Liverpool have made new contact with the agents of a “world-class” player ahead of a potential summer move, an exciting new transfer rumour has claimed.
A huge summer awaits at Liverpool
The Reds may be the new Premier League champions, but there are still flaws within the squad that Arne Slot will want to address this summer. New full-backs will be needed, for example, with Trent Alexander-Arnold leaving and Andy Robertson arguably past his best, and a centre forward also looks to be required.
Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez has been linked with a move to Liverpool, with the Argentine seen as an upgrade on Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez, both of whom have struggled to make their mark this season.
Meanwhile, Kevin De Bruyne has been linked with a shock move to the Reds from Manchester City, having confirmed that he will leave the Etihad at the end of the current campaign. West Ham forward Mohammed Kudus is another rumoured option for Liverpool when the summer window arrives, with Arsenal also believed to be interested. Now, one of the most well-known attacking players in Europe has been linked with a switch to Anfield, though.
Liverpool make contact with "world-class" Real Madrid star Rodrygo
According to The Boot Room, Liverpool have “spoken” to the representatives of Real Madrid forward Rodrygo over a summer move to Anfield, as have Manchester City and Arsenal.
These are fresh discussions, having only happened in “recent weeks”, with previous reports earlier in the year also saying that contact had been made.
The idea of Rodrygo playing for Liverpool is mouthwatering, considering he is a world-renowned star who still has so much of his career ahead of him. The 24-year-old has 68 goals and 50 assists for Madrid, which is no mean feat, while Luka Modric has called him a “world-class” footballer.
If Liverpool managed to entice him to the club ahead of next season, it could feel like one of the biggest transfer coups in their recent history, and the Brazil international may well be considered the natural long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah on the right flank.
Rodrygo can also be a threat from the left-hand side, however, so he could even arrive as an immediate upgrade to Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz, amid doubts over the latter’s future with the Reds.
It remains to be seen if Rodrygo sees his future away from Madrid, however, at a time when there are so many superstars at the club, and always a great chance of winning major silverware every season. The report states that he is “not happy” but will “assess” things in the summer when the managerial situation at the Bernabeu is cleared up.
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Liverpool are a major attraction in their own right, and could easily only go from strength to strength under Slot, so the £204,000-a-week Rodrygo’s head will hopefully be turned by a move to Merseyside.
With right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold looking increasingly likely to depart Liverpool this summer, it’s pivotal that the hierarchy land a replacement this summer.
The 26-year-old has reportedly agreed a pre-contract with Real Madrid over a move to join the Spanish giants at the end of the season upon the expiration of his current deal.
His goal against Leicester City at the weekend may have been his last for his boyhood club, edging Arne Slot’s side one step closer to Premier League glory.
Conor Bradley has been the man to step up and fill the void in Trent’s injury absence in recent weeks, staking his claim for a regular starting role should he leave in the summer.
Regardless of whether the Northern Ireland international becomes a regular starter, depth is needed in such a department, offering depth to Slot throughout 2025/26.
Liverpool’s pursuit of Jeremie Frimpong this summer
In recent weeks, Jeremie Frimpong has emerged as a leading target for Liverpool in the right-back department, offering a replacement for the departing Trent.
The Dutchman, who currently plies his trade with Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga, has been firmly on the club’s radar, but no offer has been submitted for his services as of yet.
Jeremie Frimpong for Bayer Leverkusen
The interest is understandable given his form in 2024/25, registering four goals and nine assists across all competitions – including the Champions League.
It remains unclear how much the club would have to fork out for the Dutch international, but given his form and his tender age of just 24, he could cost a pretty penny in the coming months.
However, despite the interest in his signature, the hierarchy are also huge admirers of Nottingham Forest full-back Ola Aina, opening the door to a potential summer move.
According to one Spanish outlet, the Reds have already started work over a move for the 28-year-old, who may well be out of contract come the end of June.
Why Liverpool should forget about Frimpong with a move for a PL RB
This summer is a crucial one for Liverpool if they are to maintain their success at the top of England’s top flight, with additions needed in various positions to boost Slot’s chances of further success.
Liverpool managerArneSlotbefore the match
New attackers are undoubtedly on the list, potentially partnering with Mohamed Salah within the final third after the Egyptian’s contract extension in recent weeks.
However, it remains to be seen how much funding the hierarchy will hand the manager to make his desired transfers, having to potentially work on a restricted budget.
Such a situation could see cheaper alternatives considered, with a move for Aina potentially being just that, but the club would still be getting themselves one hell of a player.
When comparing the Nigerian’s stats with those of Frimpong’s, he’s managed to outperform him in numerous key areas, highlighting what a superb addition he would be to the current first-team squad.
The Forest star, who’s been labelled as “one of the best fullbacks in Europe this season” by European football expert Zach Lowy, may have registered fewer goals and assists, but has notched a higher take-on success rate, and more progressive passes – highlighting the threat he possesses in possession.
He’s also completed more of his passes, whilst also winning more aerial duels, offering an all-round presence on the right-hand side of Slot’s backline.
Games played
30
30
Goals & assists
3
9
Progressive passes
3.2
2.1
Pass accuracy
77%
76%
Tackles won
1.4
0.9
Interceptions made
1.1
0.4
Take-on success
45%
28%
Aerials won
40%
34%
Defensively, Aina has been phenomenal, massively outperforming Frimpong in such an area, winning more of the tackles he’s entered, whilst also making more interceptions – showcasing the qualities he could add to the already impressive defensive unit.
Whilst the Dutchman is likely to be their main target, a deal for Aina desperately needs to be explored, having all the tools to be a success at Anfield.
It certainly could be a cost-effective deal for the Forest star, allowing for added investment elsewhere, whilst also massively improving the situation should Trent depart.
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Liverpool appear to be readying a mammoth bid for a new attacking talent this summer.
In a major boost for those in the Midlands, Besiktas are now reportedly willing to listen to offers for a long-term Aston Villa target this summer and the Villans could finally get their man.
All eyes on Bournemouth for Aston Villa
Still battling to squeeze their way into the top five in the final three Premier League games, Aston Villa simply cannot afford anything but three points against a tough Bournemouth side this weekend. Everything is still to play for in the race for European football and anything could still happen. Even sat seventh, Unai Emery’s side should have plenty of hope.
Emery recently spoke about his side’s final run-in and how his side are taking it one game at a time, telling reporters: “Bournemouth, next week. Bournemouth. So, so difficult, Bournemouth. And then, we’ll see. We’ll see. Saturday, finished. Now Bournemouth.
“Before Saturday if we were thinking, ok, the next match is Bournemouth, the next match is Tottenham, Manchester United… if we weren’t winning, forget it! Completely! We have to go to each match and try to win. If we win like today, ok, the next one.”
Following their trip to Bournemouth, Aston Villa will square off against Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United to end their season. In many ways, nothing quite represents how much the Premier League has changed more than Villa’s fight for Champions League football coming against two bottom half sides who many tipped to be in the Villans’ position at the start of the campaign.
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Things are likely to get even worse for Manchester United and Spurs if Villa qualify for a place among Europe’s elite too. With Champions League football to offer, those in the Midlands could instantly go in pursuit of major upgrades which may yet include one particular young star.
Besiktas now open to selling "dynamic" Kilicsoy
According to Fotomac in Turkey, as relayed by Sport Witness, Besiktas are now open to selling Semih Kilicsoy with Aston Villa already eyeing a summer swoop to finally land his signature. The 19-year-old first grabbed Villa’s attention last summer and was even reportedly the subject of a rejected offer. Now, a year on, a similar offer could be enough for the Turkish side to bid farewell to their young star.
Described as a “dynamic versatile forward” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Kilicsoy is undoubtedly one to watch. His first full season at senior level was incredibly impressive and since then he has not looked back.
In the current campaign, Kilicsoy has managed four goals and six assists – once again proving his ability to be a consistent outlet from either flank or, indeed, the player leading the line. With plenty of years between now and his peak, the teenager is not one that Villa will want to miss out on.
While the mood around the club has dramatically improved following their Europa League win on Thursday night, Tottenham Hotspur have had to deal with plenty of problems this season.
The most significant has been the near-endless stream of injuries, which has made it impossible for Ange Postecoglou to field his first-choice defence for much of the campaign.
So, it’s not surprising to hear that Daniel Levy and Co are looking to add to their defensive ranks in the summer.
In fact, recent reports have touted a former Premier League player with a move to N17, a player who’s been compared to Cristian Romero.
Tottenham Hotspur transfer news
It looks like it will be a big summer for Spurs this year, so before getting to the player in question, it’s worth looking at a few of the club’s other targets, such as Oihan Sancet.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The Athletic Bilbao monster will reportedly cost around £69m in the coming months, and while that is a lot, it might well be worth it, as in just 30 appearances, he has scored 17 goals and provided three assists, which comes out to a goal involvement every 1.30 games, almost exclusively from midfield.
An even more expensive signing could be Matheus Cunha, with reports from earlier this month claiming that the North Londoners would be willing to spend £75m to secure his services ahead of the chasing pack.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' MatheusCunhareacts
Again, it’s an enormous sum of money, but given the fact that the Brazilian international has scored 16 goals and provided four assists in 30 appearances this season, it might well be value for money.
However, as mentioned above, bringing in some more defensive cover appears to be one of the club’s priorities this summer, which helps explain their interest in Eric Garcia.
Yes, according to a recent report from Spain, Tottenham are interested in signing the former Manchester City gem, who is currently on loan with Girona, from Barcelona.
In fact, the report goes a step further, claiming that the Lilywhites are ready to make an offer of around €15m for the Spanish defender, which amounts to about £13m.
Barcelona'sEricGarciareacts
It could be a bargain for a relatively young centre-back who has plenty of experience playing at a high level, and he’s already won comparisons to Romero.
How Garcia compares to Romero
So, before getting into the other reasons Spurs might want to sign Garcia this summer, it’s worth exploring this comparison to Romero and where it comes from.
Well, in this instance, it stems from FBref, which looks at players in similar positions in Europe’s top five leagues, the Champions League and Europa League, then creates a list of the ten most comparable players for each one and, in this instance, has concluded that the Argentine star is the fourth most similar centre-back to the Spaniard.
The best way to see where this comparison has come from is to look at the underlying metrics in which the pair rank closely, including, but not limited to, non-penalty expected goals plus assists, shots on target, passes into the penalty area, live passes, goal-creating actions, tackles, blocks and more, all per 90.
Garcia & Romero
Statistics per 90
Garcia
Romero
Non-Penalty Expected G+As
0.16
0.14
Shots on Target
0.40
0.53
Passes into the Penalty Area
0.48
0.53
Live Passes
73.4
71.5
Goal-Creating Actions
0.32
0.26
Tackles
2.06
2.17
Blocks
1.35
1.18
Aerial Duel Win %
55.6%
60.6%
All Stats via FBref for the 24/25 League Season
On top of winning comparisons to the World Cup-winning Lilywhites ace, the £99k-per-week “monster,” as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, also has some seriously impressive underlying numbers in his own right.
For example, FBref places him in the top 1% of centre-backs across Europe’s top five leagues for goals, goals plus assists, shots on target, non-penalty expected goals, penalties won and tackles in the middle third, the top 3% for long pass completion and passes into the final third, the top 5% for progressive passes and much more, all per 90.
FC Barcelona'sEricGarciacelebrates scoring their fourth goal
Ultimately, even if he cost more than is being reported, Spurs would be smart to sign Garcia, so if they can get him for around £13m, then that would be a no-brainer, as he’d be an ideal backup for Romero and Micky van de Ven at the very least, if not a competitor for game time.
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The next transfer window is not far away from opening and Crystal Palace are already close to their first summer addition, according to a recent report.
Crystal Palace step up transfer plans as contact made with multiple targets
The Eagles still have games left to play in the Premier League and, of course, their huge FA Cup final against Manchester City, but already the hierarchy are slowly working towards the summer and identifying players they would like to sign.
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One player who has now emerged on Palace’s radar is Leganés midfielder Yvan Neyou, who is set to become a free agent at the end of the campaign. It’s reported that the Eagles have made an enquiry to sign Neyou to get an understanding if he would be interested in a move to England, and are considering making an offer to the midfielder.
However, they are not alone in the race, as Fulham are also interested, while Valencia are said to be leading the charge to keep him in Spain.
As well as looking to strengthen their midfield, Oliver Glasner also wants to add to his options in defence, especially at left-back. According to TBR Football, Palace have spoken to Junior Firpo’s representatives over a possible move to Selhurst Park, but they are one of many teams looking to sign the Leeds defender on a free transfer.
Crystal Palace offer four-year deal to Osayi-Samuel
The Eagles are well and truly looking to get their transfer business done early this summer, as according to Fotomac, relayed by Sport Witness, Crystal Palace are close to signing Bright Osayi-Samuel from Turkish giants Fenerbahçe.
Osayi-Samuel is coming to the end of his contract with Fenerbahçe, and it looks increasingly likely he will be leaving and making a return to English football. The report states that Palace have been in transfer talks with the defender and have offered a four-year deal worth €4.5 million a season, which is roughly £3.8 million and a total of £15 million over the four campaigns.
It goes on to add that an agreement is close to being reached despite the fact that Fenerbahçe manager José Mourinho has tried to keep Osayi-Samuel at the club and an offer of a contract extension has been put on the table. The 27-year-old, who has been dubbed “outstanding” in the past by Mark Warburton, has played 21 times in the Super Lig this season, as well as featuring nine times in the Europa League.
Apps
174
Goals
7
Assists
15
Osayi-Samuel was originally a winger but has now become a right-back in the later part of his career. Palace obviously believe that his ability in that position could bring something different to what they currently have. The Eagles do have Daniel Munoz and Nathaniel Clyne as their senior right-backs, but Munoz has been linked with a move away this summer and Clyne’s contract is set to expire.
Glasgow Rangers’ supporters have seen plenty of sublime strikers perform at Ibrox over the years.
Names such as Ally McCoist, Mark Hateley, Michael Mols and Kris Boyd roll off the tongue and how the new manager would love a goalscorer in this mould for next season at Rangers. The foundation of title wins and European runs, however, comes from an excellent defence, in particular a solid centre-back.
Terry Butcher arrived in Glasgow from England, and immediately became one of the most influential defenders in the club’s history. Richard Gough was next to follow, and he captained the Gers to nine league titles in a row at Ibrox between 1989 and 1997.
Following Gough’s departure, the likes of Lorenzo Amoruso, Craig Moore and Carlos Cueller emerged to continue the club’s ascent, with the latter helping Rangers reach the 2008 UEFA Cup final.
Who can forget David Weir? The former Everton defender was an absolute rock, despite playing until he was 41.
It took a while for the Light Blues to eventually replace Weir at the heart of the defence, but when Connor Goldson arrived in Glasgow during the summer of 2018, he looked every inch the heir to the Scot.
Conor Goldson’s Rangers statistics
Steven Gerrard’s rebuilding job that summer required a centre-back who could cope with the physicality of Scottish football.
Goldson, having played over 100 matches for Brighton and Shrewsbury down south, looked like the perfect signing.
Despite the Light Blues failing to win a trophy during Gerrard’s first two seasons at the club, progress was clear, and this stemmed from an improved defence led by Goldson.
Rangers defender Connor Goldson.
Indeed, he missed just six and two games during those two seasons. Rarely injured and consistently excellent, the Englishman was on the cusp of helping the Gers to one of their finest seasons on record.
Throughout the 2020/21 season, Rangers conceded only 13 Premiership goals, breaking the British record of 15 set by Chelsea 16 years before.
Goldson and Filip Helander were a commanding partnership at the back. The former Brighton star won an impressive 6.6 total duels per game that term – a success rate of 71% – while being dribbled past only 0.2 times per game and making 1.3 tackles each match.
Connor Goldson’s statistics at Rangers
Season
Games
Goals
Assists
2023/24
48
0
3
2022/23
38
3
3
2021/22
61
4
4
2020/21
56
8
3
2019/20
52
4
2
2018/19
54
4
0
Via Transfermarkt
This was Goldson at his peak, no doubt about that. He was excellent during the club’s run to the final of the Europa League in 2022, but mistakes began creeping in steadily over the next couple of years.
His lack of pace was a worry, and he was regularly beaten in foot races against faster opponents, notably against Bojan Miovski, who got the better of the defender to open the scoring for Aberdeen in a 1-1 draw back in 2023.
He left last summer, joining Cypriot side Aris Limassol. He was awarded the best defender of the season and perhaps the club sold him prematurely?
It looks as though the Light Blues are showing interest in signing a centre-back from the Premier League. Could Cameron Burgess turn into Goldson 2.0?
Rangers eye move for Premier League defender
Leon Balogun looks set to leave Ibrox and with Rafael Fernandes returning to his parent club, the only centre-backs remaining will be John Souttar, Robin Propper, Clinton Nsiala and Leon King.
With questions over Propper and Nsiala’s lack of experience, it is evident the club need to bring in a solid, reliable, defender this summer.
Rangers Review journalist Joshua Barrie gave the fans some transfer news when he took to X recently, saying: “Rangers are interested in Ipswich defender Cameron Burgess as they seek to bolster their defence ahead of the new season.
“29-yo has played 18 times in the Premier League this season.”
Burgess may be approaching 30, but with Premier League experience under his belt and the physicality to succeed in Scottish football, it could be a smart move to bring the £2m-rated star north of the border.
If he impresses early on, he could be the natural successor to Goldson at Ibrox. That much is certain.
Why Rangers must sign Cameron Burgess
Scottish scout and analyst, Kai Watson, profiled the centre-back amid rumors that Rangers are keen on signing him.
He said: “Cameron Burgess may not be the most exciting signing on paper but he’ll bring necessary experience to the back, particularly if Balogun departs.
“He’s 6’4, left sided, an Australian international and uses the ball well.”
Across his 18 Premier League appearances for Ipswich Town this term, Burgess has won 3.6 total duels per game – a success rate of 68% – and made 0.9 tackles and 6.9 clearances per game in the top flight.
Kieran McKenna, Burgess’ manager at Ipswich, hailed the defender as “excellent” back in 2022 and there is no doubt he would be a reliable option for the new manager to call upon next term, given his dominant duel success rate that compares well to Goldson’s aforementioned form at Ibrox.
While his passing statistics may not be out of this world, mainly due to Ipswich not having much of the ball during games, he makes up for it by impressing across other metrics.
Indeed, when compared to fellow defenders in the English top flight, the Australian ranks in the top 2% for clearances (7.48), in the top 21% for aerials won (2.57), and in the top 5% for percentage of dribblers tackled (81.8%) per 90 this season.
Although bringing the ball out from the back is important, having a player who is able to get the better of the opposition forwards – both in the air and on the ground – is something that the Gers have struggled with this season.
Propper often struggles with the physicality of strikers from clubs lower down the league table, even though his passing is fairly reliable (88% pass success rate).
Burgess might not be a flashy new signing that will get supporters out of their seats at Ibrox next season. What he will offer is a solidity at the heart of the defence.
Following a campaign of disarray, this is exactly what is required for 2025/26.
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Newcastle United are in the box seat to qualify for the Champions League via a top-five finish in the Premier League. The Magpies, who lost their most recent outing 1-0 away to Arsenal, currently occupy third spot with one game to go.
With 66 points to their name, a win would guarantee Eddie Howe’s side a place in next season’s premier European club competition, although a draw might not be enough, given they are just one point clear of seventh-place Nottingham Forest. It is in their hands, so they must beat Everton at home.
If they do return to the competition next term, attacking reinforcements would certainly strengthen their case to help them go on a run in the competition.
Newcastle’s latest attacking target
Newcastle seem keen to add strength and depth to their forward line this summer, and one player who has been constantly linked with a move to St James’ Park is Bryan Mbeumo who has been excellent in 2024/25.
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 a new report from GIVEMESPORT, the Magpies ‘are firmly in the race’ to bring Mbeumo to the club this summer.
Manager Howe, who brought silverware to the club this term after 56 years, views the attacker ‘as a standout target for Newcastle’ this summer.
Brentford's BryanMbeumoreacts
However, this is not a deal that will come cheap. The report suggests that the Cameroon international will cost the North Eastern side £60m, with Manchester United, Nottingham Forest and Arsenal all interested in signing the attacker, too.
Why Mbeumo would be a good signing
It has been a really strong season for Brentford in 2024/25, who themselves are pushing for a European spot. It is perhaps no coincidence that the Bees’ excellent campaign has aligned with a personal year to remember for Mbeumo.
The 25-year-old, who came through French side Troyes’ academy, has been one of the Premier League’s standout players this term. He was nominated for the Player of the Season award, which he described as a “crazy” feeling.
Well, the stats don’t lie, and Mbeumo’s goal and assist numbers are exceptional. He’s managed 19 goals and eight assists in 37 games, playing 3,327 minutes. That leaves him with an average of one goal involvement every 123 minutes.
Should the Magpies bring the winger to the club, he could prove to be a wonderful addition to an attack that includes Anthony Gordon. It has also been a terrific campaign for the England international, who has managed nine goals and seven assists in 41 games across all competitions.
One of Gordon’s biggest contributions came in the Carabao Cup. Although he was suspended for the final, the Merseyside-born winger scored in both semi-final legs against Arsenal to help guide Newcastle to Wembley, where they ultimately lifted the trophy.
Well, perhaps Mbeumo can become the right-sided Gordon in this Newcastle side. They play on opposite flanks, and with Gordon being right-footed on the left and the Brentford man left-footed on the right, both like to cut inside on their stronger foot and look to get a shot off.
They are also statistically similar via FBref from this season. For example, the Brentford attacker averages 1.84 key passes and 0.54 goal-creating actions per 90 minutes. In comparison, Newcastle’s number 10 averages 1.92 key passes and 0.45 goal-creating actions each game.
Goals per shot on target
0.39
0.32
Key passes
1.84
1.92
Progressive passes
3.74
3.58
Goal-creating actions
0.54
0.45
Take-ons completed
1.38
1.40
Football statistician Statman Dave described Mbeumo as a “deadly” attacker, and with the numbers he has put up this season, it is easy to see why. There is no doubt, he would enhance the Newcastle attack, and could well become the second coming of Gordon.
Brentford's BryanMbeumolooks dejected after the match
Although £60m is a large fee, the winger is seemingly worth the money, so perhaps the Magpies should take the plunge and bring Mbeumo to St James’ Park next season.
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Newcastle United are now hanging onto third spot in the Premier League after a narrow 1-0 defeat away at Arsenal.
Aston Villa’s name will not be etched on the FA Cup this season after a disastrous day out to Wembley at the semi-final stages saw Unai Emery’s Villans be humbled 3-0 by Oliver Glasner’s breathless Crystal Palace.
With no knock-out Champions League football on the menu now either, Villa’s sole goal rests on clinching a finish inside the Premier League’s top five to play amongst Europe’s elite once more.
Aston Villa manager UnaiEmery
Whatever does transpire, Villa could be facing a losing battle to keep Morgan Rogers situated at Villa Park past this season, with the rumour mill suggesting that the 22-year-old might be off very soon.
The latest on Morgan Rogers' future at Aston Villa
Rogers isn’t the only notable first-team face that could soon be heading for the exit door, with reports also surfacing that long-standing Villa servant Ollie Watkins is a wanted man by Liverpool, Newcastle and Arsenal.
The Independent claims that Chelsea are the Premier League club sniffing around for Rogers’ services, on the other hand, with a worry that Emery’s side might have to sign off on this departure reluctantly, owing to PSR rules.
The electric number 27 has shone throughout the season both down the wing and as a number ten, so it should come as no shock that Enzo Maresca’s Blues are keen, considering they are also weighing up moves for Jamie Gittens and Ademola Lookman to revolutionise their attacking options.
But, it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom at Villa Park if Rogers does up and leave this summer, with a move for this sensational wonderkid finally getting over the line somewhat lessening the blow.
The "elite" long-term Rogers replacement
Obviously, losing a player of the 22-year-old’s unbelievable quality wouldn’t be ideal, with Rogers now up to a blistering 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions this season from 50 clashes.
But, it could push Villa to go back out into the market to fish for their next up-and-coming talent in a similar vein to the ex-Manchester City youngster, with long-term target Sverre Nypan potentially ticking a lot of boxes in this regard. Indeed, recent reports from Fabrizio Romano last week suggest they are ‘closing in’ on an agreement for the wonderkid’s signing.
The Champions League aspiring outfit took an almighty risk on Rogers coming good when he joined the building for around the £15m mark just last year, only for him to now be worth around the gigantic £100m price range.
Therefore, Villa will hope another risky gamble on their end to land the 18-year-old Rosenborg sensation works out, considering the attack-oriented menace continues to take his native Norway by storm in a similar way to the newly-capped Englishman
Nypan’s league numbers for Rosenborg (2024)
Stat (* = per 90 mins)
Nypan
Games played
28
Games started
25
Goals scored
8
Assists
7
Big chances missed
8
Big chances created
7
Total duels won*
5.4
Stats by Sofascore
Already off the mark for Rosenborg during their new Eliteserien campaign, Villa’s interest in the Norway U21 international would have been piqued before this, with his league numbers for his boyhood club last season also standing out massively.
Indeed, despite starting just 25 games, Nypan would close out the season with a weighty 15 goal contributions tallied up, leading to the likes of Arsenal also allegedly eyeing up the Nordic ace to try and claim their next version of Martin Odegaard.
In Villa’s case, landing Nypan’s signature would be all about trying to fill the potential void left behind by Rogers, with the teenager further showing himself to be a viable long-term replacement when you look at his adaptability to play as a striker, away from his usual midfield duties.
Hailed as an “elite potential talent” data analyst by Ben Mattinson just this year, it does seem like only a matter of time before a notable outfit takes a punt on Nypan, with Villa needing to exercise patience – much like they did with Rogers – to get the very best out of the Scandinavian starlet.
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Whilst Leeds United lapped up most of the praise in the Championship this season, winning the second-tier title, Scott Parker’s Burnley were more than worthy challengers to the West Yorkshire side’s throne.
After all, Daniel Farke’s side only clinched the title on the final day via goal difference, with the Clarets hoping and praying for a shock Plymouth Argyle victory in Devon, but Parker’s men had to make do with the tag of being runners-up despite also achieving a remarkable haul of 100 points.
Still, there would be celebrations aplenty as the Lancashire side instantly returned to the promised land of the Premier League.
Burnley certainly have their unbelievable defensive record to thank for sealing automatic promotion, with James Trafford a formidable option in between the sticks all season long.
Trafford's standout season in goal for Burnley
Unfortunately for the Turf Moor side, some of their standout performers could still depart for more luxurious pastures this summer, even as the Clarets return to the elite league.
Trafford definitely fits into this category, with rumours circulating that Newcastle United are keen on adding the ex-Manchester City stopper to their roster off the back of his unerring quality in the second tier.
Unbelievably, the Carlisle-born ‘keeper would only concede 16 goals across Burnley’s triumphant 46-game marathon, leading to a jaw-dropping 29 clean sheets being tallied up.
Parker has even gone as far as labelling Trafford as “world class” off the back of such a memorable campaign for his promoted side, but he isn’t the only standout figure in the Clarets camp that is attracting deserved Premier League action.
James Trafford for Burnley.
Indeed, there was a performer who was just as lively, albeit at the complete opposite end of the pitch.
The Burnley "superstar" who is ready for the Premier League
Parker will already be wary about the difficult challenge ahead, considering he has only picked up nine career wins at Premier League level as a manager.
But, he will be slightly less hesitant about diving back into the tricky division if he can keep Josh Brownhill situated at Turf Moor, with the 29-year-old keen to make an impression on the top-flight again after taking the second tier by storm in 2024/25.
Staggeringly, the experienced EFL head managed to bag more goals in Championship action this season than Trafford would ship, with a bumper 18 goals coming his way to help his team soar into the top two spots.
With six assists also next to his name, the midfield “superstar” – as he was previously labelled by one of his former bosses in Lee Johnson – will be raring to go in the top-flight next season with or without his current employers.
The likes of Everton and West Ham United are reportedly taking an interest in the skilful Clarets captain to boost their own options centrally.
Championship
231
41
25
Premier League
111
6
6
League One
67
8
4
After all, even with the table above confirming that Brownhill’s most comfortable location is the Championship, he has shown flashes of his immense quality in the Premier League before even whilst Burnley have struggled, with his 2023/24 output seeing him pick up six of his overall 12 goal contributions.
This is why both the Toffees and the Hammers are presumably keen, but if Parker and Co are serious about staying put in the top-flight for the long-term, losing Brownhill would be a disaster.
The much-loved number 8 does already have two top-flight relegations on his CV, but after such a sensational personal season alongside the strong Trafford, he could be just what the Clarets need moving forward to return back to their former Premier League glory days.
Burnley make contact to sign ace with "great potential" amid Kompany talks
The Clarets are on their way back to the top-flight.
Manchester United were left frustrated once again in the Premier League on Sunday when they had to fight to scrape a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.
It took a 96th-minute goal from Rasmus Hojlund, who deflected an effort from Manuel Ugarte into the bottom corner, to secure a point against the Cherries, after Antoine Semenyo rifled the home team in front in the first half.
Ruben Amorim’s side created more than enough chances to win the match, though, as they racked up 2.52 xG and failed to make the most of their opportunities.
Bruno Fernandes, in particular, must have been particularly frustrated by the team’s wasteful finishing. The Portugal international created seven chances, including one ‘big chance’, and came off the pitch without an assist to show for his efforts.
Manchester United’s captain has been a shining light in a dim season for the Red Devils, once again, with the quality that he has provided in the middle of the park on a regular basis.
It is now down to the club and Amorim to ensure that they bring in the right players to complement his play in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Why Manchester United have let Bruno Fernandes down
The owners, the previous owners, the manager, and the previous manager, or managers, have all failed to build a squad that is equipped to make the most of Fernandes’ talent in the final third.
Manchester United’s captain has now created 14 ‘big chances’ in the Premier League this season and has only been rewarded with nine assists for his creative brilliance, which shows that his teammates have not done enough with the opportunities that he has created.
Bruno Fernandes
That is the story of Fernandes’ career at Old Trafford, particularly recently, as he has been an exceptional creative talent for the club throughout his time in the English top-flight.
The 30-year-old superstar, who has also scored 17 goals in all competitions this season, needs teammates who can make the most of the ‘big chances’ that he consistently creates.
24/25
14
9.24
9
23/24
21
13.16
8
22/23
32
17.27
8
21/22
15
8.81
6
20/21
20
11.47
12
19/20
4
2.75
7
Total
106
62.7
50
As you can see in the table above, Fernandes’ teammates have only scored 50 goals from 62.7 xA created by the former Sporting star, which shows that they have significantly underperformed in front of goal.
These statistics show that Manchester United have not been able to recruit the quality of centre-forward that the attacking midfielder needs to finish the chances that he creates on a weekly basis for the Reds.
Manchester United are now, reportedly, eyeing up a deal to sign a player who would love to play alongside Fernandes, and who has the quality to thrive alongside him.
Manchester United close in on Premier League star
According to reports in Spain, Manchester United are closing in on a deal to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers attacker Matheus Cunha ahead of the summer transfer window.
The report claims that the Brazilian forward is ‘very close’ to joining the Red Devils from the Premier League side, as Amorim looks to bolster his options at the top end of the pitch.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' MatheusCunhacelebrates scoring their first goal
Revelo adds that the Brazil international has a release clause, worth £53m, in his current contract with the Old Gold, and that United are ready to pay it to bring him to Manchester in the ‘coming weeks’.
It claims that there is already a verbal agreement in place between Cunha and Manchester United to join the club, which suggests that personal terms have already been agreed between the two parties.
Transfer Focus
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INEOS must, now, pay the release clause to wrap a deal up as early as possible in the summer transfer window, to avoid any other clubs swooping in ahead of them, as the attacker could be a dream signing for Fernandes next season.
Why Matheus Cunha would be a dream signing for Bruno Fernandes
The former Atletico Madrid attacker could be an ideal addition to the squad because he is a proven Premier League performer who could hit the ground running at Old Trafford, in theory.
This is Cunha’s second full season in the top-flight, having also been on loan at Wolves in the second half of the 2022/23 campaign, and he has shown himself to be a classy operator at the top end of the pitch for the Old Gold.
The 25-year-old star, who was directly involved in 22 goals as shown in the video above, could come in to provide Amorim’s side with a boost as both a scorer and a creator of goals.
His finishing qualities, in particular, will be of interest to Fernandes because his record in the Premier League since the start of last season suggests that the United captain would love him.
Appearances
32
29
xG
9.49
7.86
Goals
12
15
Big chances missed
6
2
Big chances created
7
12
Assists
7
6
As you can see in the table above, the Wolves superstar has vastly outperformed his xG, scoring 27 goals from 17.35 xG, and delivered 13 assists.
Cunha, dubbed a “special” player by his manager Vitor Pereira, has the quality to take high-quality chances when they come his way, outperforming how many goals the average player would be expected to score from the shots that he takes.
This is why Fernandes, who has consistently been let down by his teammates in that respect, would love the Brazilian ace at Old Trafford, because the forward could provide the finishing quality to make the most of his creativity.
Cunha and Fernandes could be a lethal pairing in the Premier League for United next season because the Portuguese ace could consistently create chances for the ex-Atletico Madrid ace to find the back of the net week-in-week-out, improving Manchester United’s attack.
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This is why INEOS must get a deal done for the Wolves star as quickly as possible because he could be a fantastic signing to bolster Amorim’s squad, improving the team’s chances of success next term.