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Whilst Leeds United have been known to flex their muscles whenever a transfer window opens in terms of classy incomings, the Championship giants should also be commended for how often they gift homegrown talents a chance in the senior mix.

This season has seen Daniel Farke throw the likes of Mateo Joseph into first-team action without much hesitation with the Thorp Arch product now up to six goals from a bumper 70 first-team chances while 17-year-old Sam Chambers earned a debut against Plymouth last November.

Every player that breaks into the first team picture from the esteemed academy will be aiming to replicate Archie Gray’s rise, with the versatile 19-year-old now on the books of Tottenham Hotspur after a major £30m switch last summer.

It’s up to Farke to unearth his next diamond in the same mould as Gray as a number of top starlets in the here and now begin to bang down the door for some senior opportunities.

Leeds' best academy prospects in 2025

Obviously, it is unlikely that every single talent that leaps up into the senior side from the academy structure will be a rip-roaring success.

But, the conveyer belt has worked wonders recently and it could do so again, particularly if Rhys Chadwick ends up making a name for himself down the line.

Amazingly, Chadwick has amassed six goals and four assists this season in the U21 structure, with the 18-year-old’s ability to play in a whole range of different positions making him a likely candidate to be the club’s next Gray-like figure.

Moreover, there is Luca Thomas who will have caught Farke’s eye, with the exciting winger helping himself to four goals and two assists out on loan this campaign at nearby York City and FC Halifax Town.

But, away from those who currently harbour aspirations of being a superstar under Farke’s guidance, there are other youth players who ended up falling by the wayside.

One talented young prospect was even ahead of the aforementioned Gray.

The Leeds academy star who was ahead of Gray

For all the Grays of this world, there are a whole host of other homegrown players that never make the cut.

Indeed, that is the case with now 21-year-old Morten Spencer, who joined the Whites ranks back in 2019 with plenty of hype attached to his name.

Spencer allegedly attracted interest from the likes of Manchester City before making the move to Thorp Arch a reality, after a promising stint in the Sunderland academy piqued the interest of the West Yorkshire outfit.

Hailed as a “very talented” young player by his own mother Heidi Spencer when still on the books of the Black Cats, it’s clear that Leeds must have thought they’d hit the jackpot with the ex-Norway U18 international when he first arrived at Elland Road.

Games played

58

37

Goals scored

7

4

Assists

8

5

U18s debut

January 2021

August 2021

FA Youth Cup debut

March 2021

December 2021

U21s debut

August 2022

October 2021

First team appearances

0

52

He initially went on to succeed playing for both the U18s and U21s, with his debut in the U18 bracket coming way before Gray was handed his first chance. Indeed, the Spurs youngster would first line up for the U18s in August of 2021, a couple of months on from Spencer’s introduction into the side.

But, as much as Spencer would fire home seven strikes and pick up eight assists for both the U18s and U21s, he never earned himself any first-team minutes, culminating in his release in June of last year.

That same summer, Gray was eventually rewarded with a huge Premier League move, with Farke hopeful that the next crop of youngsters coming through won’t fall victim to Spencer’s regrettable fate.

The next Kalvin Phillips: Farke must unleash Leeds' 17-year-old sensation

Leeds United already have a player who could replictae Kalvin Phillips in the first team.

ByEthan Lamb Mar 21, 2025

A “world-class” striker, who is Mikel Arteta’s dream signing, has now expressed his desire to sign for Arsenal this summer, according to a report.

Gunners stepping up striker pursuit

As we start to move closer to the summer transfer window, the Gunners have now stepped up their pursuit of a new striker, having identified a number of big-name targets.

Arteta’s side have now started work on the signing of Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres, having requested a formal meeting with the agent of the Sweden international.

Talks have also been opened over a deal for Lille striker Jonathan David, whose availability on a free transfer could make him an attractive option this summer, while the Canadian has also been outscoring fellow target Benjamin Sesko this season.

Contact made: Arsenal now make move for £63m "better version of Haaland"

The Gunners have now stepped up their pursuit of a striker, whose agent is friends with Mikel Arteta.

2 ByDominic Lund Mar 24, 2025

Another target, who it could prove to be much more difficult to sign, is Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, with the Magpies believed to be holding out for £120m for the striker, who helped lead them to their first major honour in 70 years in the EFL Cup.

However, there has now been a new update on Arsenal’s pursuit of Isak, with a report from Spain revealing the Swedish forward has now expressed his desire to move to the Emirates Stadium this summer.

The 25-year-old is keen to advance his career by signing for a club capable of competing for the top honours, and with Arteta looking to bring in a reliable goalscorer, a move to north London could be on the cards.

However, it is expected to be very difficult to prise the striker away from Newcastle, who will hold out for a huge fee, and there may be competition for his signature from Premier League title rivals Liverpool.

"World-class" Isak is Arteta's dream signing

Arteta has been a fan of the Newcastle star for quite some time, having considered him a dream signing for almost a year, and his exceptional goal return this season is only likely to have made the Gunners boss even more determined to sign him.

Competition

Appearances

Goals

Premier League

25

19

FA Cup

2

1

EFL Cup

6

3

Reporter Jacque Talbot has lauded the former Real Sociedad man as “world-class”, and his goal record indicates he could be the missing piece of the jigsaw for Arsenal, who are perhaps a top striker away from winning the Premier League title.

The Sweden international is not merely a goalscorer, however, with Gary Neville insisting he is the best all-round striker in the Premier League.

“I think he is. Purely because you watch Erling Haaland a lot and he’s a world-class striker but his general play is nothing like Isak’s at this moment in time.”

It could still be very difficult to pull off a deal for Isak this summer, but it is a positive development that he would be keen on a move to the Emirates Stadium.

In recent years, the Saudi Pro League has lured a number of superstars to play their football in the Middle East, with big money on offer.

Cristiano Ronaldo was one of the first big names to make the move to Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr in 2023 and the Portuguese icon now picks up an eye-watering £178m per season.

Messi, Mbappe and Dembele rejected billions in Saudi Pro League contracts

Some big money has been turned down over the years.

ByCharlie Smith Jul 19, 2025

Some star players have turned down moves to the Saudi Pro League, including Lionel Messi, Bruno Fernandes and Kylian Mbappe. However, the likes of Neymar, Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante swapped some of the best clubs in Europe for Saudi Arabia.

Darwin Nunez is the latest to do so, heading to Al-Hilal from Liverpool in a transfer worth an initial €53m. But where does he rank on a list of the 10 most expensive Saudi Pro League transfers of all-time?

Player

From

To

Fee

Neymar

PSG

Al-Hilal

€90m

Jhon Duran

Aston Villa

Al-Nassr

€77m

Mateo Retegui

Atalanta

Al-Qadsiah

€68.25m

Moussa Diaby

Aston Villa

Al-Nassr

€60m

Malcom

Zenit

Al-Hilal

€60m

Otavio

FC Porto

Al-Nassr

€60m

Ruben Neves

Wolves

Al-Hilal

€55m

Darwin Nunez

Liverpool

Al-Hilal

€53m

Aleksandar Mitrovic

Fulham

Al-Hilal

€52.6m

Galeno

FC Porto

Al-Ahli

€50m

10 Galeno €50m to Al-Ahli

Brazilian winger Galeno swapped FC Porto for Al-Ahli in 2025 in a deal worth €50m.

Arguably at the peak of his powers at the age of 27 when swapping Portugal for Saudi Arabia, Galeno helped Al-Ahli win the first-ever AFC Champions League Elite title, scoring in the final against Kawasaki Frontale.

9 Aleksandar Mitrovic €52.6m to Al-Hilal

Aleksandar Mitrovic has scored goals everywhere he has been during his career, and after starring in England for eight years with Newcastle United and Fulham, caught the attention of Al-Hilal.

In 2023 they decided to pay those at Craven Cottage €52.6m for the Serbian striker, who has gone on to average more than a goal or an assist each game. Mitrovic helped Al-Hilal win a league title in 2023/24 and the Saudi Cup.

8 Darwin Nunez €53m to Al-Hilal

Looking likely to be Mitrovic’s replacement at Al-Hilal in 2025 is Darwin Nunez.

The former Liverpool striker was hit and miss at Anfield after costing the Reds £85m, with Arne Slot and those on Merseyside deciding to cash in halfway through a six-year deal.

7 Ruben Neves €55m to Al-Hilal

Al-Hilal have been big spenders in recent years and also splashed the cash on midfielder Ruben Neves in 2023.

The Portugal midfielder followed his national teammate Ronaldo to the Saudi Pro League, paying Premier League side Wolves €55m.

6 Otavio €60m to Al-Nassr

Another Portuguese star who headed to the Middle East in 2023 was Otavio, with Al-Nassr triggering his €60m release clause in his FC Porto contract.

Playing alongside Ronaldo in attack, the winger has made close to 100 appearances for Al-Nassr and is under contract until 2026.

5 Malcom €60m to Al-Hilal

Malcom cost Barcelona more than €40m in 2018, however, after selling the Brazilian winger to Zenit Saint Petersburg, he was then on the move again in 2023, joining Al-Hilal.

Still on the books in 2025, Malcom has won one Saudi League title, one Saudi Cup and two Saudi Super Cups.

4 Moussa Diaby €60m to Al-Ittihad

Despite signing the likes of Benzema, Kante and Fabinho in recent years, Al-Ittihad’s most expensive signing is Moussa Diaby.

Costing €60m from Aston Villa in 2024, Diaby has turned into an assist machine for Al-Ittihad, registering 16 in his first Al-Ittihad season.

3 Mateo Retegui €68.25m to Al-Qadsiah

After finishing fourth in the 2024/25 Saudi Pro League, Al-Qadsiah splashed the cash and broke their transfer record by signing striker Mateo Retegui from Atalanta.

Looking to topple the likes of Al-Hilal, Al-Ittihad and Al-Nassr, Retegui joins Al-Qadsiah after scoring 25 Serie A goals in 24/25.

2 Jhon Duran €77m to Al-Nassr

Like Diaby, Aston Villa also sold Jhon Duran for big-money to the Saudi Pro League, with Al-Nassr briefly partnering the Colombian alongside Ronaldo.

They paid a club-record €77m for the forward, however, Duran was loaned out to Turkish side Fenerbahce for the 2025/26 season.

1 Neymar €90m to Al-Hilal

Topping the charts as the most expensive Saudi Pro League transfer of all time is Neymar, who cost Al-Hilal €90m from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023.

Unfortunately for Neymar and Al-Hilal, the Brazilian suffered a serious injury shortly after joining and never starred in Saudi Arabia, making just seven appearances for the club.

He left in 2025 after having his contract terminated, returning to Santos.

Games

7

Goals

1

Assists

3

Minutes played

428

Fresh from having been narrowly defeated by Nottingham Forest earlier this week, Manchester United are now gearing up for Sunday’s Manchester Derby – just under five months on from clinching victory in dramatic circumstances at the Etihad.

Having been trailing 1-0 heading into the final knockings of the game, an Amad Diallo-inspired comeback flipped the match on its head, with the Ivorian first winning a penalty following a clumsy foul from Matheus Nunes, before sealing the win in stoppage time with an expertly taken finish from the angle.

That euphoric finale ensured it was a fitting way for Ruben Amorim to seal his first win in the fixture, albeit – as is often the way at United – it was matters off the field that dominated the headlines both pre and post-match.

Indeed, the Portuguese coach had taken the bold decision to leave both Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford out of the matchday squad for the meeting with Pep Guardiola’s side, with the 40-year-old stressing that the pair had been omitted due to a “selection” choice, rather than due to illness or injury.

In the case of Garnacho, the 20-year-old has since forced his way back into Amorim’s good books, having notably scored in the recent win over Leicester City, although as for Rashford, the England international hasn’t been seen in a United shirt since, having subsequently moved on loan to Aston Villa in February.

From scoring the winning goal in the derby back in March 2016, the same fixture at the Etihad perhaps marked the beginning of the end for the 27-year-old’s time with the Red Devils, with a permanent exit looking almost inevitable this summer.

Marcus Rashford's rise at Man Utd in 2016

Three goals in a week have ensured that Rashford is again the talk of the town at Villa Park, with the United academy graduate having shaken off his Amorim-led exile to kickstart his stuttering career under Unai Emery.

Having spoken of his desire for a “new challenge” back in December, the high-profile star – who could join the Villans on a £40m deal this summer – appears keen to leave life at Old Trafford behind, ending his lengthy association with the Red Devils.

In truth, it looks set to be a sad end to a story that started so spectacularly back in February 2016, with Rashford soaring from unknown teenager to household name overnight, following his brace against FC Midtjylland in the Europa League.

That stunning display on debut – which had come amid a remarkable injury crisis in Louis van Gaal’s centre-forward ranks – was followed by another double just a few days later on his first Premier League appearance against Arsenal, with the 18-year-old cementing his status as the new poster boy at the Theatre of Dreams.

In all, the promising striker would end that 2015/16 campaign with eight goals to his name from just 18 senior outings, albeit with few having been quite as memorable as his winner against City on the road.

On what was just his fourth league appearance for United, Rashford proved the hero after surging past the ageing Martin Demichelis, before expertly slotting the ball past compatriot, Joe Hart, and sending the travelling fans into a frenzy.

Just under a decade on, the Red Devils head into a derby without their 138-goal graduate – who has scored six times against City – to call upon. Could Amorim, however, have the next Rashford ready to be unleashed instead?

Man Utd could be brewing the next Rashford

It is easy to forget just what an incredible story it was at the time of Rashford’s emergence onto the scene at first-team level, with the local hero even going on to end 2015/16 as part of England’s squad for the European Championships in France.

That journey was somewhat mirrored last season as Kobbie Mainoo – who was handed his first league start in November 2023 – subsequently played a vital role in the Three Lions’ surge to the Euro 2024 final, having also netted what proved to be the clincher in the FA Cup showpiece in May.

The midfield maestro is unlikely to feature this weekend, however, as the 19-year-old steps up his return from his latest injury setback, albeit with there the potential for another teenage talent to make his mark in the fixture, in the form of Chido Obi.

Chido Obi

Man Utd

7

Tom Wingate

Fulham

5

Amin Nabizada

Watford

5

Mason Cotcher

Aston Villa

5

Shim Mhueka

Chelsa

4

Finlay Gorman

Man City

4

Emmerson Sutton

QPR

4

Cruz Allen

Derby

4

Matty Warhurst

Man City

4

On Tuesday evening at the City Ground, Amorim’s men failed to score for the 11th time in the league this season, with the ex-Sporting CP boss resorting to throwing on Harry Maguire as a makeshift striker at the death.

With Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund having scored just six top-flight goals between them in 2024/25, a change needs to be made one way or another, with it perhaps an opportunity for Obi to have his own Rashford-like derby moment.

Described as a “goal machine” at academy level by data analyst Ben Mattinson, the Danish starlet was absent from the midweek defeat after starting in the U18s FA Youth Cup loss to Villa on Monday night, with Adam Lawrence’s side crashing out on penalties.

Obi had scored seven times in just three appearances in the competition prior to that, with his total tally at that age group for United standing at 12 goals from just ten outings thus far.

Signed from Arsenal last summer, the 17-year-old hasn’t quite emulated Rashford yet after failing to score in any of his four substitute appearances at senior level, albeit while certainly coming close in the FA Cup clash with Fulham, after being denied by Bernd Leno from the angle.

With United’s priority for the remainder of the season now the Europa League, Amorim may deem it wise to rest the likes of Hojlund and Zirkzee regardless, ahead of Thursday’s quarter-final, first-leg tie with Lyon.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast’s In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

That could then allow Obi – who is ineligible to feature in Europe – the chance to secure a first start for Amorim’s side this weekend, with there perhaps no better time for the youngster to get off the mark.

Rashford, unfortunately, now looks to be at the end of a fruitful journey at Old Trafford. For his potential successor, however, hopefully, the adventure is just beginning.

Worth more than Elanga: Man Utd have struck gold on £120k-p/w "wizard"

Man Utd have their own attacking sensation to rival Anthony Elanga

ByRobbie Walls Apr 3, 2025

Manchester United are believed to be in contact with a club’s director of recruitment over the signing of an “outstanding” goalkeeper this summer, according to a new report.

Man Utd produce historic comeback

Ruben Amorim’s side may have had a season to forget, but their 5-4 win over Lyon on Thursday evening was one of the most dramatic nights Old Trafford has ever witnessed.

Having led 2-0 and seemingly heading into the semi-finals of the Europa League with ease, United suddenly found themselves drawing 2-2 after 90 minutes, before then trailing 4-2 in extra-time against ten men.

Remarkably, the Red Devils scored three times in the remaining minutes, with Bruno Fernandes scoring a penalty, Kobbie Mainoo brilliantly curling home and Harry Maguire heading in a memorable last-gasp winner.

It was a remarkable evening that has kept United’s season alive, and given the nature of their victory over Lyon, there will be some who feel that their name is on the trophy. Regardless of what happens this season, though, lots of new signings are a must, including in goal to replace Andre Onana, and one intriguing transfer target in that position has now emerged.

Man Utd make contact for Kaua Santos

According to Sport Bild, Manchester United have held talks with Eintracht Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krosche over the signing of Kaua Santos this summer. The German outfit want £51m for his services and would rather keep hold of him.

It is claimed that Red Devils director of recruitment Christopher Vivell spoke with him during Frankfurt’s Europa League quarter-final first leg tie against Tottenham last week, as they look to entice the 22-year-old to Old Trafford.

Santos could be a strong addition for United ahead of next season, having enjoyed an impressive campaign for Frankfurt in Europe, standing out as a key man at a young age, especially for a ‘keeper. The Brazilian has started five matches in the Europa League this term, prior to being eliminated by Spurs on Thursday night, and the Red Devils may see him as having a higher long-term ceiling than Onana.

Santos has been hailed as an “outstanding” player by Bayern Munich and Germany legend Thomas Muller, while analyst Ben Mattinson has described him as among the “most promising” young ‘keepers in Europe.

While Onana has had good moments in a United shirt, he is an error-prone player who doesn’t seem to bring calm to the defence, and if Amorim wants to take his team to another level, an upgrade is required.

Saved by Maguire: Man Utd must axe star who lost the ball every 4.8 touches

Harry Maguire proved to be Man Utd’s unlikely hero in Thursday’s crazy game at Old Trafford

ByRobbie Walls Apr 18, 2025

Santos is admittedly still a goalkeeper learning his trade, but his performances this season suggest that he would be an exciting signing who should only grow as a player.

When it comes to world-class players, Tottenham Hotspur have had their fair share in the Premier League era.

For example, while they never managed to get over the final hurdle, the likes of Harry Kane, Son Heung-min and Mousa Dembélé were unreal under Mauricio Pochettino.

However, go back just that little bit further, and you get to Gareth Bale, who for quite some time was arguably one of the best wingers in world football.

So, fans should be ecstatic about recent reports that have linked the club with another sensational wideman who could be their best winger since the Welshman.

Tottenham transfer news

With just how terribly this season has gone for Tottenham, it’s unsurprising to see the club linked with a host of talented players in recent weeks, such as Marcus Rashford.

The Englishman could be available for around £40m in the summer, which might prove to be a reasonable price for the Manchester United product, as across his time with the Red Devils and Aston Villa this term, he’s produced 20 goal involvements in 41 appearances.

A slightly cheaper and far younger option is Tyler Dibling.

Transfer Focus

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

The Southampton gem has been one of the few bright sparks for the Saints this season, could be available for about £35m and would fit in with the club’s current crop of young talents.

However, as promising as the Exeter-born prospect is, he’s not going to come in and make an instant impact, unlike Jarrod Bowen.

Yes, according to a recent report from Caught Offside, Spurs are keen to land the West Ham United star from their London rivals this summer.

Alongside the Lilywhites, Liverpool have also been credited with interest in the Englishman, and while the Hammers do not want to sell, the two parties could make an offer of up to €60m for the 28-year-old, which is about £51m.

It would be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Bowen’s immense ability, it’d be one worth fighting for.

Why Bowen would be Spurs' best winger

So, should Spurs get their way and leapfrog Liverpool to sign Bowen this summer, why would he instantly become their best winger in a long time?

Well, there are a couple of reasons, but perhaps the most important is that he’s a reliable source of goals and assists.

For example, in just 32 appearances this term, he’s scored ten goals and provided nine assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.68 games.

In contrast, Son has scored 11 goals and produced 12 assists in 43 appearances, which comes out to one every 1.86 games.

Brennan Johnson has scored 16 goals and produced seven assists in 46 appearances, which comes out to a goal involvement every other game.

Appearances

32

43

46

17

Goals

10

11

16

3

Assists

9

12

7

0

Goal Involvements*

0.59

0.53

0.50

0.17

And finally, Wilson Odobert has scored just three goals in 17 appearances this season, which comes out at one every 5.66 games.

On top of the number of goals and assists he produces, the Irons’ “game-changer,” as dubbed by The Athletic’s Roshane Thomas, has also proven that he can handle the most significant occasions, as he scored the winning goal in the 2023 Conference League Final.

Last but not least, while he thrives out on the right, the Englishman is incredibly versatile and can play up top and as a second striker as well as off the left at times, which would allow whoever’s in the Lilywhites’ dugout far more tactical flexibility.

Ultimately, while he might not reach the same levels as peak Bale did, Bowen has the ability and application to be Spurs’ best winger since the Welshman left.

Uh oh: Ange hints £190k-a-week Spurs star could miss Bodo/Glimt with injury

Postecoglou has dropped a worrying injury update ahead of Tottenham’s crucial Europa League tie.

ByDominic Lund Apr 28, 2025

Wolverhampton Wanderers’ fortunes have been transformed under the leadership of Vitor Pereria.

Indeed, since being appointed on December 19 last year, the former Porto boss has guided the Old Gold away from the relegation zone, securing another season in the Premier League.

Wolves have defeated Manchester United (twice), Aston Villa, and Tottenham Hotspur during that time frame.

Premier League

Manchester United

Won 1-0

Premier League

Tottenham Hotspur

Won 4-2

Premier League

Ipswich Town

Won 2-1

Premier League

West Ham United

Won 1-0

Premier League

Southampton

Won 2-1

Their recent victory over the Red Devils meant it was the first time since the 1970s that they had completed the league double over them.

Several players shone, but Marshall Munetsi was one player who failed to contribute much for the Old Gold.

Wolves must drop Marshall Munetsi

The midfielder only arrived at Molineux in the winter transfer window and has featured 11 times for the club, scoring and assisting once apiece.

Against United, he was once again deployed as an attacking midfielder alongside Matheus Cunha. The Brazilian was impressive in what looked like a potential audition, but the January signing struggled.

He completed only 13 passes while winning just two of his 12 contested ground duels, being bullied in one-on-one scenarios.

The midfielder failed to register a single shot during the game, while failing to either make a key pass or create a single big chance in what was a poor performance overall.

As such, he was even awarded a rating of just 6/10 for his display by 90min and, against Leicester this afternoon, he must be dropped from the starting XI.

Chalkboard

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

After his match-winning goal against the Old Trafford side, Pablo Sarabia is certainly deserving of a start against the Foxes.

Why Pablo Sarabia must start for Wolves

Sarabia may have only played 16 minutes of the clash against United, but he made the most of his time on the field. With just over ten minutes left in the game, the Spaniard scored with a delightful free-kick, which sealed all three points for the away side.

The former PSG star has only played 19 league games for the club this season, yet he has still managed to score three goals, record two assists, create two big chances, and succeed with 67% of his dribbles in that time.

The “technically gifted” gem, as so dubbed by writer Charlie Gregory after the Old Trafford victory, has proven time and time again that he has the ability to create plenty for the Old Gold.

Leicester have conceded 73 goals this season, the second-worst record in the entire top flight. With the club secure in their Premier League status, now is the time to unleash Sarabia, who could run amok against this poor defence.

The 32-year-old’s contract expires at the end of the season, but as shown against Man United, he is still able to deliver when it really matters.

Pereira must give him a spot in the starting XI against the Foxes this weekend. Another positive showing might just go a long way in securing the maestro an extension on his current deal.

Exciting Cunha replacement: Wolves want to sign £45m star on loan

Wolves could lose Matheus Cunha in the summer transfer window.

ByConnor Holden Apr 24, 2025

Liverpool are now preparing an offer for an “outstanding” £77m striker, who is being targeted by a whole host of Europe’s top clubs, according to a report.

Reds stepping up pursuit of new striker

Darwin Nunez hasn’t been at the races this season, with the Uruguayan picking up just seven goals in all competitions, which is way below the number expected of a £85m player, so it is little wonder that the Reds are now stepping up their pursuit of a striker.

Atalanta’s Mateo Retegui is one option the Merseysiders have in mind, given the Italian’s stellar goal return this season, while they have started work on the signing of West Ham United’s Jarrod Bowen, who could be an alternative to Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak.

Last week, it was revealed that RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is also on the shortlist, with Arne Slot’s side said to be keen on a move for the forward, with Nunez looking increasingly likely to exit Anfield at the end of the season.

Liverpool could sign dream Trent successor who's 'one of the best in the PL'

Alexander-Arnold’s decision has left Liverpool in search of a new right-back.

ByAngus Sinclair May 6, 2025

There has since been a new update on Liverpool’s pursuit of Sesko, with a report from Caught Offside revealing they are now preparing a bid for the forward, but there could be fierce competition for his signature.

Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United are also planning to make offers for the Slovenian, while Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain headline the interest from abroad, and a deal is now expected to be on the expensive side.

Leipzig are said to have set an asking price of €80m – €90m (£68m – £77m), in light of the widespread interest in the 21-year-old’s signature, although the interested parties have reservations about shelling out a fee in that ballpark.

"Outstanding" Sesko could be "better than Haaland"

Scout/writer Jacek Kulig has praised the starlet in the past, describing him as “outstanding”, while his teammates also hold him in very high regard, having stated he is a better player than Manchester City’s Erling Haaland.

Speaking in May last year, Sesko told the Gegenpress podcast: “My teammates at the club tell me that Haaland and I are very similar, especially in terms of speed. Most of them even tell me that I’m better than him.”

Much like the Man City star, the Slovenia international is an imposing figure, standing at 6 foot 5, and he has been very impressive in front of goal for Leipzig this season, picking up 13 goals and five assists in 31 Bundesliga outings.

With Nunez falling way short of expectations this season, Slot definitely needs to bring in a replacement this summer, and Sesko produced a stunning goal last weekend that even the most optimistic of Reds fans could envision Nunez toe-poking straight into the fans behind the goal.

Whilst promotion back up to the Championship was joyously celebrated, everyone at Birmingham City will have known in that moment that this was just the first step in the Blues’ mission to restore the club to its previous grandeur.

After all, Chris Davies’ giants were Premier League regulars all through the noughties, with an unbelievable EFL Cup trophy success even coming their way in 2011 when Alex McLeish was at the helm.

The desire up a division from Birmingham’s perspective will be to compete with the top dogs of the division again, therefore, with a new addition here and there this summer undoubtedly improving the Blues’ chances before they officially get underway in the challenging league.

How Birmingham could strengthen this summer

Much like Wrexham who will want to spend big after promotion, Birmingham won’t be shirking away from attempting to land statement buys to make an impression in the Championship.

Already, the ambitious Blues have been tipped to bring back Che Adams to St. Andrew’s to enhance their impressive attacking personnel, with their interest also stretching out to potentially adding in Premier League experienced Mark Travers in goal.

But, the deal on everyone’s lips at Birmingham is the one that could see Peterborough United superstar Kwame Poku enter the building shortly, with reports last month suggesting that there is a lucrative £30k-per-week deal on the table for the Ghanaian to jump up a division.

Whilst the “outstanding” EFL performer – as he’s been labelled by journalist Lukman Evergreen – has been known to fire home goal after goal for Darren Ferguson’s Posh at a devastating rate, he has also shown throughout his bright stint in Cambridgeshire to date his unselfish approach when teeing up teammates for countless opportunities.

How Poku could make Stansfield better

Poku’s arrival on the scene could end up making everyone around him even better, judging by his unplayable wing play, but it’s Jay Stansfield who will no doubt be licking his lips the most at the idea of linking up with the in-demand 23-year-old.

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Whilst the 22-year-old striker is unquestionably one of the finest talents to recently grace the third tier – seen in his 19 league strikes across 2024/25 – he is arguably not the finished product yet in the league above.

Indeed, the former Exeter City forward has only amassed 12 Championship goals across his varied career to date.

But, with Poku by his side who will be equally keen to prove himself in his new terrain, he should be able to keep up his blistering League One form.

Games played

37

27

Goals scored

19

12

Assists

3

8

Shots*

2.7

2.4

Touches*

29.0

46.3

Accurate passes*

8.1 (69%)

20.3 (80%)

Big chances missed

13

3

Big chances created

6

9

Combined last season in League One, the dynamite duo would pick up a mammoth 42 goals and assists across 64 appearances, meaning the thought of both of them together under Davies’ wing in the Championship is a frightening prospect.

Eight of Poku’s sizeable 20 goal contributions for the season would fall into the assist category too, with the 23-year-old far more comfortable than his counterpart in roaming forward and creating openings, seen in his far higher amount of touches averaged per league clash.

Whereas, the Birmingham number 28 excels more as a poacher waiting in the box to pounce, with the 22-year-old perhaps capable of finishing off even more opportunities moving forward if Poku was supplying him with chances galore.

With Poku down the right wing and Stansfield as a number ten, Davies could make his attacking options even deadlier by landing the aforementioned Adams as an out-and-out centre-forward, with this potential front three running rings around Championship defences.

Of course, no such statement deals have crossed the line just yet, but expect Davies’ side to look unfazed by the pressures of Championship action if Poku enters the building very soon.

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David Moyes has done a tremendous job as Everton boss over the last couple of months, pulling the club clear of any looming relegation threat in the Premier League.

He was appointed as manager back in January after Sean Dyche was sacked, leading the club out of trouble and comfortably away from the drop zone.

The Scotsman has only lost five of his 20 games in charge at Goodison Park, with the Toffees finishing 13th and 23 points clear of third-bottom Leicester City, who were relegated to the Championship.

Moyes has demonstrated that he’s capable of taking the club to the next level ahead of their move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium over the next couple of months.

The hierarchy need to back him in his quest, handing him the funds to make the changes to the first-team squad that he desires, which could see the Toffees rise back up the league standings.

The latest on Everton’s pursuit of new additions this summer

Over the last couple of days, Everton have been one of a number of clubs touted with a summer move for midfielder Angel Gomes during the off-season.

The 24-year-old announced that he would be departing French side Lille on a free transfer at the end of June, after failing to agree a new deal with the Ligue 1 outfit.

However, he’s not the only player touted with a move to Merseyside this summer, with Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap firmly on their radar, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The journalist confirmed that the Toffees are preparing a huge offer to the forward to convince him to join Moyes’ side over a switch to Manchester United or Chelsea.

He also claims that the £30m release clause doesn’t appear to be an issue, it’s down to the player to decide where he goes, with the hierarchy seeing him as a leading talent in their new project.

Why Everton’s £30m target could be Moyes’ own Richarlison

Brazilian forward Richarlison is a player who captured the hearts of the fanbase during his spell at Everton, making over 150 appearances for the Toffees over a four-year period.

He scored 53 times for the club, reaching double figures across all competitions in every season he spent as a first-team regular, offering a key source of goals for various managers.

However, he would depart in a £60m deal to join Tottenham Hotspur in the summer of 2022, banking the club a hefty profit on their investment which saw them spend £40m on his signature.

However, current boss Moyes could land his own version of the forward this summer with Delap, following suit of the 28-year-old, who joined the club from a lower-level Premier League outfit.

When comparing the Englishman’s stats to those of Richarlison, he’s managed to outperform him in numerous key areas – showcasing what an excellent addition he’d be for the Toffees.

Delap, who’s been labelled “sensational” by one analyst, has massively outscored the Brazilian, whilst also posting a higher shot-on-target rate – showcasing his clinical edge within the final third.

He’s also managed to win more aerial battles in the Premier League this season, handing the Toffees the needed focal point that they’ve been hunting for in recent years.

Games played

37

15

Goals & assists

14

5

Shot-on-target accuracy

44%

41%

Progressive carries

2.1

1.4

Pass accuracy

70%

60%

Shot-creating actions

2.2

1.4

Take-on success

45%

6%

Aerials won

43%

30%

The Ipswich star has also completed more of the passes he’s attempted whilst also completing more progressive carries per 90 – having the opportunity to provide other players around him with chances in attacking areas.

The £30m fee touted for his signature would be a huge investment from the hierarchy, but it’s a deal worth completing given his tender age – handing him the platform to improve his skillset.

However, if he manages to have the same level of success Richarlison did on Merseyside, it would be a superb piece of business, potentially making the club a massive profit in the years to come.

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