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Newcastle United cannot take a gamble on a player like Jack Wilshere, former Premier League striker Dean Windass has warned.

While there is nothing currently to suggest that the Tyneside club will move for the 29-year-old this summer, he could quickly become an appealing option.

Wilshere is, of course, an experienced Premier League player who would be available for free following his release from Bournemouth, while some reports earlier claimed Steve Bruce would not have that much money to play with this transfer window.

Taking that into account, Wilshere is arguably an attractive proposition, with some Newcastle fans calling for his signing only last year.

That is not a sentiment that Windass shares, however. He told TT in an exclusive interview:

“Couldn’t take a gamble on that, you just couldn’t take a gamble. Listen, I’m not saying Jack’s… you know, he’s a great footballer, but I just can’t see Steve playing that sort of player.

“You’ve got to be very fit now to play in the Premier League and I don’t think Jack’s Newcastle’s sort of type.”

As far as midfielders go, it is another man with Arsenal connections that Bruce will surely be focusing on.

Joe Willock has already proven himself in a Newcastle shirt, bagging an impressive eight goals in 14 appearances last season.

West Ham are reportedly edging closer to announcing David Moyes’ new contract…

What’s the word?

That’s according to The Athletic’s Roshane Thomas, who delivered a fresh claim on a recent episode of the ‘U Irons’ podcast.

Speaking about the 58-year-old’s current situation, he said:

“David was asked about this last week at his press conference, and he said he’s hopeful something will be announced this week.

“I’m hearing that something should be announced, it should be this week, to be fair, and we’re hearing it could potentially be a three-year deal for David Moyes.

“I spoke to Kevin Nolan last Friday, he was saying [it was] in the final stages of negotiations for the contract, so everything’s pretty much all but confirmed really, so that’s great news for the club, great news for the fans.”

Exciting times ahead

Moyes has completely transformed the Irons’ fortunes in the past 12 months or so.

Having steered them to safety with one game to go during the 2019/20 campaign, he has now guided them to the Europa League.

And he’s done so contending with regular injury problems, as well as a lack of backing in the transfer market.

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For instance, the club’s hierarchy sanctioned the exit of club-record signing Sebastian Haller in January but failed to replace him, leaving Moyes with only an injury-prone Michail Antonio up top.

GSB also gave up on him during his first stint, so this is the least he deserves and it’ll merely continue an exciting era at the London Stadium.

Thomas has got his information from about as good an insider source as you could find, Moyes’ first-team coach Kevin Nolan, so something must be on the horizon at Rush Green soon.

This latest development signals a sign of encouragement that the club are moving in the right direction with some much-needed long-term stability, and that, as The Athletic reporter describes, is “great news for the fans.”

It could even give the East Londoners a huge boost heading into a pivotal transfer window. It’s a fantastic move from GSB.

AND in other news, Soucek 2.0: Moyes can deliver West Ham another bargain in £14m gem who “can do it all”…

Reported Crystal Palace midfield target John Lundstram is available on a free transfer [Scottish Sun].

The Lowdown

Making no secret of his future plans, the 27-year-old refused to sign a new deal at Bramall Lane despite Chris Wilder’s best efforts last October [BBC]. Now officially a free agent, he will not be short of options due to his largely successful stay with Sheffield United.

The Liverpudlian made 120 appearances for the Blades, registering nine goals [Transfermarkt].

Despite enduring a disappointing end to his time in Sheffield as his soon-to-be former employers fell into the Championship, Lundstram registered a 84.2% successful pass percentage, illustrating quality on the ball despite plying his trade for a struggling side [WhoScored].

The Latest

In terms of suitors, Crystal Palace and Scottish side Rangers have been most strongly linked with the midfielder. Steven Gerrard is known to be an admirer of his talents, whilst the Eagles have reportedly been in pursuit since March [TeamTalk].

Though out of contract now, Lundstram would’ve cost around £4 million to acquire in January which has driven the former England Under-20 to run down his deal [Athletic].

Described by pundit Kevin Phillips as a ‘combative midfielder’ with ‘good energy’, there is no doubt he would be great addition to many a squad [Football Insider], with the Eagles reportedly big admirers when Roy Hodgson was at the helm.

Verdict: Lundstram would fit in nicely at Selhurst Park

Fundamentally, Crystal Palace should look to pull the strings necessary to finalise this move. Should he still be a firm target now that Hodgson is gone, there are few midfielders of his Premier League experience available for nothing at all.

Currently in the prime of his career, he would offer composure to the Eagles midfield and a versatility that would be helpful to any new manager arriving at Selhurst Park – the 27 year-old can play in multiple midfield positions and has also played in defence before.

Whether as a starter or an depth player offering a burst of energy off the bench, he would be a shrewd acquisition for the Eagles.

In other news, Crystal Palace fans react to an exciting managerial update

Leeds are eyeing a summer swoop for Chelsea starlet Conor Gallagher, who could offer the dynamism that Marcelo Bielsa’s side desperately need in midfield.

What’s the story?

The Whites have enjoyed an impressive return to the Premier League this season, finding themselves well away from the relegation places, and even looking up at the top-flight’s big six.

Now, journalist Alan Nixon has claimed that Bielsa have tracked Gallagher closely this campaign as he looks to strengthen his squad ahead of the new season.

Nixon added that the likes of Crystal Palace and Newcastle are also said to be interested, although the midfielder is keen to fight for his place at Stamford Bridge.

Bielsa’s midfield general

Despite not making much of an impression just yet at Stamford Bridge, Gallagher has earned some rave reviews in his numerous loan spells elsewhere, with Charlton boss Lee Bowyer even labelling the £26m-rated midfielder a “jewel” that was “impossible to replace.”

And during his loan spell at Championship side Swansea last summer, Sky Sports pundit Keith Andrews waxed lyrical about the kind of style of player Gallagher has become.

He said: “But the one thing he has got is a fantastic engine, much like Lee Bowyer or Frank Lampard – it’s amazing, the resemblances between those two in their younger years particularly. But for me, he’s a classic No 8; he has an unbelievable energy, he does the ugly side of the game, but you have to let him off the leash and let him get forward.”

At his current loan club West Brom, club captain Jake Livermore, has also been quick to praise him, saying: “His energy levels and quality in training every day is a steal for us and I’m tipping him to be a top, top player.”

Having a more adventurous, and dynamic midfielder like Gallagher, who can break into the box and offer goals from midfield, would be the perfect compliment to Kalvin Phillips, who could just sit back and dictate the play.

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Bielsa’s side have really lacked a goal-scoring midfielder this season, with Mateusz Klich’s two their highest scorer from the middle of the park so far.

In Gallagher, the Whites could sign someone who offers that extra bit of energy and attacking instinct from midfield, a player who could take some of the goalscoring burden off Patrick Bamford, and also share the creative load with Phillips too.

Meanwhile, Bielsa could light up Elland Road with this £26m-rated magician who’s “something special”…

Southampton travel to the London Stadium on Sunday to face West Ham in the final game of the Premier League season.

Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side can still finish as high as 12th should they earn the three points against the Hammers, although David Moyes’ side will be desperate to avoid defeat, as they can secure Europa League football for next season with a point.

Therefore, there is plenty at stake for the hosts, but Southampton will be out to spoil the party on Sunday afternoon, although they will have to do so without Che Adams, who has been ruled out of the game through injury.

After a disappointing 2-0 defeat against Leeds United on Tuesday changes, seem likely for Southampton, although a strong starting eleven is still likely to be named.

Here’s how Football FanCast expects Hasenhuttl to line his side up on Sunday, with five changes to the team that started in the defeat against Marcelo Bielsa’s side…

Alex McCarthy certainly should have done better for Leeds’ opening goal in midweek so he drops to the bench, with Fraser Forster replacing him in between the sticks.

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There’s one change in defence, as after returning to the bench in midweek, Jan Bednarek replaces Jack Stephens at centre-back, and is partnered by Jannik Vestergaard.

There are two changes in midfield, as Nathan Redmond comes in for Moussa Djenepo on the left after another poor display from the Mali international, whilst Stuart Armstrong moves out to the right-wing to accommodate the return of Oriol Romeu in the middle, with Theo Walcott dropping to the bench.

Finally, with Adams sidelined, the “outstanding” Danny Ings seems likely to partner Nathan Tella in attack, after he was left on the bench for the first 45 minutes against Leeds in midweek.

And, in other news… Southampton can finally sign their Hojbjerg heir in £8.6m beast who dreams of playing in the PL

Reliable journalist Pete O’Rourke has confirmed that three clubs are ‘eyeing’ up a potential move to sign Jacob Murphy from Newcastle United.

As per a tweet from O’Rourke, who is oftenÂa reliable source for transfer news, those three teams are Rangers, Southampton and Watford.

Newcastle must keep Murphy

The St. James’ Park faithful must look to keep hold of Murphy at all costs in the summer window, and should especially not be considering selling him to a direct rival in the Premier League.

The 26-year-old is coming in to a nice bit of form in the North East, as he scored a fine goal against Burnley recently to put Steve Bruce’s side on track for a crucial three points at Turf Moor.

Alan Shearer thought that he was ‘excellent’ in the 2-2 home draw with Tottenham Hotspur earlier this month, and his performances of late have certainly warranted him a regular place in the starting eleven.

The fact that the Englishman can play as a wing-back as well as a winger is also a great asset to have for the Tyneside club, and could be very useful in the future.

Nonetheless, the Magpies have to try and do all that they can to keep Murphy and thus fend off any interest from elsewhere.

In other news, find out what emails have shown a Premier League U-turn on a takeover decision here!

Celtic loanee Jack Hendry has landed Sport Voetbal Magazine’s player of the year award for the Belgian top flight.

Hendry was loaned out to Belgian club Oostende in the summer and appears to be absolutely thriving away from Glasgow.

Hendry lauded on loan spell

The 25-year-old defender has been named as the Player of the Year in the Belgian top flight by the Sport Voetbal magazine, ever so slightly beating out Genk star Junya Ito (via The Scotsman).

Hendry made it clear that he’s incredibly proud of the achievement, hailing it as a ‘great honor’ for himself. He also said that he doesn’t know what the future holds for him, as he thanked Oostende for giving him the platform to impress (via The Scottish Sun).

He said: “I know as much about that as you do: nothing.  I thank KVO for being able to show my talent. Ostend has a purchase option and they want to activate it.

“The matter now is to reach an agreement. My wish is to play at the highest level, that is clear. And that can be in any competition.”

According to Whoscored, Hendry has picked up a rating of 6.87 in the Belgian league and a total of three other Oostende players have actually picked up a better rating than him.

Celtic should fight off loan clause

Celtic should be glad that Hendry is doing well in his loan spell, not just because his previous loan spell in Australia was hampered by injuries, but because the Hoops should be looking to give him one last chance next season.

Shane Duffy’s loan stint expires in the summer and Kristoffer Ajer has been linked with a move away. Christopher Jullien is currently still injured as well. Those are warning signs for the Hoops and Hendry’s form can help them shore up the backline at least temporarily in the upcoming campaign, if they can stave off the options on his loan deal that could force a permanent exit.

In other news, ‘We’ve heard’ – Sky Sports pundit drops massive Celtic ESL claim live on air – read more here.

Fans of Manchester City have been reacting to a post on Twitter, which relayed a report regarding Chelsea’s interest in signing City centre-forward, Sergio Aguero, this summer. 

Having confirmed in an emotional statement on Twitter that, after 10 years spent with Manchester City, he would be leaving the club upon the end of his current contract this summer, a recent report by the Daily Mail claims that Chelsea are now leading the race for the signing of Aguero in the upcoming transfer window.

Indeed, it has been claimed that the striker is determined to remain in the Premier League after leaving City, and it would seem as if Thomas Tuchel’s side could offer the 32-year-old the chance to do so.

And, after City Xtra relayed this report on Twitter, fans of Manchester City flocked to have their say on the matter, with many appearing furious at the prospect of the club legend potentially lining up against them for a rival next season.

So, what exactly did these Manchester City fans have to say in reaction to the report regarding Chelsea’s interest in Sergio Aguero?

“Nah pls no.”

@vikymcfc

“I knew this was going to happen.”

@ChilloDintoa

“Worst summer ever.”

@BluuMoonRising

“Stop.”

@DeBruyne___

“Bro NGL I’d feel betrayed if he moved to Chelsea.”

@xelifyss

“Nooooo, Chelsea noooo. Stay at City!!!”

@milucas32

In other news: lots of Man City fans ripped into Guardiola as these ‘disrespectful’ talks emerged – find out more here!

Liam Kennedy has dropped an inside claim from sources on James Pallotta and a potential takeover of Newcastle United, revealing that those inside the Toon are ‘surprised’ by the talk from the former Roma chief.

Writing in his latest piece for The Shields Gazette, the football journalist has claimed that Pallotta has ‘yet to contact’ the St. James’ Park faithful following an exclusive interview that he did with The Athletic, in which former chairman and co-owner of AS Roma expressed an interest in buying a club in the Premier League, namechecking Steve Bruce’s side in the midst of it.

However, Kennedy has since squashed down any potential chances of him taking over in the North East, adding that any approach made by the businessman currently would ‘not be welcomed’ by the Tyneside club.

Mike Ashley continues to ‘only have eyes’ for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) group, and the news about Pallotta’s potential interest has ‘come as a surprise’ to the Magpies.

Sources believe that the links are nothing more than a ‘publicity stunt’ at this stage, as Ashley remains ‘100% committed’ to selling to the KSA consortium, per Kennedy’s report.

Only one chance for potential Newcastle takeover

With the rumours of Pallotta potentially actively looking to buy the Toon being firmly played down, it seems that there is only one chance of a takeover at NUFC, and that still lies with the KSA group.

However, the KSA’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) will have to come back to the table to have any hope of the original deal with Ashley to be revived, and Newcastle likely need to ensure that they are playing football in the Premier League come the start of the 2021/22 term for that to happen.

Last week, pundit Danny Mills claimed the Magpies’ hopes of a takeover will ‘without a shadow of a doubt’ disappear if they are relegated.

In other news, find out what claim on the potential takeover has been dropped involving Steve Bruce here!

Leeds United have been handed a potential blow ahead of their Premier League clash against Fulham tonight with the news that Rodrigo could be missing.

The Spain international missed the entire month of February with a groin injury he had picked up in the 3-1 victory over Leicester, which saw him forced off early in the first half.

The £100,000-a-week ace only returned to first-team action when he came on against West Ham earlier this month, before being involved in one of those rare instances of being substituted after coming on as a substitute himself versus Chelsea.

Now, The Athletic’s Phil Hay has delivered some damaging news about that Leeds blow, revealing that Rodrigo is a “doubt with a fresh muscular problem”.

While it is a “doubt”, there is surely no way Marcelo Bielsa will want to risk Rodrigo potentially doing even more damage to his muscle and even tearing it by forcing him out onto the pitch against Fulham.

The Leeds boss will surely take a more reserved approach with a player who has only just come back from an injury, and that will no doubt mean Rodrigo misses out on today’s game.

After an impressive appearance against Arsenal earlier in the campaign, former Whites man Noel Whelan explained just how important Rodrigo is to this side, telling Football Insider: “He’s always looking for it, he’s never ever standing still, he’s always on the move and that’s what I like about him. He can’t be marked, he’s always looking for a space – very much the next Hernandez.

“He is a player that looks like he can make things happen. He’s very intelligent, he brings other people into play and makes space for them.”

Whelan also delivered his verdict on why the Spaniard should have started against Chelsea last week, saying: “If you ask 100 Leeds fans who they would prefer in that position, Rodrigo or Tyler Roberts, they would all say Rodrigo all day long.

“He’s your star signing, your record signing. He’s the one player that if he is fit then you’ve got to have him in your side to give you that extra opportunity. Roberts didn’t do anything wrong but I just think it brings a different dimension to the game when Rodrigo’s out there.”

It’s exactly why Bielsa must be worried at seeing the Spaniard go down with yet another injury and potentially missing another game for the Whites.

While he hasn’t exactly set Elland Road alight with his performances, he does perform that key role of joining Patrick Bamford in attack and offering a “different dimension” as Whelan says.

Meanwhile, Leeds must start this “rock” tonight…