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The international break might well have come at the best possible time for Aston Villa.

After all, their opening results back in the Premier League this season have been nothing short of abysmal, with a seriously worrying 3-0 defeat last time out to Crystal Palace leaving them without a win from their first three league clashes.

On top of giving the Villans some room to assess after a poor start, the break has also given Unai Emery apt time to be at the training ground and work out where new recruits Harvey Elliott and Jadon Sancho fit in.

Having both arrived through the door on deadline day, the Spaniard will be praying that both the loan signings can be positive influences moving forward that lift his out-of-sorts side from their current malaise.

What Elliott & Sancho can offer Villa

Despite arriving in the Midlands as loanees initially, it’s safe to say both Elliott and Sancho are already well-versed in the challenges of the Premier League.

The midfield duo can boast 184 top-flight appearances between them in England, with Sancho just fresh off another loan stint himself with Chelsea, away from parent side Manchester United.

The reserve Red Devils figure came into his own at Stamford Bridge, with a promising seven goal contributions coming his way from 34 league appearances for Enzo Maresca’s Blues.

As another temporary option for Emery to call upon down the wings, Sancho could well go down as a shrewd acquisition, considering his transfer valuation, as per Football Transfers, stands at £27m.

Elliott may also be capable of the spectacular, scoring a crucial goal in the Champions League against PSG and firing home against Brighton towards the end of the campaign. However, his quality wasn’t enough to convince Arne Slot he deserved more game time, with only two starts afforded to him by the Dutchman in the league throughout 2024/25.

While he has often been utilised as an impact substitute at Anfield, the 22-year-old will surely be capable of offering even more quality to the Villa attack alongside Sancho, with the £33m-rated star up to 15 Premier League goal contributions himself.

While Sancho and Elliott will no doubt become key figures in the team at some point this season, Emery already has one dependable figure who’s worth more than the summer signings.

The Villa "monster" worth more than Elliott & Sancho

Despite experiencing such a slow start out of the blocks, Emery and Co can still flex some expensive assets in their camp.

Villa were fortunate to keep both Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers around past the chaotic transfer window, with Rogers’ value increasing all the way up to a jaw-dropping £99m, according to the CIES Football Observatory, amid interest in his services from Sancho’s parent employers.

Boubacar Kamara has also undergone a similar transformation at Villa Park, with the French midfielder’s valuation continuing to soar, having initially joined the West Midlands club on a free transfer.

The energetic 25-year-old has been a regular presence in the Villa treatment room since he left his native France behind in 2022 – with a hamstring concern already derailing his 2024/25 season – but he has consistently shone at the heart of Emery’s midfield when fit, having even been branded a “monster” by Sky Sports’ Adam Bate for his tenacity centrally.

Indeed, his fierce, battling nature was clear for all to see on the opening day of the Premier League, with a whopping ten duels won in total as Villa and Newcastle United played out a tense stalemate.

Emery’s men arguably lacked this same bite against Palace with Kamara missing, with his assured nature on the ball – which saw him average an 89% pass accuracy last season in the league – further bolstering the argument that he’s a guaranteed starter when injury niggles aren’t shackling him.

Now

£47.6m

March 2025

£38m

January 2024

£40m

July 2022

£0

Off the back of being consistently dependable when fit, Kamara’s value now stands out at a mightily impressive £48m, which is more than both Elliott and Sancho, despite considerable fanfare greeting their arrivals.

While these new additions will undoubtedly boost a goal-shy Villa outfit, it could be that Kamara’s eventual return from injury empowers Emery’s downbeat side even more, having been a stable glue for the Villans for many a season now.

Aston Villa plan move to sign "colossal" star who has £34m+ release clause

The Villans could look to capitalise in the January window.

BySean Markus Clifford Sep 8, 2025

The show must go on at Crystal Palace even as they await their European verdict, and that show could yet feature a fresh character as the Eagles reportedly step up their chase to sign a £20m midfielder.

CAS confirm Crystal Palace appeal

As expected, the Court of Arbitration for Sport has now confirmed the news that Crystal Palace have appealed UEFA’s decision to demote them to the Europa Conference League for violating multi-club ownership regulations.

A decision is now expected by August 11, at which point Crystal Palace will be hoping for a different outcome. Whether that is a realistic possibility remains to be seen, however. Club chairman Steve Parish, as well as many others involved at Selhurst Park, has already shared his disappointment at the situation and he’ll be desperate to see his side take the spot they earned by winning the FA Cup last season.

Alas, as ever, the world keeps on spinning and Palace must still keep one eye on the transfer window. On that front, the South London side have already welcomed left-back Borna Sosa and goalkeeper Walter Benitez, but their best signing could yet be on the horizon.

Crystal Palace confident they'll win Hackney race

As reported by Graeme Bailey for The Boot Room, Crystal Palace are now set to accelerate their move to sign Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough this summer. The Championship side are reportedly keen to get any business done early so they can focus on incomings of their own, and have set a £20m price tag for their impressive midfielder.

Despite interest from Everton, Palace are confident that they’re in position to win the race for Hackney’s signature even as the likes of Bayer Leverkusen and Porto set their sights on the England U21 international.

The £20m star earned plenty of praise last season, including from former Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder, who told reporters: “We were playing against two very good central midfielders. I’ve watched Hayden Hackney from afar, seeing his career flourish.

“There’s no better teacher for him than Michael, and he’ll enjoy the way Middlesbrough play. He’s a super player, and Morris is a good player in there too.”

AC Milan now moving to sign £50k-a-week Crystal Palace star open on exit

His departure would be a major blow.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 18, 2025

A player who is Premier League-ready, Crystal Palace could at least welcome some good news and an impressive signing if they manage to secure Hackney’s signature ahead of fierce competition this summer.

The 2025/26 Premier League season is just around the corner, with defending champions Liverpool set to kick off the new campaign at home to Bournemouth.

The Reds have been active in the transfer market with moves for attacking stars Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike, whereas they also still have last season’s top scorer Mohamed Salah at Anfield. They could be an attacking force to be reckoned with. However, Manchester City superstar Erling Haaland will be looking to win back his Golden Boot crown from Salah.

AI predicts the 2025/26 Premier League table

Who are the winners and losers from AI’s table?

1 ByCharlie Smith Jun 7, 2025

Manchester United and Chelsea have also added to the final third with the Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo heading to Old Trafford, while Joao Pedro and Liam Delap have moved to Stamford Bridge.

With plenty of new attacking stars on show, Grok, the AI tool on X, has predicted each club’s top scorer for the 2025/26 Premier League season.

AI predicts each club’s Premier League 2025/26 top scorer

Club

Player

Goals

Arsenal

Viktor Gyokeres

18

Aston Villa

Ollie Watkins

16

Bournemouth

Justin Kluivert

12

Brentford

Kevin Schade

12

Brighton

Danny Welbeck

12

Burnley

Lyle Foster

10

Chelsea

Cole Palmer

17

Crystal Palace

Jean-Philippe Mateta

14

Everton

Thierno Barry

12

Fulham

Raul Jimenez

11

Leeds

Joel Piroe

11

Liverpool

Mohamed Salah

25

Manchester City

Erling Haaland

28

Manchester United

Matheus Cunha

18

Newcastle United

Alexander Isak

18

Nottingham Forest

Chris Wood

13

Sunderland

Eliezer Mayenda

8

Tottenham Hotspur

Dominic Solanke

16

West Ham

Jarrod Bowen

14

Wolves

Jorgen Strand Larsen

13

Arsenal Viktor Gyokeres – 18 goals

With Viktor Gyokeres on his way to the Emirates, the Swede has been backed to hit the ground running and step up for Mikel Arteta.

In his first season for the Gunners, Gyokeres’ clinical finishing could see him ‘lead their scoring’ charts with 18 goals.

Aston Villa Ollie Watkins – 16 goals

Aston Villa’s go-to man in attack over recent years has been Ollie Watkins, who has hit double figures in the Premier League in each of his five seasons at Villa Park.

The England international has been backed to do the same again, and although Villa have Europa League football on the cards, Watkins will remain central to their attack and has been predicted to net 16 times in the top flight.

Bournemouth Justin Kluivert – 12 goals

Bournemouth winger Justin Kluivert was arguably one of the surprise packages of the 2024/25 Premier League season, with the Dutchman starring under Andoni Iraola.

Son of former Newcastle striker Patrick Kluivert, Justin ‘is tipped to step up as Bournemouth’s main goal threat’ with 12 goals as ‘his flair and finishing should yield a solid return in a mid-table side’.

Brentford Kevin Schade – 12 goals

With Bryan Mbuemo out the door, Yoane Wissa could be the next star sold at Brentford under new manager Keith Andrews.

Without the free-scoring duo, Kevin Schade may well be the man to step up for the Bees. AI says that ‘Schade is the most likely to be Brentford’s top scorer in 2025/26, given his 11-goal haul last season’, and has been predicted to go one better with 12.

Brighton Danny Welbeck – 12 goals

The Seagulls have just lost Joao Pedro to Chelsea, however, Brighton can still depend on the experienced Danny Welbeck, who has been backed to score 12 league goals.

AI says ‘Welbeck is likely to be Brighton’s primary striker, especially under Fabian Hurzeler’s 3-4-3 system, which suits his versatility and pressing ability’.

Burnley Lyle Foster – 10 goals

As a newly promoted side, Burnley will be hoping that 2023 signing Lyle Foster can reach AI’s predicted goal tally of 10 this season.

‘His Premier League experience points to a modest but leading contribution’, although the South Africa international didn’t feature heavily in the Championship last year.

Chelsea Cole Palmer – 17 goals

After leading Chelsea to Club World Cup glory, Cole Palmer has been backed to be the Blues’ star man once again in 25/26.

Palmer’s 15 league goals in 2024/25 ‘show his star quality’, and ‘Chelsea’s investment in young talent and attacking setup should see him thrive’ under Enzo Maresca, with AI believing he’ll net 17 times.

Crystal Palace Jean-Philippe Mateta – 14 goals

Jean-Philippe Mateta has been going from strength to strength at Selhurst Park, becoming Crystal Palace’s first choice striker.

His ‘clinical form under Oliver Glasner should continue’, according to AI, who have backed the Frenchman to equal his 24/25 tally of 14 league goals.

Everton Thierno Barry – 12 goals

Signed to lead Everton’s attack after Dominic Calvert-Lewin departed, big things could be expected of Thierno Barry in 25/26.

Barry’s ‘aerial power and 1v1 threat suit Moyes’ direct, physical style of play, which emphasises crosses and set-pieces’, and a return of 12 goals in his first season in England would be a success.

Fulham Raul Jimenez – 11 goals

Now a proven Premier League striker, Raul Jimenez scored 12 top flight goals for the Cottagers last season after getting the nod from Marco Silva.

AI says that ‘despite Rodrigo Muniz’s emergence, Jimenez’s experience and goal-scoring nous are predicted to edge him out as Fulham’s top scorer, especially in Silva’s system’.

Leeds Joel Piroe – 11 goals

Championship winners Leeds United are looking to buck the recent trend and remain in the Premier League, and to do that, they will need to be firing in the final third.

Joel Piroe was the Championship Golden Boot winner in 24/25, and ‘his finishing should translate to a respectable Premier League tally’ of 11 goals.

Liverpool Mohamed Salah – 25 goals

Despite the arrivals of Wirtz and Ekitike, Mohamed Salah is once again being backed to lead the way at Anfield in regards to goalscoring.

The Egyptian King’s tally of 29 goals in 2024/25 may not be matched this time around, but Reds supporters would happily take a 25-goal haul from out wide.

Manchester City Erling Haaland – 28 goals

Even though there is a Man City rebuild underway at the Etihad, Pep Guardiola will still rely on Erling Haaland for a constant supply of goals.

‘Haaland’s 27 goals in 2023/24 and record-breaking 36 in 2022/23 suggest he’ll dominate again’, winning the Golden Boot ahead of Salah.

Manchester United Matheus Cunha – 18 goals

Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo are now Man Utd players after brilliant seasons last year with Wolves and Brentford respectively.

It is Cunha who is being backed to be the Red Devils’ top league scorer, though, ‘matching or slightly beating his Wolves output, underpinned by strong support from midfield’.

Newcastle Alexander Isak – 18 goals

There has been plenty of speculation surrounding Alexander Isak’s Newcastle future, which was to be expected following his outstanding tally of 23 Premier League goals in 34 games in 24/25.

The Swedish star is once again expected to top the St James’ Park charts, this time with 18 goals, as ‘his clinical finishing suits Newcastle’s attacking ambition’. Isak and the Magpies also have Champions League football to deal with.

Nottingham Forest Chris Wood – 13 goals

It was a season to remember at the City Ground last time out, with Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood playing a huge role in the Reds’ success.

‘Wood’s resurgence (20 goals in 2024/25) and Forest’s solid campaign suggest he’ll remain their top scorer’.

Sunderland Eliezer Mayenda – 8 goals

The only club AI believes won’t have a player to hit double figures is Sunderland, with Eliezer Mayenda backed to score eight times.

A goalscorer in Sunderland’s playoff final against Sheffield United, Mayenda is labelled as ‘a young forward, and his potential to adapt to the top flight makes him a likely candidate to lead their scoring charts’.

Tottenham Hotspur Dominic Solanke – 16 goals

After a big-money move from Bournemouth in 2024, Dominic Solanke only netted nine Premier League goals for Spurs in his first season.

Now under the leadership of Thomas Frank, Solanke is being backed to improve drastically, reaching 16 times in the top flight.

West Ham Jarrod Bowen – 14 goals

Now West Ham captain, Jarrod Bowen has been a reliable source of goals for the Hammers in recent years and was used more centrally by Graham Potter towards the end of 24/25.

The Englishman’s ‘consistency at West Ham should keep him as their top scorer’, and he’s backed to score one more goal than his 24/25 tally.

Wolves Jorgen Strand Larsen – 13 goals

Finishing off AI’s prediction is Jorgen Strand Larsen, who could now be Wolves’ main man in attack after making his move to Molineux permanent, with Matheus Cunha leaving for Man Utd.

The Norwegian netted 14 times last season and is being predicted to record another respectable tally of 13 goals with ‘increased minutes as the primary striker’.

A Sky Sports reporter has labelled a Leeds United sale a “done deal” after a “full agreement” was reached with the Whites.

Players who could leave Leeds this summer

Daniel Farke and the 49ers Enterprises have added to their squad already this summer with moves for Lukas Nmecha, Jaka Bijol and Sebastiaan Bornauw all moving to Elland Road.

However, there have also been some departures, with both Junior Firpo and Josuha Guilavogui leaving following the expiry of their contracts.

Huge Rothwell upgrade: Leeds make enquiry to sign "phenomenal" £30m star

Leeds United are interested in signing a star who would come in as an upgrade on Joe Rothwell.

ByDan Emery Jul 2, 2025

Joe Rothwell and Manor Solomon’s loan moves have both ended, with the former of the two since moving to Rangers, and more Leeds players could depart before the 2025/26 Premier League season.

Forward Mateo Joseph has been linked with a move to Real Betis, whereas Max Wober has also admitted he has been told to find a new club this summer.

Now, it looks as if the Austrian defender has found his new club following a recent transfer update.

Wober Leeds exit a “done deal” after "full agreement” with Werder Bremen

Linked with a move to Werder Bremen, Wober’s move to the Bundesliga side is now “considered a done deal”.

That’s according to Sky Sports journalist Florian Plettenberg, who says that Bremen have a “full agreement with Leeds” and that Wober has agreed on a four-year deal with his new side.

Wober, a 6 foot 2 defender who can play as a centre-back or as a left-back, joined Leeds in 2023 but couldn’t help them remain in the Premier League.

Games

28

Goals

1

Yellow cards

5

Minutes played

1,837

He was loaned out to Borussia Mönchengladbach shortly after and returned to Yorkshire for the 24/25 campaign, playing nine times in all competitions. Farke did praise Wober, though, labelling him as a player with a “great mentality”.

“We knew he could play this position. He has played there for other clubs and for his country, but often more of a solid defender that closes the wings. But we have worked a lot on our offensive game with him.

“He’s perhaps not natural going forward, but he has a great mentality and always puts a shift in. If you do this, he has good technique and put a cross in, then you can effect the offence. Really good performance.”

Chelsea are set for a busy summer of incomings and outgoings in the build up to Enzo Maresca’s second season in charge, with some business taking place amid their Club World Cup campaign in the States.

The west Londoners were dealt a significant blow in their pursuit of CWC glory and the potential £97 million on offer if they win the tournament, losing 3-1 to Brazilian top-flight heavyweights Flamengo.

Chelsea hold talks over £70m Brazilian who's spoken to friends about joining

Conversations are ongoing.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 20, 2025

Second-half goals from Bruno Henrique, Danilo and Wallace Yan cancelled out Pedro Neto’s early goal to hand Maresca his first defeat since Chelsea’s 2-0 Premier League defeat to Newcastle in May, with striker Nicolas Jackson also sent off just four minutes after replacing Liam Delap.

The Senegalese’s future has been a small talking point in some circles, especially since the arrival of Delap in a £30 million deal from Ipswich.

Cole Palmer

7.33

Moises Caicedo

7.02

Enzo Fernández

6.95

Nicolas Jackson

6.88

Noni Madueke

6.82

via WhoScored

Jackson, due to his participation in the Africa Cup of Nations next season, could also miss crucial games midway through 2025/2026 and there are reports that the forward’s exit is entirely possible this summer.

“Chelsea do like Jackson but there has been a desire to upgrade him and bring more competition in. They believe that he doesn’t have enough to lead Chelsea in the Champions League right now so have looked to bring in others,” said journalist Simon Phillips, via his Substack, recently.

“In terms of a selling standpoint, they will very much listen to any offers that come in without actively pushing to sell him.

“And on the player side, he has been unhappy this season for various reasons, mainly due to what he feels has been unfair criticism and abuse from his own fans. However, at this moment he has not yet communicated a desire to leave, although that could soon happen.”

Chelsea are also believed to be in the market for another striker after Delap, so signs are pointing towards the 24-year-old’s potential departure from Stamford Bridge.

Nicolas Jackson could leave Chelsea as Napoli and Juventus make contact

As per Sky Sports reporter Gianluca Di Marzio, Jackson is now attracting serious interest from Serie A, with both Juventus and Scudetto winners Napoli making contact over a potential deal for the ex-Villarreal star.

He’s deemed “no longer untouchable” by Chelsea, echoing Phillips’ previous report that they could decide to offload Jackson in the event a suitable bid arrives. It wasn’t exactly the young centre-forward’s finest hour against Flamengo, but he did prove a crucial player for Chelsea at times last season, as explained by pundit Joe Cole.

“What I would say about Jackson is he’s made himself one of Chelsea’s most important players,” he told TNT Sports, via Chelsea News, in May.

“Because he does this, he doesn’t give up. He’s hard work. He’s aggressive. All the things, he might not be as measured as other players, but he gives you this.

“Nothing is better when you’re behind him as a midfielder when you’ve got a centre-forward who will chase down everything. It’s fantastic.”

Jackson netted 13 goals in all competitions last term, including 10 in the Premier League, even if he did majorly tail off towards the back-end, partly due to a hamstring injury.

However, if Chelsea do opt to sell, then BlueCo will likely want to make a profit on the £32 million they paid to sign him from La Liga two years ago.

Manchester United have now opened talks over a deal for a “world-class” Barcelona player, with the La Liga champions willing to sanction a departure this summer, according to a report.

Man Utd's summer rebuild underway

After one of the worst seasons in their modern history, no Man United player has been safe from criticism, and Jamie Carragher has suggested that Bruno Fernandes doesn’t fit into Ruben Amorim’s system.

Carragher said: “I’ve always described Bruno Fernandes as a great talent but not a great player. Where does he play?

“He’s a bit mad in that he just runs all over the place, like a kid in the school yard. The best player in the school yard doing everything but in a really poor team. I don’t think he’s ever had any discipline in those No. 10 positions.”

It has since been confirmed that Fernandes is set to remain at Old Trafford, but the rebuild is very much underway, with Matheus Cunha arriving at the start of the month, while Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo has also emerged as a major target in attack.

Forget Gyokeres: Man Utd have had talks to sign "world-class" £50m+ striker

The Red Devils have engaged in discussions with the entourage of a centre-forward.

ByDominic Lund Jun 10, 2025

Having been the subject of widespread criticism throughout the campaign, there have also been indications that Amorim could look to bring in an upgrade on Andre Onana this summer, and an initial approach has now been made for a Barcelona star.

Indeed, according to a report from Spain, Man United have now opened talks over a deal for Marc-Andre ter Stegen, submitting an enquiry about the goalkeeper, and they may have discovered that Barca are now willing to sanction a departure.

Onana is no longer part of Amorim’s plans, which means the manager will be tasked with bringing in a replacement, and Ter Stegen is very much of interest, although there could be competition for his signature from Galatasaray and Al-Hilal.

The German is in no rush to leave, but Joan Garcia’s arrival could unsettle him, as reduced game time may impact his chances of going to the 2026 World Cup.

"World-class" Ter-Stegen has track record of success

The 33-year-old has won 20 trophies for club and country across a glittering career, most recently playing a minor role in Barcelona’s La Liga triumph by making eight appearances throughout the 2024-25 campaign.

However, the £103k-a-week shot-stopper missed the majority of the season through injury, and given his age, there are questions over whether he would be a viable long-term replacement for Onana.

Having been lauded as “world-class” by Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann, Ter Stegen is clearly a top goalkeeper, but the rival interest coming from Galatasaray and Al-Hilal, rather than some of Europe’s top clubs, speaks volumes.

As such, it may be wise to go all out for a younger goalkeeper on the shortlist, having previously identified a number of potential targets.

Target

Current club

Potential cost

Vanja Milinkovic-Savic

Torino

£17m

James Trafford

Burnley

£30m

Emiliano Martinez

Aston Villa

?

Bart Verbruggen

Brighton

£34m

It would be fair to say that this season was something of a disappointment for Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta’s side ended up ten points off Liverpool in the Premier League, failed to make a dent in the FA Cup, and, with better finishing, could have realistically been in a Champions League final.

However, while it’s easy to focus on the negative, there have been at least a few positives, such as the development and performances of Jurrien Timber, who seriously stepped up in the absence of Ben White.

The Dutchman is now unquestionably one of the manager’s best signings, and based on reports, it looks like he could soon have himself another younger version of the international.

Arsenal transfer news

Before getting to the player in question, it’s worth looking at some of the other young talents Arsenal have been linked with in recent weeks, such as Adam Wharton and Konstantinos Karetsas.

Transfer Focus

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

The former is reportedly available for close to £80m this summer, and while that is a lot of money to spend on someone who is just 21 years old, he’s more than proven his ability at Crystal Palace and played a key role in their FA Cup triumph this year.

Karetsas, on the other hand, is a little harder to justify at a whopping £38m, as while he’s seriously impressed in Belgium this season, he is still just 17 years old, and that sort of money would probably be better off being spent on someone who could play for the team next year.

With that said, while these two youngsters are incredibly talented, neither one can be described as anything like Timber, unlike Jorrel Hato.

Yes, according to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are one of several teams incredibly interested in the Ajax star.

The report has revealed that Arsenal, alongside the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Newcastle United, have already made contact to find out more information about a possible transfer.

However, on top of having to contend with some serious competition, Andrea Berta and Co would have to stump a fee of up to €50m to get their man, which is about £42m.

It could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but it is one Arsenal should be fighting for, especially as he’d be the club’s next Timber.

Why Hato would be Arsenal's next timber

Now, it might sound like a bold claim to suggest that a teenager from outside the top five leagues could develop into a full-back who was impeccable against Real Madrid home and away in the Champions League.

Yet, that is exactly what we are suggesting, and there are a number of reasons why.

Firstly, the Eridivise might not be one of the best leagues in Europe, but it’s only just outside the top five, sitting in sixth place, and crucially, Timber made his way to North London from the Netherlands.

In fact, not only did the Gunners’ ace join Arteta’s title challengers from the same country, but he did so from Ajax, which is where Hato is currently plying his trade.

Furthermore, the pair are both Dutch and on top of coming up through the Ajax academy, they also share the ability to play in more than one position, depending on what the manager wants and needs.

Left-Back

68

3

6

Centre-Back

41

1

3

Left Midfield

1

0

0

Centre-Back

170

9

6

Right-Back

82

4

5

Left-Back

22

1

1

Defensive Midfield

2

1

0

For example, we all know that Timber is at his best at right-back, but he’s already played at centre-back and left-back since moving to England, just as the in-demand youngster has primarily played at left-back in his career but is more than comfortable at centre-back as well.

Finally, it’s not just us who see the parallels, as respected analyst Ben Mattinson has described the 19-year-old gem as “Timber 2.0.”

Ultimately, he might not be cheap, but Hato looks destined to be a monster of a defender, and for that reason, Arsenal should do what they can to bring him to the club, as he could be their new Timber.

Arsenal targeting £80m "nightmare" who'd be more exciting than Zubimendi

Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Martin Zubimendi.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 10, 2025

Sunderland are already finding their glorious promotion up to the Premier League to be a double-edged sword.

Indeed, the dust hadn’t even settled on the Black Cats’ Championship playoff final success before goalscoring hero Tommy Watson was heading down to the south coast to Brighton and Hove Albion, with Jobe Bellingham now the next expected departee.

The 19-year-old could now follow in his esteemed brother’s footsteps by joining German giants Borussia Dortmund, with the teenage sensation’s last ever match for the club now bittersweet, having just experienced the unbelievable high of promotion glory at Wembley.

The latest on Bellingham's future

This is one glaring negative attached to promotion – the fear that your best players will be snatched away from you after so much success.

Bellingham is reportedly on the cusp of calling Dortmund his new home for a bumper £32.8m fee, meaning he will go down as Sunderland’s heftiest ever sale when the move is officially completed.

This will, of course, be a major knock to Regis Le Bris and Co. ahead of their daunting top-flight adventure getting underway, with Bellingham’s seven goals and assists combined last season standing him in good stead to take to the Premier League confidently.

Instead, the Bundesliga will soon see what the much-talked-about Black Cats’ number seven is all about.

But, Sunderland can instantly address these gaping wounds by landing this ideal Bellingham replacement, with the star in question already well accustomed to the testing environment of the Premier League.

Sunderland's "outstanding" Bellingham replacement

Le Bris will need figures dotted all around his starting XI that know the difficult division to try and give his team a fighting chance at survival.

Tommy Doyle certainly ticks that box, considering he has amassed 51 top-flight appearances across his playing days to date, with the Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder now reportedly attracting the attention of the Stadium of Light side as per a report from TEAMTalk earlier this month.

But, away from boasting plenty of experience for a 23-year-old, Doyle can also pick out a fine strike – much like Bellingham – from the midfield areas, with his senior career so far seeing him collect eight goals for Wolves, Sheffield United and Cardiff City, on top of reaching double digits with 11 assists.

The “outstanding” midfielder – as he’s been labelled previously by former youth coach Mark Kennedy – will hope the goals and assists keep flowing if he relocates to Wearside soon, with Doyle’s overall numbers last time out in the Championship with the Blades further backing up his status as an ideal replacement for the Dortmund-bound ace.

Games played

33

40

Goals scored

3

4

Assists

4

3

Touches*

43.3

56.0

Accurate passes*

24.5 (78%)

34.0 (86%)

Key passes*

1.1

1.2

Big chances created

6

4

He might well have fallen down the pecking order under Vitor Pereira at Molineux in recent times – as seen in his three minimal starts last season in the league – but his wealth of top-flight experience will still be a major plus, away from his standout loan stint at Bramall Lane reinforcing his similarities to Bellingham, as seen when glancing at the table above.

There will be a lot of pressure on Doyle’s shoulders to succeed, but the 23-year-old has managed to forge a memorable career for himself at the top for some time now, with that hopefully continuing at the Stadium of Light.

Doyle’s addition could become key to Le Bris’ men keeping their heads above water, with Sunderland likely to be submerged in a relegation battle all season long, whilst Bellingham plies his trade at the luxurious summit of the Bundesliga.

Enzo Le Fee repeat: Sunderland considering deal for "outstanding" star

Sunderland are eyeing up a move for a star who would be an Enzo Le Fee repeat.

ByDan Emery Jun 7, 2025

Newcastle United’s season ended in the perfect way last weekend, despite a 1-0 defeat at home to Everton in the final game of the campaign. The Magpies secured Champions League qualification once again, after a year out of any continental competition in 2024/25.

Their final finish saw them pip Aston Villa to that last Champions League spot by finishing in fifth, helped by the fact that the Premier League gained an extra spot due to high coefficient points. They have been in the top five since the second game in April, and have clung onto the position to return to the Champions League.

Thus, it will be a big summer for Eddie Howe and his squad, as they look to shape the perfect group ready to compete amongst Europe’s elite clubs.

Newcastle’s summer targets

Already, the rumour mill has been whirring, and the transfer window has not even opened yet. Newcastle were recently linked with Liam Delap by TeamTalk, who say they held ‘showdown talks’ with the Ipswich Town star.

Transfer Focus

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

Now, according to CaughtOffside, the North East outfit ‘have expressed interest’ in signing Atletico Madrid right-back Nahuel Molina. They are believed to be ‘keen on securing his signature’ as they look to add to full-back depth.

However, they are not thought to be the only side trying to sign him this summer. Premier League rivals Liverpool are also keen. They’re in the market for a new right-back after Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure.

Serie A sides Inter, Juventus and Roma are also interested. Should Molina leave the Spanish capital, he could cost upwards of £29m.

Why Molina would be a good signing

At 27 years of age, you might struggle to find a better option at right-back than Molina this summer. Not only is he in the prime of his career, but the defender is hugely experienced, too. He was a World Cup winner back in 2022 with Argentina.

This season, the former Boca Juniors star has featured in 44 games for the La Liga giants. In that time, he has contributed to an impressive 17 clean sheets playing mainly as a right-back, but even slotting into centre-back as well.

He has also managed to chip in with goal contributions this term. Not only has the defender registered three assists across all competitions, but he even managed to get himself on the scoresheet away to Paris Saint-Germain in a 2-1 win in the Champions League group phase. As Neal Gardner said, he is a “stupidly good” player.

Molina would not be the only right-back Newcastle have signed from Atleti in recent seasons. In fact, they brought Kieran Trippier to the club from the Estadio Wanda Metropolitano for just £12m back in January 2022.

Now, three years on from his move to St James’ Park, the former England international is still a big part of Howe’s squad, although maybe not as much of an important player. This term, he played 25 times in the Premier League, but featured for just 1309 minutes, the equivalent of 14.5 full 90-minute games.

With that being said, there is no denying Trippier’s importance to this Newcastle project over the past few years under Howe. In 123 appearances, he has four goals to his name and an impressive 25 assists, which included ten in the Premier League in 2023/24.

During their most recent season for Atleti, Molina and Trippier can be compared statistically via Squawka. For example, in 2024/25, Molina created 0.8 chances and won 4.4 duels per 90 minutes, compared to Trippier in 2021/22, where he created 0.7 chances and won 5.8 duels each game.

Chances created

0.8

0.7

Forward passes

19.5

22.6

Take-ons competed

0.9

0.7

Duels won

4.4

5.8

Ball recoveries

3.8

5

If Molina can come into Newcastle and recreate the impact Trippier has had at the club, then he will surely be a successful signing.

The 27-year-old might well have a role that is just as important to play.

For just £29m, this could be a steal for the Magpies, as they look to bring in a player who could be Howe’s next Trippier.

Newcastle can find the next Ben Arfa by signing "astonishing" £14m magician

As Newcastle United look to strengthen their squad this summer, could they sign an “astonishing” magician reminiscent of Hatem Ben Arfa?

1 ByBen Gray May 25, 2025

Manchester City have reached a verbal agreement over the signing of a player who “can achieve great things”, according to a promising new transfer update.

Man City eye big-money summer signings

It could be all change at the Etihad once this disappointing season reaches its conclusion, not least because Kevin De Bruyne is moving on after a legendary spell at the club.

The Belgian may not be the only ageing player to leave, however, with Kyle Walker’s future up in the air, following his loan move to AC Milan midway through the campaign. He has discussed his future, saying: “I’m not a guy that looks too far ahead. I like to take small steps at a time and that’s just how I’ve done my career.”

Flamengo right-back Wesley has been linked with a move to City, potentially being seen as a replacement for the English veteran. At the other end of the pitch, Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike is a reported target, with the club reportedly holding talks to sign him, amid plenty of interest from some top European clubs, including Liverpool.

Arguably the most exciting recent rumour has seen Real Madrid forward Rodrygo backed to join to City, however, with the Brazilian not certain to stay put at the Santiago Bernabeu beyond this summer. It may still be unlikely, but it is a potentially huge piece of business for last season’s Premier League champions.

Man City reach verbal agreement with 22-year-old

According to a new update from Foot Mercato [via Sport Witness], Manchester City have reached a verbal agreement with Juventus defender Nicolo Savona this summer. They are continuing to hold talks with the 22-year-old’s representatives over the final details, but the player himself is thought to be keen on the idea of a move.

City have often been linked with Savona’s Juve teammate Andrea Cambiaso of late, but it now looks as though they have turned their attention to the young right-back instead. He has made 27 appearances in Serie A this season, and while that has predominantly been as a right-back, his versatility also allows him to do a solid job at left-back and centre-back.

Appearances

27

Starts

18

Minutes played

1638

Goals

2

Assists

1

Tackles per game

1.1

Clearances per game

1.0

Pass completion rate

91.4%

Meanwhile, Italy boss Luciano Spalletti is a big admirer of Savona, having explained his reasoning for calling him up to the national team: “I called up Savona because I’m curious to get to know him. He’s an emerging player and a regular starter for Juventus.”

The Italian’s boss at Juve, Thiago Motta, has also said he “can achieve great things”, which highlights what an exciting signing he could be for City.

A new right-back has to be priority business for Pep Guardiola this summer, even if Walker does stay on, and Savona looks like a strong alternative to Wesley.