Aston Villa are thought to be in talks to sign two Barcelona players this summer, according to a new report.

Aston Villa looking to overturn two-goal deficit against PSG

The Villans and Unai Emery suffered defeat in their Champions League quarter-final first leg against Paris Saint-Germain on Wednesday evening. After going ahead thanks to a first-half goal from Morgan Rogers, Villa fell to a 3-1 loss and have it all to do at Villa Park on Tuesday night.

Goals from Desire Doue, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Nuno Mendes have given the Ligue 1 giants the advantage, however, talking after the game, Emery was in a defiant mood.

“The last goal is a little bit disappointing for us because it was in the last minute but it is not changing much, or our belief.

“It is not changing a lot because at 2-1 we were thinking, in the next match, we have to play to win. With 3-1, it is still the same. We need to win the next match, and not only [score] one goal but [at least] two. We were close to getting a good result.

“At the end with this goal it is still more or less the same because we still need to win next week. Villa Park is our home and hopefully we can be stronger and win more of our duels. They showed their power and individual qualities. The result is not the best but it’s not the worst. There are still 90 minutes to play, a second leg, and maybe extra time.”

Offer made: Aston Villa make approach to sign £12.5m "generational talent"

The Villans have now moved ahead of Manchester City in the race for his signature.

By
Dominic Lund

Apr 9, 2025

Villa are also competing in the Premier League to finish in one of five Champions League places for next season, so there are plenty of big games coming up.

Away from the pitch, though, Monchi, Villa’s president of football operations, appears to be working on possible summer signings, and a double deal from La Liga leaders Barcelona appears to be of interest to Villa.

Aston Villa in talks to sign two Barcelona players after Emery green light

According to reports from Spain, Aston Villa and Monchi have initiated talks to sign Barcelona duo Marc Casado and Andreas Christensen.

Emery has given the green light to deals for the pair as he is ‘convinced that both players can raise the team’s competitive level and establish the club among the best in the Premier League’.

It is claimed that Christensen could leave if an offer in the region of €20m, whereas Casado appears to be surplus to requirements under Hansi Flick. Christensen has experience of the Premier League after a previous stint with Chelsea and can play as a centre-back or even as a holding midfielder if required.

Meanwhile, Casado can play as a holding or central midfielder and is still only 21 years of age after coming through the famous La Masia academy.

A Spain international, Casado is currently out through injury, but by the looks of things, a double deal for the midfielder and a return to England for Christensen is on the cards.

After such a below-par campaign by their usual high standards, Manchester City have a huge summer on their hands to right the wrongs of recent months.

Pep Guardiola’s side could still end the season in a top-four spot in the Premier League, subsequently securing Champions League football, whilst also having the opportunity to win another FA Cup trophy.

However, if they are to return to the summit of the division next time around, it’s pivotal that the hierarchy back the manager in the transfer market to make the additions he needs.

Over the years, the board haven’t been afraid to splash the cash, as seen last January, when they forked out over £150m on new talent to combat the early-season slump in form.

Such high spending could be set to continue this summer, with one player already high on their list of targets to bolster the current first-team squad at the Etihad.

Man City favourites land £87m sensation this summer

According to TBR, City are favourites to land Bayer Leverkusen’s star man Florian Wirtz this summer, but face stiff competition from multiple other Premier League clubs.

Arsenal, Liverpool and Chelsea are all credited with an interest in landing the 21-year-old star who’s managed to notch nine goals and 10 assists in his 25 Bundesliga outings this season.

It’s not the first time the Citizens have pushed to land the German international, with Guardiola also targeting the youngster last summer, but to no avail, with this summer offering a fresh opportunity.

The report states that Wirtz is valued at £87m, with City huge admirers of the attacking midfielder as seen by their tireless attempts to persuade him to move to England.

Whilst it would be yet another huge sum splashed out by the hierarchy, it’s a superb investment in a star who’s only going to get better, also offering an upgrade on one talent set to depart the Etihad.

Why Wirtz is a bigger star than De Bruyne for City

City’s task of returning to the top of England’s top flight next season was dealt another blow after it was confirmed that Kevin De Bruyne would depart the club at the end of the season.

The Belgian has spent the last decade in Manchester, making over 400 appearances and notching over 250 combined goals and assists – arguably being one of the best midfielders to ever grace the Premier League.

It’s been a tricky few years for the 33-year-old, struggling to meet the high standards he’s set for himself, with numerous injuries plaguing his progress at the Etihad.

However, his pending departure opens up another issue for the manager to solve this summer, with a move for Wirtz doing just that whilst also landing a star who can develop further in the years ahead.

His goal and assist tally from the ongoing season are evidence of the talent he possesses, undoubtedly being a bigger star than De Bruyne in the present day.

When comparing their respective figures from this season, the German has massively outperformed the Belgian, highlighting what a phenomenal addition he would be despite the mammoth price tag.

The Leverkusen star, who’s been labelled a “superstar” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has registered 11 more combined goals and assists than the Belgian, whilst also achieving a higher shot-on-target accuracy rate – showcasing the threat he poses in the final third.

Games played

25

21

Goals & assists

19

8

Progressive carries

5

2.9

Shot-on-target accuracy

45%

28%

Pass accuracy

80%

76%

Through balls completed

1.1

0.6

Take-on success

53%

37%

He’s also managed to register more through balls completed per 90, whilst also achieving a higher take-on success rate, highlighting the creativity he’s capable of producing – filling the void of the departing midfielder.

£87m for a star who could cement his place at the heart of the side for the next decade is a deal worth exploring, with Guardiola getting himself one of Europe’s biggest young stars.

De Bruyne’s move away from the Etihad is one that will leave fans worried, but Wirtz has showcased he has all of the tools to fill the void, whilst also providing an upgrade given the stats produced in the past 12 months.

De Bruyne 2.0: Man City chasing £50m star who's "similar to Bellingham"

Man City will need to find a replacement for their outgoing legend

ByJoe Nuttall Apr 8, 2025

Liverpool football club has been the home to countless attacking talents over the years, helping numerous managers claim various levels of success at Anfield.

Roberto Firmino will undoubtedly go down as one of the most underrated strikers in Premier League history, thriving beyond all imagination on Merseyside after joining from Hoffenheim back in 2015.

The Brazilian forward managed to notch a total of 111 goals in his 362 appearances for the club, helping the side win the Premier League back in 2020 under former boss Jürgen Klopp.

However, fast forward to the present day, current manager Arne Slot lacks that centre-forward presence, with current options Darwin Núñez and Diogo Jota likely to be moved on during the summer.

Such dealings would leave a huge hole at the top end of the pitch, which would see the Dutchman need to dip into the transfer market to bolster his forward line during the transfer window.

The latest on Liverpool’s hunt for a new striker this summer

Given the achievements Liverpool have claimed in 2024/25, it’s no surprise to see countless players linked with a switch to join the club to aid their ambitions of replicating the success next season.

Jonathan David, Viktor Gyokeres and Victor Osimhen have all been linked with a move to join the Reds over the last couple of weeks – with all three undoubtedly offering Slot a new dimension in the final third.

However, another name has been thrown into the mix, in the form of Brighton and Hove Albion talisman Joao Pedro, that’s if Ben Jacobs’ latest update is to be believed.

He states that the hierarchy has been monitoring the 23-year-old star, who’s netted ten goals for Fabian Hurzeler’s outfit across all competitions this campaign.

Jacobs also confirmed that the Brazilian star has constantly impressed behind the scenes, which could lead to a move being prepared ahead of the upcoming window.

Why Liverpool’s latest target would be Slot's own Firmino

Given Liverpool’s hunt for a new striker, Pedro isn’t the only name to be linked with a switch to Merseyside, with Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitiké another name previously mentioned.

The 22-year-old has been an all-round threat in the Bundesliga this year, notching 33 combined goals and assists in his 46 appearances for the German side.

Such form has put multiple clubs on red alert, including the Reds, with the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal also previously in the race to land his signature.

However, Ekitike could cost a small fortune during the summer, with Frankfurt demanding a fee in the region of £80m to part ways with the French international.

When comparing his stats to those of Pedro throughout 2024/25, the Brighton gem has managed to match or better him in numerous key areas – potentially being Slot’s own Firmino, given the Brazilian connection, but also their similar playstyle.

The Seagulls star, who’s been labelled “sensational” by talent scout Antonio Mango, may have registered fewer combined goals and assists, but has notched a higher shot-on-target rate, thus able to follow his compatriot given his clinical edge in attacking areas.

He’s also completed more passes into the final third, whilst winning more aerial duels – handing Slot a superb option like Firmino given Pedro’s ability to drop into pockets whilst still offering a threat in the 18-yard box.

Games played

27

31

Goals & assists

16

22

Progressive passes

3.6

1.9

Shot-on-target accuracy

38%

37%

Passes into final third

1.9

0.8

Aerials won

48%

47%

Fouls won

2.1

0.5

Pedro has also completed more through balls per 90, allowing the likes of Mohamed Salah and Luis Diaz to further improve their own tallies, which will certainly bolster the chances of retaining the Premier League.

Whilst both options would be stellar signings for the Reds this summer, it’s clear that the Brighton star would be the better out of the two names – already having the experience of featuring in England’s top-division.

It’s unclear how much a deal would set the hierarchy back, but it would be worth every penny, having all the tools to emulate Firmino’s success on Merseyside and take the side to new heights.

He's just like Alvarez: Liverpool make contact to sign the 'world's best'

Liverpool could be about to land a star who could make them forget about Julian Alvarez.

ByEthan Lamb May 9, 2025

This summer is a fresh start for Everton, having the opportunity to create a new era for the football club upon their move to the new Bramley-Moore Dock Stadium.

For the last couple of years, the side have been constantly in the bottom half of the Premier League table, often having to rely on last-day relegation battles.

However, David Moyes has returned to the club and turned their fortunes around, losing just twice in the league to Manchester City and Merseyside rivals Liverpool.

If the Scotsman is to take the club to the next level in 2025/26, the hierarchy desperately needs to hand him the funds he needs to make the changes he desires to the first-team squad.

With the summer transfer window just around the corner, it appears the board have wasted no time in identifying players to make the first season at the new stadium one to remember.

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

There’s no denying the striker role has been a constant issue at Goodison Park, with the Toffees desperately needing to address such an issue in the coming months.

Former Arsenal star Mika Biereth has emerged as one player on their shortlist, starring after his January move to join French outfit Monaco, scoring 12 times in his 13 league games since his transfer.

However, it remains unclear how much they will have to fork out for his signature, given he joined the Ligue 1 side for a reported £15m less than four months ago.

Another name has reemerged on their list of targets, in the form of Chris Rigg, who has starred in the Championship with Sunderland at the tender age of just 17.

According to Football Insider, the Toffees are leading the race for his signature, with the Black Cats demanding a whopping £38m to part ways with the talent this summer.

Why the £38m star could be Everton’s biggest star since Rooney

Wayne Rooney will remain one of the best talents to ever come out of Everton, after bursting onto the scene in the first-team as a 16-year-old back in 2002.

It was unheard of for a player of that age to make such an impact on the first team, scoring his first professional goal against Arsenal – in spectacular fashion too.

His first spell at Goodison Park saw him make 35 appearances, scoring eight goals, leading to a huge move to an English giant that would catapult him to stardom throughout his professional career.

Rooney eventually joined Manchester United for a fee in the region of £25.6m during the summer of 2004, before returning to his boyhood club for a second spell between 2017 and 2018.

However, a move for Rigg this window could allow the club to land a star who could be as talented as Rooney, undoubtedly set for huge things at the top level given his achievements as a teenager.

The Sunderland ace has already notched 67 appearances for the Black Cats since his debut in January 2023, cementing himself as a first-team regular in their hunt for Championship promotion.

He’s notched four goals and one assist in his 40 league outings to date, creating 1.2 chances per 90 for his teammates – showcasing the threat he poses in attacking areas.

Rigg has also completed 1.2 successful dribbles per 90, along with an 80% pass success rate, having the tools to transform their fortunes within the final third throughout 2024/25.

Games played

40

Goals & assists

5

Pass completion rate

80%

Successful dribbles

1.2

Chances created

1.2

Duels won

5.1

Tackles won

57%

Whilst he’s mainly an attacking player, he’s also starred out of possession, winning 5.1 duels per game along with a 57% tackle success rate – having the ability to improve massively in the future, given his tender age.

It’s been a long time since the Toffees have had a talent as good as Rooney, but Rigg could finally end their wait, having the skill set to be a key player on Merseyside for many years to come.

£38m may appear to be a mammoth fee for such a young star, but given the figures he’s produced coupled with his potential, it’s a risk worth taking, with Moyes reaping the rewards in the Premier League should he make the move in the coming months.

Outscoring Salah in 2025: Everton chasing DCL upgrade who's "like Haaland"

Moyes needs to strengthen Everton’s frontline this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 22, 2025

Birmingham City did not fancy sticking it out in League One for the foreseeable as Chris Davies’ Blues soared to the third-tier title in some style.

Amazingly, the West Midlands giants have now set a new EFL points record at the very top of the League One tree, with a mighty 111 points accumulated across the memorable campaign coming about off the back of a very impressive 34 victories.

Jay Stansfield, of course, has had a big part to play in Birmingham’s unbelievable success story, with the ex-Fulham man hopeful he can keep his potent exploits coming in the Championship next season.

Stansfield's key role in Birmingham's promotion

It would have been a major letdown if Stansfield was anything but spectacular for Davies’ men with Birmingham splashing significant wads of cash to lure him to the fallen giants.

A fee around the £15m mark doesn’t look too steep now, though, considering the 22-year-old has helped himself to a hefty 24 goals in all competitions this campaign from 46 total contests, with 19 of those strikes coming in the league as Birmingham romped home to the title.

Stansfield does have Championship experience already on his side as Davies and Co navigate the step-up too, with 12 goals already tallied up in the difficult division from 45 clashes, meaning the clinical number 28 shouldn’t suddenly lose his Midas touch in front of goal.

But, Birmingham will know their firepower needs to be improved somewhat – away from just relying on Stansfield’s magic – so they can compete with the top dogs in their path, with a statement move already reportedly on the cards to bring back a former Blues forward who is arguably even better than the standout 22-year-old.

Birmingham interested in move for "terrific" attacker

There is also Alfie May waiting in the wings for a shot at second-tier glory, with the experienced EFL head chipping in with 16 league goals of his own for Davies’ men.

But, Birmingham would not turn down the opportunity to bring back former gem Che Adams if they could – away from the star power they already possess – with Football Insider recently revealing that a ‘blockbuster switch’ was being worked on to try and tempt the current Torino striker back to his familiar St. Andrew’s surroundings.

After all, the Scotland international has proven himself to be a reliable source of goals playing in Turin since a summer switch from Southampton, with the 28-year-old not fazed by the bright lights of the Serie A at all when collecting ten goals from 35 appearances.

Transfer Focus

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

Expand Collapse

Yet, whilst it’s clearly impressive that the “terrific” attacker – as he’s been labelled by pundit Ally McCoist recently – has acclimatised to Italian life well, Birmingham will be pushing ahead to make this deal a reality based off his reputation for being a goal machine in the EFL, particularly in the punishing division Davies’ men are reentering into.

Adams’ G/A record in the Championship by season

Season

Club played for

Games

Goals

Assists

23/24

Southampton

40

15

4

18/19

Birmingham

46

22

5

17/18

Birmingham

30

5

2

16/17

Birmingham

40

7

6

Sourced by Transfermarkt

Adams has, after all, collected 34 of his 49 career Championship goals when donning Birmingham blue, with the 28-year-old’s 15-goal heroics during the 2023/24 season enough to help then manager Russell Martin clinch promotion with Southampton.

Stansfield has some catching up to do in this department, with the Blues hotshot only on that aforementioned tally of 12 strikes at the difficult level, but his game could be elevated to the next level lining up next to the Torino number 18.

This will be a fascinating transfer tale to watch unfold, with Birmingham capable of flexing their muscles once more if a move is reached to re-sign their lethal former number nine ahead of a new Championship adventure.

Related Wagner means business: Sky journalist drops exciting Birmingham transfer plan

The Blues are not messing around…

Posts ByTom Cunningham May 1, 2025

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.

Dream Frimpong alternative: Liverpool make enquiry for "world-class" star

Liverpool could forget about Jeremie Frimpong with a move for another defensive star.

ByEthan Lamb May 10, 2025

Wolverhampton Wanderers have achieved what they set out to do after appointing Vitor Pereira as manager in December 2024 – avoid relegation from the Premier League.

The Old Gold are on an excellent run of form that has seen them win their previous four league matches, taking them further away from the drop zone in the process.

Pereira will now be thinking ahead to the summer transfer window and just exactly how he can bolster his team for the 2025/26 season. There is no doubt that he has a squad capable of pushing towards the top half of the league table next season, although that much might depend on whether he can keep several key players.

Will Matheus Cunha depart in the summer? If so, the manager might have to spend big in order to find a suitable replacement.

In the January transfer window, Periera brought in players such as Emmanuel Agbadou, Marshall Munetsi and Nasser Djiga. Two of these signings were defenders, and it looks as though the Molineux side are targeting another centre-back when the window finally opens in a couple of months.

Wolves want to sign Ligue 1 defender

According to French news outlet Foot Mercato, AJ Auxerre defender Clement Akpa is beginning to attract plenty of attention after enjoying an excellent campaign for the Ligue 1 side.

Transfer Focus

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

Wolves are just one team who are keen on the Ivory Coast international, with interest also coming from the likes of Everton, Eintracht Frankfurt, Hoffenheim, and VfB Stuttgart monitoring his performances of late.

An asking price hasn’t been stated yet, but given their situation, Auxerre won’t be able to resist any team making a decent offer for the player.

The Old Gold have enjoyed plenty of success shopping in the French top flight since they were promoted back to the Premier League in 2018.

Jean-Ricner Bellegarde and Boubacar Traore moved from France on permanent deals in the summer of 2023, while Mario Lemina and Pablo Sarabia linked up with the club in January 2023.

Arguably, the best signing from France, however, was that of Rayan Ait-Nouri, especially given the impact the defender has had in the Midlands.

Rayan Ait-Nouri’s Wolves statistics

Wolves signed Ait-Nouri from Angers on a permanent deal ahead of the 2021/22 campaign following a successful loan spell at Molineux.

“He proved last season that he’s a very talented player, with lots of potential – I thought he did well and kicked on towards the end of the season,” Wolves technical director Scott Sellars said, and the move has turned out extraordinarily well.

Indeed, the Algerian has since gone on to make over 150 competitive appearances for Wolves, registering 28 goal contributions in the process. Not a bad total for a left-back, that’s for sure.

Ait-Nouri has been highly influential for Wolves in the Premier League this term. His ten goal contributions – four goals and six assists – is his best in a single campaign for the club, showcasing his effectiveness in the final third.

The 23-year-old has also won 55% of his total duels contested in the top flight, along with making 2.5 tackles and recovering 4.2 balls per game. His all-around abilities have ensured he can contribute whether Wolves have possession or not.

Rayan Ait-Nouri’s career statistics at Wolves
Season	Games	Goals	Assists
2023/24	38	3	4
2022/23	27	2	1
2021/22	27	1	4
2020/21	24	1	1
Via Transfermarkt

Ait-Nouri has also been attracting interest from elsewhere due to these impressive displays and it won’t be long before the club decide to cash in.

Could Akpa become the next version of the current Old Gold star? A player with immense potential who goes on to become a key player at the club?

Why Wolves want to sign Clement Akpa

Akpa has missed just three Ligue 1 games for Auxerre this season in what is their first season back in the top flight after winning Ligue 2 in 2023/24.

The club have exceeded expectations and currently sit 11th in the table and have even defeated Marseille twice while holding champions PSG to a 0-0 draw during the first half of the season.

Akpa has played a big part in this success throughout the current season. In Ligue 1, the 23-year-old defender has been a rock at the back. Not only has he won 64% of his total duels in the league this term, but the centre-back also lost possession just eight times while making two tackles and 1.3 interceptions per game for Auxerre.

When compared to his positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues, Akpa’s defensive qualities are further highlighted.

Indeed, he ranks in the top 8% for tackles (2.2), in the top 17% for interceptions (1.47) and in the top 18% for blocks (1.6) per 90 across the previous 365 days for his club.

Elsewhere, the youngster also ranks in the top 15% for progressive carries (1.08) per 90 when compared next to his peers, and it proves that while he is superb at the heart of the defence, Akpa is also able to bring the ball out of his own half with ease in order to start attacks.

French journalist Sebastien Denis hailed the player as a “defensive revelation” amid his superb season for Auxerre, and he could be a solid signing for Wolves this summer.

The likelihood is, Ait-Nouri may well be sold in order to secure a major profit on the former Angers starlet. If so, Pereira will have funds to spend this summer as he targets a top-half finish in the Premier League.

Akpa could go on to become Ait-Nouri 2.0 should he move from Ligue 1 to the Premier League in the next few months.

He still has to hit his peak, while exposure in one of the best leagues in the world will allow the defender to go from strength to strength.

Much will depend on the fee that Auxerre demand for one of their prized assets, but if Pereira makes a decent offer, he could snap him up sooner rather than later.

"Unbelievable" £10k-a-week Wolves player is expected to leave this summer

Would this be a blow for Vitor Pereira?

By
Henry Jackson

Apr 18, 2025

It’s no secret what Arsenal’s biggest weakness has been this season: their attack.

Injuries and poor form have seen Chelsea, Manchester City and Liverpool all score more goals than Mikel Arteta’s side in the Premier League.

Yet, for everything that’s gone wrong this year, the Gunners have still got the best defensive record in the competition, largely thanks to the incredible centre-back partnership of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes.

Unfortunately, the pairing could soon be broken apart, with Real Madrid now upping the ante in their pursuit of the Frenchman.

However, it’s not necessarily all doom and gloom, as recent reports have linked Arsenal with another sensational centre-back who could prove to be a perfect replacement.

Transfer Focus

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

Arsenal's search for Saliba's successor

Because he has been performing at such a high level for a considerable period now, Saliba has long been linked with Real Madrid.

However, a recent report from French outlet L’Equipe has claimed that the Arsenal ace is now one of Los Blancos’ primary targets and someone they want to come in and lead the defence next season.

Losing the Bondy-born monster would undoubtedly be a massive setback for the North Londoners, but if they can secure the previously reported £86m for his services, then they can at least go out and look for a replacement.

In fact, that appears to be what they are doing already, as, according to a recent report from transfers expert Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have maintained their strong interest in Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen, who is “the most in-demand centre-back in the world” in the words of data analyst Ben Mattinson.

Alongside the Gunners, Romano has revealed that Liverpool and Chelsea are also in the “race to sign” the Spanish international, who has a £50m release clause in his current contract.

It might be a lot to spend on a youngster, but given his ability and immense potential, it would be worth it, especially as he could be the ideal Saliba replacement.

Why Huijsen would be a great Saliba replacement

If Arsenal can get ahead of the chasing pack and sign Huijsen in the coming weeks and months, what makes him a potentially great replacement for Saliba?

First and foremost, even though he has only recently turned 20, he already has plenty of top-level experience.

For example, in addition to the two senior caps he’s won for Spain, the potentially “world-class” gem, as dubbed by one analyst, has made 33 appearances for Bournemouth this term, 27 of which have been starts, scored three goals and provided one assist.

On top of that, Arsenal fans will already be annoyingly aware of his immense ability, as not only did he start in the Cherries home win over the North Londoners in late October, he started in their win over the weekend, where he won his fourth Man of the Match Award this season and scored his third goal.

Finally, when we directly compare him to the Gunners’ supremely talented number two, the “perfect” Spaniard, as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, actually comes out on top.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.15

0.10

Non-Penalty G+As

0.16

0.06

Progressive Passes

4.68

4.15

Progressive Carries

1.45

0.50

Passing Accuracy

83.4%

94.2%

Key Passes

0.56

0.22

Passes into the Final 1/3

5.89

5.42

Passes into the Penalty Area

0.28

0.19

Shot-Creating Actions

1.61

0.81

Goal-Creating Actions

0.12

0.03

Tackles Won

0.93

1.11

Blocks

1.45

0.74

Interceptions

1.98

0.65

Clearances

7.06

3.44

Errors Leading to a Shot

0.16

0.19

Ball Recoveries

3.87

4.52

Aerial Duels Won

2.58

1.80

For example, he does better in practically every relevant metric, including but not limited to, expected and actual non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive and key passes, passes into the final third and penalty area, shot and goal-creating actions, blocks, interceptions, clearances, aerial duals won and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, while keeping hold of Saliba should be Arsenal’s primary objective, Huijsen looks like he’d be the perfect replacement.

If anything, he’s someone they should look to sign regardless of what happens to the Frenchman.

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Chelsea have now identified an “exceptional” defender as a priority summer target after holding internal talks, according to a report.

Blues planning to sign two defenders this summer

The Blues still have everything to play for as the Premier League season approaches its conclusion, with the final-day trip to Nottingham Forest set to be crucial in the race for the top five, given that Nuno’s side, Aston Villa and Manchester City are breathing down their necks.

Barring the 2-0 loss at Newcastle United, Enzo Maresca’s side have performed well during the run-in, and the manager has been pleased with the progress Levi Colwill has made, despite admitting he may need to bring in more experienced players this summer.

When questioned about the prospect of adding experience to his squad this summer, much like Jurgen Klopp did by signing Virgil van Dijk and Alisson for Liverpool, Maresca said: “For sure, if you want to close the gap with these kind of clubs then, you have to do things.”

As such, a range of centre-back targets have been identified ahead of the summer, and it is clear the manager is looking to blend youth and experience.

Player

Current club

Potential cost

Mario Gila

Lazio

£25m

Axel Tape

PSG

£0

Ben Nelson

Leicester City

Unknown

Marc Guehi

Crystal Palace

£60m

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Chelsea are also stepping up their pursuit of Ajax’s Jorrel Hato, with the defender now considered a priority target following internal discussions about their summer transfer plans.

There is a feeling that a fee of £37.8m – £42m could be enough to get a deal done, so a move for Hato would not break the bank, and he is now rapidly moving up the Blues’ shortlist.

The likes of Liverpool, AC Milan and Arsenal could provide competition for the 19-year-old’s signature, but the west Londoners are looking to move swiftly to ensure they remain in the lead.

Hato could be "exceptional" signing for the Blues

The report states that Chelsea are looking to bring in two centre-backs this summer, and it is little wonder the youngster is now one of their favoured options, given the level of some of his performances for Ajax since breaking into the team at a young age.

Football scout Ben Mattinson has been left particularly impressed by the teenager in the past, stating on X: “Hato is an exceptional athlete for his age whilst being a technical player who can carry through the lines.”

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Not only that, but the Rotterdam-born defender is an assured passer of the ball, which could make him a good fit for Maresca, ranking in the top 1% for his pass-completion rate per 90 over the past year, when compared to other full-backs.

Indeed, Hato is capable of playing at left-back, having featured there predominantly during the 2024-25 campaign, but he has also featured at centre-back throughout his career, and his versatility would be an added bonus for the Blues.

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.

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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.”