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Sunderland have stormed back up to the Premier League in style.

The Black Cats had been absent from the top-flight since the 2016/17 season, with Jermain Defoe still leading the line for the Wearside outfit that campaign.

Now, however, they’re back, with a new batch of Defoe-like heroes instantly announcing themselves to the rest of the promised land in an emphatic 3-0 win on the opening day.

It is, of course, unrealistic to anticipate that Sunderland will wipe the floor with all their competition in the higher tier in this vibrant, free-flowing manner.

But it’s an extremely positive sign so early on that indicates they’re here to shine, rather than merely survive, as more new signings are expected to link up with Regis Le Bris and Co. before the transfer window shuts.

Sunderland submit £27m bid for attacker

The Black Cats have been forking out significant wads of cash all across the action-packed window to date.

At the time of writing, Sunderland have splashed in the region of £141.5m on 12 new assets, with Nordi Mukiele their latest addition from Paris St. Germain for a fee around the £12m mark.

Don’t expect this spending to go hush anytime soon, either, with Jhon Lucumi now reportedly back on the Sunderland radar in the centre-back positions, as an official bid has even been placed.

Away from enhancing their defensive options, another bid has also allegedly been lodged by the ambitious Black Cats for the services of Leicester City attacker Abdu Fatawu, according to journalist Eduardo Burgos.

That bid, worth about £27m, has since been rejected according to Burgos, but Sunderland will hope they can still land the Foxes number seven, who will no doubt be desperate for a Premier League return after Leicester’s relegation.

Securing a deal for the entertaining Ghanaian to join the club could see the top-flight newcomers seal a Simon Adingra repeat, as another gung-ho forward potentially joins Le Bris’ ranks, ready to make survival look like a breeze.

How Fatawu can be an Adingra repeat

While he hasn’t been credited with an assist for Daniel Ballard’s bullet header on all major outlets, Adingra still played a vital role in that goal, sending the vast majority of the Stadium of Light into momentary pandemonium as his deflected cross ended up being inch-perfect for the ex-Arsenal defender to connect with.

Sunderland fans will hope there’s plenty more to come from their fresh £21m recruit, too, having shown flashes of his excellence for former employers Brighton and Hove Albion, before being discarded.

A promising 11 goals and assists came the Ivorian’s way during his up-and-down stay on the South Coast, with his final season under Fabian Hurzeler only seeing him collect two goals and two assists from 29 contests, as he started just 12 league matches all campaign long.

Now, he will hope he has the luxury of extended periods in the side, with Fatawu also hopeful he can spark into life even more on Wearside, after an injury-disrupted period last season with Leicester saw relegation heartbreakingly occur.

Games played

58

Games missed through injury

29

Goals scored

7

Assists

15

Promotions

1

Even with that nasty injury setback derailing him, Fatawu has still managed to show off his class regularly at the King Power Stadium, with a standout seven goals and 15 assists next to his name from 58 clashes in the East Midlands.

Two of those assists even came about for the silky 21-year-old in the Premier League last season, before a serious cruciate ligament injury stopped him in his tracks and left him with just 11 paltry appearances in the top division.

He will hope he’s handed an opportunity to shine in the elite league once more with Le Bris’ men, having once been dubbed “unplayable” on his day by scout Jacek Kulig when tearing up the EFL with the Foxes.

Adingra has also been spoken about in the same glowing manner before, with football analyst Ben Mattinson once heralding the Black Cats number 24 as “explosive”, as the attacking pair prepare to run rings around Premier League defences together to ensure survival is comfortably reached.

Sunderland submit formal bid for "unreal" 27 y/o player who wants to join

This could be strong business by the Black Cats.

ByHenry Jackson Aug 18, 2025

After a challenging 2024/25 campaign that saw Manchester City finish third, a distant 13 points behind champions Liverpool, Pep Guardiola knows something must change in midfield.

Kevin De Bruyne’s exit on a free transfer has left a creative hole that no one has yet been able to fill.

City moved last summer to sign Rayan Cherki from Lyon for £30m, but the Frenchman is yet to pull on a shirt in the Premier League.

Lucas Paquetá, so heavily linked with City last year, seemed a logical solution before allegations of betting rule breaches halted a potential move.

Although Paquetá has since been cleared and is reportedly available for £30m, City’s attention appears to have shifted.

According to reports from Spain last week, they are now considering a bid for a 22-year-old midfielder, already being dubbed by many as the new Andres Iniesta.

Why Man City could be chasing the new Iniesta

Fermin López is a graduate of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy – the same finishing school that honed teammates Lamine Yamal, Gavi and Pedri.

After Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Sevilla in 2023, Planet Football described López as “an Iniesta regen,” while respected talent scout Jacek Kulig labelled him a “genius.”

Those comparisons are not unfounded. López is technically sublime, boasting a silky first touch, a powerful engine, and an uncanny sense of space.

Last season, he played 46 games for Barcelona in all competitions, scoring eight goals and providing ten assists.

That kind of production is impressive, particularly for a player who only started eight matches in the league.

He thrives as an advanced midfielder but can also operate off the left wing, where his sharp movement and awareness of space can be especially dangerous.

His influence extends beyond club football.

López was a central figure in Spain’s Olympic gold medal win last summer, starting every match and finishing with six goals and two assists in six.

Barcelona, however, are reluctant to let him go.

While his contract is valid until 2029 with a colossal €500m buy-out clause, reports suggest the Catalan club might listen to serious offers around £52m.

Given Barcelona’s well-documented financial issues, City could sense an opportunity to secure a player uniquely suited to Guardiola’s system.

Why Lopez could be Pep’s new midfield maestro

A deeper dive into López’s metrics makes a persuasive case for why City are so interested.

Transfer Focus

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

Statistically, according to FBref, he ranks in the 95th percentile for assists per 90 (0.42) and the 91st percentile for non-penalty expected goals per 90 (0.39).

This is a player who doesn’t just move the ball well; he directly contributes to scoring opportunities and even finishes them himself.

His pass completion rate of 82.2% (88th percentile) suggests composure under pressure, while his progressive passing numbers are also strong – 4.96 progressive passes per 90, ranking in the 74th percentile.

Crucially, he ranks in the 91st percentile for passes into the final third per 90 (4.12), reflecting a player capable of breaking lines and unpicking compact defences.

López is active beyond just attacking numbers.

His involvement is consistent, with 59.33 touches per 90 (84th percentile), and he offers defensive contributions with 4.65 ball recoveries per 90 (80th percentile), which is crucial to Guardiola’s counter-pressing approach.

These figures paint the picture of a complete midfielder who can contribute on both sides of the ball, matching City’s demands for work rate, positional intelligence, and technical skill.

In profile, López is similar to other multi-functional, creative players like Dani Olmo, Jamal Musiala, or Michael Olise.

He can carry the ball, link short combinations, and accelerate the game when needed.

That hybrid skillset is precisely what Guardiola values most – someone who can help dominate possession but also break lines and score goals.

For City, Fermín López could represent a long-term successor to De Bruyne. The Belgian’s departure has left a gap not just in terms of output but in leadership and a sense of decisive creativity.

López, with his La Masia education and fearless big-game mentality, could inherit that responsibility.

There are still elements to refine – he will need to adjust to the Premier League’s speed and physicality – but his technical base gives him a solid platform.

Of course, the question is whether Barcelona will really cash in.

The club remains under financial pressure, which means a serious bid from City could get their attention despite the €500m release clause.

And with López under contract until 2029, it may take persuasive negotiations, and a hefty offer, to bring him to the Etihad.

While the Paquetá rumours have resurfaced thanks to his clearance, City fans may be more excited by the idea of López: younger, and with a trajectory that mirrors some of Spain’s most legendary midfielders.

If Pep Guardiola does get his wish, Manchester City supporters could soon be watching a player built in the image of Iniesta, but wearing sky blue.

In quite the twist, Newcastle United are now reportedly the frontrunners to land one of their top targets who has given PIF the green light to move forward with the deal.

Howe: "Complex" Isak situation "far from ideal"

Whilst Newcastle continue to chase transfers of their own, the saga of the summer has been threatening to unfold between Alexander Isak and those at St James’ Park. After deciding to train away from the club and at former side Real Sociedad, it looked as though the Swede had done enough to open the door to his exit as Liverpool came calling with an opening offer.

Ultimately, however, the Reds didn’t do enough and have since had the door slammed in their face by Newcastle, who are demanding as much as £150m to sell their star man. Liverpool’s offer worth £110m was, therefore, always likely to be turned down.

Whilst some around St James’ Park may celebrate Liverpool’s latest stance, it’s Eddie Howe who has been left to pick up the pieces of the Isak saga.

He told reporters when asked about the situation: “I think from my situation, I am very much removed from everything that is happening back home. I was made aware there was a bid yesterday. That bid was turned down before I heard about it.

The Newcastle boss then went on to say when asked if he knows where Isak is: “I know where he is through the media, so I think from that perspective it’s difficult for me to go into any detail. The situation is far from ideal. It is quite complex. I think that is all I have got to say.”

Meanwhile, as that situation continues to unravel, another key factor in any potential deal has reportedly progressed in Newcastle’s favour.

Sesko chooses Newcastle

Delo, the number one newspaper in Slovenia, has revealed Benjamin Sesko ‘has made a decision’ and ‘will continue his career with Newcastle United’, while also confirming the rival interest from Manchester United.

And according to Sky Sports’ Keith Downie, Newcastle have now matched Sesko’s price-tag with a blockbuster “formal bid” worth as much as £70m. Jumping ahead of Manchester United in unexpected fashion, the Magpies could now solve their striker problem with what would become their biggest ever signing.

After a summer of rejections, the news that they are now leading the race to finally sign the striker that they’ve been craving will be music to the ears of all those in Tyneside.

He's Sesko 2.0: Newcastle ready to battle for £60m "absolute powerhouse"

Newcastle United track one of Europe’s hottest talents after Benjamin Šeško setback

ByWill Miller Aug 2, 2025

There’s still a way to go, of course, but there’s no doubt that Sesko would be an excellent addition. Described as “special” by former Leipzig technical director Christopher Vivell, the towering forward looks destined for the Premier League.

While the elusive centre forward is yet to arrive, there is no doubt that this has been a great summer for Arsenal in the transfer market.

There’s no Edu-like hesitancy from the recruitment team as Andrea Berta is here and he’s making a stamp on the Gunners.

With a move for Viktor Gyokeres continuing to rumble on in the background, Mikel Arteta’s side have added Kepa Arrizabalaga, Christian Norgaard, Martin Zubimendi and Noni Madueke to their ranks.

Yet, they aren’t done there. It feels like a matter of time before Gyokeres becomes an Arsenal player and a new centre-back in the shape of Cristhian Mosquera has already completed his media duties ahead of being announced.

But, another winger could also arrive before transfer deadline day.

Arsenal looking to further bolster their forward line

Two of the biggest rumours this summer have concerned Eberechi Eze and Rodrygo.

Eze, who was once in the Arsenal academy, has reportedly already agreed personal terms with the Gunners but club-to-club talks are yet to open between the north Londoners and Crystal Palace.

If the attacker does make the move to the Emirates Stadium, then it’s likely his £68m release clause will have been activated.

But, how about Rodrygo? Well, this saga is one that looks as though it could continue until the latter stages of the window.

Transfer Focus

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

The Brazilian played just 92 minutes at this summer’s Club World Cup and as a result, Xabi Alonso could well be looking to move him on from Real Madrid.

Arsenal have been at the table for a while now, but they are joined by Liverpool in the race. However, according to reports in Spain, the Gunners are now looking to steal a march on the Reds.

Those reports suggest that Arteta views Rodrygo as ‘the ideal player to strengthen the left flank’ and as a consequence, they are preparing an €80m (£70m) bid to bring him to London. It’s unlikely that will be accepted as Madrid have set their asking price at €100m (£87m).

Why Rodrygo could be Arsenal's best left winger since Alexis

While the centre forward position at Arsenal has been a problem for two years now, arguably so has the wide left position in Arteta’s side.

Gabriel Martinelli scored as many as 15 Premier League goals in 2022/23 but since then, he’s not scored more than eight in a single league campaign. As for Leandro Trossard, he did find the net on 17 occasions in 2023/24, but as far as league goals are concerned, it was an inconsistent term in 2024/25 for the Belgian too.

Indeed, the former Brighton winger scored just eight in the top-flight, leading to concerns about the overall makeup of Arsenal’s attack.

It feels like a long time ago now that the Gunners had Alexis Sanchez dominating the left flank. Like Trossard, he also featured as the main centre-forward, but his quality far surpassed both him and Martinelli.

Cast your minds back to 2016/17 and you will recall just how magical the Chilean was, scoring as many as 24 Premier League goals. In all competitions, he found the net 30 times and supplied 18 assists too.

It’s numbers we’ve not seen from a forward player at Arsenal since Sanchez. Not even Bukayo Saka has enjoyed a season as good as that.

Well, Rodrygo could well be the type of winger who can emulate Alexis in north London. Like the Chile international, he’d arrive at the Emirates having played second fiddle to some major names in Spanish football.

Sanchez moved to Arsenal in the shadow of Lionel Messi and Co while Rodrygo is firmly behind the likes of Kylian Mbappe and Vini Jr.

Yet, his quality is clear for all to see. In 2022/23, he scored 19 goals in all competitions and possesses a dazzling dribbling ability akin to the club’s former number 17.

Goals *

0.6

0.3

Assists *

0.3

0.2

Key passes *

2.2

1.4

Big chances created

10

10

Crosses *

0.4

0.2

Successful dribbles *

2.8

2.4

Times fouled *

1.8

1.4

Taking a fraction of the data from the best individual seasons of both players’ careers, there are obvious differences, notably in terms of output.

That said, they created an identical number of big chances and their dribbling is very much on par, with Rodrygo only 0.4 down when it comes to their success rates.

To rubberstamp that ability, the Madrid star ranked among the top 20% of positionally similar players in Europe’s top five leagues last year for take-ons and the best 14% for progressive carries.

On that evidence, the Brazil international is a captivating star and even though he’s not too consistent with regards to goals and assists yet, he is still only 24. Alexis, in contrast, was 27 during that 2016/17 campaign. There is plenty of time left for him to develop yet.

A dream for Gyokeres: Arsenal chasing "one of the best 10s in the world"

The attacking midfielder would be unreal for Arsenal and Viktor Gyokeres.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 20, 2025

In a move that would see David Moyes get one over on his former club, Everton are now reportedly racing to sign a Premier League talent ahead of rival interest from West Ham United this summer.

Picking up where they left off after welcoming Thierno Barry, Everton have also now signed Mark Travers from Bournemouth. The goalkeeper will instantly replace Asmir Begovic and Joao Virginia to become Moyes’ No.2 behind Jordan Pickford, as the Toffees aim to add quality in depth to their side this summer.

Starts

22

38

Clean Sheets

5

12

Saves P90

3.82

3.08

Save Percentage

76.9%

73%

Whilst Travers is unlikely to take Pickford’s place, such is the England international’s importance in Merseyside, he will provide Everton with an impressive backup.

On loan at Middlesbrough last season, the Irishman enjoyed an impressive campaign and even earned the praise of former manager Michael Carrick, who told reporters after watching Travers keep a clean sheet against Luton Town: “He’s got a really good character. He’s a good goalkeeper and he’s had to make some good saves for us.

“That’s what we obviously brought him in for and hope for. We don’t want him to have to make saves, but, when needed, and especially today to contribute to a clean sheet, is a big one for us.

Dream Doucoure replacement: Everton open first talks to sign £30m star

After Abdoulaye Doucouré departed Everton following the expiration of his contract, could the Toffees sign a “highly talented” replacement for £30m?

ByBen Gray Jul 15, 2025

“Mark made some big saves when we needed him, but he came for some crosses as well, and had a really good presence in the box from set plays and corners, and we needed that. It was a shared contribution and he had to make saves for us which were important.”

As solid as their business has been so far this summer, though, Everton are reportedly not done there. Reports are now suggesting that they’ve joined the race to sign a Premier League rival.

Everton racing to sign Jacob Ramsey

According to The Telegraph, Everton have now joined the race to sign Jacob Ramsey from Aston Villa this summer and have been joined by Nottingham Forest and West Ham in pursuit of his signature.

The Villans are reportedly willing to accept just £30m to sell their academy graduate this summer as they look to solve any further PSR problems at long last.

At that price – plus the fact he’s represented by the same agent as Dwight McNeil which could smooth personal negotiations – Everton should not hesitate to make their move ahead of West Ham and Forest. Ramsey is still very much a player full of potential, especially if he moves past his injury troubles.

Hamstring injury

2024/25

9

Muscle injury

2024/25

1

Toe injury

2023/24

17

Hamstring injury

2023/24

2

Foot injury

2023/24

8

Metatarsal fracture

2023/24

9

Missing 46 games across the last two seasons, Everton and other suitors have every right to be concerned about Ramsey’s injury history. At 24 years old, however, he is still worth taking a gamble on.

A player who Steven Gerrard believed would become “terrific”, Everton should now swoop in and help Ramsey realise his impressive potential.

Everton came on leaps and bounds under David Moyes’ wing in 2024/25, but there’s no doubt they petered out toward the end of the campaign, illustrating the need for summer reinforcements.

After a slow start that has been defined by outings, things are starting to move at the Hill Dickinson Stadium. Indeed, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s departure at the end of his contract is poignant, the Toffees are close to signing 22-year-old striker Thierno Barry, who has a £34.5m release clause with Villarreal and scored 19 goals across 41 matches last term.

Further additions are expected. Everton might have parted ways with a whole host of first-team stars, but they have also succeeded in tying down an irreplaceable member of the squad to a new deal.

He plays in defence.

The latest on Everton's backline

Despite plenty of speculation, Everton have extended Jarrad Branthwaite’s contract, and the centre-back is now contracted to the Merseyside club until 2030.

While Michael Keane has extended his contract on Merseyside, he is fixed in a back-up role, and landing Branthwaite for more years to come provides an incredible lift, especially as Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur have been sniffing around.

With James Tarkowski, 32, currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, and Jake O’Brien playing so well at right-back, it might be an idea to bring in another centre-half.

Well, according to Italian publication La Repubblica – via Sport Witness – Everton have entered the race for Inter Milan’s Yann Bisseck, who could leave San Siro this summer as a by-product of an acrimonious and wide fallout at the club.

Manchester United, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United have also been named as suitors, with the German expected to command a £34m transfer fee.

Why Everton want to sign Yann Bisseck

Everton would sign their most modern-tailored central defender yet in Bisseck, who has developed steely defensive skills and an ever-improving ball-playing talent.

That and a shrewd eye for goal. As per FBref, the 23-year-old ranked among the top 3% of centre-backs across Europe’s top five leagues last season for goal involvements, the top 19% for pass completion, the top 6% for progressive carries per 90 and the top 3% for aerial duel success rate.

What does that tell us? Well, it certainly underscores Bisseck’s roundedness, progressive in his play while utilising his tall frame to defend from aerial attacks.

Something of a career nomad already, the 24-year-old has played 67 matches for Inter Milan, posting five goals and five assists apiece. Used across different competitions, he was a regular feature during Simeone Inzaghi’s Champions League run last term, starting seven of the matches.

And he was hardly a passenger. Throughout Inter’s continental campaign, Bisseck won 66% of his duels, as per Sofascore, and completed 87% of his passes, emphasising the technical virtues Moyes demands from his defenders.

But the expansive nature of his brand is what could see him step above even a player of Branthwaite’s ability.

Goal involvements

0.04

0.20

Touches

54.48

75.63

Passes attempted

42.94

64.92

Pass completion

82.1%

90.6%

Progressive passes

2.37

4.39

Progressive carries

0.36

1.64

Ball recoveries

3.33

3.19

Tackles + interceptions

2.26

2.12

Clearances

6.85

4.19

Blocks

1.11

1.48

As you can see, Bisseck’s passing and ball-carrying game is far above that of Branthwaite, having spent more time on the ball over the past year and retained it with greater regularity too.

While the more expansive part of Branthwaite’s game has been hemmed back by tactical duties, Bisseck still far outstrips his positional peer as far as the technical side of the game is concerned.

Given that Inter’s man, who played such an important part in reaching the Champions League final last year, has been hailed as a “diamond” of a defender by journalist Antonio Mango, he might just emerge as Moyes’ star man in the rearguard, should Everton prevail in their bid.

Bigger talent than Barry: Everton chasing £28m ace with a "hint of Haaland"

Following Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s exit, Everton are set to sign Thierno Barry, but could they also target another striker who has a “hint of Haaland”?

ByBen Gray Jul 3, 2025

Arsenal have kickstarted their summer transfer window with a key piece of business, according to trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, as manager Mikel Arteta prepares to welcome his newest squad member to N5.

The north Londoners, after missing out on the Premier League title to Liverpool by 10 points last season, are looking to make a statement of intent over the coming months, with all eyes on new sporting director Andrea Berta.

Workhorse "dreams" of joining Arsenal, Berta has already made an offer

His top transfer desire is clear.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 20, 2025

Berta’s proven track record at former club Atlético Madrid ultimately convinced Arsenal to replace Edu Gaspar with the Italian three months ago, and he’s since been busy spinning many plates at the Emirates in pursuit of much-needed new additions.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

Their search for a new striker has dominated the headlines, with Berta working on moves for both Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko, as he looks to secure the best possible deal for a much-needed centre-forward.

Arsenal have also held “numerous talks” over targets for the wide area, as per Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, with goalkeeper Kepa Arrizabalaga also poised to join the north Londoners as David Raya’s new understudy to replace Neto.

However, before all of this activity started taking place, Arsenal began work on a deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi.

Talks have been at an advanced stage since January, with the BBC and other reliable media outlets stating last month that a medical was scheduled for the 26-year-old.

Zubimendi’s cryptic comments over his future since those whispers, combined with Sociedad president Jokin Aperribay denying how advanced the transfer was, did start to stoke worries that Real Madrid could hijack Arsenal’s deal.

Those fears were swiftly quelled by more credible reports that Arsenal were set to seal a deal for Zubimendi, and Romano has shared more good news on the matter in an update from the last 24 hours.

Arsenal deal for Martin Zubimendi "completed" with paperwork "signed"

Taking to X, the journalist stated on Friday that Arsenal have now “completed” all the necessary paperwork with Zubimendi in London, and it’s all signed.

The Spain international will cost up to £56 million, slightly above his release clause, with Berta agreeing to pay the increased fee over installments.

Amid reports that Thomas Partey could be about to leave Arsenal following botched new contract talks, with Jorginho also joining Flamengo earlier this month, this comes as a very welcome boost for Arteta.

Zubimendi has stood out as one of La Liga’s best holding midfield players in recent years, and he’s finally set to end his stay at boyhood club Sociedad as he seals a long-awaited move to the Premier League, one year after he rejected a switch to Liverpool.

“Zubimendi is an extraordinary defensive midfielder,” said former Barcelona boss, Xavi, on Arsenal’s latest signing. “He understands the model we like at Barça, he dominates with and without the ball.”

Leeds United have been given a sobering reminder of the step up in quality from the Championship to the Premier League by watching some recent transfer sagas unfold.

Liverpool officially confirmed the permanent signing of Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen for a reported fee that could rise to a British-record £116m on Friday.

Whereas, the Whites have never spent more than £35.5m to sign a player. Their current record stands at the £35.5m they paid to sign Georginio Rutter from Hoffenheim at the start of 2023.

Rutter scored eight goals and provided 18 assists in 66 matches for the West Yorkshire outfit before he completed a move to Brighton & Hove Albion last summer.

Leeds are in the market to sign a central midfielder to bolster their squad this summer, amid interest in Strasbourg’s Habib Diarra and Club Brugge’s Raphael Onyedika.

They have been shown how much the top midfielders in the Premier League go for, though, as Arsenal are set to sign Martin Zubimendi from Spanish side Real Sociedad for a reported fee of £56m.

Leeds United's current midfield options

At this moment in time, Ethan Ampadu, Ilia Gruev, and Ao Tanaka are Daniel Farke’s only senior central midfield options ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, after Joe Rothwell returned to Bournemouth and Josuha Guilavogui was released at the end of his contract.

Ampadu has often been utilised as a centre-back option by the German head coach, which could leave Gruev and Tanaka as the two midfielders in his 4-2-3-1 system if the Wales international slots into the back four.

There are question marks over whether those two midfielders have the physicality to compete week-in-week-out in a relegation scrap in the Premier League, however, due to their form in the past.

Prior to their respective moves to Elland Road, both Gruev and Tanaka played in Germany, in the Bundesliga and the 2. Bundesliga, and showed signs that they may not be able to handle the step up in physicality to the Premier League.

Appearances

31

30

Pass accuracy

87%

89%

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.1

2.0

Ground duel success rate

53%

49%

Aerial duel success rate

43%

49%

As you can see in the table above, they both left a bit to be desired physically in the top two divisions in Germany, particularly when it came to competing in aerial battles.

This may be why the Whites are keen to add more physicality to their midfield by bringing in a new option in that area of the park, and they are now reportedly interested in a new target in that position.

Leeds eyeing deal for Ligue 1 enforcer

According to GIVEMESPORT, Leeds United are lining up a deal to sign Stade de Reims defensive midfielder Valentin Atangana during the summer transfer window.

The report claims that the Whites have set their sights on the talented 19-year-old enforcer, whose team were relegated to the second division in France this season.

Transfer Focus

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

GIVEMESPORT adds that the Championship champions are keen to do their business as early as possible, and that the French starlet has emerged as one of the options on their radar in their pursuit of a new central midfielder.

The outlet states that the Whites are keen to win the race to secure his services this summer after they were made aware that he is set to be available in the market because of Reims’ relegation to Ligue 2.

It also forwards a suggestion that the player could be available for a bargain price of around £9m, as Reims look to rake in money after dropping out of Ligue 1.

The report also claims that Leeds are now weighing up whether or not to enter negotiations over a deal to bring the teenage talent to West Yorkshire before the end of the window.

Why Leeds should sign Valentin Atangana

The Whites should approach Reims to do a deal for the 19-year-old star because he could arrive as Farke’s own version of Zubimendi, who is set to join Arsenal for £56m, to bolster the physicality in his midfield.

As per FBref, the Spain international is one of the most similar players to Atangana based on their respective statistics in Ligue 1 and LaLiga over the past 365 days.

As you can see in the chart above, they both excel in fairly similar areas of the game, particularly defensively, with a similar success rate in tackles and aerial battles.

Zubimendi ended the LaLiga season with a ground duel success rate of 56% and an aerial battle success rate of 62%, whilst Atangana won 53% of his ground duels and 58% of his aerial battles in Ligue 1 for Reims.

The France U19 international, who was hailed as “exceptional” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, caught the eye in the French top-flight from a defensive perspective, despite his team being relegated.

He was playing in a poor team, hence their relegation, but still showcased his physicality and quality. A great example is his performance against PSG in the Coupe de France final, as he won seven of his nine duels and completed all three of his dribbles against the likes of Joao Neves and Vitinha, but his side lost 3-0.

Clearances

2.02

Top 19%

Aerial duels won

1.48

Top 8%

Percentage of dribblers tackled

73.7%

Top 2%

Challenges lost

0.32

Top 2%

Shots blocked

0.47

Top 14%

Interceptions

1.17

Top 33%

Dispossessed

0.73

Top 23%

As you can see in the table above, Atangana ranked highly among his positional peers in a host of key defensive metrics in Ligue 1, particularly when it came to winning aerial duels and holding off opposition players.

He rarely allowed dribblers to get past him, as shown by his success rate in tackles and how few challenges he lost, and was rarely dispossessed by opposition midfielders, which speaks to his strength in possession.

The teenage talent could, therefore, be Farke’s own version of Zubimendi as a defensive midfielder who has shown that he can be reliable in physical contests and secure in possession under pressure in one of Europe’s top leagues.

To sign a 19-year-old talent who has already proven his quality in the French top-flight, and is comparable to £56m-rated Zubimendi, for just £9m could be a shrewd move by Leeds, and one they must pursue in the coming weeks.

He's better than Diarra: Leeds now looking at deal to sign £26m "threat"

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1 ByDan Emery Jun 19, 2025

Chelsea begin their FIFA Club World Cup campaign on Monday night when facing off against LAFC out in Atlanta.

All eyes are on the potential of Liam Delap making his Blues debut in the American heat, with the former Ipswich Town attacker no doubt keen to be Enzo Maresca’s main marksman next season when Premier League action gets back underway.

If he impresses in pre-season, he stands a healthy chance of being just that for Chelsea.

But, the West Londoners might not be done with flashy striker additions after Delap’s arrival at Stamford Bridge, with a new striker target an arguable upgrade on the ex-Manchester City forward, among other faces being tipped to make the switch to the English capital.

Chelsea keeping tabs on £67m ace

After they completed a move for Delap, there has been frenzied interest in another of their targets in Hugo Ekitike. The latest on that move, according to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, is that Man United have expressed their interest in the player, yet Liverpool and Chelsea remain in the race.

If they are beaten to the Frenchman’s signing, who could they focus their efforts on instead?

Transfer Focus

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

Indeed, according to one GOAL transfer correspondent, Chelsea are one of the teams to have held talks over signing Victor Osimhen.

The report states that eight clubs dotted all around Europe have made contact with the Nigerian goal machine, with fellow Premier League clubs Manchester United and Arsenal looking at the current Galatasaray ace, alongside Juventus, PSG Milan and Real Madrid.

Whilst Ekitike could cost in the region of £85m to obtain, Osmihen might well be available for a more workable £67m, according to prior reportsas per reports, meaning he could now be Chelsea’s desired target to improve their forward positions even more.

How Osimhen would be an upgrade on Ekitike & Delap

If Maresca’s side were to land Osimhen, he would be viewed as an upgrade on both the much-talked-about Eintracht Frankfurt striker and Delap, with the 26-year-old a well-known goalscoring menace throughout his varied career, not just when plying his trade in Turkey.

Whilst Chelsea would be purchasing Ekitike with the future in mind, alongside also wanting to get even more out of Delap after a blistering season in Suffolk, Osimhen would be the finished article already on his arrival in West London.

After all, wherever he’s been across his career so far, the “world class” forward – as he’s been glowing labelled by Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley – has largely shone, which can’t be said for the £85m-rated attacker nor a growing Delap.

Napoli

133

76

18

Galatasaray

41

37

8

Lille

38

18

6

Royal Charleroi S.C.

36

20

4

Wolfsburg

16

0

0

The mightily impressive numbers from the table above certainly back up Critchley’s wild claims, with Osimhen up to a staggering 151 career goals now off the back of firing home a lethal 37 strikes for Galatasaray.

Of course, the Nigerian striker did suffer from a barren patch towards the start of his career with Wolfsburg, but his electric goalscoring numbers have more than made up for it since.

Ekitike does have a slight upper hand on his more senior striker rival, considering he has bagged 26 goals in the Bundesliga to date, but he only has 18 more strikes to shout about in senior action away from his breakout stint in Frankfurt.

Therefore, splashing out a whopping £85m on a centre-forward figure who is more inexperienced than Osimhen and less potent would be a big risk.

Moreover, Delap is only a season down in the Premier League and could find being Chelsea’s leading star in attack all on his own to be a daunting challenge, considering further that he has only 12 top-flight strikes next to his name across his fledgling career.

Whereas, Osmihen – who has been dubbed as being “even better than Haaland” by agent Andrea D’Amico – would surely relish the chance to be another leading star in another top European division, as Chelsea prepare to do battle in the Champions League next season.

Chelsea can sign a bigger talent than Ekitike with move for £65m "maverick"

Chelsea could have the chance to reignite a move for a former target

ByRoss Kilvington Jun 14, 2025

Leeds United supporters are surely still in a celebratory mood after their side brushed off any playoff final agony to lift the Championship title on a colossal 100 points.

There will be some anxiety seeping in as to how the Whites will cope with the Premier League. However, the summer transfer window is also a time for those at Elland Road to become even more excited about who could possibly don the famous Leeds white in the top division.

Daniel Farke could well be about to flex his past Norwich City connections to finally bring Emiliano Buendia into the building, with the addition of Buendia to the Whites ranks somewhat of a coup, considering his previous excellent performances for Aston Villa in the Premier League.

Why Buendia signing would be a coup

Buendia and the German used to be a match made in heaven in Norfolk, before the Argentine ace spread his wings for pastures new at Villa.

Indeed, the exciting ex-Canaries midfielder made the Championship his playground under Farke’s watchful eye, as seen in his terrific tally of 24 goals and 41 assists pulling on Norwich yellow and green.

He would initially kick on when given first-team opportunities in the West Midlands, with this goal even breaking Leeds hearts back in early 2023, but injury troubles have since hindered his chances at progressing further at Villa Park.

But, even with Buendia being missing for a hefty 56 games during the 2023/24 season due to a devastating cruciate ligament tear, he does still boast ten goals and 15 assists up a level, which will be of great use to Leeds as they carefully navigate back up.

Yet, whilst the opportunity to pick up a former £33m-rated star on loan shouldn’t be passed up on, another move would go down as a bigger coup than Buendia’s temporary signature being won if it were successfully pulled off.

Leeds could re-sign Bielsa favourite

Leeds will be aiming to leave the past in the past for the most part, especially when it comes to the sinking feeling of being relegated back down to the Championship.

But, Farke and Co. would surely be tempted by the prospect of adding Kalvin Phillips back to their roster.

Indeed, the Mail on Sunday – as has been relayed by MOT Leeds News – stated in their recent print copy that the newly promoted Whites want to bring Phillips back to his old boyhood home after his shoulder surgery at Manchester City.

It has even been further speculated that Leeds could win back their former fans’ favourite for a cut-price – valued at £10m by Transfermarkt – which would be a deal that’s hard to refuse, particularly when you remember Phillips’ heroics at Elland Road under Marcelo Bielsa saw him join Pep Guardiola’s men for a bumper £45m.

This would surely go down as a stroke of genius on Leeds’ end if Phillips were to return and get back to his previous West Yorkshire best.

Indeed, his last spell at the club resulted in many an England call-up under Gareth Southgate, alongside the 29-year-old looking assured at the daunting level, instead of now being known as a waste of City’s flashy millions.

Matches played

29

20

Goals scored

1

0

Assists

2

1

Touches per game

65

62.1

Accurate passes per game

41 (85%)

38.9 (82%)

Big chances created

5

1

Total duels won

5.3

4.9

When playing in the top-flight previously for Leeds, Phillips had shown himself to be a competent battler who was also keen at creating chances for his attacking teammates, with the table above showing off both his grit to win duels galore, but also his ability to fashion openings.

It would even lead to the 29-year-old being labelled as “exceptional” by football talent scout Antonio Mango, with nobody more desperate than Phillips himself to try and recapture these lofty heights.

Of course, this might well go down as a misfire if the beloved ex-number 23 returns and buckles under all the intense pressure.

But, on the contrary, it could well be viewed as an unbelievable coup, especially if he rolls back the years in the heart of Leeds’ midfield for far less than his steep £45m valuation.

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1 ByKelan Sarson May 31, 2025