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Journalist Rudy Galetti of Tribal Football has now shared a major Tottenham Hotspur transfer update on the club’s pursuit of Everton striker Richarlison.

The Lowdown: Spurs eye move…

The Lilywhites are reliably believed to hold a serious interest in Brazil’s international attacker as manager Antonio Conte reportedly sets his sights on an alternative to star man Harry Kane.

According to reporter David Ornstein of The Athletic, some sources at Goodison Park even believe a Spurs move for Richarlison is inevitable and Everton could be forced to accept a fee lower than their desired asking price.

Now, as per Galetti, it appears the north Londoners could be about to seriously ramp up their Premier League transfer chase.

The Latest: Galetti shares major Richarlison update…

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According to the reporter, Tottenham now ‘want to speed things up’ for Richarlison and ‘decisive days’ lie ahead.

Galetti also explains that the Toffees value their star 25-year-old at ‘€65/70 million (£56/£61m)’ but Spurs would ‘like to shell out a little less’.

The Verdict: Get moving…

As backed by WhoScored, Richarlison stood out as one of Frank Lampard’s most crucial assets over 2021/2022 when at his very best.

He finished 2021/2022 as their best-performing player by average match rating whilst also racking up Everton’s most goals and assists combined (10G, 5A).

Richarlison attempted a threatening 2.4 shots at goal per 90 in that time, more than any of his teammates, leaving little surprise Conte and co want him through the Hotspur Way door as soon as possible.

Called ‘unplayable’ by Sky pundit Andy Hinchcliffe, the South American could be a real asset at Spurs.

In other news: Sky journalist: Tottenham hold ‘negotiations’ as Paratici also eyes ‘perfect player for Conte’! Find out more here.

Aston Villa are reportedly set to snub the chance to sign Liverpool midfielder Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, despite the rampant speculation regarding a move for the Englishman in recent weeks.

What’s the word?

According to BBC Sport journalist Phil McNulty, following the recent links that the 28-year-old could be a player of interest for the Midlands outfit, the belief is that Steven Gerrard and co will not be pursuing a deal this summer.

Writing on Twitter about Villa’s possible interest, the respected source stated: “Aston Villa will not be making any move to sign Liverpool’s Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and their position on Luis Suarez remains unchanged. No move planned.”

Previous reports had suggested that the Reds are keen to cash in on the former Arsenal man this summer – who they signed from the Emirates in 2017 on a £35m deal – with the reported asking price believed to be just £10m, with only a year remaining on his existing contract.

Supporters annoyed

That would have seen the Villa Park outfit able to land the 35-cap gem for a relative bargain price, yet as it is supporters are set to be disappointed and annoyed, with Gerrard seemingly set to pursue other targets to that of his former Three Lions colleague.

A new midfielder is believed to be on the agenda for the 42-year-old in the current window – despite having already signed Marseille’s Boubacar Kamara – yet it would appear that Oxlade-Chamberlain is not viewed as the right fit.

Although there may perhaps be understandable concerns over his fitness record – as he has endured lengthy spells on the treatment table during his time on Merseyside – the £14.4m-rated man is a player with a wealth of experience at the elite level and has won a host of major honours, hence the possible fury that Villa are set to snub a move.

While the most recent campaign saw him make just 28 appearances in all competitions for Jurgen Klopp’s side, the £125k-per-week ace still managed to chip in with a respectable tally of six goal contributions, proving he may simply need regular game time in order to totally showcase his talent.

Once dubbed a player who “offers something totally different” by pundit Rio Ferdinand, the one-time Southampton man also compares favourably to those in his position across Europe’s top five leagues, ranking in the top 3% for touches in the attacking penalty area, the top 4% for progressive carries and the top 8% for dribbles completed, illustrating his dynamism from his central midfield berth.

A player who can also offer invaluable versatility – having wing-back role during his time in north London – it would seem a bold call not to at least attempt to try and secure a deal this summer, with little to lose for Gerrard and co with the reported fee so small.

As it is, supporters will likely be fuming if the Portsmouth-born maestro goes on to be a success elsewhere next term, unless Villa can recruit a notable alternative.

IN other news, AVFC face battle to land “aggressive” £60m machine, he’s one of the “best” in his role

Manchester City will be ‘launching a bid soon’ for Leeds United midfielder Kalvin Phillips as he is ‘absolutely perfect’ for Pep Guardiola’s side, journalist Jacque Talbot has claimed.

The Lowdown: Phillips transfer rumours

According to a report by The Athletic, it is expected that the 26-year-old will contemplate forcing through a move to the Premier League champions if a bid is tabled this summer. It is believed that an offer of around £50m would be enough for the Whites to allow the midfielder to make the switch to the Etihad Stadium.

Whilst this would match West Ham’s bid put forward in January, City’s offer would be more likely to be accepted given Phillips’ desire to join the Manchester club.

The Latest: Talbot’s claim on Phillips

Talbot, who works as a freelance journalist for The Times, The Mirror and The Guardian, believes that City are now set to head to the negotiating table and submit a bid for the Leeds star.

When asked on Sunday evening whether Phillips has a long-term future at Elland Road, the reporter told GiveMeSport: “There’s been no talk of contracts yet because the only clubs that he would have gone to is a team like Manchester City or Liverpool.

“He’s absolutely perfect for Manchester City. It sounds like they’re going to be launching a bid soon.

“I imagine it will be accepted by Leeds and he will go on and play Champions League football. He is absolutely perfect for them.”

The Verdict: He’d be a great signing

With Fernandinho leaving the club this summer after nine years at the Etihad, Phillips would likely be a fantastic replacement for the City captain, given the Englishman’s defensive attributes.

When compared with positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year, the 26-year-old ranks in the 98th percentile for pressures, the 97th percentile for tackles and the 96th percentile for blocks (via FBRef), all indicating his no-nonsense nature in the midfield engine room.

With Guardiola looking to add depth to compete with Rodri in the holding midfield position, Phillips’ prospective arrival at the Etihad would be a great addition to the champions’ squad.

In other news: Pep Guardiola is fighting to keep hold of this Man City star

Aston Villa have been handed a boost in their reported pursuit of Rangers winger and former Steven Gerrard mentee, Ryan Kent.

What’s the word?

That is according to journalist Pete O’Rourke, who revealed in a recent interview with GIVEMESPORT that the Aston Villa boss “would love to work” with the 25-year-old again.

As per the report, O’Rourke believes that the Villans would “have the advantage” in signing the winger because of Gerrard.

Speaking to GMS, O’Rourke said: “It [the ‘Gerrard factor’] would give them an advantage over any other team in the Premier League if they do decide to push forward with a deal for Ryan Kent.

“I think Gerrard would love him back, and I’m sure Ryan Kent would really relish the opportunity of working under Steven Gerrard again.”

Supporters will be buzzing

The latest remarks from O’Rourke will have Villa supporters buzzing over the prospect of Gerrard securing a reunion with Kent.

Their partnership at Rangers was prosperous, with the former England Under-20 international hitting 61 attacking returns in 138 games under the now-Villa boss.

And, even with a switch in manager, Kent has continued his upwards trajectory, once again demonstrating his ability as being an out-and-out creator after grabbing 11 assists in 24 Scottish Premiership games.

This season saw the Liverpool youth graduate offer up 10 big chances in the league, which would serve as a major boost to Villa who, as a team, lacked in that department in the campaign just gone – creating just 42 big chances in the Premier League.

Kent also played a big part in Rangers’ road to the Europa League final last season, chipping in with one goal and five assists in 13 appearances.

His experience in Europe could be vital for a Villa side who are looking to become regular top-six challengers in the Premier League.

AND in other news: Bad news: Gerrard now facing big Aston Villa setback that’ll leave supporters fuming 

After weeks of speculation about a potential transfer, Wolves have seemingly missed out on signing Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Palhinha, with the latest reports suggesting that he is set to join Fulham.

What’s the word?

Wolves were reportedly on the brink of signing the Portugal international last month but have seen their move for the 26-year-old hijacked by the Cottagers, with the promoted Londoners clearly the more decisive of the two clubs in any negotiation process.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Palhinha will now make the move to Craven Cottage rather than to Molineux this summer, as he wrote on Twitter: “Done deal, confirmed. João Palhinha joins Fulham as expected – contracts now signed between clubs for €22m total fee, add-ons included.”

Supporters will be livid

Wolves are still yet to make a new signing this summer, and with the players now back for pre-season, supporters may well be concerned that the Old Gold will be ill-prepared for the new campaign.

Considering how long the Palhinha links have been going on, fans will surely have been hoping that a deal could have been concluded, but Bruno Lage’s side have lost out in the negotiations to promoted Fulham, which undoubtedly comes as a blow to the Molineux boss.

The 26-year-old could have offered some real physicality in Wolves’ midfield, as last season saw him average three tackles per game in the Portuguese top-flight, more than any Old Gold player managed in the Premier League.

Palhinha’s 7.03 average rating from WhoScored was also better than any player in Lage’s squad last term, so he is clearly in confident form and would definitely have added some quality at Molineux.

With the futures of Joao Moutinho and Ruben Neves at the club still in doubt, midfield reinforcements should be a priority for Wolves this summer, and Palhinha certainly would have fit that bill.

Therefore, supporters will surely be fuming that a deal could not be done for Palhinha, and if he goes on to be a success at Fulham next season, letting the Cottagers win the race could prove to be a big mistake by the Wolves board.

In other news… Lage plots Wolves bid for £16.2m-rated wizard, he’s like a “hot knife through butter”

Everton will not sell winger Anthony Gordon ‘unless they absolutely have to’, claims ex-Premier League shot stopper Paddy Kenny.

The Lowdown: Gordon interest

According to a report by Football Insider, Newcastle have submitted a £35m bid for the 21-year-old this summer.

Antonio Conte’s Tottenham side, who have already lured Richarlison away from Goodison Park in recent weeks, are also said to be interested in the youngster.

Gordon, who has three years left on his Toffees contract, made a name for himself last season, making 35 appearances in the English top-flight for Frank Lampard’s side.

The Latest: Kenny’s claim

Kenny insists that Gordon is a fan favourite at Everton and that he will not be sold this summer, unless the club has no other choice.

Reacting to Newcastle’s interest in a chat with Football Insider, the 44-year-old claimed: “You hope they don’t have to sell him, it would be controversial.

“They definitely won’t want to sell him, we know that. It’s whether they have to sell him. We all know the financial situation at Everton.

“But he is loved there and I’m sure they would rather sell other players instead of Gordon.

“He needs to stay there and improve under Lampard at his hometown club. They won’t sell him unless they absolutely have to, I’m certain of that.”

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The Verdict: Crucial to keep

When analysing the attacker’s underlying numbers, it is clear to see why Gordon is being tipped to play a crucial part in Lampard’s XI next season.

Compared with positional peers across Europe over the past year, the 21-year-old ranks in the 99th percentile for blocks, in the 96th percentile for tackles and in the 94th percentile for pressures (via FBRef) – he is a pressing machine on the flank.

With former Premier League ace Fabrice Muamba claiming that Gordon won’t be with the Toffees for long as he was Everton’s ‘best player’ at times last season, the Blues should do everything they can to keep the youngster at Goodison Park, otherwise this could be a disastrous window for the club.

Former Premier League striker Noel Whelan has hailed the transfer business from Liverpool as ‘amazing’ as Neco Williams heads for a departure. 

The lowdown: Deal close

This comes following reports this week that the 21-year-old was set for a medical at Nottingham Forest ahead of a £16m switch to Steve Cooper’s promoted outfit.

The Welshman spent the second half of last season on loan at Fulham, having found himself surplus to requirements at Anfield behind Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Ahead of next term, the Reds have added young right-back Calvin Ramsay to their ranks, before tying down Joe Gomez to a new deal. Both of those are now seemingly ahead of Williams in the pecking order, leaving the academy graduate little choice but to seek pastures new…

The latest: Whelan hails ‘amazing’ business

Speaking to Football Insider, ex-Leeds United frontman and former BBC Radio show host Whelan has claimed that Liverpool are once again proving to be astute market operators.

He said: “It’s amazing business, isn’t it? It’s a testament to their academy as well for bringing a player like Williams through.

“It’s what it’s all about for an academy of Liverpool’s size – getting these players out on loan, proving themselves, and selling for a big profit. To generate that amount of money on a youth product is invaluable to the football club – and it just shows that what they are doing is working.

“It’s a win-win for player and club. Liverpool get a great fee, great business – and the player gets to go to a club with great history and an exciting season ahead. Forest will want to stay in the division, but if they do go down they’re building a good team for good money – which will give them a great chance of bouncing back.”

The verdict: Another good deal from Ward

So far this summer, Liverpool’s newly-appointed sporting director Julian Ward has already boosted the Anfield coffers to the tune of £50.4m with the sales of Sadio Mane, Takumi Minamino and the permanent departure of Mark Grujic.

Holding a market value of just £7.2m (Transfermarkt), selling Williams for the mooted fee is the perfect example of the Reds being able to extract the best possible deal for the club out of player departures, something which has been imperative to the project under FSG.

Although the Welsh starlet, who was once dubbed an ‘incredible talent’ by journalist Leanne Prescott, could well go on to reach stellar heights in years to come, at Liverpool the route to stardom was a tricky one.

A move away for Williams certainly seems the best option for all concerned, particularly if it means that Jurgen Klopp and indeed Ward can enter the market in a big way in the coming weeks and months.

Wolves were linked with signing Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum earlier in the summer transfer window, and it seems as if Bruno Lage has now been given the green light to swoop for the former Liverpool and Newcastle United midfielder.

What’s the word?

The Old Gold were among a host of Premier League clubs linked with signing the Netherlands international, who looks to be surplus to requirements in Paris after just one season with the Ligue 1 champions.

His time with Les Parisiens almost certainly seems to be up, as it was confirmed on Friday that he has been left out of their squad for the pre-season visit to Japan, as there is a strong belief that he will be moved on.

It was also reported on Saturday morning that the 31-year-old is being offered out by his current club, with AC Milan one potential destination for the Dutchman.

Lage would love him

If Wolves could bring in a player of Wijnaldum’s quality this summer, they would undoubtedly look a lot better in midfield next season.

The Old Gold have only made one new signing so far this summer, as Nathan Collins joined from Burnley, and supporters will surely be desperate for further additions ahead of their season opener against Leeds United in a few weeks’ time.

Wijnaldum proved himself to be a top player during his time in England, making 217 appearances in the Premier League with Liverpool and Newcastle, in which he contributed 27 goals and 16 assists.

The Dutchman was a big part of Jurgen Klopp’s team’s success in recent years, with his memorable brace from the bench instrumental in the Reds’ famous 4-0 comeback win against Barcelona in the Champions League in 2019.

While Lage has a lot of quality in his Wolves midfield, with Ruben Neves and Joao Moutinho looking likely to line up alongside each other again next season, neither of the Portuguese maestros offer the same goal threat as Wijnaldum, who could add more potency to the Old Gold’s midfield. That would be very much appreciated by supporters, given Wolves’ struggles in front of goal over the last two seasons.

Therefore, given that the experienced Dutch midfielder now seems available for transfer, Wolves should act upon their apparent interest and bring him to Molineux, as he is surely the sort of player that Lage would love to have in his ranks.

AND in other news: Shi can sign Lage his own Harry Kane with Wolves swoop for “incredible” goal machine

Manchester United have reignited their interest in Lazio midfielder Sergej Milinkovic-Savic this summer, according to Italian outlet Calciomercato. 

The lowdown: Wait goes on…

The Red Devils have been pursuing a move for their priority target Frenkie de Jong for the duration of the transfer window, seemingly hitting roadblocks at almost every turn.

Despite having reportedly agreed on a guaranteed €75m (£63m) fee with Barcelona for the Netherlands international, the move remains on hold over a wage dispute and other factors.

It now appears as though the Old Trafford outfit could be about to turn their attentions elsewhere in an attempt to bolster Erik ten Hag’s squad…

The latest: United eyeing Milinkovic-Savic

As per Calciomercato, United have reportedly begun to ‘evaluate the alternatives’ to De Jong.

It’s claimed that, ‘in the last hours’, the Red Devils have brought the 34-cap Serbia star ‘back in fashion’ as Ten Hag and John Murtough look to strengthen the ranks ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.

The report also states that Lazio would demand ‘at least’ €70m (£59.5m) for the 27-year-old, who has been described as ‘unmarkable’ in the air by team-mate and former Liverpool midfielder Lucas Leiva.

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The verdict: Smart move

Having lost Paul Pogba, at least one midfielder is needed to replenish the United ranks, and switching attention away from De Jong would certainly be advisable at this juncture given the protracted nature of the transfer and the close proximity of the new season.

Standing just shy of 6 foot 4, Milinkovic-Savic boasts an imposing physical presence and has been a top performer in Italy for some time now, amassing 231 outings in Serie A and directly contributing to 89 goals in that time.

Last season, the midfield enforcer – who shares a close stylistic likeness with such illustrious names as Leon Goretzka, Kevin De Bruyne and Youri Tielemans (FBRef) – scored 11 times and provided 12 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions. That earned him a superb 7.28 Sofascore rating as he won 6.9 duels, completed 1.2 dribbles and made 1.4 key passes per game.

All of this makes the impressive Serbian an ideal alternative to De Jong, and one transfer that Ten Hag should be pushing to get over the line.

Pete O’Rourke has dropped a claim concerning Celtic’s reported interest in signing Bristol City striker Antoine Semenyo.

What’s the talk?

Speaking to Football FanCast, the journalist and transfer insider had this to say on the matter: “Semenyo has been linked with Celtic for a long time now. He’s somebody that’s been on their radar for the last couple of transfer windows as well.

“Obviously, I think he’s carrying an injury at the minute so that’s maybe stalled a potential move on this one, but I’m sure Celtic will be maintaining a close brief on his return to fitness.” 

With 136 senior club appearances to his name throughout his career, the 22-year-old really made a name for himself throughout his latest season in the English Championship.

Celtic fans will be buzzing

Having made 31 league appearances for Bristol City in 2021/22, the striker found the net eight times and delivered 12 assists in the process, which shows just how capable he is of scoring goals and setting them up for his team-mates.

He also posted a higher rate for shots on target per 90 minutes (1.14) than any other Robins player last season, along with the highest average for dribbles per game (1.2) at Ashton Gate.

This makes it easy to see why the Hoops have had their eye on the player and what he could offer to Ange Postecoglou’s side.

As O’Rourke mentioned, the striker suffered an injury in June which will reportedly keep him out of action until September.

With that in mind, it could make a move for him in this summer’s transfer window rather difficult to complete.

However, with the Ghanaian’s contract set to expire next June, the forthcoming January transfer window could be an ideal time for the Hoops to finally make a move for the player, as it could be the only chance that Bristol City get to cash in on him if he doesn’t sign a new deal.

Now that O’Rourke has claimed that Celtic could be still keeping an eye on the player, this would surely have a lot of Hoops fans buzzing and hopeful that their club will make a move for the 22-year-old in January.

AND in other news: Journalist drops big behind-the-scenes transfer update, it’s bad news for Celtic supporters