All posts by z3u9t.icu

Glasgow Rangers have come out of the traps this summer, already making seven signings to the squad at Ibrox as Philippe Clement aims to return the Light Blues to the summit of Scottish football.

Of Rangers# new arrivals, only Liam Kelly is over the age of 22, which is evidence of the new direction Clement is taking the club. One which will hopefully begin a new era filled with trophies and progress in Europe.

Of course, much will depend on how the signings settle in at Ibrox, but it is clear that the Belgian is showing no signs of sentiment when it comes to restructuring his squad, moving those on who simply can't offer anything of value going forward.

While the majority of his signings will be permanent arrivals, allowing plenty of development in order to potentially secure a profit in the long run, there will be a couple of temporary arrivals.

Oscar Cortes has already extended his loan spell at Rangers for another season, while it looks like Clement is turning to the Premier League in order to secure another talented midfielder on loan this summer…

Rangers eyeing up move for Liverpool sensation

According to insider Dave Ockop, Rangers are keen on making a move for current Liverpool youngster Bobby Clark this summer.

The Light Blues will have to fend off some stiff competition, however, as clubs such as RB Salzburg, RB Leipzig, and Norwich City are all showing interest, clearly showing how in demand Clark is.

His long-term future looks to be with Liverpool as the Anfield side are set to open up talks regarding a new contract for the 19-year-old sensation which would see him remain on Merseyside for the foreseeable.

Securing Clark on a season-long loan deal could allow Clement the chance to add some more dynamism to his midfield, while also repeating a masterclass of a signing made by former Rangers manager Steven Gerrard…

Why Bobby Clark could be the next Kent at Rangers

Following his announcement as manager in May 2018, Gerrard sought to rebuild the Light Blues back to a level which could see them challenge Celtic on a regular basis for trophies.

This meant several summer signings that year, which included the likes of Connor Goldson, Allan McGregor and Borna Barisic, who would form the cornerstone of the defence across the next five seasons.

It was a loan deal for a young Liverpool winger named Ryan Kent which would get the tongues wagging at Ibrox, however, as his prodigious talent looked like it could shine in Glasgow.

Gerrard’s connections with his former club obviously helped facilitate a move north of the border, and it wasn’t long before the Englishman demonstrated his talents.

During his loan spell, Kent made 43 appearances in all competitions, scoring six goals while registering nine assists in the process.

2022/23

44

3

10

2021/22

46

3

19

2020/21

52

13

14

2019/20

34

8

4

2018/19

43

6

9

His ability to cause chaos out wide meant he swiftly became a crowd favourite at the Light Blues, as his dribbling ability was often showcased, while his displays against Celtic were also impressive.

Not only did he provide the assist for Ryan Jack in the 1-0 win in December 2018, ending a six-year run without a victory against Celtic, but the winger scored a sublime solo goal during a 2-1 defeat against the same opposition just a few months later.

His impact during that campaign was certainly impressive, leading Gerrard to shell out a staggering £7.5m transfer fee to secure his signature on a permanent basis in the summer of 2019.

Clark could have a similar sort of impact if he makes the same move as Kent did six years ago, but it remains to be seen whether Rangers will have the chance to sign him on loan.

What Bobby Clark could offer Rangers

Clark has shone for the Merseyside outfit at both youth and first-team level in recent years, which indicates that he could be a solid option for Clement to call upon next season.

For the U18 side during the 2021/22 season, Clark scored 13 goals and grabbed five assists in just 23 matches, which gave him plenty of confidence to take the next step up in the following campaign at Premier League 2 level (U23s).

Step up he did. Not only did Clark register four goal contributions at that level, but he also made his senior debut for Liverpool, appearing in both the League Cup and Premier League.

The youngster made a further 12 appearances under Jürgen Klopp last season, scoring in the Europa League, and emerging as one of the finest midfield talents the club had to offer.

It was in Europe that he shone brightest. Across two matches on the continent, Clark averaged one key pass per game while creating a big chance. Additionally, the teenager averaged a 90% pass success rate, showing how comfortable he is on the ball, along with winning 4.5 total duels per game – a success rate of 82% – evidence of his impressive physicality that he isn’t bullied during one on one duels.

Described as "a really exciting player with bags of skill and talent" by journalist Lee Ryder, it is clear he could be a worthwhile addition to Clement’s changed first-team squad for the 2024/25 campaign, especially considering his seamless transition from the U21s to playing for the senior team last term.

Securing him on a loan deal would allow the manager to focus his limited transfer funds on other areas of the team yet giving him an extra body in the heart of the midfield.

Kent took to Scottish football with ease during his loan spell and there is no doubt that Clark could follow suit next season.

Rangers could land Roofe replacement who’s "one of the best" SPFL strikers

The Light Blues are reportedly interested in signing the impressive centre-forward.

ByDan Emery Jul 3, 2024

Manchester United had a quiet start to the summer transfer window, but over the last week or so, they have burst into life.

First came the much-deserved renewal of Johnny Evans' one-year contract, and then came arguably the biggest signing in the Premier League thus far: Joshua Zirkzee.

The Dutch striker enjoyed a productive campaign with Bologna last season, and while he's not the finished article, he is undoubtedly exciting.

That said, his place in the team may already be under threat, as recent reports have now touted a much more established striker plying his trade for the Three Lions for a move to Old Trafford, and unfortunately for the Dutchman, he'd probably be an upgrade.

Manchester United transfer news

According to a recent report from transfers expert Fabrizio Romano via GIVEMESPORT, Manchester United could still sign Ivan Toney this summer.

The Italian journalist revealed that while there has not been a major development recently, he does not think the club have ruled him out.

If the move does happen, GIVEMESPORT claims that it could cost as little as £40m, which would be a dramatic reduction from his £100m asking price back in January.

It would certainly be a surprising move and likely done to provide Zirkzee with some more cover and an older striker to learn from, but based on how good Toney can be and the glimpses of brilliant he showed at the Euros, he could end up replacing him altogether.

How Toney compares to Zirkzee

Now, due to his eight-month betting-related ban from all footballing activities, Toney's 2023/24 was a bit of a washout, and while not dreadful, his haul of four goals and two assists in 17 games was not up to his usual standard.

So, to compare him more accurately and fairly to Zirkzee, it makes sense to examine his statistics from the 2022/23 campaign.

That season, he scored 21 goals and provided five assists in just 35 matches for Brentford, meaning he averaged a goal involvement every 1.34 games.

Appearances

35

37

Goals

21

12

Assists

5

7

Goal Involvements per Match

0.74

0.51

In contrast, the Bologna ace scored 12 goals and provided seven assists in 37 appearances, equating to a worse average of a goal involvement every 1.94 games.

Output isn't the only thing that the "unplayable" Englishman, as dubbed by Alan Shearer, has over the new United man either.

Over his entire career, the former Newcastle United ace has missed just eight games through injury, whereas the player he could replace has missed 38 since the 2020/21 campaign alone.

It might not be as exciting a comparison as goals and assists, but as they say, availability is the best ability, and the Brentford star is always available.

Imagine him & Rashford: Man Utd make 'huge' offer to sign Euro 2024 star

He could be available on a loan-to-buy deal this summer

ByJoe Nuttall Jul 14, 2024

Ultimately, United look to have an incredibly exciting and potentially brilliant young striker in Zirkzee. However, in a season in which Ten Hag might be desperate to deliver results as quickly as possible, bringing in Toney might be the way to go – especially if he really is available for just £40m.

Tottenham are pushing to land an exciting new signing for Ange Postecoglou ahead of the new Premier League season, it has been revealed.

Spurs continue transfer trend

Recent transfer windows have seen Spurs shy away from big money moves for the most part and instead look to find future gems, as they did with the signing of Udinese defender Destiny Udogie and Metz midfielder Pape Sarr.

They have continued in that vein this summer, signing Archie Gray from Leeds United in a deal worth up to £40m to bolster their midfield, while they have blended that with experience by renewing Timo Werner's loan in north London.

Spurs confident of landing £20k-p/w "monster" who's like Watkins

The impressive striker has made it to the Euros final.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 12, 2024

However, targetting young players is a trend that shows no signs of stopping.

Spurs pushing for winger

Now, it has emerged that Tottenham are the side currently pushing the hardest to land Stade Rennais winger Desire Doue amid interest from across Europe. Though just 19, he has already made a lasting impression in France.

Last season, the versatile winger grabbed four goals and five assists in 31 Ligue 1 appearances to help Rennes safely into midtable and out of relegation trouble.

Desire Doue all competitions 2023-24

Appearances

43

Goals

4

Assists

6

Yellow Cards

5

Asked about Doue, teammate Baptiste Santamaria was full of praise for the teenager, and revealed that he had never seen such a gifted player.

"He's a very talented player with a great sense of football. But he's still young. But he's a player who aspires to go to the biggest clubs. He's one of a kind: he likes to hit the ball but he's solid on his feet. Desire's technical, percussive and physical qualities are quite incredible. When he becomes more consistent, he'll be unplayable. For his age, he's the most gifted youngster I've seen in my career", he explained.

And Postecoglou is understood to be a big fan of the teenager and wants to bring him to Tottenham this summer, with Rennes understood to be holding out for around £35m to let him leave, a fee that would make him second only to Jeremy Doku in their list of most expensive departures.

With that in mind, transfer journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed that the Lilywhites are pushing to get a deal done, stealing a march on other interested parties in the process.

“Links for Desire Doue, but I’m told it’s not Chelsea at the moment who are the club to watch, it is Tottenham who are pushing”, he explained.

“Desire Doue, PSG are one of the suitors, Bayern and Spurs, and Spurs are the ones who are really starting to move now. PSG are there but I’m told that Spurs are the ones who are really starting to circle at this stage.”

Luis Enrique's side are looking to replace Kylian Mbappe this summer, but can already boast both Bradley Barcola and Ousmane Dembele in the wide areas, while Bayern Munich have just added Michael Olise to ranks that already include Serge Gnabry, Kinglsey Coman and Leroy Sane.

As a result, a move to north London and the Premier League may prove surprisingly enticing for Doue, who would be likely to see plenty of first team football, even if Postecoglou's side are not in the Champions League for the 2024-25 campaign.

However, he still has two years left to run on his £8.5k per week deal with Rennes, which means that he could well opt for another season in France before making the next step in his career.

Should Spurs manage to persuade him otherwise and get the deal over the line, it would represent a massive coup for the Lilywhites.

West Ham have made a player-plus-cash offer to sign a 23-year-old international this summer, according to a new transfer claim that has emerged.

West Ham transfer news

The Hammers have had a good summer transfer window to date, bringing in the likes of Max Kilman and Luis Guilherme, among others, but their business is unlikely to end there.

One report has suggested that Noussair Mazraoui has emerged as a key target for West Ham and that an agreement has now been reached, with the 26-year-old full-back currently plying his trade at Bayern Munich. However, since then, it has been added that a transfer is now off with an agreement not reached with the defender's agent.

He was seen as an additional signing on top of Aston Villa attacker Jhon Duran, who appears to be closing in on a move to the London Stadium. A verbal £35m agreement is rumoured to be in place.

Meanwhile, Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah has also been linked with a summer move to West Ham, being seen as a potentially ideal centre-back partner for Kilman at the heart of Julen Lopetegui's defence. The Englishman isn't out of contract at Stamford Bridge until 2028 but could secure a move away sooner rather than later.

Should a move for Duran fail to materialise, Villarreal striker Alexander Sorloth has emerged as a strong target for the Hammers, too, having shone for the La Liga side last season, netting 23 times in just 30 starts in the league.

West Ham make offer for 23-year-old ace

According to a new report from HITC, West Ham have made a bid for Nottingham Forest defender Neco Williams, but have been unsuccessful in their efforts to date, seeing an offer rejected.

The Wales international was "seen as an ideal fit for Lopetegui’s system and it is understood a ‘player plus cash’ offer was made", but Forest have no intention of allowing the right-back to leave ahead of next season, with the report not mentioning the Hammers player offered.

Williams, 23, could have been a great option for West Ham this summer, considering he is a young player who has already proven himself at a high level, shining in the Premier League. He has made 70 appearances in the competition in total, not to mention winning 39 caps for Wales already, despite his tender years.

The former Liverpool defender is also rated by ex-teammate Trent Alexander-Arnold, who once said of him: "Neco is an amazing talent, he is someone who we all look to as being someone who can play for the club for a long amount of time and will have a bright future no matter what."

The hope could be that Forest's stance on Williams changes, considering what an excellent long-term signing he could be for West Ham moving forward, but at this point, it would be a surprise if he was suddenly allowed to leave the City Ground.

West Ham hit gold on star who's worth more than Duran & Mazraoui combined

The Hammers would field enquiries for his sale, but only if a record fee is thrown his way.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 26, 2024

At 31, Vladimir Coufal will need to be replaced at some point, and the Welshman could be an ideal figure to come in and provide competition, but it looks as if the search will go on.

Oliver Glasner has a big task on his hands this summer, trying to add firepower to his Crystal Palace side after losing key man, Michael Olise to Bayern Munich. And that task could get even harder, with clubs circling for Eberechi Eze like sharks, and now interest also arising in red-hot striker Jean-Philippe Mateta from Aston Villa.

Olise provided 16 goals and assists for Palace last season, which is already something they will be without, with the potential of losing another 17 goal involvements from Eze, and 24 goals and assists from Mateta, who scored 19 goals in 39 appearances in 2023/24.

The trio contributed 52 goals and assists between them in Palace's 57-goal campaign, showing their importance to the sides' output. Therefore, reinforcements would be needed, one of which has already been made in the shape of Ismaila Sarr from Marseille.

Crystal Palace's search for a striker

Samu Omorodion was linked with a move to Palace earlier this summer and it may not be the worst idea to revisit that interest, should Mateta potentially be on his way out.

However, Omorodion is set to demand a very hefty fee, with Atlético Madrid reluctant to sell the 20-year-old striker, and reports from Ben Jacobs claim it could take around €70m (£59m) to change their minds.

That comes amid interest from Chelsea in the Atlético striker this summer, who made 35 appearances last season on loan with Alaves, scoring nine goals and providing one assist in 2,096 minutes of football.

Omorodion vs Mateta comparison

Omorodion has been labelled "Haaland-esque" by Ben Mattinson, praising his back-to-goal play, ability to hold off his marker and finish under pressure with his weak foot. His 6 foot 4 frame is a good reference point to the Haaland comparison, as both players are a huge physical presence, and require a lot of defensive attention for this reason.

On FBref's "similar players" feature, Omorodion also compares to Haaland, alongside other Premier League strikers such as Dominic Solanke from Bournemouth and Rasmus Hojlund from Manchester United, illustrating the impact he can make in the English game.

Stats (per 90 mins)

Omorodion

Mateta

Non-Penalty Goals

0.41

0.55

Non-Penalty xG

0.52

0.37

Shots Total

3.02

1.74

Shots on Target

1.17

0.99

Goals/Shot

0.13

0.32

Successful Take-Ons

0.99

0.99

Aerials Won

2.75

1.97

The 20-year-old isn't as clinical in front of goal as Mateta, who averages fewer shots per 90, but converts at a better rate, with a 0.32 Goals/Shot metric, compared to Omorodion's 0.13.

However, at such a young age, to have the physical potential he has, winning 2.75 aerials per 90, already scoring 0.41 goals per 90, and managing to produce an xG of 0.52 per 90, is an excellent starting point.

Compared to Haaland earlier, he would require that same attention to stop him in the box, using his strength to bully defenders and win aerial duels when crosses come into the box, making himself a nuisance and a defender's nightmare.

Whilst this would be an expensive purchase for Palace – if that £59m price tag is to be believed – the youngster could provide the threat they need upfront, especially when you consider the amount of firepower Glasner could be losing this summer, with Olise already out the door.

More PL goals than Zaha: Crystal Palace can land instant Sarr upgrade

Crystal Palace eyeing move for their next attacking sensation…

ByConnor Holden Jul 31, 2024

Chelsea and Todd Boehly are moving ever closer to another addition at Stamford Bridge this summer, according to reports, with the Blues having made a breakthrough over one of their targets in the last 48 hours.

Chelsea lose Premier League opener

New Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca was handed the toughest possible debut in the Stamford Bridge dugout as his side hosted Manchester City in their Premier League opener on Sunday.

He named a side that didn't include any of his new signings from the summer window, though long-term absentees Romeo Lavia, Christopher Nkunku and Wesley Fofana were all handed starts.

In what was for much of the game an even fight, a first half goal from Erling Haaland was added to by former Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic late on, with the Croatian running past both Moises Caicedo and Enzo Fernandez (who Chelsea spent £230m on to replace Kovacic) before firing past Robert Sanchez to hand City a 2-0 win.

Not just Sterling: £50m star will likely now never play for Chelsea again

Raheem Sterling was not included in the Chelsea squad to face his former employers.

ByMatt Dawson Aug 19, 2024

Despite the result, it was a positive performance from the Blues and Maresca was happy with what he saw.

"The performance was good and we competed against the best team in the world. We played well and created chances. The biggest difference was inside the box and how they managed the ball at the end, they are a master. We don't like to lose games but the performance was good", he explained after the game.

"We can for sure improve many things, we've been together for just six weeks. At the same moment, we liked to analyse the game and we tried to play football and create chances. It's not easy but we did well."

Now, in the final days of the window, the Chelsea boss is set to be handed another player to try and fit into his already bloated squad.

Chelsea on the verge of signing "special" star

That comes with reports in Spain revealing that the Blues are 'on the verge' of re-signing Joao Felix on a permanent deal this summer. The Portuguese attacker, of course, has already spent time at Stamford Bridge. He joined the club on loan from Atletico Madrid back in January 2023, going on to make 20 appearances across all competitions despite being sent off on his debut.

Joao Felix's loan spell at Chelsea

Appearances

20

Goals

4

Assists

0

Yellow Cards

1

Red Cards

1

Though he has struggled to find a permanent home in recent seasons, he remains a top talent and retains much of what caused Alvaro Morata to dub him "special" back in 2022.

"The truth is that Joao has a special talent," the former Blues forward explained after helping Atleti to a win over Getafe.

Felix still has five years left to run on his £100,000 a week deal at the Wanda Metropolitano but it was always likely he would depart this summer after falling out with Diego Simeone, and Chelsea have pounced.

According to reports in Spain [via Sport Witness], he is now "on the verge" of joining Chelsea as part of a deal that will allow Conor Gallagher to head the other way. The Blues will receive £34m for Gallagher, while the report claims that they will pay £43m to sign Felix permanently.

Should he join as planned, the 24-year-old will become yet another player for Maresca to try and fit into his squad, having notably left Raheem Sterling out of the Premier League opener and only utilising £54m signing Pedro Neto from the bench.

We're a fickle bunch, us Liverpool fans. We spend the summer crying out for signings, and now that FSG look to be moving to sign a world-recognised player, we meet the news with grumbles.

It's a chorus alright, but it's not in unity, more of a mix of voices, some optimistic, some frustrated, some just a bit on the fence. And that's probably okay.

Federico Chiesa is a talented player. After Euro 2020 (held in 2021 due to COVID) his stock was sky-high, having played an instrumental role in Italy's triumph, defeating England in the final to lift the trophy. Journalist Zach Lowy even praised him for his "absolutely world-class" performances.

Matches (starts)

7 (4)

Goals

2

Touches*

25.9

Shots (on target)*

2.4 (0.9)

Pass completion

80%

Big chances created

3

Dribbles*

1.3

Total duels won*

2.9

He was one year into his Juventus career, signing from Fiorentina in a £54m deal, initially a two-year loan move before concluding for a permanent fee. The road since has been paved with setbacks, but Liverpool recognise Chiesa's quality, and might just prove to complete the most astute of signings in the coming days.

Why Federico Chiesa is worth the effort

Let's take a look at why Chiesa might be worth the hassle. But of course, before we do so, it would be remiss to neglect the elephant in the room: his injury record.

Chiesa does not boast a fitness history to be desired, having missed a significant chunk of his four-and-a-bit-year stay in Turin. Still, no one's perfect…

This takes us to Chiesa's finest attributes: as per FBref, Chiesa ranks among the top 1% of forwards across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for shot-creating actions, the top 3% for progressive carries, the top 15% for progressive passes and the top 17% for passes attempted per 90.

Taking those metrics, we get a nice little picture of the style that the 26-year-old (27 in October) would bring to Merseyside, adding depth and dizzying creative quality.

He's progressive and (this bit's important) he's principally found on the right side of the frontline, albeit spending most of the past year in a repackaged centre-forward role at Juventus. This means that Mohamed Salah would have some competition, a foil, to ensure that Arne Slot has the tools to succeed across multiple fronts – the Champions League awaits, after all.

Right winger

130

42

22

0.49

Left winger

72

15

16

0.43

Attacking midfield

71

15

10

0.35

Centre-forward

17

3

4

0.41

Liverpool, more to the point, are being 'opportunistic' this summer, and Chiesa fits the bill in that regard. Fabrizio Romano reports that the Reds would pay around €15m (£13m) to sign the talent, who has entered the final year of his contract at Juventus.

So, a 'world-class' player, adding depth, without breaking the bank. There are promising signs you know, for this is a little-risk, potential high-reward venture.

Chiesa's versatility also means that he can operate across a range of positions without upsetting the existing crop. Luis Diaz, for example, would have sweated over his future had Anthony Gordon been signed from Newcastle United earlier in the summer.

As it stands, the Colombian is set to play a crucial role in the first season of Slot's reign, and so it's even better that Liverpool are addressing the final chink in their frontline armoury without running roughshod over Diaz's position in the first team.

Why Liverpool have hit the jackpot with Luis Diaz

Diaz is one of the best wingers in the Premier League, but he's faced criticisms for his lack of potency in front of goal. An electrifying presence with a ceaseless tank, the 27-year-old invariably started on the left wing for Liverpool last season.

One of Jurgen Klopp's mainstays, he has been dubbed a "livewire" by journalist Peter Hall in the past, though a return of only 13 goals and five assists across all competitions last season was admittedly something that could have been better – especially since he played in 53 fixtures, starting 42.

A goal and assist apiece as Slot's unit defeated Brentford 2-0 last weekend has set his season off to a flyer, and more displays of that calibre will leave those calling for his head rueing that misguided stance.

Slot has flat-out rejected the notion of his sale this summer. Barcelona have been lurking, but it hasn't come to anything and a late-window swoop is decidedly unlikely given the Catalan club's initial struggles to register Dani Olmo, a versatile winger.

Would they even have been able to meet Liverpool's valuation for the Colombia international? Diaz, after all, is one of Europe's finest wide forwards.

Luis Diaz's market value in 2024

Diaz joined Liverpool from Porto over in Portugal for an initial £37m fee in January 2022, ostensibly to replace Sadio Mane, who was expected to leave and indeed joined Bayern Munich that coming summer.

The maverick might not be putting in Salah-like numbers in front of goal, but he's hardly ineffective. In the top flight last year, he featured in 37 matches and started 32, with his consistency and energy proving to be invaluable for the Reds, who won the Carabao Cup and – unsuccessfully – fought for gold across every other front.

It wasn't the easiest of years for Diaz either, for he had only just recuperated from a long-term knee injury that ruined the prior campaign, suffering further woe due to an alarming familial situation involving his father, now resolved.

Matches (starts)

37 (32)

2 (2)

Goals

8

1

Assists

5

1

Touches*

43.8

47.0

Shots (on target)

2.5 (0.9)

3.0 (1.0)

Big chances missed

13

1

Pass completion

85%

92%

Key passes*

1.8

3.5

Dribbles*

1.8

3.0

Ball recoveries*

3.4

5.0

Total duels won*

4.6

7.0

His start to life under Slot, a control-focused coach with a love for the technical side of the game, promises much. Diaz is a sharp player and he could be set for his finest year yet – his opening form certainly suggests as much.

Liverpool is right to plug out the din of the transfer market and retain the services of this wild, wonderful player who has plenty still to give. Signing Chiesa, with this in mind, is an excellent idea.

For £13m, Liverpool have got themselves a bargain deal for a player who can augment without affecting, negatively.

And rightly so. While cut-price, Chiesa would not total the kind of value that Diaz pins to his shirt. Indeed, reports from Spain in July suggested that Liverpool had responded to Barcelona's advances by slapping a €75m (£63m) price tag on the left winger.

That means that Diaz is worth about 384% more than the Italian. To put that another way, Chiesa is worth nearly five times less than Liverpool's indefatigable superstar.

Market Movers

Football FanCast's Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club's star player or biggest flop worth today?

He's here to stay, a player of talent and gusto. A forward who might not have that golden Midas touch, but offers skills in other areas that propel Liverpool toward their lofty goals.

Chiesa's coming in, and it's a good thing. It's certainly better than signing an exclusive left-sided forward who would have hampered Diaz's hopes of succeeding this season.

Talks being held: Liverpool consider late bid for £75m Van Dijk successor

FSG may be willing to sanction a deal before the week is up…

1 ByAngus Sinclair Aug 26, 2024

Yesterday was a momentous day for Aston Villa as the club found out their opponents for the upcoming Champions League campaign.

Boss Unai Emery has transformed the club since his appointment back in November 2022, leading the club to the Europa Conference League last season, before finishing in the top four of the Premier League last season.

The Villans will face the likes of Bayern Munich and Juventus in the competition this season – an unthinkable feat before the appointment of the Spaniard a couple of years ago.

The club have been in the market to strengthen the squad to cope with the added fixtures, with Amadou Onana and Ian Maatsen the two highest-profile additions during the transfer window.

However, Emery’s side may be about to add another top talent to the first team, with rumours about a potential big-money addition arriving at Villa Park before the deadline at 11pm tonight.

Aston Villa transfer news

According to journalist Pete O’Rourke for Football Insider, Aston Villa are interested in signing Barcelona’s Brazilian winger Raphinha in an attempt to further improve the forward line.

The 27-year-old arrived in Spain back in 2022 from Leeds United, but there have been rumours about his future all summer despite his impressive form last season that saw him register 21 goal contributions in all competitions.

The report states that the Villans could take advantage of the LaLiga side’s financial issues, with Raphinha considered as a replacement for Moussa Diaby, who departed for Saudi Arabia earlier this summer.

He’s previously been touted with a £50m transfer during the ongoing window, but is yet to receive an official proposal for his services, with any bid for the Brazilian star set to be a signal of intent from Emery’s side.

A move for the former Leeds star could allow the Villa boss to sign a new version of a player who has set the Premier League alight in recent years.

Why Raphinha could be Emery’s new Saka

During his time as Arsenal boss Emery handed winger Bukayo Saka his first-team debut at the Emirates, with the Englishman going on to achieve big things in North London.

The 22-year-old enjoyed his best campaign in England’s top flight last season, registering 25 goal contributions in his 35 appearances – undoubtedly making him one of the most threatening attackers in the division.

However, a move for Raphinha – who Xavi dubbed "one of the best players in the world" – could allow the 52-year-old to have a new version of the England international, with the Brazilian a similar player to the Arsenal star, as per FBref.

When delving into their respective stats from 2023/24, the comparison is understandable, with the Barca star equalling or even bettering Saka in numerous key areas.

Games played

28

35

Goals + assists

15

25

Shots taken

3.8

3.2

Shots on target

1.3

1

Shot-creating actions

5.9

5.8

Take-on success

52%

40%

Pass accuracy

75%

75%

The “world-class” talent, as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, may have registered fewer combined goal contributions last season, but he did manage more shots and shots on target per 90 – showcasing that he still has the ability to cause chaos in the final third.

He also completed more take-ons, whilst also matching the Arsenal star with his pass accuracy – demonstrating the talent he possesses with the ball at his feet in attacking areas.

Although £50m would be another huge fee spent by Villa, it would demonstrate the ambition of the club, with Emery able to attract an elite-level star to the West Midlands.

He could undoubtedly be an upgrade on the current crop of players in wide areas, allowing the club to have the greatest chance possible of replicating their successes from last season.

He was perfect for Rogers: Villa's top target set to sign for another club

He has previously played for the club

ByJoe Nuttall Aug 30, 2024

With the summer transfer window closed and the international break underway, Liverpool have reportedly turned their attention to offering one key man a fresh long-term deal.

Liverpool contract news

Amid so many positives at the start of Arne Slot's reign, the one negative yet to reach a resolution is Liverpool's growing contract panic. As things stand, Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah and Trent Alexander-Arnold are all set to walk away for free next summer in what would be a true calamity at Anfield. The case could be made that they're Slot's best three players, yet they're heading closer and closer to the exit door.

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ByTom Cunningham Sep 4, 2024

Mohamed Salah seemed to send a message to the Anfield hierarchy after Liverpool's 3-0 mauling of Manchester United at Old Trafford, publicly stating that he is yet to receive a new contract offer and, as things stand, has played his late game at the home of the Reds' bitter rivals.

The same seems to be the case for club captain Virgil van Dijk, who is also yet to agree terms over a new contract. But as both Van Dijk and Salah face uncertainty, one Anfield star is reportedly set to receive a new deal even after his side's perfect start to the Premier League campaign.

According to Jack Lusby of This is Anfield, Liverpool are set to offer Luis Diaz a new long-term deal at the club, which may result in a pay rise up from his current £2.9m-a-year salary (£55,000-a-week).

Liverpool reportedly want to offer the winger a new deal to fend off the interest of Barcelona once and for all.

"Incredible" Diaz's electric start under Slot

Amid Liverpool's links to Anthony Gordon and his own links away to Barcelona in the summer, if any player needed a fast start under Slot, it was Diaz. And now three games in, it's fair to say that he's enjoyed an electric opening to the campaign, with his Old Trafford brace representing a rejuvenated player.

The Colombian struggled when it came to end product at times last season, occasionally guilty of failing to turn his quick feet into an effective weapon instead of anything much more than an added excitement for the Kop. This time around, however, he has been clinical with three goals and one assist in three games quickly putting any previous doubts to rest.

If his form continues, then there's no doubt that Slot will inevitably fall in love with the same player that former Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp was often full of praise for.

The Anfield legend instantly praised Diaz at the start of his time at the club, saying via MARCA: "We saw now two games when Luis played – came on or played – where he was absolutely incredible."

Unai Emery and his Aston Villa side have got off to a strong start, winning two and losing one of their opening three Premier League fixtures. Their one loss came at the hands of Arsenal in a tightly contested game.

It was a summer of change with a few big names leaving including Douglas Luis and Moussa Diaby. The Frenchman joined Saudi Arabian side, Al-Ittihad, for a fee of around €60m (£50m) as a package deal, recouping almost all of what they paid for him last summer.

Diaby made 54 appearances for Villa last season in all competitions, scoring ten goals, providing nine assists, and totalling 3,144 minutes played.

However, in the ever-impressive Morgan Rogers, they've found a player capable of replacing the former Bayer Leverkusen winger.

Morgan Rogers' season in numbers

Rogers has started the new campaign in brilliant form, starting all three Premier League games for Villa so far and scoring two goals for the England U21 side in 60 minutes played.

In his hour on the field for England U21 against Austria, Rogers scored two goals, had three shots on target, completed two of his four dribble attempts, completed one key pass, and won three of his eight ground duels.

This great start to the new campaign comes off the back of a settling period last season. Joining the Villans in January from Championship side Middlesbrough, Rogers then went on to make 16 appearances, scoring three goals and providing one assist.

But it was after his brilliant performance against Arsenal this season that Rogers began to get high praise, with pundit Robbie Mustoe labelling Rogers as "underappreciated" and "one to watch".

Morgan Rogers' transfer value in 2024

When Rogers joined Villa from Middlesbrough, the fee was an initial £8m, which could rise to £16m if all add-ons are met. But Fotmob already values the playmaker at around £15m, which is more than the £8m fee he joined the club for.

This fee is only expected to rise over the course of the season, as Rogers fully steps into the boots left by Diaby, showing his full potential at such a young age.

Stats (per 90 mins)

Rogers

Diaby

G+A

0.00

0.56

xG

0.10

0.25

xAG

0.30

0.22

Shots Total

1.67

2.04

Key Passes

1.67

1.76

Shot-Creating Actions

3.67

3.39

Progressive Carries

3.67

3.93

Successful Take-Ons

2.33

1.18

Carries into Final Third

2.33

1.85

It's important to note, Rogers' metrics for the 2024/25 campaign are only based on three games (270 minutes), compared to a full season of 53 games (3,039 minutes) by Diaby.

However, these metrics do show how Rogers is already stepping into a more prominent role, averaging a higher xAG (expected assisted goals) per 90, with 0.30 compared to Diaby's 0.22 per 90, as well as a higher amount of shot-creating actions.

This highlights the creative importance of Rogers already for this Villa side, contributing similar or higher metrics than the Frenchman in these creation-based numbers. He also excels in carrying metrics, bettering the summer departee in both successful take-ons and carries into the final third per 90.

Rogers will still need to add more output with goals and assists, something Diaby did fairly well with 0.56 per 90, but if he continues his brilliant form, and keeps finding himself in dangerous positions, that G/A is bound to come sooner rather than later. Either way, this is a move the club have certainly hit the jackpot with.

Aston Villa sold a "beast" in 2015, now he scores more often than Watkins

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1 ByJoe Nuttall Sep 10, 2024