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Arsenal have made a real splash in the market this summer, completing an array of high-profile deals with more to follow, but they’ll also need to sell this summer.

The north Londoners, once they announce their £50 million-plus deal for Noni Madueke, will have spent around £125 million on transfers, and that isn’t including their potential moves for Sporting striker Viktor Gyokeres and Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze.

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

25/26 – summer

£75m

Arsenal are in advanced talks to sign Viktor Gyokeres, according to credible media sources, and the Swede is even refusing to train as he eyes a dream move to the Emirates Stadium.

Meanwhile, positive discussions have been held with Eze’s representatives too, and the 27-year-old could join Arsenal in an entirely separate deal to Madueke – so Andrea Berta could easily take Arsenal’s spending to over £200 million if these moves come to fruition.

The signing of Madueke has brought up question marks surrounding both Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard’s futures.

Given Arsenal need to balance the books, either one of the left-wingers could realistically depart, with The Athletic previously reporting that Arsenal are not averse to a suitable bid for Martinelli and will consider selling for the right price.

The Brazilian’s contract also expires in 2027, but Arsenal do have an option to extend it by a further year. However, the same cannot be said for Trossard, who’s now entered the final 12 months of his deal, and this window represents a final opportunity for Berta to make any cash back off the 30-year-old’s exit.

Fenerbahce "working tirelessly" to sign Leandro Trossard from Arsenal

According to Turkish news outlet Ntvspor, via Fener Ajans, Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce could give Arsenal an avenue to agree Trossard’s departure before his contract expires.

What’s more, they could do it in imminent fashion, with Fenerbahce “working tirelessly” to sign Trossard for pre-season, which begins in just three days, as the Süper Lig giants fly out to Portugal and begin their camp on July 14 (Daily Sabah).

The Belgian has been a very useful impact player for Arteta since his move from Brighton, and perhaps underrated, with Trossard featuring in every single Premier League game for them last season.

Trossard also bagged 10 goals and 10 assists across 56 appearances in all competitions during 2024/2025, and he’s thought of highly by Arteta, so his departure would certainly come as bitter-sweet.

“Trossard, great player. He’s a little magician,” said Arteta about Trossard in 2024.

“He can score on any surface, and he’s a big threat; so composed, so cool, he can play in different positions. It’s just a joy to have him in the team.”

It’s been a hectic couple of weeks for Arsenal.

After watching their Premier League rivals make signing after signing, the Gunners are finally starting to make a splash in the transfer window.

For example, after months of speculation, Martin Zubimendi was finally announced yesterday morning, and then, if that wasn’t enough, a deluge of reports suggesting a deal for Viktor Gyokeres is close also emerged.

Moreover, the Gunners are now getting close to securing the services of a Premier League star, someone who’d be a far better signing than Noni Madueke.

Arsenal looking at signing another Premier League star

While most of the links to players this summer, and the two signings already confirmed, have been met with positivity from the general fan base, the same can’t be said for links to Madueke.

Transfer Focus

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

It was revealed late last week that the Gunners had already reached an agreement on personal terms with the Chelsea player.

There is no denying that the winger is talented, but he’s hardly blown anyone away in West London, and at a potential price tag of £50m, it’s easy to understand why many fans might look at him as a misuse of funds.

Fortunately, the North Londoners are also reportedly closing in on a deal for another Premier League star, someone who’d be a far better signing than Madueke: Eberechi Eze.

At least that is according to David Ornstein, who, on a recent episode of The Athletic’s podcast, reaffirmed reports that Arsenal are highly interested in signing the Crystal Palace star this summer.

Ornstein reveals that he is now one of the club’s top target and is now seriously high in their consideration this summer. Moreover, he revealed that “they’ve held some conversations” with the player’s camp, and that they would like to sign him for under his release clause of £68m.

However, the Eagles are understandably keen on receiving the full fee to sell their talismanic attacker this summer.

It could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Eze’s ability, it’s one Arsenal should fight for, especially as he’d be a far better signing than Madueke.

Why Eze would be a far better signing than Madueke

Okay, so the first thing to say is that, yes, Eze and Madueke do operate in different areas of the pitch, but that doesn’t take away from the fact that the former would be a far better signing than the latter.

The first reason is down to their respective output, as in 43 appearances last season, totalling 3303 minutes, the Palace ace scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists.

That means he averaged a goal involvement every 1.72 games, or every 132.12 minutes, and, on top of that, he scored important goals, such as the winner in the FA Cup.

In contrast, the Chelsea ace racked up a tally of 11 goals and five assists in 45 games, totalling 2625 minutes, which comes out to a far less impressive average of a goal involvement every 2.81 games, or every 164.06 minutes.

The second reason the Eagles’ “superstar,” as dubbed by respected analyst Ben Mattinson, would be a better signing is their underlying numbers.

Non-Penalty G+As

0.52

0.44

Progressive Passes

3.37

3.05

Progressive Carries

2.40

6.81

Key Passes

2.01

1.42

Passes into the Final Third

1.70

0.71

Live Passes

29.5

29.2

Shot-Creating Actions

4.69

3.50

Goal-Creating Actions

0.35

0.35

Successful Take-Ons

2.33

1.99

Tackles

1.35

1.11

Ball Recoveries

5.07

3.72

For example, when we take a look under the hood, the former QPR gem comes out on top in practically every relevant metric, such as non-penalty goals plus assists, key passes and successful take-ons.

These statistics demonstrate that, in addition to scoring goals, the 27-year-old is a brilliant creator and someone who can generate chances through his passing and carrying abilities.​​​​​

Ultimately, if Arsenal can only afford to sign one other attacking star from the Premier League this summer, then they have to go with Eze, as he’s simply better than Madueke in every meaningful way.

Talks open: Arsenal submit offer to sign "standout" 17 y/o after Zubimendi

The midfielder is the Gunners’ second summer signing.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 7, 2025

No Manchester United supporter could’ve envisaged the impact Bruno Fernandes would’ve had at the club after his £47m move from Sporting CP back in January 2020.

The Portuguese international has exceeded all expectations over the last five and a half years, helping the Red Devils claim multiple trophies in such a period.

He’s registered 98 goals and 83 assists in his 290 appearances at Old Trafford, averaging a goal contribution every 1.6 matches he’s appeared in, a truly staggering record for a midfielder.

Fernandes has no doubt been their shining light over recent seasons, managing to register 37 goals and assists this campaign, despite the club finishing in a measly 15th place in the Premier League.

He will want to push the side back up the table next season, but if he is to have any chance of doing so, it’s vital the board back Ruben Amorim in the transfer market this summer.

The latest on United’s hunt for new signings this summer

Hugo Ekitiké has become the main target within the final third over the last couple of days, after it became apparent that Viktor Gyokeres preferred a move to Arsenal over United.

He’s not the only attacker currently on their radar, with a move for Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo advancing after the club agreed personal terms with the Cameroonian international.

However, other areas of the pitch have also been of keen interest, with Amorim’s side making progress on a deal to land Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez, according to one Spanish outlet.

They claim that the Argentine international is now keen on a move to Old Trafford this summer, after the hierarchy made preliminary contacts with his agents in recent days.

It also states that Unai Emery’s side need to sell players to avoid a breach of the division’s PSR rules, which could see them demand a fee in the region of £40m this window.

Why Martinez would be United’s best signing since Bruno

The hierarchy at United have constantly tried to inject quality into the side during recent seasons, as seen with their £70m deal to land Casemiro from Real Madrid back in 2022.

The Brazilian has won five Champions League titles during his professional career, but has been unable to add to such a tally, often being an inconstant figure at the heart of the side.

He’s made 125 appearances for the Red Devils, but has often had to resort to minutes off the bench in recent times, starting just 18 league outings this campaign.

Matthijs de Ligt is another player with elite level experience in Europe’s top five leagues, but like Casemiro, has struggled in England, with injuries massively halting his progress under Amorim.

Both players have the pedigree, but their lack of experience in the Premier League before joining have seen them take time to adapt in order to make the desired impact.

The same can’t be said for shot-stopper Martinez, with the 32-year-old pretty much spending his entire career in the British Isles and starring for various different sides.

His figures from his 2024/25 campaign are evidence of the talent he possesses, offering Amorim that world-class goalkeeper he desires amid Andre Onana’s constant disappointment.

Games played

37

34

Goals conceded

1.2

1.3

Saves made

4

3.7

Save percentage

70%

68%

Pass accuracy

78%

72%

Long pass accuracy

49%

36%

Penalty save percentage

50%

25%

Crosses claimed

1.6

0.6

He’s massively outperformed the Cameroonian in countless key areas, including fewer mistakes leading to goals and a higher pass completion rate, offering the side the option to play out from the back should they need it.

Martinez has also starred at international level, winning the World Cup back in 2022, producing a miraculous save from Randal Kolo-Muani in the closing stages – forever writing himself into Argentina history.

He was named FIFA’s best men’s goalkeeper back in 2024, winning the award for the second time in his career, demonstrating the elite level he’s been performing at for the last couple of seasons.

£40m for such a player would prove to be sensational business, offering an immediate improvement on the current goalkeeping situation at Old Trafford.

If he can replicate the performances produced by Fernandes over recent seasons, he would be worth every penny, pushing the club one step closer to returning to their former glory under Amorim.

Dream Gyokeres alternative: £25m "superstar" set to be offered to Man Utd

Man United desperately need to sign a new centre-forward this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 21, 2025

There’s a lot going on down Anfield Road this summer, and there’s more yet to come for Liverpool’s Arne Slot as the Premier League-winning manager pieces together a squad capable of sustaining title charges across so many years.

Few predicted Liverpool would be crowned champions after Jurgen Klopp stepped down from his post, but the Merseysiders proved a cut above their rivals to win the title at a canter. However, now is the time for investment, having spent nominally in last summer’s market.

Whether the Reds manage to offload Darwin Nunez and bring in a flashy new striker remains to be seen, but there’s little question that Jeremie Frimpong, who has already signed, and Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz, who are on the verge, will improve the Merseysiders and then some.

It’s all going swimmingly, but Liverpool will be frustrated by their failure to sign Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, the centre-back instead signing for Real Madrid last month in a £50m deal.

Why Liverpool wanted Dean Huijsen

Analyst Ben Mattinson remarked last season that Huijsen was “the most in-demand centre-back in the world”, and after such an impressive breakout campaign with Bournemouth, it’s clear to see why.

The archetypal modern centre-half, Huijsen, only 20 years old, can do it all, defending with steely tenacity and spraying balls forward with the artful elegance of a midfield maestro.

As per FBref, he ranked among the top 7% of Premier League positional peers last term for shot-creating actions, the top 15% for progressive passes, the top 9% for progressive carries and the top 4% for interceptions and blocks per 90.

With Virgil van Dijk approaching the autumn of his illustrious Liverpool career, the left-sided Huijsen would have been the perfect fit, but instead Liverpool will have to turn their attention elsewhere.

The Spain international is off the cards, then, but FSG may yet authorise a move for an up-and-coming defensive star.

Liverpool enter race for new CB

According to Portuguese outlet A Bola, Liverpool have joined Chelsea in the race for Benfica centre-back Tomas Araujo, who has an €80m (£68m) release clause in his contract.

The 23-year-old might be higher on Chelsea’s list at the moment, but that’s not to say Liverpool won’t accelerate their plans in the coming weeks, once other areas of the field have been dealt with.

It’s worth noting that Benfica do not want to sell their prized defender, but if Liverpool are serious, they may be able to tempt the player to push for an exit before the start of the 2025/26 campaign.

What Tomas Araujo would bring to Liverpool

Liverpool wouldn’t have just made themselves known as suitors for Huijsen because many of their divisional rivals had registered interest; the Reds’ data-driven approach would have seen the Dutch-born talent profiled extensively.

He is indeed off the cards, but Liverpool could sign a similar player in Araujo, who has been hailed for his “magnificent” rise to prominence in Portugal by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Having graduated from Benfica’s academy and having completed a season-long loan with Gil Vicente in 2022/23, Araujo has now completed 68 senior matches with the Eagles, winning the Taça da Liga last season (effectively the Portuguese version of the League Cup).

Limited to just 20 appearances across all competitions in 2023/24, having returned from his promising loan spell, Araujo has now become a mainstay in Benfica’s first team, going from strength to strength to attract the attention of Liverpool.

And when collating his data from the 2024/25 campaign with Huijsen’s, you begin to see that Liverpool could actually strike gold in signing this second choice, for he matches up with the Spaniard nicely indeed.

Matches (starts)

32 (26)

28 (28)

Goals

3

1

Assists

2

2

Touches*

63.9

66.9

Pass completion

84%

86%

Key passes*

0.5

0.4

Dribbles*

0.1

0.6

Ball recoveries*

3.3

5.4

Tackles + interceptions*

2.7

3.4

Clearances*

6.1

1.5

Duels (won)*

3.6 (56%)

5.1 (60%)

Matching Huijsen across ball-playing metrics, Araujo has also proved himself to be more accurate in the duel and more active across tackling and intercepting areas, albeit making far fewer clearances than his fellow Iberian.

Curiously, Araujo also recovered more balls, which speaks highly of his athleticism and energy, covering ground. This would be especially important in the Premier League, which is played at a higher pace than the Liga Portugal.

And furthermore, Araujo is also a capable right-back, playing out wide when the situation demands it. The fruits of this can be found in his 0.6 dribbles per game, also maintaining a crispness in his passing while creating openings for his teammates in a similar vein as Huijsen.

He might not have the goalscoring advantage on Real Madrid’s new recruit, who already is an expert at using his rangy frame in the box, but then he has shown on occasion an ability to find the back of the net with a leaping effort.

A balanced defender who has proven his ability to shake things up on the biggest stage, Araujo is the real deal. Across the 2024/25 Champions League season, he ranked among the top 17% of central defenders for shot-creating actions and the top 1% for tackles per 90 (FBref).

Given Liverpool’s pressing need for more depth and quality in the rearguard, especially with Ibrahima Konate’s future uncertain and Jarell Quansah linked with a transfer to Bayer Leverkusen, Araujo could be the perfect fit.

The Benfica star’s ball-playing and -carrying strengths indicate a style which Huijsen has performed so well in the Premier League, so now it’s up to FSG to steal ahead of Chelsea in the transfer tussle.

Perfect for Isak: Liverpool told £75m bid for PL star will be accepted

Liverpool may need to sign a new left-sided forward this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 14, 2025

Liverpool won the 2024/25 Premier League and are now moving to secure their place among Europe’s elite for the coming years, making sweeping changes in the transfer market.

A momentous effort to sign Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz looks to be coming to a pleasing head, but the negotiations are still ongoing. Liverpool’s latest offer totals £113m, but the Bundesliga side are holding out for what would be a British-record £126m fee.

With moves for full-back pairing Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez already wrapped up, the Reds are surely set to continue competing for the biggest prizes in Arne Slot’s system.

However, there’s still something missing and no mistake. Well, while Liverpool have options at centre-forward in Darwin Nunez and Diogo Jota, neither really cut the mustard last term, and both could be sold.

Liverpool aren’t prioritising the frontman position at the moment, but they are surveying the market and have been linked with a move for Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres.

Liverpool's interest in Viktor Gyokeres

With Arsenal “advancing in negotiations” for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, says Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool could have a free shot at Gyokeres this summer, having opened talks for the forward last month.

The Sweden striker has been breathtaking over his two campaigns in Portugal, scoring 97 goals and providing 28 assists across just 102 matches, winning back-to-back Liga Portugal titles.

Regarded as “the best finisher in the world” by data analyst Spencer Hossman, you can see why Liverpool are keen, for the 27-year-old is levels above Nunez and Jota.

However, recent reports suggest Manchester United may be set to win the race, ready to pay a £60m fee for the goalscorer.

1)

Viktor Gyokeres

33

39

2)

Kylian Mbappe

34

31

3)

Mohamed Salah

38

29

4)

Robert Lewandowski

34

27

5)

Victor Osimhen

30

26

5=

Harry Kane

31

26

Every case is different, but some fans might reserve judgment on this one, for Nunez posted 34 goals from 41 matches in 2021/22, playing for Benfica in Portugal.

The Iberian country is not on the same level as the Premier League, and that’s a fact. If Liverpool were to sign a striker from their own division, one already proven as a world-class option on English shores

Liverpool still in for PL striker

As per transfer insider Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are still dreaming of signing Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak this summer, despite The Athletic’s David Ornstein previously declaring there would be “no chance” that the Sweden international leaves after United qualified for the Champions League.

It’s understood that upcoming contract talks will have a significant bearing on Isak’s stance, but if he were to leave this summer, Newcastle would be looking to bank a figure reaching as high as £150m.

Sky Sports’ Keith McDownie has claimed that while Newcastle are hopeful they can retain their talisman this summer, Isak is ambitious and does appear to view a transfer away at some stage.

What Alexander Isak would bring to Liverpool

What would Isak bring to Liverpool? In short, goals, and lots of them.

The 25-year-old has been a revelation at St. James’ Park since signing for a club-record £63m fee in 2022, departing Real Sociedad.

Across his three campaigns on Tyneside, Isak has scored 62 goals and laid on 11 assists across 109 matches, hitting his most confident stride over the past year, scoring 27 times as the Magpies flew back onto Europe’s elite stage, and indeed bagging against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final.

But it’s not just the numbers, instead the remarkable range of skills that Isak brings to the table. Slot has showed through his maiden year at Anfield that he likes offensive players who operate dynamically, not just firing at goal but creating and linking up with teammates.

He’s a deadly marksman, hailed as a “world-class assassin” by pundit Alan Shearer, but Isak is indeed far more than a simple goalscorer, finishing the chances created by his peers.

Indeed, he’s one of the most complete out there. As per FBref, Isak ranked among the top 16% of strikers across Europe’s top five leagues last season for shot-creating actions, the top 13% for progressive passes, the top 7% for progressive carries and the top 8% for successful take-ons per 90.

You can see why he’s so coveted across the continent. Isak is the very definition of world-class, bringing so many dynamic attacking qualities to the table.

His tried-and-tested consistency in the Premier League bespeaks his suitability for Liverpool, and he’s two years younger than Gyokeres besides.

Sweden boss Jon Dahl Tomasson even went as far as to coin Isak “the best striker in the world.” The one-time Newcastle man acknowledged his bias, but in fairness, Isak has showcased his skills to such a level that that claim isn’t without substance.

Ultimately, both Isak and Gyokeres would improve Slot’s Liverpool system if they were added into the ranks, but if fans were quizzed on their ideal option to don the striker’s shirt, Isak would win overwhelmingly.

After such a prolific and robust campaign for Eddie Howe’s side, Isak has proven himself one of the best of his generation, especially since his athleticism appears to have taken a leap forward, avoiding any impactful injury that plagued him through previous seasons at Newcastle and in Spain.

Liverpool are dreaming of completing this staggering signing, and if they play their cards right, the pieces might just fall into place.

He's like Gordon: Liverpool lead race for "explosive" £40m Diaz replacement

Liverpool boss Arne Slot will need to welcome a new winger into the fold if Luis Diaz is sold.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 7, 2025

Nottingham Forest could now look to sign an “unbelievable” forward as part of a swap deal for Morgan Gibbs-White, according to a report.

Gibbs-White could be heading for Nottingham Forest exit

It may have been a difficult task for Forest to keep hold of Gibbs-White even if they had secured qualification for next season’s Champions League, but having missed out on the top five, it now appears as though the midfielder could be heading for an exit.

The 25-year-old is now considered a dream signing for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, amid Martin Odegaard’s disappointing performances last season, while Manchester City are also considered frontrunners in the race for the Englishman.

The Tricky Trees are not willing to let their star player leave on the cheap, however, with the aforementioned report suggesting they could look to hold out for a fee of £100m for the maestro, who remains under contract until 2027.

A new report from Football Insider has also suggested that Nottingham Forest could agree a deal of a different nature, as they may look to sign Jack Grealish as part of a swap deal for Gibbs-White.

Having been left out of Pep Guardiola’s squad for the final game of the season, Grealish could be on his way out this summer, and a move to the City Ground is a possibility, with transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke adding: “Swap deals are notoriously hard in the Premier League, but we know Morgan Gibbs-White is a major target for Manchester City this summer.

Nottingham Forest make bid to sign "elegant" defender likened to Van Dijk

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side are working to strengthen their squad after a terrific season overall.

ByEmilio Galantini May 31, 2025

“If they get an offer which is too good to turn down, Forest might have to let him move to City… to work under Pep Guardiola… you’d probably be thinking that Forest will be looking to double their investment.

“Jack Grealish potentially is a swap deal – [that] might cause unrest if Forest were to break their budget to try and get Grealish in.”

"Unbelievable" Grealish could reignite career at Forest

The England international has been lauded as “unbelievable” courtesy of his contributions for the Three Lions in the past, but he has struggled to force his way into Guardiola’s plans as of late.

As such, it would make sense if City cash-in on their £100m signing this summer, and he could be a solid signing for Forest under Nuno Espirito Santo, if he is able to rediscover his previous form, with the winger often catching the eye during his time at Villa Park.

The 29-year-old was arguably at his best during his Aston Villa days, during which time he regularly contributed goals and assists in the Premier League.

Season

PL appearances

Goals

Assists

2019-20

36

8

6

2020-21

26

6

12

No Forest fan will want to see Gibbs-White leave this summer, and it could be a risk to sign Grealish, considering he hasn’t been a regular starter for quite some time, but his previous exploits for club and country indicate he is clearly a very talented player.

Liverpool are in the mix to complete the signing of a defensive midfielder who has been hailed as a “joy to watch” in Serie A.

Elliott linked with exit as Liverpool make contact for new midfielders

The Reds’ midfield has excelled this season, playing a big part in Arne Slot’s side winning the Premier League, with Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai the go-to trio in the middle of the park.

While other positions are more in need of new signings this summer, from left-back to centre forward, a new midfielder wouldn’t go amiss, especially if Harvey Elliott departs.

Rumours have suggested that that may be the case, with the 22-year-old himself hinting at it earlier this week: “It’s been hard with how much I’ve played. I’ve tried as hard as I could and whatever happens, happens. It’s about what’s best for my career. It’s about reflecting and seeing what I can do. I’m here at the moment and I’m focusing on the final game.”

An attacking midfielder who could be about to move to Anfield is Bayer Leverksuen star Florian Wirtz, with the Reds confident of signing the German international.

According to a report last month, Liverpool also made contact with Juventus midfielder Nicolo Rovella, who is currently on loan at fellow Serie A side Lazio.

Ryan Gravenberch

Liverpool

Moises Caicedo

Chelsea

Koke

Atletico Madrid

Billy Gilmour

Napoli

Leandro Paredes

AS Roma

Liverpool ramping up pressure on Lazio to sign Rovella

According to Il Messaggero [via Sport Witness], Liverpool remain in the mix to sign Rovella, with Aston Villa also interested in signing the 23-year-old. Manchester City showed interest in him during the January transfer window, but it is the Reds now putting pressure on to get a deal over the line ahead of next season.

Lazio are expected to make his temporary stay into a permanent one straight away this summer, but could then sell him on for profit if they do not make the Champions League this weekend, currently sitting two points adrift with one game to play.

Rovella stands out as an exciting option for Liverpool, proving to be a strong enforcer in front of the defence for Lazio this season.

The Italian has made 30 appearances in Serie A, averaging 2.6 tackles per game, with only Alexis Mac Allister (2.7) averaging more for the Reds in the Premier League in 2024/25. Meanwhile, scout Jacek Kulig has described him as a “joy to watch”.

As mentioned, there are more pressing areas of the pitch for Liverpool to focus on in the summer transfer window, but an out-and-out defensive midfielder could still provide Slot with more balance, coming in as a younger upgrade on Wataru Endo.

Appearances

32

Starts

30

Minutes played

2653

Goals

0

Assists

3

Tackles per game

2.6

Interceptions per game

1.5

Yellow cards

13

He could have a big decision to make regarding his future if Lazio cannot rescue a top four finish this weekend.

Arsenal have had some contact over signing an alternative to heavily-mooted striker target Viktor Gyokeres, according to reports, and it is believed the man in question would cost Andrea Berta a very affordable fee this summer.

Arsenal reportedly advancing on deal for Viktor Gyokeres

Multiple reports from Portugal this week indicate that the Gunners are making serious moves for Gyokeres already, with productive talks held ahead of Berta’s debut summer window at the Emirates.

Arsenal risk Huijsen repeat after Zubimendi update involving Real Madrid

The Gunners have already been hijacked by La Liga’s heavyweights.

ByEmilio Galantini May 16, 2025

A Bola even reports that Arsenal are ready to offer the 26-year-old a four-to-five-year contract worth around £135,000-per-week, as they look to tempt Gyokeres with a blockbuster Premier League move after his scintillating 50-goal campaign.

Primeira Liga

32

38

8

Champions League

8

6

Portuguese Cup

6

4

3

Allianz Cup

3

4

Supertaca

1

2

via Transfermarkt

That same outlet later shared information that Gyokeres has his “heart set” on a move to Arsenal, with Sporting demanding a fee of around £63 million to let their star striker leave, which comes as a major discount on his £84 million release clause.

Reports of this nature are understandably getting supporters excited, especially when factoring in Berta’s need to bring in a prolific centre-forward.

The former Coventry City star would be the ideal player to end Arsenal’s search for a proven front man, but the unpredictable nature of football transfer dealings means we cannot completely rule out the prospect of Mikel Arteta missing out on a move.

Chelsea are also on the look-out for a new striker, and there are suggestions of concerns within London Colney that their English counterparts could launch a hijack attempt by bidding closer to Gyokeres’ release clause (Corriere de Manha).

Some media sources suggest that Arteta actually prefers RB Leizpig starlet Benjamin Sesko to Gyokeres as well, so there could be many twists and turns still to come in Arsenal’s pursuit of a number nine.

Arsenal in contact over signing Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic

There are more alternatives to Gyokeres reportedly being considered by Arsenal, and one of them is Juventus star Dusan Vlahovic.

As per The Boot Room and journalist Graeme Bailey, Arsenal are in contact to be kept informed on Vlahovic’s situation, even if he’s further down on Berta’s shopping list.

The Serbia international has hit double figures over his last two campaigns at Juve, and four of his 14 strikes in all competitions this season have come in blockbuster Champions League encounters, so he’s an option capable of performing on the biggest stages.

Vlahovic, after failing to agree a new contract, is also free to depart Turin, and his agents have been reaching out to numerous Premier League sides, including Arsenal, in an attempt to find a new club.

What’s more, Juve could green-light his sale for just £25 million, making Vlahovic one of the potential bargains of the summer.

“I’ve been saying it for a long time,” said ex-Juve striker Roberto Boninsegna about Vlahovic.

“He’s strong, massive, he fills up front, he’s a reference, he’s a ‘left-footer’ full of courage. A good centre-forward.”

Liverpool fans have been left annoyed over the last week, after boyhood supporter Trent Alexander-Arnold announced he would be departing the club after a 20-year spell.

The right-back’s contract is set to expire at the end of June, but he will not sign a new deal, making him a free agent with the side unable to receive a fee for the academy graduate.

He’s racked up over 350 appearances for the Reds, but now looks set to make a move to join Real Madrid ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, subsequently strengthening one of their European rivals.

After Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk extended their own deals at Anfield, hope was held that the England international would follow suit, but ultimately it wasn’t meant to be.

Such a decision has given boss Arne Slot a huge job to fill the void of the 26-year-old, potentially dipping into the transfer market over the coming months.

Liverpool’s hunt for a right-back

Over the last couple of days, Liverpool have made an enquiry to sign Monaco star Vanderson to try and soften the blow of Trent’s pending departure this summer.

The Brazilian is said to be available for a fee in the region of £25m this summer, with the Ligue 1 outfit wanting to keep hold of one of their key performers.

However, the biggest target to date has been Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong, with interest in the Dutchman ramping up over the last couple of days.

It was reported that the 24-year-old has a £35m release clause within his deal at the Bundesliga giants, with his tally of four goals and five assists evidently catching the eye of boss Slot.

Despite the interest, there’s also another option that the manager could consider next season to soften the blow of the outgoing first-team regular.

The Liverpool star who could replace Trent next season

Conor Bradley will likely be the main player within the current first-team ranks to fill the gap next campaign, with the Northern Ireland international a player with huge potential at Anfield.

The 21-year-old has already made 26 appearances this season, even pocketing Kylian Mbappé in the Champions League, proving he has the quality to step up to the plate.

Curtis Jones is one player who’s also operated in such a position in the absence of the aforementioned duo, which could lead to another Red following suit upon the return from his loan.

Stefan Bajcetic, who’s primarily a midfielder, looked to be the club’s next big star a couple of years ago, but his progression had stagnated before his current stint at Las Palmas.

The 20-year-old was sent to the LaLiga outfit last summer to gain valuable first-team minutes and continue his progression – something which he’s achieved in recent months.

The Spaniard, who’s been labelled “exceptional” by former boss Jurgen Klopp, has made 13 appearances in the league to date, producing numerous impressive figures to date.

He’s managed to complete 75% of the passes he’s attempted, whilst completing 63% of the dribbles he’s made – handing Slot the marauding presence they will miss with Trent’s departure.

Games played

13

Minutes played

924

Pass accuracy

75%

Dribbles completed

63%

Tackles won

1.4

Duels won

6.4

Interceptions made

1.5

Bajcetic has also starred without the ball, winning 1.4 tackles per 90 and coming out on top in 6.4 duels – offering an added defensive presence to the backline.

His tally of 1.5 interceptions and 5.8 recoveries made also reaffirms the talents he possesses, saving the club millions if he can adapt to featuring out of position.

It would be an interesting decision for Slot to utilise the youngster next season, but he needs to give every player the opportunity to stake their claim for a place within his side next campaign.

Frimpong and Bradley will certainly be the supporters’ main options in such a role, but Bajcetic has the tools to offer key depth and options to the manager in such a department throughout 2025/26.

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West Ham continued their winless streak, losing 3-2 to Brighton at the Amex Stadium, making it now seven games without a victory. The Hammers, despite going 1-0 down early on, managed to claw it back, going 2-1 up in the 83rd minute, before conceding an 89th-minute equaliser and a 92nd-minute winner.

Graham Potter’s side held 47% possession in the game, creating two ‘big chances’, taking 12 shots, and generating 1.25 xG in total. Meanwhile, Brighton, having 53% possession, also managed to create two ‘big chances’, taking 16 shots and generating 1.35 xG.

Despite going without a win in the Premier League in their last seven games, West Ham are now safe due to Ipswich also losing against Newcastle, securing the Hammers’ safety. But that won’t dismiss the poor performances of certain individuals, who will likely be playing for their shirts in these final games of the season.

Jarrod Bowen's performance against Brighton

One man who didn’t disappoint with his performance was West Ham’s captain, Jarrod Bowen, who provided both assists against Brighton. The 28-year-old has made 32 appearances this campaign, scoring 10 goals and providing nine assists in his 2,805 minutes played.

Alongside his two assists, Bowen had two shots blocked in the game, provided four key passes from his 21 total passes attempted, created two ‘big chances’ and won two of his five ground duels, showing his effectiveness in the match despite only having 36 touches (fewer than Alphonse Areola in goal).

But despite a strong performance from Bowen, West Ham had more poor performances than good ones, with one man in particular standing out in this game after losing 100% of his duels.

The West Ham flop who lost 100% of their duels

Jean-Claire Todibo has struggled in his first season in England, losing his place in the side under previous manager, Julen Lopetegui, but earning a spot under Potter, starting eight of their last nine Premier League games and contributing to two clean sheets.

Minutes

90

Touches

60

Accurate Passes

46/50

Clearances

4

Blocked Shots

1

Dribbled Past

1

Ground Duels Won

0/3

Possession Lost

6

Successful Dribble Attempts

0/1

Alongside losing all three of his ground duels, Todibo also didn’t contest a single aerial duel in the match, lost possession six times, failed his only dribble attempt in the game, and was dribbled past once. He did manage to make four clearances and complete 46/50 passes, but the overall performance was not up to standard.

Todibo was awarded a 5/10 match rating by West Ham Zone, making him the joint-second lowest rated. West Ham have struggled defensively this campaign, conceding 58 goals in 34 games, so next season it will likely be a position they look to upgrade on for Potter’s squad.

The French defender is only currently on loan, but these last four games of the season could be key as the Hammers will then decide whether they want to keep hold of Todibo by activating his buy option and keeping him at the club next season.

For now, though, Potter must drop the flop from the starting line-up after his disappointing display, which even Bowen could not save with his two assists.

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