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Manchester United must axe below-par midfielder Andreas Pereira this summer as Ole Gunnar Solksjaer looks to build a title-winning squad.

What’s the story?

According to Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport (via Manchester Evening News), the 25-year-old could rejoin Lazio in the upcoming transfer window despite enjoying limited success throughout a season-long loan spell in Rome.

Pereira made just three Serie A starts in 2020/21, but the imminent arrival of Maurizio Sarri at the Stadio Olimpico may offer the Brazilian another chance to impress.

He’s been shocking

The creative talent has failed to establish himself at Old Trafford, making just 75 appearances for the English giants over a six-year period and scoring a paltry four goals.

Pereira has experienced several loan spells away from United with mixed success, but a fruitful 12-month stint with Valencia throughout 2017/18 showed the potential for the South American to make a successful career with the Red Devils.

However, he failed to replicate that form back in the Premier League and he now finds himself unwanted by Solksjaer as the Norwegian aims to return the 20-time English champions to the summit of European football.

Although United made solid progress last season, recording consecutive top-four finishes for the first time since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement, there is still a lot of work to be done before they can compete for major honours.

A group stage exit from the Champions League, a hugely disappointing defeat in the Europa League final and the 12-point gap to Premier League champions Manchester City all serve to illustrate the progress still to be made.

With resources expected to be limited due to the ongoing pandemic, United may have to raise some funds themselves in order to bring in the required talent needed to help them progress.

High-profile stars such as Jadon Sancho, Harry Kane and Raphael Varane have been linked with big-money moves in recent weeks, and the money generated from Pereira’s potential sale could help get those deals over the line.

The £30,000-per-week flop is currently valued at £7.2m by Transfermarkt, and adding that amount to the club’s transfer kitty by selling him would be a welcome boost for Solskjaer.

In other news…Man Utd must swoop for £18m-rated beast this summer, he has “outstanding quality” 

Leeds United are among the Premier League teams interested in signing Alex Scott this summer…

What’s the word?

That’s according to Football League World, who claim that the Yorkshire giants are now facing competition from Norwich City and Tottenham Hotspur for the 18-year-old’s signature following his impressive breakthrough at Championship outfit Bristol City.

Earlier this month, the Mirror reported that both the Whites and Spurs had scouts in attendance of the Robin’s Good Friday clash with Stoke City, where the promising teenager played the full game at right wing-back.

He is thought to be valued at around £10m.

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The next Jack Grealish?

The versatile talent is capable of playing in a variety of roles, including out wide as a wing-back or winger, though his best position is thought to be as a creative midfielder or no.10.

Born and signed from Guernsey, Scott has emerged as a key player for former Leicester City and Watford boss Nigel Pearson, having made 36 appearances in the second tier.

He has provided four goals and two assists from those matches, with the bulk coming from an attacking midfield position.

Given his sparkling form and capability to play wide and centrally, it’s no wonder the Bristol City gem has already earned plenty of comparisons to Manchester City and England star Jack Grealish, to who he is thought to be very similar to.

‘The Guernsey Grealish’ could be an intriguing option for Whites boss Jesse Marsch and the squad heading into next season and for just £10m, it could be quite the steal indeed.

Scott has more than held his own at Ashton Gate this term, ranking as Pearson’s seventh-best player in the Championship – an average of 1.6 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per game suggests he can do some defensive work, just as much as he likes to get forward, having also averaged 0.8 key passes and dribbles per outing too.

“Not only is he a very creative midfielder but he is incredibly hard-working, especially out of possession, and that’s one of his stand-out qualities,” claimed City’s player pathway manager Brian Tinnion to the BBC.

He also added in another interview: “His work rate and his desire to learn has been unbelievable.”

Whether Leeds will make their move for Scott this summer remains to be seen but the prospect of sealing the next Grealish-like talent for such a small figure should be too good to ignore.

AND in other news, Journo reveals where Leeds will look strengthen this summer…

West Ham aren’t likely to see Michail Antonio return to action before the end of the current season.

What’s the latest?

That’s according to the reliable ExWHUemployee, who provided a worrying update on the 31-year-old forward to supporters on Twitter this weekend.

In response to one question over the Hammers’ injured quartet, of which both Declan Rice and Aaron Cresswell are included, he revealed that most are due back but there are doubts over Antonio.

Hammer blow

The £10.8m-rated attacker picked up a hamstring problem after limping off in the win over Wolves earlier this month. The Guardian quickly revealed that it was worse than first feared and that he could miss the rest of the season.

Now, Ex’s latest update issues further concern over the chances of seeing Antonio back in action and this comes as a devastating blow to David Moyes and the Irons.

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The 5 foot 11 dynamo is his only recognised striker after the club failed to sign a replacement for Sebastien Haller, who departed for Ajax after just 18 months in East London.

Antonio has been a crucial part of the Hammers’ squad and their impressive season this far. And with the side pushing for European qualification, not having their only forward available is damaging to the chances of pulling off something quite sensational.

The former Forest star has scored seven goals and has provided five assists this term, a feat only bettered by Manchester United loanee Jesse Lingard, Tomas Soucek, and Jarrod Bowen, as per WhoScored.

Speaking on BT Sport back in February, former West Ham midfielder Joe Cole waxed lyrical about Antonio, he said: “I praise him [Moyes] and his staff a lot for the coaching of Antonio. He’s an unbelievable player now.” (Saturday 27th February, 12:04pm).

But Moyes cannot rely on him for more than 20 to 25 matches a season. As an explosive sort of player, he relies on his power and that’s been severely impacted by these recurring hamstring problems.

He was sorely missed against Newcastle and Chelsea, and is exactly the type of star they’ll need against Burnley next week.

This latest news will surely have Moyes and the rest of the Irons faithful gutted.

AND in other news, 1 shot, 1 dribble: £27m-rated West Ham star who lost 12 duels let Moyes down massively vs Chelsea…

Recent reports have claimed that Ruben Dias is set to sign a new deal at Manchester City, which would undoubtedly be a huge boost for Pep Guardiola.

What’s the word?

According to the Daily Star, Dias will be rewarded with a new contract worth £140k-per-week after his exceptional debut season at the Etihad Stadium, a significant increase on the £80k-p/w they claim he currently earns with the Citizens.

Despite the 24-year-old signing a six-year contract when he arrived from Benfica in a deal worth £65m last year, it seems clear that City are desperate to tighten their hold on the centre-back, who won the Premier League Player of the Season award for his performances in the 2020/21 campaign.

A huge boost for Guardiola?

Although it would’ve been nearly impossible for any club in world football to prise Dias away from Manchester City this summer or anytime soon, it will be good news for the Citizens if they can tie him down to a new improved contract, which will hopefully be another step towards keeping him at the Etihad for the majority of his career.

Last season saw the Portugal international make 32 appearances in the Premier League for City, contributing one goal and averaging a solid 6.91 rating from WhoScored for his performances.

His partnership with John Stones at centre-back was key to City’s success in the Premier League, whilst he produced some exceptional displays in the Champions League to help them reach the final against Chelsea.

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After a memorable display in the semi-final second leg against PSG, where he seemed determined to block every single shot from Mauricio Pochettino’s side, talkSPORT host Andy Goldstein sang his praises, saying: “Ruben Dias, my goodness what a defender he is. Is he the best defender in the Premier League?

“I think he is. I think he’s better than Virgil van Dijk. I think he’s fantastic. This Ruben Dias is a rock. He will die for the badge.”

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Therefore, it can only be good news for Guardiola if Dias commits to a new improved deal with Manchester City. If his performances in his debut season are anything to go by, the Portugal centre-back could be a key player at the Etihad for the next decade.

In other news… Guardiola dealt cruel Man City blow over “very special” gem, fans will be gutted

Everton move into the final months of the transfer window needing to find more bodies to improve their ranks.

Rafa Benitez’s primary goal will be to get the Toffees back into European football but that won’t happen with further signings.

What’s the word?

One area Everton have looked to improve this summer is in the middle of the park.

They’ve been linked with a number of midfielders from Yves Bissouma to Andre-Frank Zambo-Anguissa.

Another man who could arrive at Goodison Park is Sheffield United’s Sander Berge.

Everton have been interested in the Norwegian for a good few months now as they hope to take advantage of the Blades’ relegation. However, they may have to pay in the region of £35m.

Speaking to Football Transfer Tavern this week, Michael Ball seemed to think a deal could happen.

He said: “It could be on the back-burner. Everton will want to see how Jean-Philippe Gbamin gets on with his fitness levels and it also depends on the futures of Allan and Andre Gomes, along with Tom Davies possibly.

“I think Everton have probably reached out to all the targets they would like to bring in and found out the financial packages from Sheffield United and the player.”

Gomes upgrade

Andre Gomes is one of a number of Everton stars linked with the exit door in recent weeks.

The Portuguese dynamo was disappointing towards the back end of the campaign, appearing incredibly weak and feeble in defensive duels. He won just six tackles in his final nine matches of the Premier League season for instance.

Although Berge won 0.2 fewer tackles per game than Gomes over the entire season at 1.1, his last nine matches showed more promising signs.

The Norway international has only played twice in 2021 but in those previously mentioned outings, he won nine challenges successfully.

Described as “unique” and “complete” by Chris Wilder, Berge would also bring an element of composure that was lacking to Gomes in the final stages of the 2020/21 season.

The Everton midfielder completed 85.3% of his passes while the Toffees target registered a success rate of 85.6%. His Nations League tally was even better at 88.5%.

What also sets Berge apart is his ability to drive forward and carry the ball. For his country, he registered a whopping 3.3 dribbles per game in the Nations League but Gomes managed just 1.1 per match in the Premier League.

On that evidence, it’s clear to see why he’d be a huge upgrade. Marcel Brands must do his best to conclude a deal in the final weeks of the market.

AND in other news, Everton can seal best deal since Lukaku with “electric” £36m star who’s “unstoppable”…

According to a report by reliable West Ham United insider ExWHUemployee, via West Ham Fan Zone, manager David Moyes will look to sign a centre-back, left-back and central midfielder after he has acquired a striker this summer – prompting these Irons to become ecstatic in response.

West Ham failed to sign a striker in the January transfer window as a replacement for the departed club record signing Sebastien Haller, with Moyes only having time to bring in Jesse Lingard on loan.

Therefore, one of the Hammers’ top priorities for this upcoming transfer window is a new forward to bolster Moyes’ frontline – but, according to ExWHUemployee, the Scotsman won’t stop there.

Indeed, Ex claims that the West Ham manager will look to strengthen at centre-half, the left-back position and central midfield as well as going forward – with these supporters ecstatic in response to this alleged transfer plan.

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Find a flavour of their best verdicts from social media down below.

West Ham fans ecstatic over Moyes transfer plan

“Ah this is just class. Love you Moyesy”

Credit: @TalkinWestHam

“Solid plan”

Credit: @Theaver78395742

“Love you Moyesy”

Credit: @TWHU77

“Said this last week to my mates, that’s exactly what we need, a centre back with some pace, a left back as cress isn’t getting any younger and Arthur isn’t the best defender, and a back up midfielder as this was proven, think we also need another keeper”

Credit: @JJ_Hannaway

“Yes to all”

Credit: @Johnath03607801

“Love that. We need a CB as I don’t think Dawson and Diop are good enough, Cresswell needs competition because Masuaku is always injured and we need a midfielder so Rice and Soucek won’t have to play early the early European and cup games”

Credit: @DanielLuker_

In other news: West Ham fans erupt over Lingard news, find out more here.

Leeds United have made an offer for Celtic starlet Matthew Anderson as Graham Smyth drops a major transfer update.

What’s the story?

The Yorkshire Evening Post journalist has now revealed that the Whites have made a bid for the 17-year-old, who they want to add to the Thorp Arch ranks this summer.

Smyth added: “The Whites’ first team recruitment will take priority, however, before attention can turn fully to what they need below the senior squad.”

One for Leeds’ future

At only 17, Anderson won’t be someone to come straight in to Marcelo Bielsa’s first team and immediately command a place in the Premier League. However, given the kind of player he has been described as, and the rave reviews he has earned, he seems destined for the top.

As per Leeds Live, Anderson is “a dynamic and attack-minded full-back who could provide a real attacking outlet on the Whites left flank for years to come. The Whites, who also hold an interest in another Hoops youngster Leo Hjelde, reportedly feel Anderson could be an invaluable addition the Thorp Arch ranks this summer.”

Blantyre Soccer Academy chief Jimmy Whelan has talked highly of the potential that the teenager has, even comparing him to an already established Premier League star. He said: “It’s fantastic for us as a club, and it’s great to see Matthew doing so well. He really is one to watch, he is the real deal, and could be like Kieran Tierney.”

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While big-money signings and high-profile additions will naturally get fans excited, bringing in young talent who could end up being superstars in years to come is a strategy which can capture the imagination too.

As a young, “attack-minded” full-back, the 17-year-old Anderson is the kind of signing which will surely have Bielsa excited at the prospect of moulding him into one of the Premier League’s finest. The Leeds manager must duly be buzzing with Smyth’s latest transfer update.

Meanwhile, Bielsa can finally wave goodbye to this man…

Kalvin Phillips is now expected to be fit for Leeds United’s Premier League clash with Southampton on Saturday, according to journalist Phil Hay.

The Lowdown: Leeds head to Saints

The Whites return to domestic duties with a trip to St Mary’s this afternoon, looking to build on their 1-0 win at home to Watford before the international break.

Marcelo Bielsa’s men will have to perform well to pick up all three points against Saints, though, with victory taking them further clear of the relegation zone.

Defeat will see Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side overtake Leeds, however, highlighting the importance of the match at the bottom of the table.

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The Latest: Phillips could be available

With kickoff fast approaching, The Athletic‘s Hay has provided a promising injury update regarding Phillips on Saturday morning.

He had stated earlier in the week that the midfielder had a ‘chance’, now upgrading that to a ‘good chance’ of playing at St Mary’s in this 12-word update:

“Kalvin Phillips is in with a good chance after his calf strain.”

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The Verdict: Potential huge boost

There is a strong argument to say that Phillips is Leeds’ most important player, dominating midfield battles with his tenacity off the ball and quality on it, averaging an 84.6 percent pass completion rate in the league this season.

If the 25-year-old is fit to start, it will be an immediate boost for Bielsa, who will be aware that his team’s season needs to get back on track.

In other news, Leeds could be able to sign one rumoured transfer target in January. Read more here.

Everton’s Jean-Philippe Gbamin could be offered a way out of his Merseyside nightmare after Fenerbahce were linked with a move for the midfielder.

What’s the story?

According to Turkish publication Takvim the Super Lig giants are reportedly interested in bringing Gbamin to the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium over the winter window.

The report doesn’t name a prospective price tag for the 26-year-old, although with his current contract not expiring until the summer of 2024, the Toffees will be hopeful of recouping a large chunk of the £25m they paid for his services two years ago.

Fans should be delighted

Gbamin arrived on English shores back in August 2019 after cultivated a reputation for being an effective holding midfielder throughout his time in the Bundesliga with Mainz 05.

The Ivory Coast international scored three goals and registered four assists in 95 appearances for the German outfit, catching the eye in a range of different areas.

He became renowned for intelligent play from the Mainz engine room while also being capable of supporting attacks through his dazzling dribbling skills, long-range shooting and impeccable range of passing.

However, things have not gone to plan for Gbamin during his time at Everton. The midfielder has missed 619 days of football since signing after enduring numerous years of injury hell. Consequently, he managed just 135 minutes of Premier League action in his maiden campaign at Goodison Park.

A serious hamstring issue was the Ivorian’s first setback before an Achilles tendon problem instantly followed, condemning him to a lengthy spell on the treatment table once again.

After making his comeback in April against Crystal Palace, he was consigned to the sidelines once again after spending just 11 minutes on the pitch for Carlo Ancelotti’s side.

Proceedings do look more encouraging for Gbamin this season, however. He completed 90 minutes against Huddersfield Town in the Carabao Cup a few months ago, providing hope that he can start to put a miserable chapter of his career behind him.

Nevertheless, a large section of Everton fans will surely be delighted to learn that the midfielder could be set for pastures new over the coming months.

After all, Everton are currently restricted by financial fair play and need to free up as much room on the wage bill as possible. James Rodriguez’s departure has allowed for some extra wriggle room but Gbamin leaving as well would allow Marcel Brands and co to flex their financial muscles a little more.

His arrival offered much promise, but it’s just been setback after setback for the unfortunate maestro, and the Blues may be best off cutting their losses before any more damage is done.

And, in other news…Everton increasingly likely to sign £187k-p/w gem, fans surely buzzing 

Queens Park Rangers are open to sanctioning Niko Hamalainen’s departure from the Kiyan Prince Foundation Stadium this summer.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to a report by West London Sport, who claimed that, following the arrival of Norwich City left-back Sam McCallum on a season-long loan deal, the 24-year-old no longer features in Mark Warburton’s first team plans for next season.

The report added that, as a result of Warburton’s newly acquired option at left-back, the 58-year-old is now more than happy for the defender to leave the club this summer and will not be standing in his way if an acceptable offer is made, despite QPR awarding Hamalainen a new four-year deal only last October.

Finally, it is claimed that a move away from England appears most likely for the Finland international this summer, with clubs in Scotland and the USA being made aware of his availability on the transfer market.

Hamalainen must go

Having arrived at QPR from FC Dallas back in 2014, and subsequently going on to feature only 29 times for the club over this seven-year spell, it is quite clear from the outside looking in that Hamalainen is simply not good enough to be Warburton’s first choice at left-back.

Indeed, the 24-year-old failed to make any real impression over his 22 Championship appearances for the Rs last season, helping his side to keep just four clean sheets, along with averaging one interception, 1.2 tackles, 1.5 clearances and winning 2.7 duels per game.

The £450,000-rated man also offered nothing in attack for QPR, failing to score, provide an assist or create a big chance for his teammates, as well as losing possession of the ball 14.7 times per league game.

These returns saw the left-back, who himself claimed he is “hungry” for success, earn a disappointing seasonal SofaScore match rating of 6.60, ranking him as the club’s fourth-worst performer in the second tier of English football.

As such, it comes are no surprise whatsoever that Warburton is looking to move Hamalainen on this summer, as this would appear a highly advisable action to take. However, the question must be asked as to why the club felt the need to offer the £1,900-per-week defender a new four-year deal as recently as last autumn.

In other news: Warburton set to seal QPR deal for “terrific” £7.5k-p/w gem, fans should be worried