All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

They might only be nine Premier League games in, but this season has been brutal for Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta’s side came into the campaign as Manchester City’s biggest title rivals, and while that is probably still true, injuries and suspensions are starting to take their toll.

For example, Gabriel Magalhaes and Jurrien Timber had to come off in the second half against Liverpool last night, and while the latter may have been suffering from a cramp, the former certainly looked hurt.

However, it’s not all doom and gloom, as Arteta has a plethora of incredibly talented youngsters at his disposal, and for Wednesday night’s game against Preston North End, he should hand one of them a first competitive start, alongside the more well-known Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly.

Why Lewis-Skelly and Nwaneri should start

Okay, so before we get to why the lesser-known prospect should start on Wednesday, let’s take a look at why his fellow academy stars should play as well, beginning with Nwaneri.

Of all the Gunners’ promising youngsters, the 17-year-old midfielder probably receives the most coverage from fans and pundits alike, and for good reason, as when he’s played for the first team this season, he has impressed, and Martin Odegaard’s absence has left a hole in the team he could fill.

For example, while he might not be as technically astute as Leandro Trossard at present, the Enfield-born dynamo has shown that he can add some much-needed directness and energy to the team’s midfield when he comes off the bench, as he did against Tottenham Hotspur and Leicester City.

Moreover, in his only start of the campaign, against Bolton Wanderers, the 5 foot 9 prodigy scored a brace and generally looked like the best player on the pitch, so with the club captain still out and the level of opposition being what it is, he must start against Preston.

Likewise, Lewis-Skelly, who also started and starred in that game, will likely start on Wednesday, as he’s seemingly become Arteta’s go-to substitute for the starting left-back in recent weeks, ahead of both Jakub Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko, and it’s easy to see why.

The Islington-born gem is brilliant on the ball, as demonstrated by the defence-splitting pass he played against Bolton and the numerous passes he played against Liverpool; he’s reasonably secure and, perhaps most importantly, has shown a maturity far beyond his years, coming on in crunch moments against Manchester City last month, the Reds on Sunday and playing 18 minutes in the Champions League last week.

Lastly, if Timber did pick up a slight knock at the Emirates, it would be mad to play him in the League Cup, so there is a perfect opportunity to hand the Hale End ace another start.

However, as Arsenal fans will be all too aware, Gabriel is also likely to be unfit for Wednesday at the very least, and while it’s yet another gut punch for the title-chasing team, his absence presents another opportunity for a lesser-known youngster to pick up his first competitive start for the club.

Why Ayden Heaven should start

Yes, the academy gem in question is 18-year-old Ayden Heaven, who may be known to Arsenal fans but remains a relative unknown to the broader footballing community – at least for now, anyway.

Now, the first thing to say is that, unlike the two young stars mentioned above, the 6 foot 2 ace has yet to make a competitive appearance for the first team and will therefore be making a big step-up if he does start on Wednesday, but Arteta will never know if he’s ready to make the jump unless he gives him the chance.

Fortunately, it would appear that the manager rates the young “beast”, as dubbed by podcaster WIll Balsam, as he gave him plenty of game time during the club’s pre-season tour against some big teams like Manchester United and Liverpool. On top of that, the Spaniard also named the promising gem on the bench for the North London derby and the game against Bolton earlier this season.

Centre-Back

16

Left-Back

5

Left Midfield

1

However, away from first-team action, the young Englishman has also impressed for the U21 side, where he’s made 23 appearances, playing mainly as a centre-back but also making appearances at left-back in left midfield, where he has been able to show off his “insane” passing range, as Balsam described it.

Ultimately, it’s a lot to ask of Heaven to make his first start for the club on Wednesday, but with Gabriel likely out of action for some time and the opposition being what it is, he could really help Arteta navigate the current injury crisis, and who knows, if he plays well enough, he could find himself making more first team appearances in the coming months, alongside Nwaneri and Lewis-Skelly.

Arsenal wasted £47m on Wenger flop who earned even more than Trossard does

Arsenal were far too eager to hand out massive contracts under the Frenchman.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Oct 26, 2024

Leeds United and Daniel Farke are “closer” to signing a free agent, according to an exciting new transfer update.

Leeds linked with free agents Kouyate, Guilavogui and Coquelin

The Whites enjoyed a brilliant return to action following the international break on Friday evening, handing rivals Sheffield United their first Championship defeat in the process. Leeds even managed to score from a corner thanks to Joe Rothwell and Pascal Struijk, with Joel Piroe and Mateo Joseph combining late on to seal a 2-0 win.

It was Rothwell and Ao Tanaka who shone in the middle once again following injuries to Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev, and Farke confirmed after the game that Leeds were still looking at a versatile free-agent signing.

“We still need one [a midfielder] because the next game is Tuesday. A lot of rest for us by our standards. We have to stay awake with the options out there, with centre-backs too. Thank God, Max is coming back, but he has missed a lot of football. Yellow cards too. We need depth. If there is a chance, we will do it.

“If we find a perfect fit, physical player who covers two positions, adds experience, that would be beneficial.”

There have been plenty of names mentioned including former Nottingham Forest man Cheikhou Kouyate. However, any transfer for the Senegal international appears to be off due to concerns over financial demands.

Former Arsenal and Villarreal midfielder Francis Coquelin had also been mooted, however, rumours over a deal for Leeds to sign Coquelin have gone cold in recent days.

Leeds are also considering signing Josuha Guilavogui, who used to play for Wolfsburg and Atletico Madrid, and he was spotted with a fan at Elland Road on Friday evening.

Farke shares update on Leeds free agent signing

Leeds Live journalist Joe Donnohue shared updates out of Thorp Arch from Farke’s pre-match press conference on Monday.

Ahead of the game against Watford, Farke revealed that a deal for Leeds to sign a free agent is “closer”, with a decision made by the end of next week.

“A bit closer, latest by the end of the next week we will have a decision made but it can happen quick and let’s see.”

Should Guilavogui be the man to come in for Leeds, he would offer another option as a holding midfielder and even be able to cover at centre-back if required, with Joe Rodon close to a one-match suspension and Max Wober still out through injury.

Tanaka and Rothwell will have a lot of football to play for Leeds before Ampadu and Gruev recover from their respective knee injuries, so a move for the 34-year-old appears to be a shrewd one. It’ll be one to watch in the coming days following Farke’s exciting comments.

Arsenal have lost influential sporting director Edu Gaspar in what is terrible news for Mikel Arteta and the Gunners, with a report shedding light on one of his final acts before deciding to leave the Emirates Stadium.

Edu Gaspar announces departure from Arsenal

Daily Mail journalist Sami Mokbel originally broke the news that Edu was set to quit Arsenal, which sent shock waves throughout the fandom and beyond, and that was later confirmed by the man himself in a heartfelt statement.

Suggestion hugely respected chief is a favourite to replace Edu at Arsenal

The Brazilian left his post as sporting director in a surprise announcement this week.

ByEmilio Galantini Nov 5, 2024

The 46-year-old, who was responsible for Arteta’s appointment at N5 and key signings like Martin Odegaard for just £30 million, departs after more than five years at Arsenal and appears set to link up with Evangelos Marinakis – where he will oversee the development of clubs like Nottingham Forest, Olympiacos and Rio Ave under the Greek’s ownership (Miguel Delaney and other reliable media sources).

Chelsea (away)

November 10

Nottingham Forest (home)

November 23

West Ham United (away)

November 30

Man United (home)

December 4

Fulham (away)

December 8

The news is a bitter blow for Arsenal, who are now also falling behind in the Premier League title race and sit seven points behind league leaders Liverpool following three straight top-flight matches without a win.

“Now it is time to pursue a different challenge,” said Edu’s announcement after leaving Arsenal.

“Arsenal will always remain in my heart. This was an incredibly hard decision to make. Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club’s history. It has been a special journey and I thank Stan, Josh, Tim and Lord Harris for the support they’ve given me.

“I’ve loved working with so many great colleagues across our men’s, women’s and academy teams, especially Mikel, who has become a great friend.

“I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best”.

There are suggestions that Jason Ayto is a firm contender to replace Edu, given the assistant director has worked closely with the Brazilian and is well aware of how he operates.

Edu tried to sign Raphinha in one of final acts before leaving Arsenal

According to The Mirror, one of Edu’s final acts before quitting was an attempted deal for Barcelona star Raphinha – who is now enjoying the form of his life in Spain with 11 goals and nine assists in just 15 total appearances so far this term.

It is believed Edu even led Arsenal talks to sign Raphinha, but the Brazilian wanted first-eleven assurances and ultimately decided to stay at Barca.

Based off his current form, a deal for him would’ve been quite the parting gift, with Raheem Sterling joining the north Londoners on a season-long loan instead. However, it is unclear whether Raphinha would’ve been able to replicate the kind of numbers he’s showing now at Arsenal, considering the host of star players like Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka playing in his position.

Manchester City return to action after the international break in the Premier League on Saturday evening as they prepare to welcome Tottenham Hotspur to The Etihad.

The Cityzens are looking to end a run of four straight defeats in all competitions, one of which came at the hands of Spurs in the League Cup.

Pep Guardiola’s side also lost their last two Premier League matches, to Bournemouth and Brighton, and were beaten 4-1 by Sporting in the Champions League.

The Spanish head coach may want to see more from his superstar striker, Erling Haaland, who has been far from at his best for the club in recent weeks.

He has scored five goals and failed to provide an assist in his last nine games in all competitions for City, with two goals in his last six Premier League matches.

This comes after the Norway international had plundered a staggering ten goals in his first five appearances in the division this season, which illustrates his drop-off in form.

The prolific marksman has been a huge success since his move to The Etihad from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2022 for a reported fee of £51m.

Erling Haaland's goal record for Manchester City

In just over two seasons with City, the 24-year-old sensation has scored a mind-blowing 105 goals and provided 14 assists in 114 appearances in all competitions.

Haaland has scored 75 goals in 77 matches in the Premier League, to date, and made history as the quickest player to reach 50 goals in the division’s history, doing so in just 48 outings.

His first season with City, after his big-money move from Dortmund, was nothing short of extraordinary as Guardiola’s side secured the treble, winning the Champions League, the Premier League, and the FA Cup.

Haaland produced 52 goals and nine assists in 53 appearances in all competitions in the 2022/23 campaign, including 12 goals in 11 Champions League clashes.

Starts

33

xG

28.66

Goals

36

Conversion rate

29%

Assists

8

As you can see in the table above, the Norwegian star had a sensational debut year in the top-flight with a return of 44 direct goal contributions in 33 starts.

All of these statistics illustrate how incredible Haaland has been for City in recent years and why it is so important for Guardiola to get him back to his best in the coming weeks.

However, it remains to be seen how long he will remain a Cityzens player for, amid reported interest from Real Madrid, and the club may have already sold their long-term replacement for the former Dortmund man in Liam Delap.

Why Manchester City sold Liam Delap

In the summer transfer window earlier this year, Manchester City decided to cash in on the son of Rory Delap. They sold him to newly-promoted Ipswich Town for a reported fee of £15m with £5m in potential add-ons.

Whilst it was never officially revealed why they decided to make that call, City may have moved the 21-year-old centre-forward on after an unspectacular season in the Championship with Hull City.

The England U21 international spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan with the Tigers and only managed a return of eight goals and two assists in 31 appearances in the second tier, which was far from a prolific return.

That came after the young marksman had scored four goals in 37 matches for Preston North End and Stoke City combined on loan in the previous Championship season.

U18

17

11

7

Youth League

2

0

0

U23

36

35

9

First-team

6

1

0

As you can see in the table above, those loans in the second tier came after his incredibly prolific time at academy level with the Manchester City youth teams.

Delap showcased Haaland-esque potential with his 46 goals and 16 assists in 53 games at U18 and U23 level combined, but did not translate that kind of form to his time at senior level with Preston, Stoke, or Hull.

His failure to score goals on a regular basis in the Championship may, therefore, have been why Guardiola decided to part ways with the striker in the summer, despite also selling Julian Alvarez to Atletico Madrid.

Liam Delap's form this season

The 21-year-old star’s form since moving to Ipswich suggests that his departure was a mistake and that City may have already sold their long-term replacement for Haaland, if he moves on to another club in the future.

Where Are They Now

Your star player or biggest flop has left the club but what are they doing in the present day? This article is part of Football FanCast's Where Are They Now series.

Delap has hit the ground running in the Premier League, despite playing for a team that has won one game so far, with a return of six goals in 11 matches.

Whilst that is not outstanding by Manchester City or Haaland’s standards it may be just as impressive, if not more so, than what the Norway international has done this term, given the xG shown for both players in the graphic above.

Delap has been incredibly efficient and ruthless in front of goal with the limited chances that have come his way, and starred against Man City’s next opponents with a goal and an assist against Spurs in his last league game.

Such has been the quality of his performances in the Premier League for the Tractor Boys, Caught Offside recently reported that Manchester City – alongside the likes of Arsenal and Newcastle – are interested in signing the £33m-rated star.

Talent scout Jacek Kulig claimed that the forward has a “huge future” in the Premier League, and hailed the “complete” number nine’s “powerful” finishing, which has been on display for Ipswich this term.

At the age of 21, Delap still has plenty of time left to develop and improve and has already shown potential to be a fantastic centre-forward in the top-flight if he can build on his performances for the Tractor Boys.

His form at youth level for Manchester City shows that he has the knack for scoring goals on a regular basis and if he can kick on and reach those heights in senior football, Guardiola may regret cashing in on his next Haaland.

Man City now watching "elite" £51m Rodri replacement who rejected Liverpool

He stole plenty of headlines in the summer…

ByTom Cunningham Nov 17, 2024

Leeds United are back in action once again in the Championship as they prepare to travel to face Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park in the early kick-off.

They are second in the division after Sheffield United’s win over Sunderland on Friday night and a win in Lancashire would see them move back to the top.

Daniel Farke’s side come into this match off the back of a terrific 3-0 win over recently-relegated Luton Town on Wednesday night, thanks to goals from Sam Byram, Joel Piroe, and Dan James.

Despite that superb victory, there is one Leeds star who could be ruthlessly ditched from the starting XI after an underwhelming individual performance – Brenden Aaronson.

Why Brenden Aaronson should be dropped

The USA international started in the number ten position for the Whites but was not directly involved in any of the three goals, as he ended the match with zero goals and zero assists.

Aaronson did not create any ‘big chances’ for his teammates and failed with two of his three attempted dribbles, whilst he also could not find the back of the net with either of his shots.

The former Union Berlin loanee has now gone four matches without a goal contribution to show for his efforts in the Championship, and six matches without one for club and country.

With the likes of Manor Solomon, Gnonto, James, and Largie Ramazani all fit and available for selection, Aaronson may not be able to afford to have multiple matches without any direct contributions, which is why he could be brutally binned from the XI this afternoon.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast's Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Farke must now drop the American attacking midfielder from the line-up to unleash James from the start on the right wing, with Gnonto moved into a central position.

Why Dan James should be unleashed

Firstly, the Wales international came off the bench on Wednesday night to score a terrific goal, lifting the ball over the goalkeeper from Jayden Bogle’s ball over the top.

His pace offers Leeds a huge threat in transition, as was evidenced by his contributions against Swansea in the previous match, and that could be a useful weapon against Blackburn today.

In the 4-3 win over the Swans last Sunday, James assisted Solomon and Gnonto for goals, whilst he also provided the cross that Ben Cabango scored an own goal from, essentially creating three of the four goals.

Appearances

11

Starts

7

Goals

3

Big chances created

5

Assists

2

As you can see in the table above, the £50k-per-week wizard has contributed with eight goals and ‘big chances’ created in 11 league games this term, despite only starting seven times.

James, who pundit Sanny Rudravajhala described as “electric” last season, has assisted two, three if you include the own goal, and scored one goal in his last two Championship matches, which shows that he is in-form and thriving at the moment.

Leeds must sell Elland Road flop who was "really exciting" under Bielsa

The Leeds United centre-forward should be moved on in the January transfer window.

1 ByDan Emery Nov 27, 2024

Whereas, Aaronson has not provided a goal or an assist in his last four starts in the division for Leeds and must be binned from the XI to make room for the former Manchester United forward to start.

Growing more and more desperate for defensive reinforcements amid continued injury setbacks, Manchester City are now reportedly entertaining the possibility of signing one particular addition as soon as the January transfer window.

Man City transfer news

Even after returning to winning ways for the first time in seven games last time out, Man City didn’t escape their battle against Nottingham Forest unscathed, with Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji suffering ill-timed injuries. With Pep Guardiola short on options once again just when he managed to turn a corner with the 3-0 victory, the Spaniard will be desperately awaiting the January transfer window.

On that front, the rumours are already coming thick and fast. The likes of Bruno Guimaraes and Viktor Gyokeres have recently stolen plenty of headlines regarding potential moves to the Etihad Stadium in 2025 in two deals that would go a long way to returning City to the summit of English football.

They’re not the only names to have been mentioned, however. According to GiveMeSport, Manchester City are now entertaining the possibility of signing Juma Bah as soon as January. The central defender is currently on loan at Real Valladolid from AIK Freetong, but the Citizens could attempt to cut that spell short to boost their defensive options in the winter window.

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ByBen Gray Dec 6, 2024

Still just 18 years old, Bah would likely be seen as someone who can add depth rather than the solution to City’s defensive problems. At such a young age, the teenager would be a wise investment given Guardiola’s proven success when developing the next top stars. So whilst Bah would be entering quite the storm at the Etihad, the calm that follows could potentially result in an impressive rise.

"Promising" Bah is one for the future

With the likes of Kyle Walker and John Stones part of an ageing backline, the addition of a future star in the form of Bah would represent the type of transfer genius that we’ve become familiar with from Manchester City. The Citizens could instantly ease their future concerns by welcoming the teenage sensation, who was described as “promising” by EuroFoot after an impressive display for Valladolid.

If the Premier League champions are to make their move in the January transfer window, it will be interesting to see just how much of a part Bah plays. The last thing that City should do is disrupt his development and leave him confined to the reserves, and if that is to be the case, they should allow the defender to at least complete the season at Valladolid and continue to steal the headlines.

Still yet to agree a new deal with Trent Alexander-Arnold, Liverpool are now reportedly keeping tabs on a potential replacement for their star right-back.

Liverpool transfer news

With the Merseyside derby postponed thanks to Storm Darragh, Liverpool have been given a much-needed weekend off amid growing injury issues and a frustrating 3-3 draw against Newcastle United last time out.

Conceding late on courtesy of Fabian Schar and an extremely rare Caoimhin Kelleher mistake in the dying embers, the Reds were denied the chance to bounce back against Everton, leaving the Anfield side to turn their attention towards Lille in the Champions League.

Meanwhile, away from the pitch, another storm continues to brew. As things stand, Liverpool are set to lose Virgil van Dijk, Mohamed Salah and Alexander-Arnold on free deals at the end of the season, having so far failed to agree a new deal with any of the big three. And whilst there have been some positive updates regarding Van Dijk and Salah, it’s been silent on the Alexander-Arnold front.

Bigger blow than Trent: Real Madrid hoping to sign Slot's Liverpool star

Real Madrid are hoping to raid Liverpool for more than just Alexander-Arnold in 2025…

ByAngus Sinclair Dec 6, 2024

It looks as though those at Anfield are preparing for the worst, too. According to Graeme Bailey for The Boot Room, Liverpool are keeping tabs on Martim Fernandes following his recent Porto rise. The 18-year-old right-back could emerge to replace Alexander-Arnold and hand Arne Slot an option down the right-hand side for years to come.

Of course, replacing Alexander-Arnold will be no easy task if it does get to that point, but Fernandes may be a solid candidate given his age. At 18 years old, Slot could quickly mould the Porto gem into the style of full-back that he would prefer Liverpool to utilise.

"Exciting" Fernandes is one to watch

If Liverpool’s main focus is on replacing Alexander-Arnold’s attacking influence, it’s no surprise that Fernandes is beginning to steal the headlines. The Porto teenager has assisted four goals in all competitions to match the Anfield star’s tally stride for stride. Described as “one of the most exciting full-backs in world football” by Football Talent Scout’s Jacek Kulig, Fernandes is undoubtedly one to watch.

Losing their current star but gaining the younger Fernandes to compete for a starting place alongside the equally impressive Conor Bradley could help to ease the blow caused by an Alexander-Arnold exit.

Top of the Premier League but with the dark cloud of contract failures lurking above them, Liverpool should be in for a hectic few months. Whether that results in some much-needed good news on the renewal front or the arrival of fresh faces remains to be seen at Anfield.

Following earlier links to the vacant Southampton job, reports in Germany are now suggesting that Danny Rohl has been identified as a candidate for the managerial role at a European club in another concern for Sheffield Wednesday.

Rohl is a man in demand

Ask anyone who’s been keeping track of his progress and they’ll tell you that recent interest in Rohl should come as no surprise. Still just 35 years old, the German has dragged Sheffield Wednesday from relegation concerns all the way into the top half of the Championship in what should be applauded as a fantastic achievement. Now, however, the Owls could fall victim to their own manager’s success.

Club now impressed after scouting Sheffield Wednesday ace ahead of January

They are eyeing up one of Rohl’s young talents ahead of the winter window opening.

1 ByBen Browning Dec 6, 2024

Having shown Russell Martin the door a matter of hours after his side’s 5-0 thrashing at the hands of Tottenham Hotspur, Southampton are on the hunt for the manager they believe will keep them up and, as such, Rohl’s name has been mentioned in recent days.

It would, of course, be quite the step up for such a young manager, but also one to watch on with intrigue. But the Saints aren’t the only club interested, it seems.

According to reports in Germany, as relayed by The Star’s Joe Crann, Hamburger SV have now identified Rohl as a candidate for their vacant managerial role. The 2. Bundesliga side showed Steffan Baumgart the door at the end of November after just one win in five games and have been searching for a permanent replacement without any success ever since.

For now, Rohl remains in charge of the Owls ahead of this weekend’s clash against Stoke City in the Championship, but whether that will remain the case in the coming months is yet to be seen.

Sheffield Wednesday need Rohl contingency

Breaking the constant trend of football management, the ball appears to be in the coach’s court rather than the club’s when it comes to his future. Rohl has built up a luxurious position in which his job is secure and a big move looks on the horizon. Whether he takes one of those big jobs is anyone’s guess at this stage, but he’s certainly capable.

With that being the case though, Sheffield Wednesday must think about a potential contingency plan. They must take a look at what life would be like without the ever-impressive Rohl at the helm. And they must ensure that their reality without him doesn’t involve relegation back down to League One.

Still 35 years old, meanwhile, the Owls boss should be in no major rush. After all, get the next move wrong and the current reputation that he’s built up will quickly be diminished, perhaps making Southampton the wrong choice and a drop down to 2. Bundesliga an unambitious move.

Whilst he is still at the helm, it seems as though Sheffield United should simply enjoy the run that Rohl currently has them on, striding towards a top-half finish.

Manchester United are now leading the race to sign a “world-class” set-piece taker, who could cost around £58m, according to a report.

Man Utd looking at signing left-back

Amid Luke Shaw’s injury woes, Man Utd are interested in signing a new left-back, having identified a number of targets ahead of the January transfer window, which is now rapidly approaching.

One option the Red Devils have in mind is AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez, with the club now ready to pursue a deal for the Frenchman, who has fallen out of favour at the San Siro over the past few weeks.

Another high-profile signing United are in the running for is Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies, who is out of contract at the end of the season. However, there will be competition for the 24-year-old’s signature from Premier League rivals Liverpool.

Manchester United now want to sign £9k-p/w "technical maestro" for Amorim

He would be a signing for the long term at Old Trafford.

1 ByBen Browning Nov 30, 2024

Earlier this month, it emerged that Man Utd had made an initial move for Inter Milan’s Federico Dimarco, although they were seemingly unsuccessful in their pursuit, being told that he wants to sign a new contract with the Italian club.

However, Ruben Amorim is seemingly undeterred, as it has now emerged from Spain that the Red Devils and INEOS are leading the race for Dimarco’s signature, alongside reigning Champions League winners Real Madrid.

Although the aforementioned report confirmed the 27-year-old is happy in Italy, there is a feeling that an offer of up to €70m (£58m) could tempt Inter to negotiate, with Madrid reportedly happy to shell out that sum of money.

The competition for the Italian’s signature could lead to an intense bidding war between the two heavyweights, with both clubs viewing him as an elite left-back who would strengthen their squads.

Man Utd’s upcoming Premier League fixtures

Date

Wolverhampton Wanderers (a)

December 26th

Newcastle United (h)

December 30th

Liverpool (a)

January 5th

Southampton (h)

January 16th

Brighton & Hove Albion (h)

January 19th

Dimarco could improve Amorim's side

It is clear to see why Amorim is eager to sign a new left-back, given that Shaw is constantly on the treatment table and Tyrell Malacia is yet to prove himself at the top level, and Dimarco could be a real upgrade.

The Italy international has plenty of experience in the Champions League, playing a major role in Inter’s run to the Champions League final in 2023, during which time he picked up five assists in 11 outings.

The Milan-born defender is particularly impressive on the front foot, being hailed by the media for his expertise in the attacking third and at set pieces:

As such, although Shaw has proven he can be a top player when he is fit, United should undoubtedly pursue a move for Dimarco this January.

Tottenham Hotspur are now exploring an early January deal for one transfer target who was thought to be far more likely in the summer, as Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou contends with a player selection crisis.

Tottenham eye multiple January signings amid squad shortage

Goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky sealed a £12.5 million move to north London from Slavia Prague recently, with technical director Johan Lange and chairman Daniel Levy wasting no time in getting their first signing through the Hotspur Way door.

Club give Johan Lange hope he can agree Tottenham deal for £20m defender

The Dane is working on multiple winter signings at Spurs.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Jan 7, 2025

However, their winter business is very unlikely to cease there, as it is believed Tottenham could make up to three new signings before the January transfer window shuts its doors on February 3.

They’re looking at making new additions across the board, including in defence and attack, with Spurs actively pursuing a new centre-back and a potential deal for PSG forward Randal Kolo Muani.

Arsenal (away)

January 15

Everton (away)

January 19

Leicester City (home)

January 26

Brentford (away)

February 2

Man United (home)

February 16

When asked about Kolo Muani, Postecoglou, speaking to the press, didn’t address the circulating rumour directly, but does suggest that his club are still in the market for reinforcements as injuries ravage their squad.

“We’re still trying to help the squad and players,” said Postecoglou on Spurs transfers. “We will have roughly 10 first-team players missing. That’s not easy so we need to still try to help the playing group.”

Expanding on his current player availability, Postecoglou confirmed that none of his injured crop of players are back or eligible for their Carabao Cup semi-final against Liverpool on Wednesday.

“Net wise we’re still down,” said Postecoglou on Tottenham team news. “We get Bentancur back and lose Sarr and Maddison to suspension. In terms of injuries, no one is back but Mikey Moore could be on the bench. Everyone from the weekend, like Radu and Archie are better, they’re good. Richarlison is training but we want him to have two solid weeks of training so if he gets through next week he will be fine. Fraser is back in training.”

The abject state of Tottenham’s squad is undoubtedly an emergency-level situation, leading to them considering an intriguing measure.

Tottenham explore early January deal for Real Betis midfielder Cardoso

According to journalist Rudy Galetti, Tottenham chiefs are exploring the possibility of signing Real Betis midfielder Johnny Cardoso in January – months earlier than they were expected to.

Spurs possess an option to sign the “extraordinary” USA international in the summer for around £21 million, which came as part of the deal for Giovani Lo Celso to join Betis midway through 2024.

Postecoglou’s side activating the clause later this year was seen as a real possibility, though it appears they could now bring his transfer forward in light of their player selection issues.

While his price tag for January is unknown, Cardoso’s Betis contract reportedly includes a £66 million release clause, but it is unlikely that Levy would part with such a high figure just to bring him in a few months early.