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Wolves have sacked Vitor Pereira after a disastrous start to the Premier League season, and are now eyeing a shock reunion with Gary O’Neil, the man they dismissed less than a year ago. O’Neil, who guided Wolves to safety in 2023-24, could make a sensational comeback as the club’s hierarchy scrambles to keep the club in the top flight.

• Wolves considering O'Neil reunion

  Pereira has been dismissed as Wolves manager after a torrid start to the 2025-26 Premier League campaign that saw his side lose eight of their opening ten matches. The Portuguese coach, who only signed a new three-year contract in September, leaves Molineux with the team bottom of the table and winless in the league. His final match in charge, a 3-0 defeat to Fulham at Craven Cottage, proved the breaking point for Wolves’ board, who had been under growing pressure to act.

  The dismissal comes just ten months after Pereira replaced O’Neil, with the club now considering reappointing the very man he succeeded. Per , O’Neil remains highly regarded by Wolves’ owners Fosun for the work he did in stabilising the side during his first spell, guiding them to 14th place in 2023-24. Also in contention is former Wolves defender and current Middlesbrough boss Rob Edwards, though his appointment would require compensation, while ex-Boro manager Michael Carrick is another name under consideration.

  In an official statement, executive chairman Jeff Shi thanked Pereira and his staff for their service but admitted results had forced the board’s hand. "Vitor and his team worked tirelessly for Wolves and helped guide us through a challenging period last season," Shi said. "Unfortunately, the start to this season has been a disappointment and, despite our strong desire to give the head coach time, we have reached a point where we must make a change."

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  Horror start to the 2025-26 season under Pereira

  Wolves’ decision to part ways with Pereira underlines the deepening crisis at Molineux after another miserable start to a Premier League campaign. The club has now gone ten games without a win for the second consecutive season – a record no side in the competition’s history has ever endured.

  Pereira’s tenure, which spanned 38 matches, produced just 14 victories, 18 defeats and six draws, numbers that left Wolves battling to stay afloat domestically. His relationship with supporters also appeared to deteriorate in recent weeks, particularly after a heated confrontation following a loss to Burnley in which the Portuguese had to be pulled away from the crowd. While his previous achievements – including keeping Wolves safe after O’Neil’s departure – earned him early credit, the rapid collapse in form this season proved fatal.

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  O'Neil's first stint with Wolves

  For O’Neil, the possibility of a return represents an unlikely redemption story. He was relieved of his duties last December after securing just six points from 19 games in the 2024-25 season, but his previous work in guiding Wolves through a chaotic 2023-24 campaign has not been forgotten at Molineux. His pragmatic approach and ability to unite the dressing room have reportedly impressed key figures, who view his familiarity with the squad as an advantage in turning around another bleak situation.

  He was first appointed as Wolves manager just days before the 2023-24 season began, following Julen Lopetegui’s abrupt exit. Despite inheriting a squad in turmoil and with limited transfer backing, he steered the side to a respectable 14th-place finish and earned plaudits for steadying the club amid financial uncertainty. However, the following season proved far more difficult as injuries, a lack of goals, and poor form saw him dismissed before Christmas.

  Before his time at Molineux, O’Neil had already shown promise at Bournemouth, where he helped the Cherries avoid relegation in 2022-23 after taking over mid-season. His ability to organise teams and instil resilience has earned him a reputation as one of the Premier League’s more level-headed young coaches.

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• Wolves facing a very difficult schedule in November and December

  For now, Wolves have placed Under-21 head coach James Collins and Under-18 boss Richard Walker in temporary charge while the board finalises its next move. The priority is to steady the squad ahead of a daunting run of fixtures, with upcoming games against Chelsea, Crystal Palace, and Aston Villa to navigate before clashes with Arsenal, Manchester United, and Liverpool loom in December. Any new appointment will need to act quickly to restore confidence and points.

  Wolves’ hierarchy are expected to accelerate talks with both O’Neil and Edwards in the coming days, with a decision possible before the November international break.

Attacking approach pays off for visitors despite Dawid Malan’s latest half-century

ECB Reporters Network supported by Rothesay13-Jun-2025Allrounder Ed Barnard hit an excellent middle-order 67 and then helped close things out with the ball as Birmingham Bears defended a 206-target to claim a crucial Vitality Blast win over Yorkshire at Headingley.Barnard’s 40-ball knock was the centrepiece of a 205 for 8 total which also included a telling late assault of 76 runs in the last five overs from the lower order.Pakistan seamer Hasan Ali hit 22 not out off eight balls and later struck twice with the ball, sealing a third win in six in the North Group – this by 32 runs.Yorkshire, for whom New Zealand quick Will O’Rourke struck three times with the ball, looked well placed to reel in the target thanks to opener and captain Dawid Malan’s 65 off 34 balls. But his fourth successive fifty in this competition was not enough to prevent a fourth defeat in six, the hosts finishing on 173 for 5.Alex Davies, who elected to bat, guided George Hill’s seam to short third – 20 for 1 in the second over. Dom Bess, with his first ball, and O’Rourke then removed Dan Mousley bowled and Sam Hain caught at point as the Bears ended the powerplay at 51 for 3.Tom Latham and Barnard steadied through accumulation to reach halfway with the score on 85. However, the former fell on 24 at the start of the 12th when he top-edged England Lion Hill to long-leg.That was the first of three wickets in successive overs as the Bears slipped back into trouble at 123 for 6 in the 14th over. Moeen Ali was lbw to Jack White for 9 and Kai Smith caught behind off O’Rourke’s pace. But their batters refused to die wondering on a belter of a batting pitch.George Garton whacked two sixes over long-on as 21 came off Bess in the 16th before he skewed O’Rourke to deep cover in the 18th – 160 for 7. Sandwiched in between, Barnard reached a 32-ball fifty.Barnard fell caught in the deep off Jack White in the penultimate, which ended with two Hasan sixes to help the Bears get above 200.Will Luxton skewed Hassan’s pace high to mid-off in the second over of a chase which advanced at pace. Malan hit two slog-swept sixes over midwicket off Danny Briggs’ spin in the fifth over and the score reached 56 for 1 after six.Garton dropped Malan at deep midwicket on 29 off Briggs in the seventh over, though there was success for the Bears when Moeen’s second ball bowled Adam Lyth – 66 for 2 in the eighth.Malan aside, Yorkshire’s batting has been sketchy this campaign. So by now, it felt like Malan or bust for the hosts. By the time he reached his latest fifty, off 29 balls, the hosts were 100 for two early in the 12th over.James Wharton provided impressive third-wicket support in sharing 55 with his skipper, though left-armer Briggs struck a key blow in the 13th when he had Malan caught at short fine-leg off a skied top-edged sweep – 121 for 3.Yorkshire needed 65 off the last five overs before Mousley’s offspin removed powerful Australian Will Sutherland, the target becoming a stiffer 47 off three overs at 159 for 4. Wharton fell for 37 in the penultimate over before Barnard’s seam – nought for 18 from three overs – closed out the last, defending 39.

Mustafizur has been granted a no-objection certificate only for the period from May 18 to May 24

ESPNcricinfo staff16-May-2025

Mustafizur Rahman (left) flew out to Dubai with the rest of Bangladesh’s squad on Wednesday•BCB

Mustafizur Rahman has been “granted” a no-objection certificate to link up with Delhi Capitals (DC) for “the period from 18-24 May 2025,” the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) said in a statement on Friday afternoon.That makes him available – in Mitchell Starc’s absence – for DC’s three remaining league-phase games in IPL 2025, but not the playoffs, should DC make it to that stage. The BCB confirmed that Mustafizur would be available for Bangladesh’s first T20I against UAE in Sharjah on Saturday before travelling to India. Whether he is ready for action after reaching India on May 18 for DC’s game the same evening, however, remains to be seen.The arrangement between DC and Mustafizur had run into a bit of a snag earlier in the week, with the IPL and the franchise issuing a statement confirming his acquisition but the BCB then stating that it hadn’t been approached for a no-objection certificate yet.Related

Parvez Hossain Emon hits 53-ball hundred as Bangladesh brush off UAE

IPL 2025: which overseas players are available for the rest of the season?

On Friday morning, Starc confirmed that he wouldn’t be travelling to India for the remainder of IPL 2025, a week after being part of the match that was abandoned in Dharamsala – and will be replayed. Donovan Ferreira, who played one game this season, would also not be returning.The update means that Starc will have a clear runway into the World Test Championship (WTC) final, avoiding the possibility of playing T20s in India a week before the match. Starc is DC’s highest wicket-taker so far in the season with 14 wickets in 11 matches at 26.14.Faf du Plessis and Tristan Stubbs have confirmed their return, but Stubbs will be available only for the rest of the league phase, after which he would be leaving for the WTC final.

For the second year running, frustrations bubbling from the summer transfer window have threatened to slam the brakes on Eddie Howe’s project. But Newcastle United are made of sterner stuff.

Blunted by the absence of Alexander Isak at Villa Park last weekend, Newcastle kept a clean sheet and played well, albeit shaking hands with Unai Emery’s Aston Villa after failing to move forward from parity. But there was much to like, the visitors showing signs of eliteness maintained.

Tougher tests lie ahead – not least the clash with Premier League champions Liverpool at St. James’ Park on Monday night – but there’s every reason that the Tynesiders will find success once again in their travels this season.

As Arne Slot’s side continue to pursue the wantaway Isak, so too does PIF’s resolve remain taut. We’ve only a week until the transfer window slams mercifully shut, but whether the Sweden international remains on Tyneside is anyone’s guess.

The latest on Isak's Newcastle future

Isak’s incendiary comments last week put to rest any confusion or hopes regarding his stance: he is desperate to leave Newcastle and sign for Liverpool.

But ‘I want’ does not always get. The 25-year-old is contracted for three more years, and while he believes it had been intimated that he could leave for a new challenge this year, external forces have made that difficult, and he has little power from which to leverage his position.

While Isak will not play a part against Liverpool, a fixture seemingly dated by fate, all things considered, Howe is firm in his belief that Isak can still be reintegrated, if and when.

And PIF? Their stance has not changed: Isak isn’t for sale. Many figures have been bandied about, but it truly seems like an offer in the region of £150m is required if Newcastle are to part with their prized piece.

But the transfer market is a vicious beast, and every eventuality remains on the cards. With this in mind, Newcastle continue to push for new recruits at number nine.

Newcastle's search for a striker

The protracted bid for Yoane Wissa still hasn’t come to a head. There are parallels to Isak’s situation, for sure, with the DR Congo forward desperate to leave Brentford and join Newcastle within the week.

Transfer Focus

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

However, Isak’s future at Newcastle and the prospect of Wissa joining are not mutually exclusive; Callum Wilson left the Toon at the end of his contract last season, and so two strikers must be signed for Isak to leave.

And in the dreaded event of that happening, Italian outlet Tuttosport have claimed – via Sport Witness – that Newcastle have made a late approach for Paris Saint-Germain star Randal Kolo Muani, who has been slated to join Juventus after his recent loan spell.

Differences between French and Italian terms have proved a sticking point, with PSG looking for €70m (£61m), and if a breakthrough cannot be found, Newcastle could swoop in, having already made an official approach, along with an unnamed Saudi club.

What Randal Kolo Muani would bring to Newcastle

Newcastle need a striker. Kolo Muani would be a fantastic buy in replacing Isak, especially if welcomed along with Wissa, who is far less dynamic and athletic, yet a reliable marksman in front of goal.

In September 2023, Kolo Muani left his rich career at Eintracht Frankfurt and signed for PSG in a £76m deal, but his time back in his homeland has been disappointing, posting only 11 goals and seven assists over 54 matches.

However, a short-term move to Juventus in January has built the 26-year-old back up, eight goals scored in Serie A, 13 goal involvements racked up in all competitions, just 22 matches played.

The Les Bleus star’s big move to PSG hasn’t worked out, but that’s okay. He’s still one of the most dangerous strikers around, proven across other divisions, hailed as a “superstar” by German legend Lothar Matthaus during his Frankfurt days.

With Wissa adopting a more straightforward role in Howe’s system, Kolo Muani could step into Isak’s boots, taking the veritable form of the £120k-per-week sensation and preserving his presence, that style of play which has served United so well.

Nick Pope once described Isak as being “like a wizard” after setting up that goal against Everton, but Kolo Muani has a similarly creative slant to his game.

Across his 13 matches in the Serie A last year, the Frenchman averaged 1.1 key passes per game, as per Sofascore, and regularly sparked chances when taking on his man, beating him.

Actually, looking at Kolo Muani’s metrics across the past year in comparison to Isak’s, Newcastle’s interest becomes clearer. He’s the real deal, all right, and has the mobility and roundedness to replace the Swede, should he leave.

Kolo Muani vs Isak (past 365 days)
Stats (per 90)	Kolo Muani	Isak
Goals scored	0.48	0.78
Assists	0.11	0.17
Shots taken	2.45	3.21
Touches (att pen)	6.28	6.31
Shot-creating actions	2.34	3.04
Pass completion	70.2%	75.3%
Progressive passes	1.49	2.94
Progressive carries	1.54	2.80
Successful take-ons	1.54	1.42
Ball recoveries	2.24	1.79
Tackles + interceptions	1.28	0.44
Data via FBref

These are centre-forwards with skill beyond that of merely scoring goals, complete strikers both. While Isak is clearly the more confident and productive man, it’s worth noting that Kolo Muani spent the first half of the 2024/25 campaign languishing in Paris, scoring twice and assisting once across ten Ligue 1 games.

Would Kolo Muani replicate Isak’s output? Perhaps not. Isak scored 27 goals and assisted six more across all competitions last season, with his clinical edge a large part behind his billing as England’s record-breaking man, should Liverpool sign him.

But Kolo Muani would be a more than adequate replacement, retaining some of the Scandinavian star’s same style. With Wissa joining too, it could be a fantastic deal for Howe’s side.

He's perfect for Elanga & Gordon: Newcastle offered "monster" CF for £35m

Newcastle United offered chance to sign Juventus outcast who’s ideal for Elanga and Gordon.

By
Will Miller

Aug 24, 2025

Newcastle United’s search for a striker has become the dominant theme of their summer transfer window.

The uncertainty surrounding Alexander Isak has left the club scrambling for solutions at a time when Eddie Howe is desperate for stability.

Despite playing well in their Premier League opener against Aston Villa, Newcastle looked blunt without a proper No. 9, failing to make their dominance count in a 0-0 draw.

Isak’s public fallout with the club has only heightened the urgency. The Swede has made it clear he has no intention of reintegrating into Howe’s squad, regardless of whether a transfer materialises.

His absence has destabilised the attack, leaving Newcastle with plenty of industry in wide areas but little cutting edge through the middle.

Newcastle handed striker opportunity

Liverpool’s approach appears to have unsettled Isak beyond repair, and his Instagram statement about broken promises suggested a player who sees his future away from St James’ Park.

But Newcastle will not sanction his departure without first securing a replacement.

Two bids for Brentford’s Yoane Wissa have already been rejected. Wolves’ Jørgen Strand Larsen and Atlético Madrid’s Alexander Sørloth remain on the list, but neither is straightforward to acquire.

Transfer Focus

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

With time slipping away, Newcastle’s options are narrowing – and Juventus have offered them a striker who could transform their frontline.

According to Sport Witness, Juventus are actively encouraging Newcastle to make a late move for Dusan Vlahović.

The Italian giants are under financial strain, with the Serbian forward’s €12m-per-year wages proving prohibitive as they attempt to reshape their squad.

To balance the books, they have put him on the market for €38m (£35m) – a fraction of the €85m (£80m) valuation he once commanded at his peak in 2022.

Vlahović, however, is not pushing for a move.

Although he has muted aspirations to play in the Premier League one day, Newcastle would have to convince him that now is the right moment. Their Champions League qualification could help, as could the prospect of leading the line in front of St James’ Park’s raucous atmosphere.

For Howe, who has watched his team create chances without anyone to finish them, Vlahović represents the kind of focal point Newcastle have been crying out for.

How Vlahović could link with Gordon and Elanga

The appeal of signing Vlahović lies not just in his ability but also in the potential partnerships he could form with Newcastle’s wide players.

This summer has already seen the arrival of Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest, joining Anthony Gordon in giving Howe two explosive options on either flank.

Elanga is particularly strong as a supplier.

Last season he recorded 11 assists, ranking in the 94th percentile for assists per 90 according to FBref.

His delivery was equally impressive, with 6.66 crosses per 90 (94th percentile) and 3.09 corners per 90 (93rd percentile).

With a striker like Vlahović attacking those deliveries, Newcastle would finally have a clinical finisher to match the service from wide.

On the opposite flank, Gordon offers direct running and intelligent distribution into dangerous areas.

According to FBref, he ranked in the 85th percentile compared to positionally similar players for passes into the penalty area per 90 (2.03) and in the 83rd percentile for crosses per 90 (4.84).

His ability to cut inside and release balls into the channel would dovetail neatly with Vlahović’s movement across the front line, whether the Serbian drops deep to hold up play or runs in behind.

Vlahovic himself could offer the presence and decisiveness Newcastle lacked against Villa.

Vlahović – Serie A – 2024/25
Matches Played	29
Starts	21
Goals	10
Assists	4
Progressive Carries	27
Progressive Passes	22
Source: FBref

Standing at 1.90m, he combines physical dominance with intelligent movement and a sharp instinct for goal.

Described as a “monster” by Carlo Garganese and as a “better and more complete forward than Haaland” by Serbian FA president Nenad Bjekovic, he scored ten times in Serie A last season, adding four assists, as Juventus secured a top-four finish and returned to the Champions League.

He also netted twice in three games at the Club World Cup, underlining his pedigree on the biggest stages.

The tactical balance looks promising. Vlahović thrives when supported by high-volume chance creators, and Newcastle’s wingers fit that mould.

His aerial ability also provides the Magpies with a set-piece weapon, an area where Howe has been keen to maximise output.

Elanga’s and Gordon’s consistent delivery could therefore add another layer to Newcastle’s attacking threat.

Yet there remain hurdles. Newcastle’s recruitment strategy has been cautious since their initial Saudi-backed spending surge, and the wages involved in a deal for Vlahović could test the limits of Financial Fair Play.

Juventus’ willingness to sell does not automatically mean Newcastle can afford to buy, especially after significant outlays already this summer on Jacob Ramsey, Malick Thiaw, and Aaron Ramsdale.

Still, the logic is clear.

Newcastle cannot allow the Isak saga to derail their season, and they need a proven striker to lead their Champions League campaign.

Vlahović, with his blend of power, finishing, and top-level experience, ticks every box on paper.

Whether Newcastle can persuade him to swap Turin for Tyneside, though, will decide if this move is remembered as an opportunity seized – or one that slipped away.

He'd be the new Andy Carroll: Newcastle now chasing £30m Wissa alternative

Newcastle United Consider Move for Atlético Madrid Striker to Replace Unsettled Alexander Isak

By
Will Miller

Aug 24, 2025

The Special One is back on familiar ground! Jose Mourinho, who is set to take charge of Benfica on a two-year deal, will find himself on English soil twice within the next month as the Champions League league phase unfolds. With trips to both Stamford Bridge and St James’ Park on the horizon, Mourinho is set for an early reunion with his former hunting ground..

• Mourinho returns to England with Benfica

  Mourinho is set to be appointed as Benfica’s new head coach, marking a return to the club where his managerial journey began back in 2000. The 62-year-old will replace Bruno Lage and will immediately be thrown into high-profile European action. Benfica’s Champions League league-stage fixtures pit them against Chelsea and Newcastle in back-to-back away games.

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  The Special One's chance to shine again

  Mourinho’s return to England is dripping with narrative, especially given his history with both Chelsea and Manchester United. The trips to Stamford Bridge and St James’ Park will rekindle memories of his iconic Premier League reigns, where his presence always drew headlines. For Benfica, these games offer both a sporting challenge and an opportunity to impress under their charismatic new boss.

• Mourinho also set to meet Real Madrid again

  Mourinho’s Champions League schedule is packed with familiar faces. After the two English clashes, Benfica will later welcome Real Madrid — another of his old clubs — in the final gameweek of the league phase. It means Mourinho will cross paths with two former employers in one campaign, underlining just how decorated his career has been.

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  Mourinho looking to steady Benfica after Lage's departure

  Mourinho’s immediate focus will be on steadying Benfica domestically, with the club sitting just outside the title race in Portugal. Attention will then turn to Chelsea, where his first big European test awaits against a club he once helped make serial winners. The English spotlight will soon be fixed firmly back on the Special One.

Arsenal are swiftly moving on to their next targets after striking a long-awaited deal for Viktor Gyokeres, who officially joined the Gunners from Sporting CP on Saturday in a deal worth up to £64 million.

Saka will love him: Arsenal reach agreement in principle to sign £68m star

Arsenal are ready to supply Viktor Gyokeres with an exciting new wideman.

By
Angus Sinclair

Jul 29, 2025

Gyokeres’ arrival comes as a major boost for Mikel Arteta as he seeks to end the club’s two-decade-long wait for a Premier League title.

Arsenal drew more games than any other side in the top 10 last season, and their struggle for goals was a key reason for this. Arteta’s side managed just 69 in the league by the end of 2024/2025, paling in comparison to their tallies of 88 and 91 in the previous two seasons.

Arsenal transfer spending under Arteta (via Sky Sports)	Money on new signings
19/20 – winter	£0
20/21 – summer	£81.5m
20/21 – winter	£900k
21/22 – summer	£156.8m
21/22 – winter	£1.8m
22/23 – summer	£121.5m
22/23 – winter	£59m
23/24 – summer	£208m
23/24 – winter	£0
24/25 – summer	£101.5m
24/25 – winter	£0
25/26 – summer	£208m

A prolific frontman of Gyokeres’ ilk will certainly help Arteta’s side return to their clinical best, and Arsenal’s manager is thrilled to welcome a centre-forward who’s just bagged 54 goals in all competitions.

“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Viktor Gyökeres to the club. The consistency he has shown in his performances and availability have been outstanding, and his goal contributions speak for themselves,” said Arteta in an official statement.

“Viktor has so many qualities. He is a quick and powerful presence up front, with incredible goalscoring numbers at club and international levels. He brings a clinical edge with a high conversion rate of chances into goals, with his intelligent movement in the box making him a constant threat.

“We’re excited about what Viktor brings to our squad and are looking forward to start working with him. We welcome Viktor and his family to Arsenal.”

After Gyokeres, it is reliably reported that sporting director Andrea Berta is turning his attention towards Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze.

The England international is at the centre of Arsenal’s rumoured interest in signing a new creative number 10, and he reportedly has a £60 million release clause in his contract that could rise to £68m through bonuses (Sky Sports).

Crystal Palace identify Eberechi Eze replacement as Arsenal advance

According to multiple recent reports, there are suggestions that Eze has loosely agreed personal terms with Arsenal already, with Sports Zone even claiming that the 27-year-old has reached a “full agreement” over a proposed contract at the Emirates.

A north London switch for the player appears to be gaining serious traction, and according to Sky Switzerland reporter Sacha Tavolieri, Palace are moving to try and sign a replacement – providing a further indication that Arsenal could be closing in on Eze shortly.

Tavolieri, via X, claims Palace have identified Leicester City star Bilal El Khannouss as a potential heir to Eze, but face competition from RB Leipzig.

Eze was released by Arsenal as a teenage academy prospect, but it appears the playmaker who bagged 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions last season could be facing his final summer at Selhurst Park.

He might have just the one FA Cup to his name, but Mikel Arteta has got a lot right since taking the reins at Arsenal.

He has helped to transform the club from one that looked destined for decline into one genuinely competing for Premier League and Champions League titles.

While his tactics and overall approach to management have played a significant role in this dramatic turnaround, so have the signings made under his leadership, such as Martin Odegaard, David Raya, Gabriel Magalhães, and Declan Rice.

The latter has arguably been the most seismic during Arteta’s tenure, and now it looks like the club could be set to repeat the move with another international star.

Arsenal target their new Rice

While there is still over a month to go, and therefore plenty of time for things to change, this transfer window is shaping up to be one of Arsenal’s most exciting in some time.

Transfer Focus

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

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

Additionally, Cristhian Mosquera could be announced at any moment, and talks over add-ons in the deal for Viktor Gyokeres appear to be entering their final stages.

Yet, even still, Andrea Berta and Co look to be on the hunt for more game-changing additions to the team, including one player who could be another Rice-esque signing.

At least that’s according to a recent report from Arsenal insider Hand of Arsenal, who has confirmed that Arsenal are still interested in Eberechi Eze.

In fact, they go a step further, confirming that talks have been held with the player and that his preference would be to join the Gunners, and most crucially, that Arteta is “obsessed” with him.

The insider continued: “My understanding is personal terms have never been an issue. One source said, he would sign a 5 year deal tomorrow.”

The report states that a sale of someone like Leandro Trossard may create room for the club to sign the Crystal Palace star, who has a widely reported £68m release clause in his current contract.

It would be a lot of money to spend on one player, but Eze has proven he’d be more than worth it over the last few years, and his move could be a Rice repeat of sorts.

Why Eze could be a Rice repeat

While they both primarily play in midfield, it’s essential to note that they’re very different players and play in distinctly different ways; however, that’s not the primary basis of this comparison.

Instead, one of the main reasons it would be a move reminiscent of the one for the 26-year-old, aside from the similar age, is that it would be another example of the Gunners signing one of the best players from a fellow Premier League side, and a London-based one at that.

For example, his 14 goals and 11 assists in 43 games last season made him Palace’s most productive player, and it wasn’t even a close run thing, with the next best player being Jean-Philippe Mateta, who produced 21 goal involvements in 46 games.

Eze’s recent form
Season	23/24	24/25
Appearances	36	43
Minutes	2285′	3303′
Goals	11	14
Assists	6	11
Goal Involvements per Match	0.47	0.58
Minutes per Goal Involvement	134.41′	132.12′
All Stats via Transfermarkt

Moreover, this level of output for a mid-table side suggests that, much like the former Hammers star did when he joined the club in 2023, the Greenwich-born “magician,” as dubbed by pundit Micah Richards, could have a transformational impact on the North Londoners’ midfield, but just in an attacking sense.

Furthermore, this transfer would be another case of the Premier League runners-up adding yet another full England international to their squad, as while the former QPR star isn’t quite as established in the Three Lions setup as Rice was when he joined, he’s still a regular feature in the squad and has now won 12 senior caps.

Finally, like the former Irons star did in the Conference League in his last season with the East Londoners, the £100k-per-week star gem played a key role in the Eagles finally winning a major trophy last season, scoring in the quarter-final, semi-final and final of the FA Cup.

In other words, the incredible international has more than proven he has what it takes to deliver in the big games.

Ultimately, Arsenal should be doing everything they can to sign Eze this summer, as not only is he an extraordinarily talented player in his own right, but he could also have as significant an impact as Rice.

Their new Auba: Arsenal start talks to sign "world-class" £43m goalscorer

The prolific forward could be just what Arsenal are missing as they hunt down their next Aubameyang.

1

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Jul 22, 2025

Fabrizio Romano has shared an update on Arsenal and sporting director Andrea Berta’s transfer plans, after manager Mikel Arteta was handed the major boost of Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres’ imminent arrival.

Famous fans: Which celebrities support Arsenal?

These celebrities can all be found cheering on the Gunners.

ByBarney Lane Jul 23, 2025

Gyokeres, according to The Independent, will fly out to Singapore for his medical as he looks to play some part in their pre-season tour of Asia, with Arsenal finally reaching a full breakthrough to sign the 27-year-old earlier this week.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

25/26 – summer

£140m

Gyokeres is poised to join Arsenal in a deal worth £64 million, including add-ons, with a full verbal agreement now struck between all parties as Arteta prepares to welcome the prolific number nine to his squad.

Given Arsenal’s struggles to break teams down last season, Gyokeres has the potential to be a title-winning signing, and people who’ve worked with the Sweden international simply cannot find enough superlatives to describe him.

“He really was incredible,” said Adi Viveash, who coached and mentored Gyokeres at Coventry City, to Sky Sports.

“His power, taking the ball and running with it, bursting through gaps, linking the play, being very good in both boxes set-piece-wise – which wasn’t a strength of his, but he became certainly very good at defensive set-pieces with me through front post defending.”

“If you give Vik half a pitch in behind with a high line and you get the line wrong, you’re never going to catch him. He’s going to keep making the run in behind so you’re wearing down opposition.”

After Gyokeres, who’ll also be joined by defender Cristhian Mosquera in Singapore, the plan for Arsenal is to prioritise a central attacking midfielder (Ben Jacobs).

Arsenal are seriously interested in Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze, as they have been for weeks, but more and more noise is surrounding an alternative to the England international in RB Leipzig sensation Xavi Simons.

Arsenal contact Xavi Simons camp amid Barcelona meeting

According to Romano, Arsenal are guaranteed to have made contact with Simons’ camp, with Chelsea also seriously contending for the 22-year-old’s signature as they plan transfer talks with Leipzig this week.

La Liga champions Barcelona, led by their sporting director Deco, also held a meeting with the Netherlands forward’s representatives recently, but a move to the Camp Nou is seen as unlikely for this window and more one for the future.

Right now, it appears Chelsea are the current favourites for Simons. However, Arsenal remain “attentive” to his situation and a north London switch hasn’t been entirely ruled out yet, meaning he’s still one to watch.

Leipzig only signed the player from PSG permanently in January for an initial £43 million, with Simons now preparing to leave the Bundesliga side after spending some significant time there on loan previously.

Called a “difference maker” by ex-Leipzig boss Marco Rose, Simons has racked up an impressive tally of 21 goals and 23 assists during his time in Germany, but the Premier League could now beckon for him.

Interestingly, journalist Buchi Laba is convinced that Simons would be a “better” Arsenal signing than Eze.

Sunderland are not messing around with their plans to build a squad that is capable of avoiding an instant relegation from the Premier League next season.

The Black Cats have already signed Enzo Le Fee on a permanent deal from AS Roma, Habib Diarra in a club-record £30m move from Strasbourg, and Noah Sadiki from Royale Union Saint-Gilloise to bolster their ranks.

They are not done there, though, as the club are also reportedly in talks to secure a deal for Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, who played with Diarra in Ligue 1 last season.

At the other end of the pitch, Sunderland are also looking to bring in a new number nine to fire them to safety, as they go in search of their next Asamoah Gyan, Steven Fletcher, or Jermaine Defoe.

Sunderland eyeing deal for new striker

According to Foot Mercato, Sunderland are one of the teams interested in a deal to sign Lyon centre-forward Georges Mikautadze, following his team’s expulsion from Ligue 1.

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The report, however, claims that the Georgia international is not the club’s main option in that position, as the Black Cats have made Nantes striker Matthis Abline their priority target.

It states that Mikautadze is their ‘plan B’ option in the event that they fail to get a deal over the line for Abline, who is the player they are currently pursuing to bolster their attacking ranks.

The outlet adds that Sunderland have already made an offer of £17m to sign the 22-year-old forward, but it remains to be seen exactly how much will be needed to snap him up.

If the Black Cats can do land their priority target and bring Abline to the Stadium of Light, Regis Le Bris could have his own version of Asamoah Gyan.

Why Abline could be a Gyan repeat for Sunderland

Back in the summer of 2010, Sunderland smashed their transfer record to sign Gyan from Ligue 1 side Rennes for a reported fee of £13m, after he had plundered 13 goals in 29 matches in the French top-flight the previous season.

The Ghana international scored ten goals in 31 matches in the Premier League in his only full year at the club to fire them to safety, and Abline could enjoy similar success.

If Sunderland can bring the France U21 international to the club, he could provide Le Bris with a big goal threat in the top-flight, having proven his quality in the French top-flight last term.

Talent scout Jacek Kulig claimed that the 22-year-old is “making waves in Ligue 1”, and that praise is backed up by his impressive statistics in the division for Nantes.

xG

8.10

Top 23%

Goals

9

Top 23%

Non-penalty xG

7.31

Top 23%

Non-penalty goals

8

N/A

Shots on target

27

Top 14%

xA

3.37

Top 9%

Assists

2

Top 33%

As you can see in the table above, Abline ranked highly among forwards in the division with his contributions at the top end of the pitch, as he outperformed his xG and created high-quality chances for his teammates at an impressive rate.

One of his nine Ligue 1 goals was also a sensational solo goal against Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain, in which he beat Willian Pacho all ends up.

This shows the kind of quality that the £17m forward can produce against the very best in Europe, which also suggests that he has what it takes to deliver in the Premier League against high-quality teams.

Therefore, Abline has the potential to be Gyan 2.0 for Sunderland as another expensive centre-forward recruit from Ligue 1 who has the potential to be a brilliant goal threat for the Black Cats.

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