for the Spanish defender.

Gila is a reliable centre-half, possessing a unique blend of youth and experience at the top level, which leaves little surprise that Maresca’s side are now expressing a serious interest.

Manchester United have endured the worst Premier League season in their history, finishing in 15th place and registering just 42 points – the lowest tally in such a division.

Ruben Amorim was appointed back in November, but has so far been unable to turnaround their fortunes, losing 17 of his 42 matches since taking the reins.

He’s only had one window to make his own mark on the first-team squad at Old Trafford, with Patrick Dorgu his only major investment to date – costing £30m from Italian side Lecce.

However, the 40-year-old will want to part ways with numerous players already on the books, enabling him to have the freedom and funds to make the changes he desires.

With the transfer window just around the corner, numerous players have already been linked with moves to join the Red Devils, potentially using any funds generated from multiple potential sales.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

Over the last couple of weeks, Liam Delap has been United’s number one target for the centre-forward position as the hierarchy look to provide Amorim with the ammunition he needs.

However, it appears as though the manager is set to miss out on a deal for the 22-year-old, after it was confirmed that he prefers a move to fellow English side Chelsea this summer.

Delap isn’t the only English star touted with a move to Old Trafford this summer, with Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze on their radar, according to American outlet ESPN.

Their report claims that the hierarchy have been looking at a potential deal for the 26-year-old attacking midfielder, who’s registered a total of 16 combined goals and assists in the Premier League this season.

It also states that it’s unclear whether the board can afford him unless they sell players currently at the club, with the Palace star currently boasting a £68m release clause in his contract.

Why United’s £68m target could be the perfect Bruno replacement

Over the last couple of days, club captain Bruno Fernandes has been largely touted with a move away from United, with Saudi Arabian clubs circling for his signature this summer.

The 30-year-old has been the shining light in the squad this season, registering 37 combined goals and assists across all competitions – helping the side reach the Europa League final.

The Portuguese international stated he wanted to stay at Old Trafford despite the defeat, but given the rumoured £700k-per-week contract on the table from Saudi, it would be a huge offer to turn down for the midfielder.

There’s no denying that it would be a huge loss, with it unthinkable where the club would be right now if it wasn’t for his key contributions within the final third.

However, given his age, it may prove to be the final time they can command such a fee for his services, potentially cashing in on him and using the funds to pursue a move for Eze.

When comparing their respective figures from the recent campaign, the Eagles star has matched or bettered Fernandes in multiple key areas, highlighting his ability to step up to the plate if needed.

Eze, who’s been labelled “sensational” by content creator Ollie Thomas, may have registered slightly fewer combined goals and assists, but has registered more shots on target – showcasing his impressive ability in such an area when having the chance to advance.

How Eze compares to Fernandes in the PL (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)	Eze	Fernandes
Games played	34	36
Goals & assists	16	18
Shots on target per 90	1	0.7
Progressive carries	2.4	2.3
Pass accuracy	76%	76%
% of tackles won	47%	40%
Take-on success	49%	41%
Fouls won	1.8	1.1
Stats via FBref

He’s also completed the same percentage of passes he’s attempted, whilst also completing more take-ons, thriving in chance creation with the ball at his feet.

The England international has also won more of the tackles he’s entered, handing Amorim the option to utilise him in a deeper-lying role should he need to in 2025/26.

Offloading Bruno would be a huge blow and something which would anger a lot of supporters – especially considering his impressive record at Old Trafford since his arrival back in 2020.

However, Eze would be a superb addition, with his stats showcasing that he’s capable of surpassing the level produced by the 30-year-old with the Red Devils – allowing for a new lease of life after such a dismal season.

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2

By
Robbie Walls

May 28, 2025

They might not have won the Premier League, but the Tottenham Hotspur team of the mid to late 2010s was stacked with seriously entertaining players.

Whether it was Harry Kane and Son Heung-min scoring for fun or Christian Eriksen playing sensational pinpoint, accurate passes from the middle of the park, fans were guaranteed a good time when watching the North Londoners.

Yet, there was another starter of that time who was perhaps the best to watch out of the entire team, someone capable of starting an unreal move or thundering the ball into the back of the net himself: Dele Alli.

The midfield maestro was a superb footballer, and if recent reports are to be believed, the club could be about to pull off a transfer reminiscent of his all those years ago and land Thomas Frank his own Dele.

Tottenham looking to sign new midfielder

Spurs have been linked with plenty of midfield talents in recent weeks, most notably Adam Wharton and Quinten Timber.

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The former would be a brilliant signing for the club to make, as the young Englishman has more than established himself as a Premier League quality player, but with a reported price tag of up to £60m, he might just be out of reach.

Timber, on the other hand, could be a far smarter acquisition at a reported price of just £25m and with a tally of seven goal involvements in 26 games this season.

However, neither the players nor their potential moves could really be compared to Dele, unlike Hayden Hackney.

Yes, according to a recent report from GIVEMESPORT, Spurs are now interested in the Middlesbrough gem.

The report claims that the North Londoners have entered the race to sign the young talent alongside Manchester United, West Ham United, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa.

Fortunately, while the competition will be a significant hurdle for the Lilywhites to contend with, the potential price tag shouldn’t be, with the story claiming the gem in question could be available for just £20m.

It would be a complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Hackney’s ability and potential, it’s one worth fighting for, especially as he could be Frank’s own Dele.

Why Hackney could be the new Dele

So, we know it’s a fairly bold opinion to suggest that Hackney, who might still be a relative unknown to many fans in the top flight, could be a Dele-esque signing for Spurs and Frank, but there are a few reasons why we think this.

The first is that, even though the former Tottenham star was more of an attacking midfielder than the Boro ace is, the latter is somewhat versatile in the roles he can play, something the former was known for during his time in the capital.

For example, while the Redcar-born gem is at his best at the base of midfield, he is more than capable of playing a more central role, has ventured further up the pitch into attacking midfield, and has even made a few appearances out wide.

Defensive Midfield

113

9

13

Central Midfield

54

6

4

Attacking Midfield

17

3

4

Left Midfield

10

1

2

Right Midfield

3

0

1

The second similarity is in relation to their transfers or potential in the 22-year-old’s case.

When he joined the Lilywhites, the former England international did so from an EFL club, moving from MK Dons for a significant, but not outrageous fee of £5m, and should this deal go through, the 5 foot 10 dynamo would also be moving from an EFL club for a fee that, in today’s game, certainly isn’t too dear.

Finally, and this is an important one, there is an expectation from many that the “immense” gem, as dubbed by manager Michael Carrick, could develop into a truly exceptional player.

For example, respected analyst Ben Mattinson has described him as a “special player” and someone who should be a “high priority” signing; Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder called him a “super” talent, while another analyst proclaimed him a “progression monster.”

Ultimately, while he might not be a name everyone is familiar with, Spurs should do what they can to sign Hackney this summer, as with his potential, he could be Frank’s own Dele.

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Real Madrid are now in advanced contract talks with a star player to try and fend off Manchester United’s recent approach, according to a new report.

Balancing incomings and outgoings the order of the day at Old Trafford

As of now, it has been a rather quiet start to the transfer window for the Red Devils, as they have just completed one bit of transfer business, and that was the signing of Matheus Cunha. More arrivals are expected however, with Bryan Mbeumo heavily linked with a move to Old Trafford, and now United are said to be confident in beating Tottenham to his signature.

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United are also being linked with players who can improve them in other aspects of the team. They are seriously interested in signing Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt and have now added Marco Carnesecchi to their list of options to replace Andre Onana in goal. However, these purchases may have to be put on hold until the club moves some players out the door.

Alejandro Garnacho is one whose time at the club appears to be up, as United are now prepared to sell the Argentine. The Red Devils are looking to get at least £50 million for the attacker this summer. Chelsea were linked with a move for Garnacho back in January, and they are believed to be still interested in a deal now. Meanwhile, Aston Villa have also joined the race to sign Garnacho, as he may be seen as a replacement for Marcus Rashford, who has now returned to Old Trafford.

Erik ten Hag’s Bayer Leverkusen have also been linked with a move for the United man, and while their interest is genuine, it is a deal that is unlikely given finances and the fact that Garnacho’s preference is to remain in the Premier League.

Man Utd make approach for Brahim Diaz

Given the Red Devils are willing to sell Garnacho, they have been on the lookout for replacements, and according to a report from Spain, Man United have made an approach to sign Brahim Diaz from Real Madrid.

However, Fabrizio Romano has since revealed Real Madrid are now in advanced contract talks with the forward to fend off the interest from United and others. Indeed, Arsenal also joined the Red Devils in making an enquiry, but it seems the playmaker has made his mind up and will stay put for the forseeable future.

Diaz, who has been dubbed an “astonishing” talent by journalist Mina Rzouki, has been at Real Madrid since January 2019, when he joined the club from United’s arch-rivals Manchester City. The Morocco international has had two separate spells on loan at AC Milan since moving to Spain, but in the last two seasons he has become an important member of the Real Madrid squad.

Brahim Diaz’s Real Madrid stats

Apps

117

Goals

20

Assists

19

Last season, Diaz played 31 times in La Liga, as well as 11 times in the Champions League. The Red Devils would have seen Diaz as a perfect player who could play in the wide number 10 role, a position Amorim is trying to improve in before pre-season gets underway.