Tottenham Hotspur are now making moves to sign a striker, who they are planning to offer a place in the starting XI next season, according to a report.

Solanke's first season at Spurs

Dominic Solanke’s first season as a Tottenham player has been marred by a number of injury issues, having suffered with hamstring and ankle problems, but he hasn’t exactly been prolific in front of goal when fully-fit.

The striker started the Premier League season well, netting six goals prior to Christmas, but since then the Englishman has struggled to score as regularly, with just one league goal to his name in 2025.

With Richarlison also missing the majority of the campaign due to injuries, it would make sense for Spurs to bring in a more dependable striker in the summer transfer window, and a report has now revealed they could bring in a Premier League player on a free transfer.

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According to a report from Spain, Tottenham are now making moves to sign Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who is looking increasingly likely to exit Goodison Park upon the expiration of his contract at the end of the season.

Spurs are willing to offer Calvert-Lewin a ‘prominent’ place in the starting XI, having been impressed by his goalscoring ability and physicality, which indicates Solanke may be forced to drop to the bench, after a mixed debut season in north London.

Tottenham Hotspur’s upcoming Premier League fixtures

Date

Wolverhampton Wanderers (a)

April 13th

Nottingham Forest (h)

April 21st

Liverpool (a)

April 27th

West Ham United (a)

May 3rd

Crystal Palace (h)

May 10th

The Everton forward could offer the Lilywhites a different kind of threat in attack, and they believe he can rediscover his best form at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, having been hampered by a number of injury issues during his time with the Toffees.

Calvert-Lewin isn't what Tottenham need

The 28-year-old has impressed in the Premier League in the past, netting 16 goals for the Toffees in the 2020-21 campaign, at which point he was lauded as a “monster” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig.

If the Englishman were able to replicate those numbers for Spurs, he could be an excellent addition to the squad, but there are signs his best days are behind him, having scored just three goals in the Premier League this season.

Not only that, but the Sheffield-born striker’s injury issues are well-documented, having suffered a series of setbacks during his time on Merseyside, which will also be a concern for Tottenham.

Ange Postecoglou has had to make do without Richarlison and Solanke for large parts of the current season, and another injury-prone striker isn’t what the manager needs.

Calvert-Lewin’s availability on a free transfer perhaps makes him a slightly appealing option, at least as a squad player, but he arguably should not be brought in as the first-choice striker, given his patchy goal and injury records.

Chelsea are already making plans to prepare for the upcoming summer transfer window in an attempt to bolster the squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The Blues have been linked with Inter stars Yann Bisseck and Marcus Thuram, whilst Napoli centre-forward Victor Osimhen reportedly wants to sign for Enzo Maresca’s side.

Chelsea have had success in recruiting from the Serie A in the past, with French central defender Marcel Desailly being a prime example – the titan joined from AC Milan in the summer of 1998 and went on to become a stalwart at Stamford Bridge.

He ended his time in England with 222 appearances in all competitions for the Blues, winning the FA Cup and the UEFA Super Cup, before being released in 2004 after six years at the club.

Chelsea could repeat that success and raid AC Milan once again for a defensive star as they reportedly eye up one of their present-day stars.

Chelsea plot move for Milan star

According to Tutto Mercato Web, Chelsea are one of the teams interested in a deal to sign AC Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan in the upcoming summer transfer window.

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The report claims that Aston Villa and the Blues are both plotting moves to sign the France international, as Maresca looks to bolster his options in the goalkeeping position.

It adds that both teams have ‘taken information’ on the shot-stopper ahead of a possible ‘concrete’ move in the summer window, suggesting that they have made contact with either Milan or the player’s representatives to see if a transfer is realistic.

There is no mention of how much it would take to take the Italian giants into selling Maignan, but Chelsea must now push to get a deal done for him ahead of next season.

Why Chelsea should sign Mike Maignan

The Blues hit the jackpot when they signed Desailly, who went on to be a regular for many years and racked up over 200 first-team appearances, from Milan and they could do the same again by improving their defence with the French shot-stopper, who has played 154 times for the Serie A side.

Robert Sanchez has been the first choice for much of the current campaign and has done little to suggest that he is the long-term answer for Maresca in that position.

The Spaniard has made three errors that have led to shots, five errors that have led to goals, and given away two penalties in his 25 Premier League appearances this term.

Maignan’s performances in the Serie A for Milan over the past two seasons, meanwhile, suggest that he could come in to provide more stability between the sticks.

Appearances

59

41

Clean sheets

20

10

Error led to shot

2

5

Error led to goal

3

6

Penalties committed

1

2

As you can see in the table above, Sanchez has made more than twice as many errors that have led to shots, twice as many errors that have led to goals, and committed twice as many penalties in 18 fewer appearances since the start of last season.

This suggests that Maignan would improve Chelsea’s defence by not making as many critical errors that lead to goals conceded, hence why his clean sheet rate is also more impressive than the current Blues goalkeeper’s.

The French ace, who was described as “world-class” by Serie A reporter Haris Mrkonja, has the potential to be an excellent addition to Maresca’s squad as a replacement for Sanchez, given his form over the past two seasons, and that is why the club must push to land him ahead of Villa.

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Maignan, therefore, also has the potential to be Desailly 2.0 for the club as another defensive titan, albeit in a different position, to come over from Milan to the Premier League to star at Stamford Bridge.

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers is drawing up his shortlist of potential summer targets and is now looking to beat rivals Rangers to the signature of a talented England youth international, per a report.

Celtic look to shape their squad ahead of next season

The Bhoys are closing in on the Scottish Premiership title and know that only a point is needed in their next league fixture against Dundee United to cement their achievement.

Of course, the opportunity to take another step towards winning a domestic treble is also firmly in sight as St Johnstone stand between Celtic and a place in the Scottish Cup final.

Nevertheless, individuals connected with the reigning champions are already looking ahead to the summer window. Next campaign will see the return of Champions League qualifiers, so expect plenty of business to be done early doors involving incomings and outgoings.

Celtic’s recent interest in Stoke City star Million Manhoef has made headlines, but his £10 million price-tag alongside competition from Sheffield United, Burnley, Genk and Club Brugge may throw up a couple of obstacles.

On the same token, the Bhoys’ search for attackers could lead to West Ham United striker Danny Ings. His £125,000 per week wages would likely need to drop significantly, though he is set to be a free agent once the window opens.

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Financially, Celtic find themselves in rude health and are expected to splash the cash once again, though there is always an eye for a bargain at Parkhead should circumstances align.

Tapping into that school of thought, the Hoops are now in a race with several competitors to bring in a Premier League starlet that could be on the move.

Celtic look to strike deal for Crystal Palace starlet Jesse Derry

According to Football Insider, Celtic want to sign Crystal Palace youngster Jesse Derry this summer following news that he has rejected the offer of a professional contract at Selhurst Park.

Rangers are also in the hunt for the England youth international, while Atletico Madrid, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain and Juventus have all scouted the 17-year-old across the last few months.

Jesse Derry’s impressive 2024/25 campaign – all competitions

Appearances

20

Goals

9

Assists

2

Predominantly a winger, Derry is capable of playing on either flank, through the middle or as the creative foil for the main striker, illustrating his versatility which has been praised by analyst Ben Mattinson.

Available for a minimal compensation fee, he is said to be open to a move abroad after coming through the ranks at Crystal Palace, who now appear powerless in their attempts to retain the starlet.

Celtic have an excellent record when it comes to cherrypicking developing talent on the market, but it remains to be seen whether Derry would be offered first-team opportunities in the event he ends up at Parkhead.

Either way, supporters can take encouragement from the fact that movement seems to be taking place behind the scenes ahead of the summer window.

Arsenal have held discussions over signing a quality attacker “in recent days”, with manager Mikel Arteta and new sporting director Andrea Berta continuing to make a head start on the next transfer window.

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Berta’s arrival at the Emirates Stadium in late March signalled the start of a new era for the north Londoners, who have one eye firmly on the summer window amid their promising Champions League campaign.

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1 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 11, 2025

Arsenal smashed Real Madrid 3-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday night, taking a comfortable three-goal cushion into their quarter-final second leg at the Bernabeu next week, but Liverpool are about to win the Premier League title by a seismic distance.

Brentford (home)

April 12th

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Domestically, their season has been nothing short of a real disappointment, with Berta expected to splash the cash in an effort to rejuvenate and bolster Arteta’s squad ahead of a more fruitful title challenge next term.

Arsenal are already expected to sign Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, and they’ve been in advanced talks since January (Fabrizio Romano), but it is widely reported that yet another Spain international could be on his way to N5 as well.

Indeed, that man is Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams, and Berta is reliably believed to have met with the 22-year-old’s representatives last week.

While Berta is attempting to make a head start on negotiations with Williams, it is believed by some sources that the highly-rated forward is demanding around £250,000-per-week to agree a move away from Bilbao this summer (GiveMeSport).

This would make the player Arsenal’s third-highest earner behind Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz, but Williams’ £48 million release clause is still viewed as a “bargain” by some following his exceptional exploits over the last 12 months.

Bilbao’s sensation played a vital role in Spain’s triumph at Euro 2024 and registered nearly 20 assists in all competitions last season, so it is clear he would give Arsenal a completely new dimension going forward.

Arsenal hold "high level" talks over signing Nico Williams

Now, according to Football Insider and journalist Pete O’Rourke, Arsenal have held “high-level” talks over signing Williams “in recent days”, but there is a stumbling block in this potential move.

Berta and Arteta both want him at the Emirates Stadium, but his overall package, including wages, could still pose a problem considering they’re also attempting to save funds to buy a proven centre-forward.

A swoop for him remains on the cards for Arsenal, but they’ll have to find a way to navigate this situation regarding his salary, amid interest from Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Barcelona, who could also swoop for Williams.

“Nico is unique, he is wonderful,” said Fenerbahce boss Jose Mourinho late last year, raving over the Spanish starlet’s obvious quality.

“During the European Championship, people were talking a lot about Lamine Yamal, who is obviously another wonderful kid, but I personally prefer Nico.”

Arsenal have suffered plenty of injuries this term, derailing their bid for the Premier League as Liverpool march towards the title.

However, their Champions League dream is very much alive, with the Gunners heading to Madrid to defend a 3-0 lead against the European champions following a dazzling display last week at the Emirates Stadium.

The last thing Arsenal need is more injuries, having lost Gabriel in recent weeks and only just welcomed Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka back to the first team.

But in training ahead of their huge clash against Real Madrid in midweek, one Gunners star may be counting himself lucky.

Arsenal preparing for quarter-final clash after magical first-leg display

Arsenal were underdogs heading into their quarter-final glamour tie with Real Madrid, who they hadn’t faced since 2006, when the Gunners prevailed 1-0 on aggregate on their way to the final.

A tense first half was then followed by an Arsenal masterclass, with two free-kicks from Declan Rice placing the tie in the Gunners’ favour.

Rice’s first saw the England midfielder curl a superb strike around Thibaut Courtois’ wall, while his second was even more jaw-dropping, finding the Belgian goalkeeper’s top-left corner from the opposite side.

Mikel Merino rounded off a fine Arsenal move just minutes later to truly put Arteta’s men in the box seat ahead of this week’s return leg in Madrid, which will require a monumental comeback from Real, even considering their capacity to resurrect themselves from seemingly dire situations.

Whatever happens, the first leg is surely one of Arsenal’s greatest nights, beating the reigning European champions amid all their injury problems and tepid league challenge.

The tie is now set up with Arsenal just 90 minutes away from a first Champions League semi-final since 2009, handing the Gunners a golden chance to take home the trophy for the first time.

The winners of this tie will face either PSG or Aston Villa in the last four, with the Parisians 3-1 up from the first leg ahead of their trip to Villa Park on Tuesday evening.

Arteta nearly injures Raheem Sterling ahead of Real Madrid showdown

Footage from Arsenal’s last training session before heading to Madrid, via BeanymanSports, shows the team in good spirits – and understandably so after last week’s heroics. However, that enthusiasm nearly spilled over, as manager Mikel Arteta almost got too carried away.

Ending up in the middle of a rondo, Arteta saw an opportunity to intercept the ball as it rolled towards Raheem Sterling, proceeding to fly into a sliding challenge.

Arteta seems to apologise in Sterling’s direction and takes a step back from partaking in the drill, while Jurrien Timber appears to wince as the manager’s challenge comes flying in.

There was no harm done in the end, leaving Sterling – who was banned for the first leg – free to face Real in what is Arsenal’s biggest European game for years.

Over the last day or so, Liverpool fans received the news they’ve been waiting for all season long, with Mohamed Salah and Virgil van Dijk both edging closer to extending their contracts at Anfield.

Both players were set to leave Arne Slot’s side at the end of the campaign with their deals set to expire, but the latest news has shed positive light on their futures on Merseyside.

It was reported that both stars are set to extend their stints with the Reds until the summer of 2027, with tying the pair down arguably the best business they could do this summer.

However, there’s no denying that Slot will still want to delve into the transfer market to further bolster his first-team squad, looking to build on the success achieved in the Premier League during his debut year at the helm.

One player has already emerged on their shortlist ahead of the summer, but they will face huge competition from another English side for his signature.

Liverpool plotting summer move for £40m sensation

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are firmly in the race to land Ajax’s 19-year-old sensation Jorrel Hato this summer, offering more depth at centre-back and left-back. Bailey states that ‘Liverpool like him’, but they won’t be alone in their pursuit.

Indeed, Arsenal are also said to be hugely interested in landing the teenager, with his versatility key to the interest from both of the English outfits.

He’s made 44 appearances across all competitions, registering nine combined goals and assists despite his defensive role, building on his progress in the Eredivisie after making his debut at just 16.

The report claims that Hato could be available for around the £40m mark this summer, with Slot keen on securing a move for his compatriot given his showings in recent months.

Despite his tender age, he would be a superb addition to the Reds first team squad, potentially becoming even better than one other star should he complete a move to Anfield in the coming months.

Why Hato could become a bigger talent than Van Dijk

Centre-back Van Dijk has been one of the leading factors to the success endured at Liverpool this season, being a key figure in Slot’s starting eleven, starting every single Premier League outing.

The same can be said for his entire spell on Merseyside, making over 300 appearances in his seven years at the club, cementing himself as one of the best defenders in the world – as seen by his Ballon d’Or standing a few years ago.

He may be 33, but remains as a pivotal member of the side, with his contract extension a boost to Slot, the squad and the supporters in their ambitions of building on their success in 2024/25.

Such a decision won’t scupper a move for Hato this summer, with the Ajax youngster able to learn off his compatriot and potentially become even better than the former Southampton star.

Hato, who’s been labelled “immense” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, was named in the top ten of the NXGN 2025 wonderkid list, having the potential to explode in Europe’s top five leagues should he move to the Reds.

Despite his tender age, the teenager has thrived in the Eredivisie, producing countless impressive stats that could allow him to catapult him to a level above that of Van Dijk.

When comparing his stats to the Reds’ captain, he’s managed to win more duels per 90, whilst also being dribbled past on fewer occasions – highlighting his defensive qualities.

How Jorrel Hato compares to Virgil van Dijk in 2024/25
Statistics (per 90)	Hato	Van Dijk
Games played	25	31
Goals & assists	8	2
Duels won	4.7	4.6
Aerial success rate	64%	69%
Times dribbled past	0.1	0.3
Tackles won	1.5	0.5
Recoveries made	5.1	3.3
Stats via FotMob

He’s also won more tackles and registered more goals and assists, showcasing the threat he possesses at both ends of the pitch – having the opportunity to improve further as he continues his development.

With Van Dijk entering the final years of his professional career, it’s crucial that the hierarchy plot for his eventual departure despite his new contract, with Hato certainly the perfect player to learn off the elite talent.

Whilst £40m may seem a huge investment in such a young star, it could be a bargain if lives up to his potential, setting the side up for further success in the years to come.

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By
Ethan Lamb

Apr 10, 2025

Chelsea are not short of options in attack, and Enzo Maresca certainly has an embarrassment of riches to choose from. The Blues’ key man in forward areas is Cole Palmer, who, despite a lean run of form, has managed 14 goals and nine assists in the Premier League this season.

The other player to hit double figures for league goals is Nicolas Jackson, who has managed ten, as well as five assists. Noni Madueke has also surpassed ten goal involvements in the top flight, too, with 11 to be specific.

If reports are to be believed, the Blues are looking to add more attacking talents to their squad this summer.

Chelsea targeting another teen superstar

One of the most highly sought-after players in world football right now seems to be 17-year-old attacking midfielder Franco Mastantuono. The River Plate star has caught the eye during his short career so far, and is now wanted by a multitude of clubs.

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According to a report from Clarin, via Sport Witness, Chelsea are one of the sides hoping to bring him into the club this summer, continuing their trend of raiding the South American market.

Fellow Premier League side Manchester United are also showing strong interest, and Spanish giants Atletico Madrid, Barcelona and Real Madrid are also believed to be considering a move.

Mastantuono has a reported release clause of £38m, and a move will likely happen when he turns 18 in the middle of August. River are reportedly looking to renew his contract, which could alter his release clause.

Why Mastantuono would be a good signing

Should the Blues manage to bring Mastantuono to the club, it would be another exciting young talent they have managed to add to their ranks. He has impressed in his short professional career for River, and has also been recognised by Argentina at under-20 level.

In 13 games in 2025 so far for the Argentine giants, he already has four goals and two assists to his name. He has featured for 997 minutes, and is currently averaging a goal involvement every 166 minutes, which is impressive for someone as inexperienced as he is.

The other standout thing to note about Mastantuono is his versatility. The River number 30, who is left-footed, can play as a right winger or a number ten, which is certainly something Maresca could lean upon at times.

Football analyst Ben Mattinson described the youngster as someone in the “Palmer mould”. However, he even goes on to make the claim that he is “he best of the lot”, suggesting Mastantono is someone to really get excited about.

Well, Chelsea fans have two young South American talents they can watch in action before too long. The Blues also signed Estevao Willian almost one year ago from Palmeiras, who will join the club for £29m this summer.

He has seven goals and one assist in all competitions in 2025, having featured in 23 matches for the Brazilian giants. Like Mastantuono, he is a hybrid between a winger and a number ten, able to play both positions.

Well, the pair could become a force to be reckoned with in a Chelsea shirt, over the next few seasons. The stats on FBref show just how good they are, and as a duo, they could become unstoppable.

One of the stats that sticks out is their creative passing numbers. Mastantuono averages 2.59 key passes and 5.47 shot-creating actions each game, with Estevao averaging 2.36 key passes and 4.03 shot-creating actions per 90 minutes.

Mastantuono & Estevao key stats

Stat (per 90)

Mastantuono

Estevao

Goals and assists

0.49

0.42

Key passes

2.59

2.36

Shot-creating actions

5.47

4.03

Carries into final third

3.33

3.33

Ball recoveries

3.33

4.44

Stats from FBref

There is no doubt that Mastantuono is an exciting talent. Not only do Europe’s biggest clubs want to sign him, but he is putting up excellent numbers in a River shirt already, and has some impressive underlying stats.

If this is a deal Chelsea manage to do, he could be a fantastic addition, and form a deadly partnership with Estevao at Stamford Bridge.

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Ipswich Town have now finally been put out of their Premier League misery with Saturday’s disappointing 3-0 defeat at Newcastle United officially confirming their inevitable relegation.

Kieran McKenna’s side have managed to raise some smiles among their fanbase recently with a draw on the road at Chelsea one memorable result across April, alongside a 2-1 win away at Andoni Iraola’s tough AFC Bournemouth outfit, but back-to-back defeats to Arsenal and the Magpies proved to be the fatal body blow.

Ipswich’s task on Tyneside to try and pick up an unexpected win was made ever more difficult by Ben Johnson’s dismissal deep into the first half, with the number 18 letting his side down massively on the big occasion.

Johnson's performance in numbers

Unfortunately, this will have soured Johnson’s reputation amongst the Suffolk masses, considering he had been in the good books after scoring and assisting in that aforementioned 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge.

But, at St James’ Park, the ex-West Ham United man lost his cool, with two quickfire bookings – the second being a petulant drag back of Alexander Isak’s shirt – resulting in the 25-year-old despondently trudging off the pitch.

Soon after, the exciting striker he fouled would fire the Magpies into the lead from the penalty spot, with the result only pointing in one direction from then on in.

When he was still on the St James’ Park turf, Johnson would throw himself about admirably with four duels won, but that positive number meant very little after the red card was brandished.

Still, he wasn’t the sole underperformer from the away side’s perspective, with one of Johnson’s teammates enduring an equally frustrating afternoon as Ipswich’s Premier League fate was sealed.

Ipswich dud was as bad as Johnson

Ipswich were hanging on for dear life throughout the first half, with the direct aftermath of Johnson’s dismissal even seeing Luke Woolfenden clear a Newcastle effort off the line.

McKenna would have been praying that his team could hold out until the half-time interval to regroup, but Julio Enciso would rashly tangle with an advancing Jacob Murphy in the box during first-half added-on time to his manager’s dismay, leading to a spot-kick being given.

Away from this incident, Enciso struggled throughout his choppy 71-minute spell against Howe’s men, with the Brighton and Hove Albion loanee only able to register one effort at Nick Pope’s net.

Moreover, the 21-year-old attacker only amassed one successful dribble from five attempted, on top of only completing a meagre eight accurate passes from his unmemorable 31 touches of the ball.

Minutes played

71

Goals scored

0

Assists

0

Touches

31

Accurate passes

8/12 (67%)

Possession lost

15x

Shots

1

Successful dribbles

1/5

Total duels won

4/17

Stats by Sofascore

The lacklustre numbers don’t stop there, with Enciso, unlike Johnson, timid when asserting himself into duels versus the Toon, leading to a bumper 13 duels being lost by the Paraguayan.

It could well be time for McKenna to axe the out-of-sorts South American despite previously notching up an impressive four goal contributions donning Ipswich blue, knowing full well the 21-year-old will just return back to the comforts of the Seagulls shortly when his Portman Road deal expires.

Conor Chaplin was given a brief run-out in his place against Newcastle and is more likely to stick it out with the Tractor Boys when EFL football is served back up, with McKenna and Co bruised by relegation but already hopeful of an immediate return when their Premier League adventure ends next month.

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Chelsea have not held back in the transfer market under new owner Todd Boehly. The Blues have certainly been comfortable to splash the cash, aiming to build a new dynasty at Stamford Bridge, and particularly looking to strengthen in attack.

Over the past few seasons, they have signed several new attackers, including permanent deals for the likes of Pedro Neto from Wolverhampton Wanderers, and even a loan move for Jadon Sancho from Manchester United.

They even have three young attackers joining in the next couple of seasons, further strengthening their options in forward areas. That does not include summer targets for 2025, with Kenan Yildiz one player they are linked with.

The latest on Chelsea’s pursuit of Yildiz

It seems as though the race to sign Juventus attacker Yildiz is on this summer, with Chelsea set to go head-to-head with one of their biggest rivals, Arsenal, to bring the 19-year-old to London. Whether he moves to West or North London, however, remains to be seen.

A recent report from Caught Offside suggests that the Blues have been ‘intensifying their efforts’ to bring the youngster to Stamford Bridge in the next few months. As well as facing competition from the Gunners, newly crowned Premier League champions Liverpool, 13-time winners Manchester United and their rivals Manchester City could all show interest.

As for why Enzo Maresca’s side want to add Yildiz to their ranks, he has been impressive for the Old Lady this term. The Turkey star has eight goals and five assists across all competitions for Juve, and has played everywhere across the frontline. They are eye-catching numbers for such a young player.

With that in mind, his price might not come as a shock, though it is certainly a high fee Juve could demand. Caught Offside report that he is worth £85.2m, if he is to depart the Allianz Stadium this summer.

Incredibly, the Blues have an attacker worth even more than the 19-year-old sensation.

The Chelsea star worth more than Yildiz

Of all the attackers the Blues have bought, none has made the impression that Cole Palmer has. The England international has been in lean form for a few weeks, but his time at Stamford Bridge overall has been exceptional.

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The 22-year-old, who hails from Wythenshawe in Manchester, has an exceptional record in that famous Blue shirt of Chelsea.

He’s managed 39 goals and 24 assists in 85 games so far, and was crowned PFA Young Player of the Year for his 33 goals in as many Premier League games last term.

This term has been slightly slower for the former Man City star. He has managed 14 goals and nine assists in the top flight, although has now gone 12 games without a goal. In that timeframe, he has chipped in with three assists.

With that being said, his underlying stats from the past two seasons, courtesy of Sofascore, show just how talented he is. For example, the 22-year-old averaged 2.5 key passes per game last term, and a slightly better 2.6 key passes per game so far this term.

Goals and assists

1.2

0.7

Key passes

2.5

2.6

Big chances created

0.6

0.6

Dribbles completed

1.8

1.5

Expected goal involvements

0.93xGI

0.76xGI

When considering all that, it might not be a surprise to learn that Palmer is valued extremely highly by Football Transfers. They have him worth £100.2m, higher than any other player in the Chelsea squad.

Interestingly, that is around £15m more than the amount Juventus would be looking to charge for Yildiz this summer. If anything, this further highlights the importance of Palmer to the Chelsea side.

They certainly got lucky with Palmer when they signed him in 2023. He has proven to be a revelation, an “insanely consistent” player as Statman Dave called him. Despite his struggles in recent weeks, there is no doubt about the quality of Palmer.

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Leeds United’s Saturday lunchtime couldn’t have gone any better, with the Whites recording a priceless victory in the ongoing automatic promotion tussle in the Championship against Preston North End, whilst one of their rivals for the top two spots succumbed to a third straight defeat in the league.

That was Chris Wilder’s Sheffield United who shockingly fell to a late defeat at bottom-of-the-table Plymouth Argyle, with Leeds’ emotions very different at the final whistle away from the dour mood in Devon from the away stands.

The picture above encapsulates the mixture of both relief and jubliance inside Elland Road when the full-time whistle was sounded, with Manor Solomon standing out throughout as a top performer after gifting his promotion-chasing side the lead after just four minutes.

Solomon's performance in numbers vs Preston

With Daniel James confirmed to be out of the lunchtime clash when the lineup filtered through, Solomon must have been even more aware that he could be a hero for his team down the flanks, away from the energetic Welshman.

He instantly threw himself into the contest and was rewarded with a stunning early effort, with the Tottenham Hotspur loanee managing to curl this delightful effort past the opposition goalkeeper after the Whites’ patient passing approach paid off.

Preston would instantly fight back with an equaliser, but thankfully, the Championship’s table-toppers had more than enough in their system to get over the line and win, with Solomon a lively customer across the frantic 90 minutes.

Indeed, the 25-year-old winger would also turn provider when assisting Jayden Bogle’s winning goal, with the Spurs loan ace further completing four accurate crosses to try and make Leeds’ slim victory more comprehensive.

Whilst the attacking players in Daniel Farke’s ranks do often steal the plaudits with breathtaking displays of quality, there was also a resilient side to Leeds on show against Paul Heckingbottom’s visitors, with this defender a colossus throughout.

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It could be argued that the centre-back star in question was even better than Solomon across the full duration of the bumpy 90 minutes, with the 6 foot 4 titan having to remain alert throughout, away from his attacking teammate stealing the show early on.

Joe Rodon would come away from this nervy encounter with his head firmly held high, considering the Welsh enforcer would trudge off the Elland Road turf at the close of the contest with all but one of his seven duels won, among other standout numbers.

Minutes played

90

Goals scored

0

Assists

0

Touches

59

Accurate passes

47/51 (92%)

Key passes

1

Shots

2

Clearances

4

Tackles

1

Total duels won

6/7

Looking at the table above, it’s clear Rodon was a man in control throughout his near-faultless 90 minutes, with the ex-Swansea City man only misplacing four of his 51 passes on the day.

Whilst he followed a worried trend of Leeds being wasteful in front of goal with two chances spurned of his own, Rodon would still rightly be praised post-match, leading to Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Graham Smyth dishing out a high 8/10 rating to the dominant number six, labelling his forceful showing as simply ‘no-nonsense’.

Already undroppable before this tense fixture – considering Farke has started him in every Championship game this season to date – his importance to the cause has only been heightened now off the back the unfortunate backdrop of his usual centre-back comrade, Pascal Struijk, being ruled out for the rest of the campaign.

Rodon will hope more authoritative performances defensively, such as this one against the Lilywhites, leads to more invaluable victories coming his side’s way, with just one misstep in the automatic promotion race in the Championship proving to be very costly.

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