Man United: Antony dazzles in FA Cup win

A number of Manchester United fans online have rushed to defend the importance of Antony in the team after his impressive performance in the FA Cup.

What’s the latest on Antony?

Over the weekend, the Red Devils missed out on their Premier League obligations as they had a cup tie against Fulham to worry about.

And for the first 70 minutes or so, they looked as though they could well be knocked out. Indeed, the away team took a well-deserved lead in the second half via Aleksandar Mitrovic.

However, with Fulham in control, things shifted suddenly when Willian tried to block the ball on the line when Jadon Sancho rounded the goalkeeper.

Upon VAR review, he was deemed to have used his hand and so the winger was sent off and a penalty was rewarded. At the same time, Marco Silva and Mitrovic both lost their heads and were subsequently also handed red cards.

United equalised from the spot through Bruno Fernandes before Marcel Sabitzer scored again just minutes later and then the Portuguese sealed the win with a third late on.

It could have been a very nervous end to the game but for Fulham’s complete capitulation. Their manager still hadn’t calmed down completely after the final whistle as he questioned his own sending off which came for supposed dissent towards referee Chris Kavanagh.

He told BBC Sport: “I am not going to lie. I didn’t say he was a really nice guy and the decision was fair. But he didn’t hear me.”

Amid all the drama, Man Utd fans can be happy with the way their team responded and it seems as though one individual had a pretty impressive display.

Indeed, Antony came off the bench for Scott McTominay with his team 1-0 down and 32 minutes to play. In that period, he completed three out of four dribbles, had 94 per cent passing accuracy, 28 touches, created one big chance, made two key chances, and won five duels (via SofaScore).

On top of all that, he nearly scored a goal-of-the-season contender with a brilliant dribble, taking four players out of the game including the goalkeeper.

Evidently, the Brazilian was key in turning this potential defeat into a win and while he has been much-maligned at points this season, it seems as though the Man Utd fans were happy to praise him on this occasion.

Here are some of the best reactions on Twitter…

Liverpool: Neves deal not ‘imminent’

Liverpool completing a deal for Wolverhampton Wanderers midfielder Ruben Neves is not ‘imminent’, even if he is on their ‘list’, reports Fabrizio Romano.

The Lowdown: Pole position?

The Premier League captain’s contract at Molineux isn’t set to expire until next summer but it’s looking highly likely that he’ll be leaving before then after reports claimed that he’s ready to quit at the end of the season.

The Reds, Tottenham and Newcastle have all asked to be kept informed of the 26-year-old’s situation whilst Atletico Madrid and Barcelona are also believed to be interested in a move.

Football Insider have since stated that Jurgen Klopp’s side and Manchester United are currently leading the race, but it sounds like his next destination is far from being decided.

The Latest: Romano’s update

According to Romano (via CaughtOffside), Liverpool, alongside the Blaugrana, are keen on Neves but there is nothing, as it stands, set to take place on the horizon. He said:

“Liverpool have many midfielders on the list for the summer, but for example, nothing is imminent for Wolves’ Ruben Neves.

“Manchester United wanting Ruben Neves is not something that is concrete at this stage. We have to remember it’s still March, and Manchester United still don’t know their exact budget for the summer and their priority will be a striker.

“Barcelona really like Wolves’ Ruben Neves but the club doesn’t know how much they can invest due to Financial Fair Play rules.”

The Verdict: Henderson heir?

Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson isn’t getting any younger (32) so could soon need replacing, and Neves would be the perfect man for the job with his similar leadership qualities as Wolves captain.

The Nike-sponsored star currently ranks in the 98th percentile for most clearances per game by midfielders whilst averaging 2.4 tackles per outing in the top flight, showing that he’s not afraid to get stuck in, win back possession and control the game from the centre of the park.

The Portuguese is also strong in the offensive aspect of his game having registered five assists this season, and he’s recording two shots per league match, making his desire to contribute to his team’s efforts in the final third clear.

The Mozelos native would additionally bring versatility to Anfield with his ability to operate slightly higher up in central midfield alongside his natural defensive position in front of the backline.

Neves has been dubbed a ‘beast’ by former professional Jimmy Conrad, and we believe he is the perfect candidate to put pen to paper on Merseyside.

Liverpool Eye Bid For "Outrageous" £25m Gem

Liverpool are eyeing up a move for Chelsea defender Levi Colwill this summer as Jurgen Klopp looks to strengthen his defence.

What’s the latest on Levi Colwill to Liverpool?

According to the Liverpool Echo, the Anfield side are big admirers of Colwill and will be closely watching developments this summer ahead of a potential move.

The centre-back was valued at £20m as recently as last summer and with a contract that runs until 2025, Liverpool may have to splash the cash in order to sign him this summer.

Brighton and Hove Albion, who currently have him on loan, could be set to make a bid for the player, while the Blues may also offer a new and improved contract to the youngster in order to fend off any suitors.

Could Liverpool sign Levi Colwill?

Klopp will be keen to add to his defensive ranks come the summer window and Colwill would be a solid addition, especially considering his form whilst on loan at Brighton this term.

Indeed, across eight Premier League matches this term, Colwill has averaged 70.4 touches per game, proving he is extremely comfortable on the ball at this level, while making one interception and 1.9 clearances each game.

Over time, he could form a wonderful partnership with Virgil van Dijk at the heart of the Liverpool defence. The Dutchman has been in splendid form again this term despite the Anfield side underperforming as a whole, averaging a Sofascore rating of 7.1/10 for his league displays.

Although he will be 32 this year, Van Dijk could be the ideal mentor for Colwill and the duo are also statistically similar. Colwill and Van Dijk rank in the top 10% across Europe’s big five leagues for aerials won and passes completed, while ranking in the top 25% for progressive passes, meaning they are extremely strong in the air and love to start attacks from the back.

Levi Colwill playing for Brighton

The Englishman was once dubbed “outrageous” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, and although he hasn’t played in as many games as he would have liked this term, when he has featured, the 20-year-old has impressed and shown maturity beyond his years.

Klopp appears to be looking ahead to the future with an interest in Colwill and despite Van Dijk’s advancing years, the duo could create a partnership that could form the cornerstone of a new era at the club.

The summer transfer window can't come quick enough for the German, especially after the underwhelming nature of 2022/2023 which promised so much back in August.

Liverpool Have "Asked" For Updates On £12k-p/w Defender

Liverpool have “asked” to be given updates on the situation of Eintracht Frankfurt defender Evan Ndicka ahead of the summer, according to journalist Graeme Bailey.

What's the latest on Ndicka to Liverpool?

Football Insider reported in March that the Reds are expected to offload at least one of their centre-back options during the upcoming window with Joel Matip the one most likely to be sold, so a defensive reinforcement will be needed should he depart.

Ndicka will be out of contract in the summer and having rejected several new offers to extend his stay at the Deutsche Bank Park, is set to become a free agent which has alerted the hierarchy at Anfield.

The Daily Mirror claim that the Merseyside outfit are firmly in the race to secure the 23-year-old’s signature having followed him ever since he was a teenager, not to mention that Jurgen Klopp believes he ticks all the right boxes. However, the boss is set to face plenty of competition with the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham also monitoring him in the Premier League.

Taking to Twitter, Bailey revealed that Liverpool, alongside newly named suitors Manchester City, have both approached the representatives of Ndicka to make their interest known. He wrote:

“Liverpool and Manchester City have asked the representatives of Evan Ndicka to be kept informed of his plans ahead of his departure from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer.” Expanding in his column for 90min, the reporter stated that the Reds are one of the latest to “enter the running” for Ndicka who is viewed as a suitable alternative to RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol.

Eintracht Frankfurt defender Evan Ndicka.

Where would Ndicka fit in at Liverpool?

Ndicka stands at a staggering height of 6 foot 4 and when considering building the long-term future of Liverpool, he could be the perfect partner for Virgil Van Dijk.

Lauded a “towering” defender by journalist Jacque Talbot, the left-footed ace currently averages five clearances and 2.7 aerial wins per league game, highlighting the rock he is at the heart of a backline (WhoScored). The £12k-p/w talent also provides a threat when it comes to set pieces and contributing to his team’s efforts in the final third having scored 11 goals and recorded ten assists during his time at Frankfurt (Transfermarkt).

Finally, Ndicka additionally has the flexibility to operate at left-back which could be an attractive attribute to Klopp given his history of defensive injuries, making this deal even more of a no-brainer to complete.

Arsenal’s FA Youth Cup Star Could Be Their Own Reece James

Arsenal’s U18s side took part in a thoroughly engaging FA Youth Cup clash on Tuesday night, as they faced Manchester City with a place in the final at stake.

It was a tightly contested event, which had drawn plenty of interest from fans of both clubs. Given their senior squads are currently clashing for the Premier League title added an extra element to this already well-anticipated fixture.

With Jack Wilshere leading the young Gunners, he put out a side littered with quality Hale End talents who many fans of the club would likely have heard of. These are the hopefuls who see their future as a part of Mikel Arteta’s squad, and given his record working with youth they have reason to believe this could be a possibility.

Especially given the success this teenage side seem set to enjoy, as they squeezed past the Cityzens in enthralling fashion, winning 2-1 late on.

Hitting the front just before the break, it was a beautiful curling free kick from Michal Rosiak – a moment that earned Bukayo Saka’s seal of approval – that separated the sides until they were pegged back. However, it fell to Myles Lewis-Skelly to steal the show with his late winner in the final moments of extra time, sending those in attendance at the Emirates into raptures.

Whilst he will grab the headlines, and rightly so, the all-around display and truly special goal from their right back will likely be of particular note to Arteta, who currently employs Ben White in his role.

Being a natural centre-back, there is perhaps a slight chance that with sustained success, Rosiak could seek to displace him.

Who is Michal Rosiak?

A 17-year-old sensation eligible for Poland, the silky defender has earned notoriety of late for his technically-astute displays that suggest he is more than just your run-of-the-mill right back.

With experience in central midfield too, he boasts similarities with the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Reece James in this regard.

reece-james-arsenal-michal-roziak

This year has marked a breakout season for the “excellent” teenager – as dubbed by Charles Watts – who has seven goal contributions in as many league games for the U18s. His role in reaching the FA Youth Cup final has also been a starring one, as he has scored four goals in their five games thus far.

Such offensive exploits do mirror that of the Chelsea defender, who last season enjoyed five goals and nine assists in the Premier League. It is so clear when someone is technically above the competition within their role, and James shares this with Rosiak in their respective age divisions.

But with a display branded “bright” by journalist Kaya Kaynak, and such a huge influence in the success of his side this season, few could argue with the trajectory this young starlet boasts.

If he could seek to emulate the Blues’ 23-year-old dynamo, which all the signs suggest he could, then he is sure to enjoy a thoroughly successful career in what truly could be a golden era at the Emirates.

Man Utd Eyeing Summer Move For Ansu Fati

Manchester United are still thought to be interested in signing Barcelona youngster Ansu Fati this summer, according to a fresh transfer update.

Is Fati heading out of Barcelona?

The 20-year-old burst onto the scene as a huge talent at Barca, and while he remains an enormous prospect currently, his stock has arguably fallen a little in recent years. Having been seen as possibly the star of the club's future, the likes of Pedri and Gavi have emerged as more important players this season, with the winger finding his game time limited overall.

Granted, Fati has still managed 25 La Liga appearances in 2022/23 to date, but only 10 of those have been starts, with Xavi seemingly not considering him a key man. For that reason, the Spaniard has been linked with a move away from Camp Nou once the summer transfer window arrives and United have emerged as one of the front-runners to snap him up.

The Red Devils will surely look to make significant attacking reinforcements come the end of the season, with a big-name centre forward needed, as well as more competition for playing time out wide.

Now, it further looks as though Fati could be a genuine United summer target, with a new transfer claim emerging.

Barcelona winger Ansu Fati

Is youngster joining United?

According to Sport [via Sport Witness], lots of clubs are interested in signing Fati this summer, but "‘especially Manchester United", suggesting that they are the favourites to snap him up. Barca could be willing to sell him, in order to receive huge money for his services, although the player himself may ideally rather stay up, as long as he was given assurances over his importance moving forward.

No other rival competitors are specifically mentioned in the report, so United appear to be in a healthy position with regard to getting their man.

Fati could be an inspired signing by the Reds if they manage to seal a summer move for him, considering his long-term potential and the fact that he has already made 98 appearances for Barca, not to mention scoring 26 at the same time. He has been hailed as "spectacular" by Xavi, and at just 20, he still has so much maturing to do as a player.

The only slight issue he could have is the fact that he plays in the same left-sided role as Marcus Rashford, so fitting him in could be tricky, although he could be viewed as a superior option to Antony, who has only scored three goals in the Premier League this season.

Newcastle Plot Swoop For £90M Premier League Star

Newcastle United have been on an exciting journey since their Saudi-led takeover with the prospect of Champions League football firmly in sight

Now, a new update has emerged on a potential transfer target ahead of the summer transfer window.

What's the latest on Newcastle's interest in Moises Caicedo?

According to The Telegraph's Luke Edwards, Newcastle are interested in a number of Premier League players to bolster their already impressive squad this summer.

As per the report, it is claimed that Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo is one of the many players on the list of targets for the Magpies, alongside Declan Rice, James Maddison, Kaoru Mitoma and Ivan Toney to name a few.

Will Newcastle sign Moises Caicedo this summer?

Eddie Howe and his current squad have enjoyed a phenomenal season so far with a trip to Wembley for the League Cup final and an incredible run in the Premier League that has led to a great chance of playing European football next term.

The Magpies are currently fourth with just eight league fixtures left to secure their dreams of playing in the Champions League next season and it will come as no surprise that the club are looking to continue their pursuit of success and trophies by identifying quality players who can add depth to key positions.

One of their most valuable assets acquired has undoubtedly been midfielder Bruno Guimaraes, who has had to sacrifice his attacking flair as of late due to Jonjo Shelvey's departure in January – leaving him in a more restricted defensive role in the centre of the pitch.

The signing of Caicedo this summer could be the catalyst to unlocking the Brazilian's full potential next season, allowing him the freedom to be more involved in the attacking position he thrived in over his first six months at St James' Park.

Over 17 league appearances in 2021/22, the 25-year-old scored five goals, delivered one assist and created three big chances, as well as averaging 1.3 successful dribbles and 1.4 shots on goal per game, which has led to calls for the midfielder to return to higher areas of the pitch this season with reporter Miles Starforth claiming his "magic" is needed there.

Premier League, Newcastle, Newcastle United, Newcastle United news, Newcastle United transfers, Newcastle United transfer news, NUFC news, NUFC latest news, NUFC update, NUFC transfers, NUFC transfer news, NUFC team news, Bruno Guimaraes, Eddie Howe, PIF

Caicedo would be an ideal defensive midfielder to take over from Guimaraes in the deeper role and could provide the popular Newcastle star with even more opportunities to trouble opponents.

The Ecuadorian midfielder – hailed a "pleasure to watch" by writer Ryan Adsett – has tallied up an 89% pass completion rate and successfully completed 56% of his dribbles over 28 league appearances this season, as well as averaging 1.2 key passes, outlining him as a progressive and composed midfield asset.

He also lives up to his billing as a "machine" – as per The Athletic's Andy Naylor – having made 3.2 tackles, 1.5 interceptions and won 6.4 duels per game, proving he is a reliable defensive presence in midfield.

With that being said, if the powerbrokers at the North East club are willing to meet the extortionate £90m price tag set on Caicedo this summer, it could spark a huge tactical shift in midfield personnel and provide Howe with a player who can keep up with the quality needed to compete at the highest level next season.

Everton Handed Boost Over "Exceptional" £52k-p/w Striker

Everton have been handed a boost after learning that Lyon striker and Toffees transfer target Moussa Dembele is set to become a free agent in the summer, according to reports.

What's the latest on Dembele to Everton?

The Toffees failed to sign a single new player in January, and despite any deals failing to materialise, they were credited with a strong interest in 26-year-old Dembele. They reportedly made an enquiry about the former Celtic goalscorer at the start of the New Year, and Sean Dyche has now been given the perfect second chance to bring him to the Premier League.

The Frenchman will be out of contract at the end of the season and his future is uncertain having fallen significantly out of favour under Laurent Blanc, making just eight starts in Ligue 1 this season, meaning that both parties could be tempted to go their separate ways.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, journalist Pete O’Rourke claimed that the forward would be a “real option” for the Merseyside outfit should they be able to retain their top-flight status, and should that be the case, they might now be able to acquire his services for nothing.

According to Olympique et Lyonnais (via Sport Witness), Dembele will “no longer” be at Lyon beyond the summer as there is “no renewal in sight”, in which case he would become a free agent on the market. Everton, alongside Aston Villa, were both “trying to sign” the £52k-per-week gem in January, as the two clubs “came for information”, but whether they would be successful in their second attempt should they come forward again yet remains to be seen.

Lyon striker Moussa Dembele.

Would Dembele be a good signing for Everton?

Dembele will already be used to playing in England having previously had a spell at Fulham so could quickly adapt to life, and having been hailed “exceptional” by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, it would be a massive coup for the board should they be able to convince him to join Everton.

The Adidas-sponsored star has a remarkable 199 goal contributions (152 goals and 47 assists) to his name in 352 appearances throughout his career and despite receiving limited game time this season, has recorded 28 shots which, is the fifth-highest in his squad.

The Champions and Europa League participant, who is naturally a centre-forward but has also once operated as a second striker, additionally knows what it takes to be successful having won ten senior trophies since bursting onto the scene, so could bring a much-needed winning mentality to the squad at Goodison Park.

Leeds United Still In Race To Sign £52m Midfield "Warrior"

Leeds United are firmly in the running to bring Sporting CP midfielder Manuel Ugarte to Elland Road, according to reports.

What's the latest on Ugarte to Leeds?

The Uruguayan international first arrived at the Jose Alvalade Stadium back in 2021 and has since gone on to make 82 first-team appearances where he’s been a real standout performer this season under Ruben Amorim.

The Primeira Liga talisman is currently his side’s top-performing defensive player and second overall with a match rating of 7.09, and despite his contract still having another three years to run, his form has caught the eye of Javi Gracia.

The Whites have reportedly already made several approaches to the 22-year-old’s camp with Victor Orta being a huge fan of his qualities, and it appears that he still remains a target regardless of the dangerous position that the club find themselves in.

According to Portuguese outlet Record (via Sport Witness), Leeds are “still in the race” to sign Ugarte and have been “keeping an eye on his development” ahead of a potential move this summer. The Yorkshire outfit are one of “several” other admirers in the top-flight, with the likes of Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United name-checked, and Sporting know that he “has a market”, with it being worth noting that he has a €60m (£52m) release clause included in his terms.

Sporting CP midfielder Manuel Ugarte.

Should Leeds splash the cash on Ugarte?

Leeds’ summer budget and what business they will be able to do is set to depend on whether they maintain their Premier League status, but should they be successful in doing so, Ugarte is definitely a player that they should cash out on having been hailed a midfield “warrior” by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

The World Cup and Champions League participant is strong in the defensive aspect of his game, ranking in the 99th percentile for tackles, having won 62 from 108 players challenged this season, which is more than any other of his fellow teammates, as per FBRef.

The Montevideo native, who is also capable of operating slightly higher up in central midfield, is additionally able to contribute to his team’s efforts in the final third having provided six assists and scored four goals throughout his career, via Transfermarkt.

Finally, Ugarte is in the 99th percentile for pass completion so is extremely composed on the ball and is able to dictate the game by linking up with his peers from the centre, so this positive impact that he has across all areas of the pitch makes this a no-brainer of a deal to complete.

Premier League Star Could Replace Cucurella At Chelsea

Chelsea are reportedly interested in signing Aston Villa left-back Alex Moreno this summer and his potential arrival at Stamford Bridge could see Todd Boehly get rid of £60m flop Marc Cucurella.

Could Chelsea sign Moreno?

According to reports from Foot Mercato earlier this month, both Chelsea and Manchester City are interested in signing the Spanish left-back this summer as a result of his impressive performances in Unai Emery's side.

It may prove difficult for Boehly to prise the 29-year-old away, given that Villa are in a far better position to secure European football next season than the Blues, but the money on offer at Stamford Bridge could also be difficult for him to turn down.

He has only spent just over four months at Villa Park too, having signed in January from Real Betis in January in a deal worth £12m, but has certainly caught the eye of the Premier League's elite, helping the Midlands club shoot up the Premier League table as they eye a top seven finish.

Could Moreno replace Cucurella at Chelsea?

Since signing for Emery's side, the former La Masia man has contributed an impressive three assists in just 17 top-flight appearances, which has helped him earn a solid 6.73 rating from WhoScored for his performances.

He showed similar attacking intent in the first half of the campaign in La Liga, notching three assists in just 15 league outings for Betis, which emphasises his ability going forward.

The difference between a competent director of football, and Chelsea's seemingly clueless chairman, is perhaps clear to see when comparing Moreno and Cucurella, given their respective transfer fees and performances in recent months.

Aston Villa'sAlexMoreno.

The former Brighton man has earned a 6.65 rating from WhoScored across the Premier League season thus far with Chelsea, while he has also averaged fewer shots (0.3 vs 0.8), key passes (0.5 vs 1.2) and dribbles (0.2 vs 1.4) when compared with Moreno, which suggests that the Villa man would be the far more dangerous defender if Chelsea stick with a wing-back system next season.

Journalist Lewis Steele was full of praise for the Spaniard for his performance in the 3-0 win over Newcastle United recently, as he wrote on Twitter:

"Ollie Watkins will get all the headlines again but left-back Alex Moreno is some talent. Two mins ago assists Watkins but he’s offside; now he’s done it again and it’ll count. A constant danger."

Moreno produced a similarly strong performance in the 2-0 win against Chelsea which proved to be the end of Graham Potter, earning a clean sheet and a 7.3 rating from WhoScored at Stamford Bridge with Ruben Loftus-Cheek, the man the Villa defender was up against, earning a terrible 5.9 rating.

Boehly certainly knows what he's capable of and if Cucurella is to leave after a less-than-impressive first season at Stamford Bridge, then Moreno could prove to be a big upgrade as his replacement.

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