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A mystery Saudi side are now making West Ham United an £83 million offer to sign one of Julen Lopetegui’s star players, with PIF looking to bolster the Pro League’s ranks with another noteworthy talent.

West Ham prepare for Man Utd as ten Hag and Lopetegui battle for jobs

The Hammers and Red Devils go head-to-head on Sunday at the London Stadium, as both Lopetegui and the under-fire Erik ten Hag battle to potentially save their jobs amid lacklustre starts to their Premier League campaigns.

Steidten eyeing West Ham move for once-£75m ace as club negotiate his exit

He’s wanted by some pretty big clubs.

ByEmilio Galantini Oct 25, 2024

West Ham have lost half of their top flight games and languish 15th in the table, winning just two, while United have really struggled for consistency. Reports have suggested that INEOS could replace ten Hag at Old Trafford if results continue in this manner.

Match

Date

Opponent

Competition

Result

#10

19/10/2024

Tottenham (A)

Premier League

4-1 loss

#9

05/10/2024

Ipswich (H)

Premier League

4-1 win

#8

28/09/2024

Brentford (A)

Premier League

1-1 draw

#7

25/09/2024

Liverpool (A)

Carabao Cup

5-1 loss

#6

21/09/2024

Chelsea (H)

Premier League

3-0 loss

#5

14/09/2024

Fulham (A)

Premier League

1-1 draw

#4

31/08/2024

Man City (H)

Premier League

3-1 loss

#3

28/08/2024

Bournemouth (H)

Carabao Cup

1-0 win

#2

24/08/2024

Crystal Palace (A)

Premier League

2-0 win

#1

17/08/2024

Aston Villa (H)

Premier League

2-1 loss

Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg shared news earlier this week that West Ham are considering Edin Terzic, their former assistant coach, as a possible successor for Lopetegui if they do decide to part company with the Spaniard.

The indications are that both Lopetegui and ten Hag are not safe in their positions as things stand, so Sunday’s clash represents a very important game for the managerial duo, as does every single encounter with the microscope firmly on them.

West Ham are also in danger of losing star players in the coming months, who may not want to be part of the ride or their possible downturn. One of them, star winger Mohammed Kudus, has already been linked with an exit from east London.

Kudus is believed to be attracting interest from Barcelona, alongside other elite clubs, and the Ghanaian could well be tempted by the offer of a prestigious move abroad.

Saudi side offer £83 million to sign Kudus from West Ham

According to a Spanish media report this week, clubs in the Middle East are now also throwing their hat in the ring. Indeed, an unnamed Saudi side is bidding £83 million to sign Kudus from West Ham. That amount is apparently “being proposed as an offer” by Saudi, and the 24-year-old forward could be one of the next big faces to land in the Pro League.

This season, Kudus has stood out as a key player for Lopetegui, attempting more shots at goal per 90 and completing more dribbles per match than any other West Ham player in the Premier League according to WhoScored.

The African’s started every game so far, and will likely continue to do so, unless injury or suspension befalls Ajax’s ex-rising star.

“Kudus has a much firmer technique and knows where he is going,” said Dutch footballing legend Marco van Basten, making a comparison between Kudus and Antony during their time together at Ajax.

“Antony may be faster, but Kudus is smarter and more technical. He is much more of a footballer and an all-rounder for the team.”

Since being handed his Liverpool debut by Jurgen Klopp back in 2016 when he was just 18 years old, Trent Alexander-Arnold has been an integral figure for the Reds.

He’s played over 300 times in total, mostly at right-back, and has wowed fans with his impressive attacking output, scoring 23 goals and producing an astonishing 92 assists.

His attacking prowess from the right flank has helped Liverpool lift nearly every major trophy possible, including the Champions League and the Premier League on two occasions.

5 potential replacements for Mohamed Salah at Liverpool

Mohamed Salah has been linked with a move away from Liverpool, but who could be in line to succeed him at Anfield?

ByBarney Lane Oct 19, 2024

“An outstanding talent and he has turned into a world-class football player,” Klopp said of Alexander-Arnold just before he left the club at the end of last season.

“He’s one people will talk about 20, 30, 40 years,” the German added.

Sadly for Liverpool fans, a future without their star right-back is now a reality. The Englishman is in the final year of his contract at Anfield and has now officially confirmed that he’ll be heading to Real Madrid.

So, with that now finally out in the open, here are five players the Reds could turn to as a replacement for their iconic academy graduate.

1 Denzel Dumfries Inter

In the later stages of last year, it was reported that the Reds had an agreement in place to bring Inter right-back Denzel Dumfries to Anfield in the summer. Dumfries was initially out of contract at the end of the season at the time of the reports, meaning he could have been brought to Merseyside on a free transfer.

However, in November of 2024, he penned new terms at the San Siro, making this a deal that’s rather trickier to complete.

Last season, the 28-year-old Dutchman, who joined Inter in 2021 from PSV, racked up four goals and six assists in 36 appearances for Inter, helping them lift the Serie A title.

Dumfries has also been linked with Manchester United and Aston Villa, both of whom reportedly tried and failed to land him in the summer transfer window.

2 Jeremie Frimpong Bayer Leverkusen

Another Dutch right-back who has been on Liverpool’s radar is Jeremie Frimpong, according to the Liverpool Echo.

In 2024, it was said that the Reds were one of a number of clubs keeping tabs on the Bayer Leverkusen star, who was a key player for Xabi Alonso’s side as they lifted the Bundesliga title for the first time in their 120-year history last term.

Like Alexander-Arnold, Frimpong is an attack-minded full-back. Last season, he hit 14 goals and produced 12 assists in all competitions.

However, Frimpong usually plays as a right wing-back, which could pose an issue for Liverpool manager Arne Slot, who typically plays with a traditional back four.

3 Vanderson Monaco

While Frimpong and Dumfries can be considered more attacking full-backs, AS Monaco’s Vanderson is quite the opposite.

Though he does nab the occasional goal or assist, the Brazilian is a truly outstanding defender. According to FBref, he ranks in the 99th percentile for tackles and the 97th for interceptions when compared to his positional peers in Europe’s top five leagues.

And according to reports in Spain, the 23-year-old, who recently made his senior debut for Brazil, is one of the names Liverpool are considering as a potential replacement for Alexander-Arnold.

Speaking about the player during the start of his second season at Monaco in September 2022, former Monaco boss Philippe Clemente described him as “very ambitious and a huge perfectionist”.

“Every day he wants to be better than the last,” Clemente said.

4 Pedro Porro Tottenham Hotspur

According to more recent reports elsewhere, Tottenham Hotspur’s Pedro Porro is “right at the top” of Liverpool’s list of potential Alexander-Arnold replacements.

Porro, 25, has been one of the Premier League’s outstanding full-backs over the past two seasons, impressing with his defensive stability, smart wing play and eye for goal – the latter of which was best demonstrated by his thumping long-range strike against Burnley, which won Spurs’ Goal of the Season award last year.

Of Liverpool’s proposed right-back targets, Porro is arguably the most similar to Alexander-Arnold. Both players are excellent progressive passers, boast exceptional outputs in the final third and are extremely comfortable in possession.

However, what’s most interesting about Liverpool’s links with Porro is that the Spaniard and Alexander-Arnold are both thought to be wanted by Real Madrid. Indeed, Porro has not been shy about his desire to play for Los Blancos one day.

So if Madrid do move for Alexander-Arnold, do Liverpool fans really want to then bring in a player who they know will still be dreaming of a move to the Santiago Bernabeu himself? Maybe not.

5 Conor Bradley Liverpool

In life, sometimes you find that the thing you’ve been looking for has been right in front of you all along. For Liverpool, that thing could be Conor Bradley.

Like Alexander-Arnold, Bradley came through Liverpool’s academy and was handed his first-team debut by Klopp in January 2024. Since then, he’s gone from strength to strength, filling in for the England ace on a number of occasions, including in the Carabao Cup final win over Chelsea.

Bradley, while nowhere near as attack-minded as his teammate, is a tenacious tackler and a good header of the ball. He offers the sort of defensive solidity that Alexander-Arnold has often been criticised for during his Liverpool career.

Last season, for example, albeit within far fewer minutes, Bradley went the whole season without making an error – which FBref defines as a mistake leading to a shot. Alexander-Arnold made five of those, which was the most of any player in Liverpool’s squad.

Bradley’s not glamorous, but he’s already shown himself to be a solid player when called upon, and at just 21 years of age, there is still plenty of room for improvement. Plus, he wouldn’t cost the Reds a penny, which is always a bonus.

Liverpool legend Mark Lawrenson thinks the Northern Ireland international is the man for the job. “I think Conor Bradley has the makings of an outstanding full-back if Trent were to leave,” he recently told SportsCasting. “He’s shown that he’s ready to start more for the first team and already has a number of good displays to point to.”

Manchester United and INEOS have made contact with a £325,000 a week “machine” over a summer move, according to a new report. The next two transfer windows are going to be very important for the Red Devils, as INEOS work to get players into the club who fit the style that new manager Ruben Amorim wants to play at Old Trafford.

Man Utd now want to win race for £10m-a-year target by offering huge deal

INEOS are now willing to throw everything at a deal in summer 2025.

ByBrett Worthington Nov 7, 2024 Man Utd transfer news

There are always plenty of rumours involving United, but since the arrival of Amorim, talk of transfers has intensified. The Portuguese looks keen to reunite with some of his Sporting players at his new club, but he will have to wait until the summer to do that.

It was also revealed this week that United are plotting a fresh move for Jarrad Branthwaite next summer. The Red Devils were very interested in the summer and saw bids of up to £50 million rejected, but that interest hasn’t gone away, as they now believe he could fit perfectly into Amorim’s 3-4-3 system.

As well as Branthwaite, United are also looking to win the race for Alphonso Davies. The left-back is in the final year of his contract at Bayern Munich, and it looks unlikely at this stage that he will sign a new contract. United are ready to offer him a “huge deal” to beat Real Madrid to the signing. Trying to sign Bayern Munich players doesn’t stop there for the Red Devils, as they also have their eye on another soon-to-be free agent.

INEOS already in contact about signing Leroy Sane for Man Utd

According to Christian Falk, Manchester United are interested in signing Leroy Sane and have already made an enquiry for his services. The 28-year-old has been at the German giants since 2020, when he joined from Manchester City, and he has been a regular contributor for them in recent years.

Sane, who earns 384,615 euros a week at Munich, which is roughly £325,000, scored eight goals and recorded 11 assists in 27 Bundesliga games last season, but they missed out on the title to Bayer Leverkusen.

The winger is now in the final year of his contract at Bayern Munich, and United are interested in signing him when his deal expires, so much so that they have already made contact. Sane, who was described as a “machine” by Thomas Tuchel, is not short of options though, as fellow Premier League team Arsenal are also interested in signing the speedy attacker.

Karim Adeyemi

22.80 miles p/h top speed

Sheraldo Becker

22.74 miles p/h top speed

Alphonso Davies

22.68 miles p/h top speed

Moussa Diaby

22.68 miles p/h top speed

Leroy Sane

22.55 miles p/h top speed

The Germany international is going to wait for negotiations with Munich before making a decision on his future. Either way, United are keen on landing the winger, and he could be seen as a replacement for Antony, who looks to be no longer needed at Old Trafford.

This season was supposed to be the year Arsenal finally got over the line in the Premier League and ended their two-decade title drought, but after their first 11 games, that is starting to look unlikely.

Mikel Arteta’s young side have not been as secure at the back as they were last season, already conceding 12 goals, and their attack has been noticeably blunt, with six teams scoring more than their 18 goals.

The North Londoners have had to deal with some unfortunate injuries and questionable refereeing here and there, but there is no getting away from the fact that a number of their star players just look a little off the pace at the moment.

1

Liverpool

11

15

28

2

Manchester City

11

9

23

3

Chelsea

11

8

19

4

Arsenal

11

6

19

5

Nottingham Forest

11

5

19

6

Brighton & Hove Albion

11

4

19

Unsurprisingly, recent reports have now linked the club with one of the most exciting attackers in the league, someone who could rival both Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka next season.

Arsenal transfer news

According to reports from Spain, Arsenal are incredibly interested in West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus.

In fact, the report claims that the Gunners are so keen on the Ghanaian international that they plan to make an offer for him next summer, which could potentially be worth up to €100m, which is about £83m.

While that’s an enormous sum of money, that doesn’t seem too outlandish, as other publications have claimed that the Hammers have inserted an £85m release clause into the former Ajax star’s contract, which is set to reactivate in the summer.

In all, signing Kudus would represent a hugely significant investment, but given his incredible ability, it is well worth making, especially as he could offer competition to several players, including Martinelli and Saka.

Why Kudus would be an ideal addition to Arsenal's attack

So, before we look at his sensational output over the last few years, let’s look at one of the other key reasons Kudus would be such an excellent addition to Arsenal’s attacking lineup: his versatility.

Yes, across his career to date, the 24-year-old dynamo has played all over the pitch, from right to left wing, attacking midfield to centre-forward and even one game in defensive midfield.

In short, the “sensational” international, as dubbed by Daily Mail reporter Kathryn Batte, can play pretty much wherever he’s asked, which means he’d be able to pick up plenty of game time across a campaign and offer competition to a number of starters.

Right-Winger

47

21

7

Central Midfield

46

11

3

Centre-Forward

43

15

3

Attacking Midfield

43

11

3

Left-Winger

15

4

3

Left Midfield

2

1

0

Defensive Midfield

1

0

0

For example, with his vast experience of playing off the right, he could finally allow Arteta to rest Saka when he’s being overplayed or even when he’s underperforming.

Likewise, Julen Lopetegui has played him off the left five times this season, so should Leandro Trossard continue to underdeliver next season, as he has this year, then the Hammers star could also be the perfect player to push or even replace Martinelli on that side of the pitch.

With all that said, it’s all well and good playing in lots of positions, but has the Accra-born maestro been able to deliver for his teams? You bet he has.

For example, in his final full season for Ajax, when he was genuinely a part of the senior side, the 34-capped international racked up a brilliant haul of 18 goals and seven assists in 42 appearances, equating to a goal involvement on average every 1.68 games.

Appearances

42

48

10

Goals

18

18

2

Assists

7

7

1

Goal Involvements per Match

0.59

0.52

0.30

Moreover, in his 55 appearances for the Hammers, against far stronger opposition, the 5 foot 9 wizard has scored 16 goals and provided seven assists, meaning he’s averaging a goal involvement every 2.29 games for the Eastenders.

Ultimately, signing Kudus next summer will require a massive financial effort from Arsenal, but given his sensational form in recent seasons and the need to provide the likes of Martinelli and Saka with more competition, it would be well worth the cost.

Arsenal want to sign £41m Havertz upgrade who's had a penalty saved by Raya

The “lethal” forward would be an exceptional addition to Arsenal’s squad.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 11, 2024

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is unconvinced by a “complete” player in his squad, but those above the Italian actually hold the ace in very high regard.

Chelsea players who could leave the club in January

Maresca and the Chelsea hierarchy appear to be in agreement over a few other squad members, in regard to their futures at Stamford Bridge, with certain players widely tipped to depart Cobham at the turn of the year.

"Very big" Chelsea player wanted by AC Milan looks set to leave in January

The Rossoneri have their sights “set” on a winter deal.

2 ByEmilio Galantini Nov 19, 2024

Left-back Ben Chilwell looked likely to leave in the summer, but Maresca’s side couldn’t find a suitor for the £200,000-per-week defender, who is now stuck in limbo at the club.

Chilwell’s played just 45 minutes in all competitions this season – a brief cameo against English minnows Barrow in the Carabao Cup – and it is believed that Chelsea are actively encouraging suitors to come forward in the winter.

Leicester City (home)

November 23

Aston Villa (home)

December 1

Southampton (away)

December 4

Tottenham (home)

December 8

Brentford (home)

December 15

Chelsea have already spoken to numerous clubs over selling Chilwell, according to reliable journalist Simon Phillips at the start of last month, with the former Leicester City star attracting interest from England, Italy and Spain.

Chelsea are also prepared to sell Carney Chukwuemeka, who’s on the transfer list ahead of January, amid interest from La Liga leaders Barcelona.

Carney Chukwuemeka

Reports out of Italy this week, specifically Milan Live, report that a Chelsea exit for Cesare Casadei is “inevitable” for January as well, so it appears BlueCo are ready to swing the axe in an attempt to reduce the club’s wage bill and garner funds.

Defender Benoit Badiashile, who has struggled for consistent Premier League minutes under Maresca, has been linked with an exit too – but this possibility is also refuted by reliable media sources.

These same sources claim that Badiashile is highly regarded at Chelsea, and club chiefs apparently view the Frenchman as a more-than capable back-up option.

However, this isn’t the view of Maresca.

Enzo Maresca left unconvinced by Benoit Badiashile at Chelsea

As per TEAMtalk, Maresca is apparently unconvinced by Badiashile, as Chelsea also scour the market for a new central defender – leading to their interest in Bournemouth star Ilia Zabarnyi.

It will be interesting to see what the future holds for him, as it is unclear whether the 23-year-old will even want to remain on the bench for much longer, regardless of how Chelsea officials feel about his ability.

“He is going to one of the world’s biggest clubs and a defender there needs certain qualities,” said former AS Monaco assistant coach Joao Tralhao to Sky Sports on Badiashile.

“But Badiashile is excellent. He is very strong in the air and in the duels. He can read the game because he is intelligent. He is a very good defender on the floor and in the air. I do not have any doubts that he will succeed in the Premier League.

“He is the complete defender.”

It has been a torrid season so far for Everton, and they find themselves in big trouble as a busy festive period rolls around. The Toffees currently sit in 15th place in the Premier League, with 11 points to their name and one point clear of the relegation zone.

They have won just two games this season, beating relegation rivals Crystal Palace and Ipswich Town. Aside from those victories, it has not been an easy ride for Toffees fans, who have seen their side draw five and lose six in the Premier League.

Unsurprisingly, that has piled the pressure on manager Sean Dyche, and there have been links with candidates to replace the Englishman.

The manager who could replace Dyche at Everton

There is definitely heat on Dyche at the moment, and the Toffees need to start picking up points or he may well be removed from his post. The Merseysiders have been linked with a couple of candidates in recent months.

One of those is former England manager Gareth Southgate. According to a GiveMeSport report from back in September, the 54-year-old has been spoken about “as an ambitious option to potentially succeed Dyche” if they decide to sack him.

There is no doubting Southgate’s ability to create a good atmosphere within the team, something the Toffees could do with. During England’s Euro 2024 campaign, The Guardian journalist Jonathan Wilson suggested he might be “perhaps rather better at the management side of football management than the football”.

The other man linked with the potentially vacant role at Goodison Park recently is Jose Mourinho. The legendary Portuguese boss is currently working at Fenerbahce, but Football Insider said in October that the former Chelsea boss can’t be ruled out if the job becomes available.

It would certainly be a bold choice from the Everton board, and there is no doubt what Mourinho would bring to the table; experience and charisma.

He has had many unforgettable moments in press conferences and on the touchline and has won it all in the game. It would be an ambitious appointment from the Toffees.

However, Mourinho is not the only Portuguese manager linked with the club should they sack Dyche.

Everton could land biggest coup since Ancelotti

The manager in question here is Sergio Conceicao. According to a report from TeamTalk late last month, the former FC Porto boss is the ‘number one target’ of prospective new owners The Friedkin Group to replace Dyche. The Portuguese manager is currently a free agent.

It would also be a bold move, given his success in the hot seat at Porto. He managed over 350 games for the Dragons, winning an impressive 11 trophies.

His final game in charge was the 2023/24 Taca de Portugal final, which his side won 2-1 against Sporting, then managed by current Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim.

Stat

Number

Games

368

Wins

265

Draws

48

Losses

55

Goals for

803

Goals against

317

Trophies

11

The 50-year-old is a manager who prefers to use a 4-2-3-1 system, which certainly fits the current Toffees squad nicely. It is the formation that Dyche has tended to favour this season at Goodison Park, and whilst there would need to be tactical tweaks made, there are perhaps not many personnel changes required if they stick to such a system.

One thing that would be refreshing for the Everton supporters is Conceicao’s style of football. Football scout Antonio Mango described Porto’s style of play as “heavy metal”, and it would certainly be a big change for the Toffees, who are used to the more reserved style they currently play.

As per Sofascore, they have the lowest amount of average possession in the entire Premier League currently, with 40.3%.

It certainly feels like this would be the Toffees’ biggest managerial coup since Carlo Ancelotti became head coach. The legendary Italian manager, who is now in his second stint at Real Madrid, made the move to Merseyside in December 2019. He oversaw 67 games during his time at Goodison Park, helping them to a tenth-place finish in 2020/21.

Replacing Dyche with a Mourinho-esque figure like Conceicao would be a bold move from the prospective new Everton owners, almost as big as the appointment of Ancelotti. Not only would they be bringing in a serial winner, but a coach who could completely transform their style of play.

Manager Focus

Who are the greatest coaches in the land? Football FanCast's Manager Focus series aims to reveal all.

After the turbulent years under the likes of Rafa Benitez, Frank Lampard and current boss, Dyche, snapping up Conceicao – who is also a reported target for West Ham United – could represent a real statement capture.

3/10 Everton flop was even worse than Branthwaite & Tarkowski at Man Utd

Everton were dealt a sobering Premier League defeat against Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United.

ByAngus Sinclair Dec 1, 2024

Everton managed to reveal a layer of attacking quality in midweek, defeating Wolverhampton Wanderers 4-0 in the Premier League.

It was the perfect fuel for Sean Dyche’s side to send the Toffees fanbase into rapture, with Liverpool travelling the less-than-a-mile distance from Anfield for the final Merseyside derby at Goodison Park.

Storm Darragh had other plans. Howling winds and lashing rain precluded the match from taking place, with Saturday morning bringing about the dreaded news that the contest had indeed been called off.

It’s certainly frustrating, for Everton have entered a good moment and were ready to take on a Liverpool side contending with a host of injuries. Dyche was given a glimpse of attacking quality that has scarcely been on show throughout the term.

To be sure, the Blue Merseysiders need more from their frontal members.

Everton's attacking failures

Dyche has got a task on his hands to overturn the misery that has threatened his place in the Everton dugout. The Toffees might have earned a reprieve through their statement victory against Wolves but consistency has been lacking and that needs to change.

14th

Ipswich Town

23

14=

Newcastle United

23

14=

Nottingham Forest

23

14=

Nottingham Forest

23

18th

West Ham United

22

19th

Southampton

20

20th

Everton

19

While it’s true that Dyche has been let down by his forwards, namely Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has failed to register a direct goal contribution across his past nine Premier League outings, creativity has been negligible, with the Blues indeed the division’s bottom-placed side when it comes to creating chances.

Pretty damning – let’s hope the Wolves victory doesn’t prove to be a lonely outlier. Whether the club will have the financial power to strengthen in January remains to be seen, but they could certainly do with the booster.

Hindsight’s a wonderful thing, but it’s also a useless thing. Even so, it’s a real shame, in hindsight, that Everton allowed Ademola Lookman to leave at the start of his career.

His dynamic qualities would be perfect for Dyche’s team.

Why Everton sold Ademola Lookman

Everton were the team that gave Lookman his first opportunity at the highest level, signing him from Charlton Athletic for an £11m fee in January 2017, when he was aged only 19.

Though he is now regarded as a top-class player, the versatile winger failed to establish himself with the Toffees, totalling just four goals across 48 appearances before being sold to RB Leipzig in 2019 in a deal worth £22.5m.

While Everton succeeded in turning a profit for their fringe prospect, it’s rather poignant to watch him do so well now, having finished 14th on the Men’s Ballon d’Or rankings after an incredible year with Serie A side Atalanta.

Aged 27, Lookman is established and ensconced in the prime of his career, and given that Atalanta wanted €70m (£59m) for their dynamic star this summer when high-ranked outfits such as Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain were circling, Farhad Moshiri and co must surely feel a little bit rueful, having let a potential blinder slip through their fingers.

Ademola Lookman's performances in 2024/25

Lookman achieved continental acclaim at the final stage of the 2023/24 campaign, blasting in a hat-trick against Bayer Leverkusen to claim the Europa League crown.

He’s continued to make headway this year, having posted ten goals and five assists across 17 matches in all competitions, very much backing up the praise that he is Piero Gian Gasperini’s “superstar” – so journalist Sean Walsh has said.

As per FBref, Lookman ranks among the top 1% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for goals scored, the top 7% for assists and shot-creating actions and the top 16% for progressive carries per 90, denoting elite-level potency and an effective ball-carrying quality that shapes him into the complete package.

As you can see, he’s not just a one-trick pony, emerging to spearhead Atalanta’s trophy-lifting triumph. No, Lookman has found a stunning vein of consistency in the final third over the past several years and is now reaping the rewards of his hard labours.

FBref record the Nigeria international to be an exceptionally prolific force, but perhaps more curious is the fact that he has been compared to the likes of Bukayo Saka and Jamal Musiala as a result.

Two heavyweights, Saka and Musiala set the gold standard in the Premier League and Bundesliga respectively, with the pairing considered to be among the most valuable players in the world, as per the CIES Football Observatory.

Goals scored

0.76

0.49

0.45

Assists

0.38

0.36

0.18

Shots taken

3.32

3.39

3.49

Shot-creating actions

5.71

5.68

5.57

Progressive passes

3.98

3.70

5.45

Progressive carries

5.09

4.98

5.15

Successful take-ons

1.97

1.62

3.91

Ball recoveries

4.08

4.37

4.24

Whether Lookman is actually at the same level as a player such as Saka is debatable; the Arsenal sensation is arguably the best right winger in the world right now, barring maybe Mohamed Salah and Barcelona’s Raphinha.

But it’s still a mark of his prowess and a frustrating reminder to Everton that they let him go before he had time to nurture his natural-born talents and bloom.

Where Are They Now

Your star player or biggest flop has left the club but what are they doing in the present day? This article is part of Football FanCast's Where Are They Now series.

While a player like Lookman would be a welcome addition to Dyche’s cause right now, let’s hope that the Toffees have learnt from their past mistakes and ensure that the up-and-coming stars of the present day are allowed to rise to the fore over the coming years.

Dyche's "new hope" could be Everton's answer to Mo Salah

Everton meet Liverpool in the rivals’ final Premier League contest at Goodison Park.

ByAngus Sinclair Dec 7, 2024

Following a frustrating yet resilient draw against Fulham, Liverpool are reportedly in contact over a potential deal to sign an in-form La Liga winger who could replace Mohamed Salah in the summer.

Liverpool transfer news

Down to 10 for the majority of the game against Fulham following Andrew Robertson’s misplaced touch and then misplaced challenge on former Liverpool man Harry Wilson, the Reds did well to climb from behind twice to earn a point against the impressive Cottagers. Most notably, it was Diogo Jota who made his return from injury to do what the likes of Darwin Nunez haven’t been doing by clinically equalising deep into the second-half.

Whilst their title charge continues to rumble on in front of the Anfield crowd, however, concerns are still growing over the futures of Salah, Virgil van Dijk and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

As things stand, all three are set to depart as free agents at the end of the season and whilst reports have been positive regarding Van Dijk and Salah in recent weeks, both stars are yet to put pen to paper on extensions. Alexander-Arnold, meanwhile, is seemingly holding his cards close to his chest.

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Losing any of the three stars would be a disaster for those at Anfield, but they’re at least preparing for the worst. According to Graeme Bailey for The Boot Room, Liverpool are in contact with intermediaries over a potential move to sign Barcelona star Raphinha. The Brazilian has been in the form of his career this season and has attracted the interest of the Reds alongside Arsenal and Manchester City.

At this point, Barcelona have reportedly dismissed any idea of selling their star even among their consistent financial difficulties, but whether Liverpool change their minds if Salah leaves in the summer remains to be seen.

"Amazing" Raphinha one of few who could replace Salah

One of the best Premier League players of all time, replacing Salah will be mission impossible for Liverpool whether it’s this summer or in a couple of years. The Egyptian can do it all at what is a rare consistent rate. To find another player capable of leading the goalscoring charts and assist charts whilst avoiding injury issues seems merely a fantasy for Michael Edwards and Liverpool. But Raphinha, recently valued at £52m, certainly ticks a few boxes on that front.

The former Leeds United star is enjoying the season of his career, scoring 17 goals and assisting a further 10 in just 23 games in all competitions. Any notion that Barcelona should sign Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams to replace him is almost laughable these days. Instead, the ball is in Raphinha’s court and if Liverpool come calling, it will be interesting to see whether he shoots for the stars.

Dubbed “amazing” by analyst Ben Mattinson, Raphinha’s recent rise has been coming since his Elland Road days and the Premier League could yet get the chance to see his best form up close and in-person.

Manchester United exited the Carabao Cup at the quarter-final stage after a 4-3 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur in North London last night.

Goals from Heung-min Son, Dominic Solanke (x2) and Dejan Kulusevski secured victory for Ange Postecoglou’s side, ending Ruben Amorim’s chances of a first title since his appointment.

The Red Devils did find themselves three goals down at one stage, but goals from Joshua Zirkzee, Amad Diallo and Jonny Evans made the scoreline somewhat respectable.

Undoubtedly, the loss will be frustrating, but more importantly, the manner of the defeat, looking second best for the majority of the encounter at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Amorim handed various opportunities out to players who haven’t had the best start to the campaign, but were unable to take their chance with both hands.

United’s disappointing performers against Spurs

Victor Lindelof was replaced just before the break after picking up an injury, subsequently being replaced by eventual goalscorer Evans.

However, up until his withdrawal, he failed to make a real impression on the new boss, unable to stake his claim for a regular starting role after his rare start last night.

The Swedish international didn’t win any duels and failed to win a single tackle, losing possession three times in the process during his first half display.

Goalkeeper Altay Bayindir was utilised between the sticks instead of Andre Onana, making his first appearance since the cup victory against Leicester City at the end of October.

However, he had an evening to forget in North London, conceding four, with his misjudgement leading to Son’s corner flying straight in for the host’s fourth goal of the evening, having also parried Pedro Porro’s effort for the game’s opener.

He only made two saves in the process, but was unable to swing the game in the Red Devils’ favour, contributing to their defeat, with the result perhaps having been different had Onana started the game.

Bayindir wasn’t the only player to fail to impress, as another first-team star demonstrated why he’s been a bench option for the majority of the season – potentially playing his last game for the club.

The United player who was as bad as Bayindir vs Spurs

Brazilian winger Antony has failed to demonstrate why the club were so keen to fork out £86m for his signature back in the summer of 2022, only scoring 12 goals since his big-money arrival.

However, last night Amorim handed the 24-year-old the chance to prove why he should start on a regular basis, but like Bayindir, it was an evening to forget for the attacker.

He only featured for 55 minutes before being replaced by goalscorer Diallo, but it was a deserved withdrawal after failing to make any form of positive impression on the encounter.

The “abysmal” winger, as dubbed by one content creator, only completed 87% of his attempted passes, losing possession a whopping 11 times – an average of once every five minutes he played.

Minutes played

55

Touches

33

Passes completed

13/15 (87%)

Successful dribbles

0/4 (0%)

Duels lost

10

Shots taken

1

Possession lost

11x

Antony also lost ten duels – the most of any player on the pitch – whilst failing to complete any of the four dribbles he attempted for Amorim’s side.

As a result of his dismal showing, he was handed a measly 4/10 match rating by the Manchester Evening News journalist Samuel Luckhurst – an indication as to how poor he was throughout.

With January coming up, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the hierarchy try and offload the attacker, with The Athletic’s Carl Anka claiming it might be the “last game Antony starts for United for a while” given his lack of impact. Indeed, amid reports regarding a possible sale in the upcoming window, perhaps the Brazilian has kicked his last ball in a United shirt.

The club are undoubtedly going to lose a huge chunk of their mammoth investment, but he’s had more than enough chances to prove himself – evidently not being at the level required for success going into 2025.

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Tottenham Hotspur are now exploring a move for a “superb” Premier League ace to replace Fraser Forster, according to a report.

Fraser Forster failing to impress

After Guglielmo Vicario was ruled out with a long-term injury back in November, Ange Postecoglou made it clear in no uncertain terms that he had no plans to sign a goalkeeper during the January transfer window.

However, it would be fair to say that Fraser Forster has flattered to deceive in Vicario’s absence, with Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher highly critical of the goalkeeper after his performance in the 4-3 EFL Cup victory against Manchester United, saying: “Has there been a worse performance from two goalkeepers in the same game ever?”

As such, it appears as though Postecoglou has made a U-turn and will now look to bring in a new goalkeeper to replace Forster this January, and The Boot Room have now provided an update on one of the players Tottenham could target.

According to a report, Spurs are now interested in signing Wolverhampton Wanderers goalkeeper Sam Johnstone this month, given that Forster’s introduction to the team has coincided with some poor results.

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The Lilywhites are now exploring a loan deal for the Wolves goalkeeper, who is expected to be allowed to leave Molineux this month, given that Jose Sa has emerged as the Old Gold’s number one this season.

The opportunity to sign the 31-year-old, who was wanted by Antonio Conte in 2022, on an initial loan deal appeals to Tottenham, seemingly as a stop-gap until Vicario returns from his ankle injury.

Paul O Keefe has since reported that Johnstone is “one of the leading contenders” to strengthen the goalkeeper area this winter.

Johnstone also struggling between the sticks

In truth, both players have not been at their best over the past year, ranking in very low percentiles across a number of key metrics for goalkeepers.

Statistic

Sam Johnstone

Fraser Forster

Save percentage

60.8% (4th percentile)

71.2% (58th percentile)

Goals against per 90

2.0 (10th percentile)

1.91 (12th percentile)

Clean Sheet Percentage

9.1% (7th percentile)

18.2% (27th percentile)

As shown, Forster is performing slightly better across the three statistics, although it must be taken into account that he has played for a stronger team, who are expected to dominate certain games and therefore face fewer shots.

There is no doubt that Johnstone is talented, given his previous involvement with the England squad, winning four caps, and he has been lauded as “superb” by members of the media.

However, there is little evidence that the Englishman would be much of an upgrade on Forster for Tottenham in the second half of the season, so it may be worth Postecoglou looking at other targets.