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Manchester United fell to a disappointing defeat at Manchester City on Sunday, and Roy Keane didn’t mince his words when reviewing one Red Devils star’s performance.

Manchester United come unstuck in comprehensive derby defeat

Truthfully, the Red Devils were second-best by a considerable margin as they begin to deal with the fallout of a derby loss that has left them sitting 14th in the Premier League table.

Ruben Amorim will be the man who cops the majority of criticism, something that seems only natural as he has now won just eight of his opening 31 matches in the English top-flight, which isn’t a run of form that bodes well when factoring in the size of Manchester United.

Speaking on Premier League Productions, former Red Devils midfielder Owen Hargreaves was stunned that Kobbie Mainoo wasn’t chosen to start against Pep Guardiola’s men, claiming that he ended up being the best player on the pitch for the visitors in the end.

He stated: “Where do you start? There are a lot of issues. How Kobbie Mainoo doesn’t play in this team I’ll never know. He came on for that game and in half hour he was probably their best player, by a country mile. So first of all he’s got to play. Sesko is not ready. He scored lots of goals in Germany but he didn’t look ready today.”

The damage had already been done by that point, and plenty of Manchester United stars have come in for criticism after an unceremonious display.

Altay Bayindir and Manuel Ugarte were two culprits, though football is a team game and everyone needs to take their share of the blame as Manchester United look to bounce back against Chelsea this weekend.

While there is still every chance Amorim’s men can turn around their fortunes, Roy Keane was frank in his assessment of one star’s performance at the Etihad Stadium.

Luke Shaw earns the brunt of Roy Keane criticism after Man Utd defeat

Live on Sky Sports, Roy Keane indicated that Luke Shaw’s performance fell below expectations against Manchester City, citing his role in Phil Foden’s opening goal during proceedings, which the Irishman feels he could’ve done more to prevent.

He stated via The Mirror: “Very good from City, Doku and Foden. Timing perfect not getting in there too early. But United’s defending, the two midfielders beforehand are too square, and Shaw just gives up.

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BySean Markus Clifford Sep 14, 2025

“It’s a nice bit of skill, but Shaw’s an England international player. He’s got hundreds of games under his belt, he doesn’t even get his body position right. It’s like he has thrown the towel in.

“We know people can run off the back of Bruno, that’s been going on for years. But my goodness, even before that, you’ve got two midfielders – they are too square. One pass takes them out. Far too easy. Shaw just throws the towel in there.”

Although criticism of evidently talented players is sometimes harsh, Manchester United were culpable of lapses defensively and came up against a ruthless opponent who dispatched three of their four ‘big chances’ created to claim three points.

Ultimately, Manchester City are a side likely to contend for the title, and conceding countless opportunities is always likely to result in punishment, something that Shaw and his teammates will now hope to rectify.

Sheffield United are now in a transfer battle with Ipswich Town to sign a 25-year-old striker whose club are open to offers for him, according to a recent report.

Sheffield United chasing more additions after Louie Barry

The Blades have made a low-key start to the summer transfer window, with just four players arriving at Bramall Lane so far. The latest arrival is winger Louie Barry, who has joined on a season-long loan deal from Aston Villa.

Sheffield United lead charge to sign "brilliant" £45k-p/w Premier League ace

The Blades are now pushing ahead in their mission to sign another central defender.

BySean Markus Clifford Jul 24, 2025

Barry worked with manager Ruben Selles last season at Hull City, and the pair have now reunited, as the winger stated he loves Selles’ system: “I love his (Rubén Sellés) style of play; it is exactly what I stand for as a player. I just want to get to the goal as quick as possible. I have got a really good relationship with the gaffer and the staff, so I can’t wait to get into training now.”

Now that a deal for Barry is completed, the Blades have turned their attention to other areas of the pitch they wish to strengthen. Indeed, Sky Sports have reported that Sheff Utd are leading the race alongside Colorado Rapids to sign Rob Holding from Crystal Palace. The centre-back is expected to leave the Premier League side after falling out of favour, and United are keen on reuniting with the player after he was on loan at the club last season.

Sheffield United face Ipswich in race to sign La Liga striker

As well as looking at strengthening the defence, Selles is also in the market for a new striker, as Kieffer Moore’s future at the club is in doubt. And according to Spanish outlet Marca, Sheffield United are interested in signing Isaac Romero from Sevilla.

Marca reports that despite not making the impact at the top end of the pitch that was expected of him last season, Romero has emerged on the radar of not just the Blades, but Ipswich Town as well.

There is no word on how much Sevilla would want for the 25-year-old, but given he is under contract until 2028, they could try and hold out for a hefty sum. Romero burst onto the scene during the 2023/24 campaign, as he scored four goals in 14 La Liga games, as well as grabbing four assists. However, he was unable to improve on those numbers last season, as he scored just four goals in 31 La Liga games this time around.

Apps

48

Goals

11

Assists

6

For Sheffield United, signing a new striker may have become somewhat of a priority in recent days, as speculation has gathered pace that Moore could be set to leave Bramall Lane. That is because Wrexham are interested in signing Moore as they look to bring in established second tier performers.

Newcastle United might not be able to count on Alexander Isak for much longer as the player seeks a move away from St James’ Park.

Eddie Howe will now need to sign a striker or two in order to have his squad ready for the Premier League and Champions League campaigns.

Benjamin Sesko is a reported target for the club, and Newcastle would be willing to break their club-record transfer fee to sign him.

Could Howe perhaps chase another young striker instead, however? One who is even more prolific than Sesko…

Newcastle’s search for a striker

The likes of Julian Alvarez and Yoane Wissa have been earmarked as targets by Howe to bolster the club’s attacking options of late.

Both would be excellent signings, but Howe could go down a different route by making a move for Porto starlet Samu Aghehowa this summer.

That is according to the Guardian, who relay information that Newcastle might see Aghehowa as a potential alternative to Sesko.

One sticking point may be the price, as he has a release clause of €100m (£87m), although it remains to be seen whether Howe can negotiate a potential deal.

Aged just 21, he could be an ideal long-term Isak heir and, dare I say it, even better than Sesko.

Why Newcastle want to sign Samu Aghehowa

Across his senior career thus far, Sesko has scored 90 goals across 210 games, which works out as a goal every 2.3 matches.

In comparison, Aghehowa has netted 54 goals in 117 matches during his embryonic senior career thus far, averaging a goal every 2.1 matches.

On this basis, the young Spaniard is even more prolific than Sesko, and there is no doubt that he will get even better over the next few years.

He burst into life during his maiden season with Porto. Aside from registering 30 goal contributions in all competitions, Aghehowa also finished the season with a 23% goal conversion percentage, created five big chances and scored every 119 minutes in the Portuguese top flight.

Matches (starts)

30 (23)

Goals

19

Assists

3

Shots (on target)*

2.7 (1.1)

Big chances missed

18

Pass completion

79%

Big chances created

5

Key passes*

0.6

Dribbles*

0.4

Duels won*

3.3

It was no wonder that talent scout Jacek Kulig hailed the youngster as a “monster in the making” and for having “such a complete profile” after just a few months at Porto.

His debut campaign was a successful one indeed from a personal point of view, and it is no surprise he is being linked with moves to the Premier League.

When compared to his peers across men’s next 14 competitions, the 21-year-old ranks in the top 4% for goals (0.76) per 90.

Furthermore, the striker ranks in the top 14% for touches in the opposition penalty area (5.45) per 90 and in the top 16% for total shots per 90 (3.1).

These statistics show just how prolific the player is in front of goal, and if Howe was serious about making a move for the youngster, Aghehowa could be a wonderful signing.

Much will depend on how far they are willing to take their interest in Sesko. But if the Magpies are looking for someone even more prolific, Aghehowa should be at the top of their list.

PIF set sights on signing 13-goal star for Newcastle after Isak bombshell

The Magpies have instantly turned towards potential replacements.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 25, 2025

Chelsea are just two wins away from capturing the Club World Cup title following their win over Palmeiras in the quarter-final.

The draw has opened up kindly for Enzo Maresca’s side, as Manchester City were knocked out at the last 16 stage.

They were made to work hard for the victory against the Brazilian side. Their goal came courtesy of Estevao, the youngster who will join Chelsea in the next few weeks.

Given his performance, the Blues may have hit the jackpot.

Chelsea's plan for Estevao

The 18-year-old is well on his way to becoming the next big thing in Brazilian football. Neymar even hailed the winger as a “genius” in January 2024.

A tally of 27 goals and 15 assists across just 83 senior games suggests Estevao has the potential to be a truly magnificent signing for Chelsea.

Playing in an attacking midfield role against the Blues, Estevao looked bright throughout the clash. His equaliser came just after half-time, latching on to a pass before slotting home an excellent finish from a tight angle.

He tended to drift over to his natural position on the right and was a handful for the Chelsea backline during the game.

Maresca has a plethora of forwards to choose from ahead of the 2025/26 season, especially with the signings of Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens.

That being said, there could still be a role for the teenager at Stamford Bridge next season, with The Telegraph reporting that he is not expected to follow the recent trend of heading out on loan to the likes of Strasbourg, part of the BlueCo group.

Excitement is building over finally seeing Estevao in a Chelsea shirt, although could Maresca even make a move for someone who might turn out to be a bigger talent than the Brazilian?

Chelsea showing interest in Premier League starlet

Despite the depth of their attacking options, it appears as though the Stamford Bridge outfit are seeking to lure all the finest talent to London.

Transfer Focus

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

While winning the Club World Cup remains Maresca’s main aim over the next week, it is evident that he is still looking to build a squad capable of challenging for the Premier League and Champions League next season.

A surprising name has been linked with a shock move across London recently, however, and if a deal goes through, it would signal a real statement of intent.

Indeed, Fabrizio Romano has shared news regarding Arsenal talent Ethan Nwaneri, and it looks as though Chelsea are lurking in the shadows in the hope that he doesn’t sign a new deal with Arsenal.

As Romano said on X, the Blues are potentially ready to pounce to sign the teenager, with Nwaneri seeking guarantees over his game time at the Emirates, prior to committing his future to the club.

The youngster is in discussions with the Gunners regarding a new deal as his current one expires next summer, leaving the door open for a potential move away from North London.

If a move did go through, where does this leave Estevao? And is Nwaneri an even bigger talent than the Brazilian?

Why Chelsea must sign Ethan Nwaneri

Estevao is just a month younger than Nwaneri, but he already has five appearances for Brazil at international level. The Arsenal starlet has yet to make his national team debut, however, but there is no doubt that the 18-year-old will take the next step up sooner rather than later.

Both have played plenty of games in their respective top-flight leagues, while also making appearances in the Copa Libertadores and Champions League.

As such, what separates them? Like Estevao, Nwaneri has been touted as being the next big thing to emerge from his nation.

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig even lauded his rise in May 2024, saying that the Arsenal gem was “one of Hale End & England’s biggest jewels” after a stunning season at youth level for the Gunners.

While the Palmeiras youngster has shone in his homeland, there is no guarantee that he will adapt to English football upon making the move to Chelsea. Maresca will give him plenty of opportunities to showcase his talents, no doubt about that, but he must hit the ground running.

Metric

Premier League

Champions League

Goals

4

2

Assists

2

0

Big chances created

1

1

Key passes per game

0.6

0.3

Successful dribbles per game

1.4

1

Nwaneri, on the other hand, played 26 top-flight matches for the North Londoners last term, scoring four times and grabbing two assists.

When compared via their domestic statistics from last term, the English teen not only registered more goals and assists (six vs three), but he also recorded more shots per 90 (2.41 vs 2.06), a higher percentage of successful take-ons (59.7% vs 31.8%), took more touches in the opposition penalty area (339 vs 257) and even won a higher percentage of aerial duels (33.3% vs 20%).

Given his performances in the Premier League, Nwaneri should be able to settle into this Chelsea side with ease should a move be secured in the coming weeks.

Estevao would have to work harder to make himself a success in England, despite all that he has achieved in his homeland.

Nwaneri even scored twice in the Champions League last term and Mikel Arteta was full of praise for his teen sensation after his first goal against Girona.

“That’s what we love about him – he’s very aggressive. Before that [goal], he had another action where he made the right choice, he went for it,” gushed the Spaniard.

“He never [looks nervous], he’s so composed, calm and confident in his ability. At 17, scoring a really important goal in the Champions League is not very common.”

If the door is ajar for Chelsea to make a move, Maresca must seize the chance.

Salah repeat: Chelsea's "unbelievable" £55m star is now "open" to leaving

Chelsea could regret selling the dynamic attacker.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 5, 2025

Liverpool defied expectations when winning the Premier League last season, but now that they have been crowned champions and are strengthening in the summer transfer market, the wider lens on Arne Slot’s project will be heightened.

To put it another way, Liverpool have returned to the top of English football but must now prove they can defend their title while challenging for the bigger prizes across other fronts.

Mohamed Salah will no doubt have his eyes on the Champions League, while defeat to Newcastle United in March’s Carabao Cup final will fuel the desire to conquer one of England’s domestic tournaments, for sure.

With Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz already bagged and more yet to come, there are so many reasons to be excited for Liverpool fans right now, even if a number of first-teamers potentially face exits before the 2025/26 season arrives.

Most notably, Ibrahima Konate has rejected Liverpool’s latest contract offer, while Luis Diaz, 28, continues to be at the centre of exit rumours. If the Colombian winger is sold, sporting director Richard Hughes has worked with Slot to determine that Anthony Gordon is the perfect replacement.

Why Liverpool could sign Anthony Gordon

It almost feels like Gordon is fated to play in a Liverpool shirt at some stage of his career. Last summer, the Reds were interested in completing a deal, but for Newcastle’s success in avoiding financial breaches through less damaging means.

Liverpool are well stocked on the left flank, but if Diaz is sold – Bayern Munich are the latest club to express an interest in the 28-year-old – a move could be revisited for the man who left the Anfield academy when he was just 11 years old.

Recent reports suggest Liverpool would need to cough up around £75m for the Three Lions star, but, aged 24, this could be a worthwhile investment for a tenacious and electric forward.

Such a move, as stated, hinges on Diaz leaving, and the same could be said at number nine, for Darwin Nunez has failed to bring it together under Slot’s wing and is heading for the door.

Alas, Nunez is set to leave. Napoli are set for crunch talks with Liverpool over the Uruguayan striker, paving the way for a superstar to head down the opposite direction.

Liverpool launch bid for striker

According to French journalist Sebastien Vidal, Liverpool have launched an official bid Napoli’s way for Victor Osimhen, who is back from a season-long loan with Galatasaray and expected to leave the club this summer.

Transfer Focus

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

Despite Osimhen being one of the best strikers in the world, he fell out with the Serie A side, and there is no route back. The Italian champions, despite their stance, are unwilling to budge on their £64m valuation.

Well, in that case, Liverpool have offered Nunez and Federico Chiesa, both of whom are coveted by the Neapolitans, as makeweights, additionally putting £17m into the package.

Manchester United, Gala and Saudi Arabian clubs also linger in the race.

Why Liverpool should sign Victor Osimhen

We all know that FSG’s dream target is Alexander Isak, who was actually declared “the best striker in the world” last season by analyst Raj Chohan, but the Sweden star is understood to have been valued at £200m, an extortionate fee.

Osimhen, 26, would be a fantastic alternative, having proven himself across a number of years as being one of the most prolific marksmen on the continent and a trophy winner besides.

For sure, he probably didn’t envisage a season in the Turkish Super Lig this time 12 months ago, but the Nigeria international made the most of his season, scoring 37 goals across 41 outings, winning the league title and maintaining comparative prolificness across the span of his career.

Praised for his “world-class” finishing ability by Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley, Osimhen would certainly prove an upgrade on Nunez, and indeed could be the perfect Isak alternative, for he is athletic and mobile too.

Napoli

133

76

18

Galatasaray

41

37

8

Lille

38

18

6

Charleroi

36

20

4

Wolfsburg

16

0

0

Of course, Osimhen no doubt misses that almost telepathic connection with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia at Napoli, the Georgian winger leaving Italy to sign for Paris Saint-Germain for £59m in January, but he could find a dance partner of a similar style in Gordon.

The pacy winger called himself a “nightmare for anyone” he comes up against last summer on England duty, having also averaged 1.1 dribbles and 4.4 successful duels per Premier League match last term, as per Sofascore.

With six goals and five assists to his name across the recent league term, there’s no question Gordon regressed after his incredible 2023/24 campaign, notching 26 top-flight goal contributions and earning Newcastle’s Player of the Year award.

One year ago, Dieter Hamann even went as far as to claim that Gordon would be the better pick for the Reds than Kvaratskhelia, directing praise toward the Englishman’s tried-and-tested record in England’s top flight; many talented players have struggled to adapt to the pace and physicality of the British game before.

He said, “It’s very hard to pick between Gordon and Kvaratskhelia. I don’t think there’s an awful lot between the players.”

Osimhen built quite the reputation with the silky winger, and we might be having a different conversation had Liverpool furthered their interest in the Georgian back in January, before he moved to Paris.

Alas, that door has closed. But no matter. If a dynamic and powerful centre-forward in Osimhen can be paired with a rising star in Gordon, Slot may well have the dream strikeforce to lead Liverpool to glory for many years to come.

Slot's answer to Mane: Liverpool chasing "monster" £70m Premier League star

Liverpool have set their sights on another attacking star this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 24, 2025

With Jaka Bijol signed and delivered, the 49ers have now reportedly turned their attention towards a fresh Leeds United move to sign a Bundesliga left-back.

Jaka Bijol "ready for the Premier League"

Welcoming their second signing of the summer for around £19m, Leeds officially unveiled Bijol earlier this week. The defender arrived from Udinese, signing a contract until 2023, and will be hoping to make an instant impact on Daniel Farke’s side as they return to the Premier League in August.

After putting pen to paper, Bijol told the club’s official website: “This is a big day for me, for my family and I’m happy to be here. Maybe the biggest one of my career so far, but I’m ready for it.

“I work for it and that’s why I’m here, because it’s a big challenge for everyone. It’s a big challenge for me, for the club, and we’re getting ready for it together. I think the club and myself are ready for the Premier League.

“I can promise that I will give everything, that I will give everything in every training as well to be ready for the first game of the season and then just go from there.”

Nmecha upgrade: Leeds make contact to sign a star who "bullied" Van Dijk

Leeds are reportedly eyeing up a star who would come in as an immediate upgrade on Lukas Nmecha.

1 ByDan Emery Jun 25, 2025

Even after Bijol and Lukas Nmecha, the 49ers have still reportedly got plenty of business planned. Names such as Nikola Krstovic have found themselves in the headlines as of late and reports have even gone as far as to suggest that Leeds have now got an agreement in place to sign the Serie A forward.

Meanwhile, those at Elland Road have now reportedly turned their focus towards a Bundesliga left-back who could replace the departing Junior Firpo this summer.

Leeds now targeting Lukas Ullrich

According to Graeme Bailey for The Boot Room, the 49ers and Leeds are now targeting a summer swoop to sign Lukas Ullrich from Borussia Monchengladbach. The left-back has been part of Germany’s side at the U21 Euros this summer and has seemingly impressed enough to find himself on the Whites’ radar.

Whilst those at Elland Road face reported competition for Ullrich’s signature from Premier League rivals Nottingham Forest, Tottenham Hotspur and Everton, the fact that the German is represented by the same agency as Bijol may hand Leeds an advantage in personal negotiations.

Ullrich is certainly a talent worth the battle too following a breakout season in the Bundesliga which earned the praise of Gladbach boss Geraldo Seoane, who told reporters: “You can see that he’s got pace going forward and that he has a very good mentality. He’s confident, he’s active and he makes runs in behind. He brings a lot to the table playing as an attacking left-back”

Minutes

1,903

2,616

Assists

2

10

Tackles Won per 90

0.76

1.17

Ball Recoveries per 90

3.46

3.92

Whilst the numbers show that Ullrich still has a way to go before he reaches Firpo’s level, Leeds would be investing in a 21-year-old whose potential is undeniable.

Sticking to the recent trend of targeting Premier League rivals, PIF are now reportedly evaluating a move to sign an impressive attacking midfielder for Newcastle United this summer.

Newcastle still chasing Elanga and Trafford deals

Having already signed Antonio Cordero on a free transfer to get their business underway nice and early, Newcastle are now pushing on in an attempt to make some impressive statements. Chasing deals to sign Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest and James Trafford from Burnley, the Magpies are aiming to swoop in and weaken their Premier League opposition.

Both are long-term targets and both are players that would hand Eddie Howe instant upgrades within his side. Newcastle’s chase to sign a fresh right-wing option has particularly been no secret in the last 12 months and, after missing out on Manchester United-bound Bryan Mbeumo, Elanga’s arrival would make perfect sense.

Starts

38

35

Goals

6

8

Assists

11

12

Successful Take-ons

25

35

The Swede would push Jacob Murphy all the way for a starting place and offer Newcastle instant strength in depth – something they crucially lacked the last time that they featured in the Champions League.

Even if Trafford and Elanga arrive though, Newcastle may not be done there when it comes to shopping in the Premier League. The Magpies are seemingly in a ruthless mood and have now turned their attention back towards Brentford. Having missed out on Mbeumo, PIF are now reportedly eyeing a summer swoop to sign one of the Bees’ star midfielders.

PIF evaluating Damsgaard move for Newcastle

According to Caught Offside, PIF are now evaluating a move to sign Mikkel Damsgaard for Newcastle this summer. The Danish midfielder is not someone Brentford are keen to lose, but every player has a price and the West London club reportedly value the 24-year-old at €50m (£42m).

Tottenham Hotspur are also sniffing around a deal amid their move for Thomas Frank, with the Bees boss hoping to take a couple of his star players with him to the North side of London.

Damsgaard is a talent who took a few years to discover his best form after initially bursting onto the scene at Euro 2020. Described as “brilliant” by scout Jacek Kulig five years on from that tournament, however, he’s finally at the peak of his powers at Brentford.

Only Mohamed Salah, Elanga and Newcastle’s Murphy assisted more goals than the Dane last season, who could join the latter and perhaps even the Forest star as well, forming quite the creative partnership at St James’ Park.

Better fit than Mbeumo: Newcastle open talks to sign "world-class" PL star

Newcastle are pushing to sign new forwards in the transfer market this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 12, 2025

Reportedly earning just £35,000-a-week in West London, Damsgaard would hardly break the bank in Tyneside and represents another target who knows exactly how to navigate the challenges of the Premier League. Like Elanga and Trafford, he ticks every box for Newcastle.

Yet again in his glorious Manchester City reign, Pep Guardiola is overseeing a rebuild. Following a largely underwhelming 2024/25 campaign, it is a case of out with the old and in with the new.

Indeed, having previously phased out the likes of Yaya Toure, Vincent Kompany, David Silva and Sergio Aguero in the past, the Catalan coach is now repeating the process in relation to his treble-winning side of 2023.

The great Kevin De Bruyne is on his way to Napoli by all accounts, while Kyle Walker – fresh from his own sojourn to Serie A – is expected to seal a permanent exit this summer, after eight years at the Etihad.

With doubts also emerging over the futures of Bernardo Silva and Jack Grealish, among others, there could well be a fresh feel to the Citizens next season, having already begun the overhaul with four new additions in January.

That quartet appear to be just the start of things, if recent reports are anything to go by, with the Premier League giants seemingly closing in on a first move of the window, amid the imminent arrival of Tijjani Reijnders.

Latest on Man City's transfer search

While the search to replace that man De Bruyne has dominated talk in recent weeks – amid interest in the likes of Morgan Gibbs-White and the Liverpool-bound, Florian Wirtz – a further priority also lies in finding a suitable partner for Rodri in that number eight berth.

Transfer Focus

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

The Manchester outfit did only recently fork out £50m for the signing of Nico Gonzalez from Porto, albeit with the Spaniard seemingly deemed as a replacement rather than a partner for his compatriot, having been dubbed a “mini-Rodri” by Guardiola.

With that in mind, sporting director Hugo Viana has turned his attention elsewhere in the bid to bolster those midfield ranks even further, with transfer guru Fabrizio Romano revealing that City have a “verbal agreement in place” for AC Milan star, Reijnders.

The signing of the 26-year-old – for what is expected to be a package of around €70m (£59m) – could well be followed by the capture of Lyon’s Rayan Cherki, with Romano also outlining that personal terms have been agreed with the playmaker.

The suggestion is that City will lodge a bid “in the next hours” amid their desire to get the deal done, amid rival interest from Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund, with prior reports indicating that Cherki could be available for as little as £25m.

Why Cherki would be a good signing

It may go against the Guardiola grain to be signing a “maverick” talent like the Lyon starlet, as hailed by pundit Rio Ferdinand, although the Citizens are in need of a fresh creative source, in the wake of De Bruyne’s imminent exit.

With the aforementioned Grealish – and England teammate, Phil Foden – providing just 11 goals and assists between them in the Premier League last season, the onus is on finding a suitable supplier for main man, Erling Haaland.

In many ways, Guardiola’s side are still seeking to find a suitable successor to Riyad Mahrez in the forward line, with one-time Leicester City hero having racked up 78 goals and 59 assists in 236 games prior to his 2023 exit, a return that included 28 goal involvements in all competitions during his final season.

Described as a player who can “change the game” by his manager, the now 34-year-old was simply a genius during his time in English football, possessing a wand of a left foot and an ability to create something out of nothing down that right flank.

Those are traits which the veteran no doubt shares with young Cherki, with the France U21 international – who qualifies to play for Algeria, like Mahrez – also a creative weapon. Equally, like Mahrez too, the left-footer is comfortable operating down the right flank or in a number ten berth.

Hailed as a “future Ballon d’Or winner” by The Athletic’s Alex Barker, Cherki is fresh off the back of a campaign that ended with a remarkable haul of 32 goals and assists from just 44 games, including 19 goals and assists in Ligue 1.

Such form in France’s top-flight saw the 21-year-old notably create 22 big chances and average 2.5 key passes per game, during his 30 league outings, as per Sofascore, having also averaged 1.6 successful dribbles as a sign of his breathtaking ability to beat his man.

Non-penalty goals

0.35

0.19

Assists

0.49

0.47

Shot-creating actions

6.44

5.44

Passes attempted

60.63

54.66

Pass completion

78.5%

82.2%

Progressive passes

9.08

3.56

Progressive carries

4.67

3.66

Successful take-ons

2.12

1.17

Touches in opposition box

5.82

5.16

Progressive passes received

8.11

11.34

When comparing his recent heroics with Mahrez’s final Premier League campaign, it is easy to see their statistical and stylistic likeness too, with the pair both ranking highly for assists and shot-creating actions per 90, indicating their unique ability to generate opportunities in the final third.

That desire to make things happen is also evident with regard to the ‘passes attempted’ metric, with that knack for conjuring a moment of magic seemingly needed to help replace the likes of the “predictable” Grealish, as described by Gary Neville.

With Mahrez having repeatedly delivered the goods for City in previous years, Guardiola could now find his heir apparent by plucking Cherki from Lyon.

"World-class" star now pushing to join Man City quickly; £59m+ offer needed

There has been a development in Man City’s pursuit of a key target…

ByDominic Lund Jun 3, 2025

It has been a long and rather dismal campaign for Arsenal this season.

Mikel Arteta’s side have once again failed to claim the Premier League title, although instead of just losing out to Manchester City, they have fallen miles short of Arne Slot’s Liverpool.

Going into the final game of the season, the North Londoners are 12 points off the Reds and, perhaps even more worryingly, have scored 18 fewer goals.

This evident weakness in the Gunners’ attack is something the board are clearly aiming to deal with in the summer, as reports have linked them to a whole host of incredibly talented players, including Nico Williams.

However, even with his lofty price tag, one of Arsenal’s own stars is worth millions more.

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Arsenal have been credited with an intense interest in Williams for the best part of a year now, and according to reports from earlier this month, he remains a ‘top priority’ ahead of the summer transfer window.

The story confirms that the North Londoners will need to activate the release clause in his contract to bring him to the club, which stands at a cool £48m.

With that said, then, what is it about the young winger that has made him such a firm target for the Premier League runners-up?

First and foremost, he’s a direct left-winger who can both score and create goals with relative ease.

For example, in 37 appearances for the Athletic Bilbao last season, the Pamplona-born dynamo scored eight goals and provided 18 assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.42 games.

He’s not been quite as sensationally effective this season, but he’s still been a useful outlet, scoring 11 goals and providing seven assists in 44 games, which is an average of a goal involvement every 2.44 games.

On top of his raw output, he has also shown an ability to deal with the biggest games.

He opened the scoring for Spain in their European Championships Final triumph against England last summer and also provided an assist in the final of last season’s Copa de Rey, which Bilbao won.

In all, it would be fair to say that Williams more than justifies the price tag Arsenal would have to pay for him, although if he does join the club, he’d have to hit the ground running to see his valuation match that of one of his new teammates.

The Arsenal star worth millions more than Williams

To tell the truth, there are actually several players who are worth more than Williams in the Arsenal squad, but in this case, we are talking about one of the club’s breakout stars from this season: Ethan Nwaneri.

Yes, even though this year has been the teenager’s first proper taste of regular first-team football, he’s been so impressive that his valuation has skyrocketed.

For example, Football Transfers now value the 18-year-old at a whopping €74.3, which is about £63m, or around £15m more than the fee the Gunners have to pay to sign Williams.

Now, this might all sound rather absurd to some of you, but there are some reasons for this, chief among them being the fact that the often “unplayable” gem, as dubbed by Jack Wilshere, has already scored nine goals and provided two assists in 36 appearances, totalling 1303 minutes this season.

In other words, the Hale Ender is currently averaging a goal involvement every 3.27 games, or more importantly, every 118.45 minutes, which is undeniably brilliant.

Moreover, given how he’s adapted to senior football so seemingly, there is no telling what his ceiling may be.

With that said, how does he stack up with the Bilbao gem when we compare their underlying numbers from this season?

Non-Penalty G+As

0.66

0.47

Progressive Passes

3.30

3.19

Progressive Carries

4.84

5.31

Goals per Shot

0.18

0.10

Goals per Shot on Target

0.50

0.26

Passing Accuracy

80.2%

70.7%

Key Passes

1.32

1.83

Passes into the Penalty Area

1.43

1.31

Passes into the Final Third

1.76

1.08

Crosses into the Penalty Area

0.66

0.38

Shot-Creating Actions

2.41

5.12

Successful Take-Ons

3.52

2.96

Well, it might surprise some people to find out that overall, it’s the youngster who comes out on top, as in the majority of relevant metrics, he does better.

The metrics include, but are not limited to, non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive passes, goals per shot and shot on target, passes into the penalty area and final third, crosses into the penalty area, successful take-ons and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, Arsenal should do what they can to sign Williams this summer, as he looks like he could add some much-needed dynamism to their left-hand side.

Still, in Nwaneri, the club already have another young talent who could further establish himself in the first-team next season.

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ByJack Salveson Holmes May 21, 2025

Irrespective of what happens in the FA Cup final on Saturday, it has been an incredibly disappointing season for Manchester City and Pep Guardiola.

The Cityzens are currently scrapping it out to secure a place in the top five to land Champions League football for next season, whilst they have already missed out on the Premier League title.

They were also knocked out of the Champions League in the play-off round and lost to Tottenham Hotspur in the fourth round of the League Cup, which illustrates how disappointing this campaign has been for the club.

Despite having Erling Haaland back in the side, City’s struggles continued against already-relegated Southampton, who had 11 points heading into the game, last weekend in a 0-0 draw.

Manchester City did not create a single ‘big chance’ in the game, and one area in which they could look to improve their creativity is in the full-back positions, because Rico Lewis did not create any chances in 76 minutes on the pitch at right-back.

Why Manchester City should replace Rico Lewis

The Cityzens academy graduate is tidy and reliable in possession, having completed 91% of his attempted passes in the Premier League this season, but he does not offer much of a threat at the top end of the pitch.

Guardiola cannot look to Lewis to create something out of nothing by bombing down the flank to put a great delivery in, or to come in at the back post to score a goal to change or win a game.

The 20-year-old defender has gone 28 matches without creating a ‘big chance’ in the Premier League this season, which shows that he is not a player who can make a big impact at the top end of the pitch.

Lewis has also scored one goal and missed two ‘big chances’ in those 28 outings in the top-flight, which shows that he does not offer much of a goalscoring threat either.

Appearances

28

xG

1.38

Goals

1

Key passes per game

0.3

Big chances created

0

Assists

2

Dribbles completed per game

0.3

Dribble success rate

45%

As you can see in the table above, the England international does not excel when it comes to making things happen in the final third, as he rarely scores, creates, or dribbles from a right or left-back position for the Cityzens.

That is why Manchester City should look to replace him as a regular starter in the upcoming summer transfer window, which is what they may be doing with their reported interest in a defender from Italy.

Manchester City closing in on Serie A defender

According to reports in France, Manchester City are eyeing up a deal to sign Nicolo Savona from Italian giants Juventus ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The reporter claims that the Premier League giants have verbally agreed personal terms with the 22-year-old full-back, as they look to bolster their options at the back this summer.

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Aouna adds that contract terms have already been discussed between the club and the player, with personal terms now agreed, and that Savona is keen on a move to The Etihad.

However, the journalist does not reveal how much Juventus are set to demand for the defender, or how much City are willing to pay for him to get a deal over the line in the coming weeks or months.

He does state, though, that Flamengo defender Wesley Franca and Newcastle United full-back Tino Livramento, formerly of Chelsea, are also options to come in at right-back for City in the summer transfer window.

This suggests that Savona is just one of a number of targets and that there is no guarantee that they decide to go with him over the others, despite seemingly closing in on a deal to sign the right-back after agreeing personal terms with him.

Why Manchester City should sign Nicolo Savona

The Italian dynamo could be an excellent addition to the squad if they do decide to go ahead with a swoop for his services, though, because he could be a big upgrade on Rico Lewis.

Firstly, Savona has the technical quality and reliability with the ball at his feet to suit playing in a Guardiola team, hence why they are eyeing him up as a target. This is evidenced by his pass completion rate of 91% in the Serie A for Juventus this season.

The 22-year-old star, who can play as a centre-back in a back three or as a right-back or right wing-back in a four or three-back system, rarely gives the ball away with his passes, which is why he could suit a ball-dominant Manchester City side.

However, Savona provides more quality as an attacking threat than Lewis, who is also technically proficient and reliable with the ball, currently does at right-back for Manchester City.

Starts

21

18

xG

1.38

0.45

Goals

1

2

Touches per game

55.7

44.7

Key passes

8

16

Big chances created

0

2

Dribble success rate

45%

55%

As you can see in the table above, the Juventus defender has been more effective as a goalscorer, a creator, and a dribbler at league level this season, despite taking 11 fewer touches per game, in comparison to the English full-back.

These statistics suggest that Savona, dubbed an “interesting” player by talent scout Jacek Kulig, could improve his output even further as part of a Manchester City team that would allow him to take more touches of the ball, giving him more opportunities to move into the final third to provide quality as a scorer and a creator of goals.

Savona, who stepped into an advanced position to score against Udinese in the clip above, also provided six assists in 41 games for Juventus at U19 level and five assists in 61 matches for their Next Gen side.

Therefore, his form for the Old Lady at youth and senior level suggests that the potential is there for him to arrive at The Etihad as an upgrade on Rico Lewis, who has not offered enough quality on the ball in the Premier League this season.

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It is now down to the club to strike a deal with Juventus to bring the Italian talent to England this summer, having already agreed personal terms with the exciting youngster.