Arsenal worried Chelsea will hijack deal for star by making near-£85m bid

Arsenal are now worried that Premier League rivals Chelsea will hijack their deal for a key target by making a near-£85 million bid, according to reports, despite the Gunners already agreeing personal terms and submitting an offer themselves.

Andrea Berta gets busy ahead of first summer transfer window

The first transfer window opens on June 1, so new sporting director Andrea Berta is a matter of weeks away from the commencement of his debut summer at the Emirates.

Berta now personally eyeing ambitious Arsenal move for £148m star

The Gunners sporting director has added him to their shortlist.

1 ByEmilio Galantini May 10, 2025

He’s already got off to a flying start by sealing a deal for Real Sociedad midfielder Martin Zubimendi, with reliable journalist Fabrizio Romano dropping his famous ‘here we go’ to the agreement.

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Southampton (away)

May 25th

The Spain international is poised to sign a long-term contract, with Arsenal set to trigger his £51 million release clause (Fabrizio Romano), and all signs point towards Zubimendi becoming Berta’s first major signing as the Gunners’ transfer chief.

Even though some reliable media sources suggest there is still a hint of caution, Arsenal have a full agreement in place with Zubimendi, with former director Edu Gaspar and his interim replacement, Jason Ayto, more than playing their part in a move, according to Ben Jacobs.

Zubimendi will likely replace the exit-bound Jorginho, with attention now turning to who will follow the Sociedad star to Arsenal.

Reports this week have claimed that Arsenal are making serious progress on a move for Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres, following yet another exceptional campaign in the Primeira Liga for Coventry City’s former star.

Arsenal and Gyokeres are “already aligned” on personal terms, according to Football Transfers, with Portuguese newspaper Corriere de Manha now sharing a very bold update on the saga.

Arsenal fear Viktor Gyokeres to Chelsea hijack despite making "official offer"

As per their information, the 26-year-old and Mikel Arteta’s side have already reached an agreement over his contract, and Arsenal have now submitted their first “official offer” for Gyokeres – which comes in at around £63 million.

However, there is a catch, with Berta and co holding a serious concern over rivals Chelsea.

It is believed that Arsenal fear Chelsea will swoop in with a bid of their own for Gyokeres, and one valued close to his €100m (£85m) release clause, so the north Londoners appear very keen to get him over the line as soon as possible.

Sporting president Frederico Varandas also views Arsenal’s opening proposal as a first bid, holding some hope behind the scenes that they could get even more for one of Europe’s most lethal marksmen in front of goal.

Gyokeres’ goalscoring exploits have piqued major interest from both Chelsea and Arsenal, with the Sweden international seeming almost certain to leave this summer.

He could be Moyes' new Rice: Everton racing to sign "phenomenal" £15m star

Everton are far enough away from the top half and the bottom three that their Premier League season is basically said and done, but there’s still something bigger to play for.

This weekend, Goodison Park will sing for the Everton Men’s team one last time. Relegated Southampton make the trip, sure to enter a cauldron of chaos as the Toffees say goodbye to their long-held home ahead of the move to Bramley-Moore Dock this summer.

The change of scenery represents a very real juncture in the club’s history, with David Moyes back at the helm and tasked with a rebuild that will see plenty of ins and outs before the 2025/26 campaign.

Everton manager DavidMoyesbefore the match

While fans are hoping to see a new striker walk through the gates, Everton need a variety of talent, with an exciting midfielder identified already.

Everton chasing new midfielder

According to TEAMtalk, Sunderland’s Dan Neil is on Everton’s radar ahead of the summer transfer window, although a move would likely be dependent on the outcome Black Cats’ Championship play-off final tie against Sheffield United.

That said, Neil’s contract expires at the end of next season and his side would prefer to cash in while they can. This opens a road from which Everton can travel to claim the talented midfielder’s signature.

Due to the player’s contract situation, he may even be available for a cut-price fee of £15m this summer.

What Dan Neil would bring to Everton

Neil, 23, has played a crucial role in Sunderland’s rise from League One. His breakthrough actually came during the promotion-sealing season of 2021/22, and he’s now featured 196 times for his boyhood club, clinching 32 goal contributions.

Hailed as a “joy to watch” on the field by Sunderland reporter Phil Smith and as “phenomenal” by fellow EFL star Luke Molyneux, Neil’s all-round game is something that could really impact the Everton midfield, with his sharp eye for a pass, strong defensive qualities and knack for driving the ball forward and creating space for teammates a particular skill set that Moyes has made good use of in the past.

Indeed, Neil could actually prove to be the manager’s next version of Declan Rice, who might play for Arsenal now but made his name in east London, synonymous with West Ham United’s rise in Moyes’ system, instrumental in winning the Conference League in 2022/23.

Matches (starts)

44 (44)

33 (31)

Goals

2

3

Assists

3

7

Touches*

57.5

57.7

Pass completion

84%

90%

Big chances created

4

16

Key passes*

0.7

1.8

Ball recoveries*

5.7

4.3

Dribbles*

0.9

0.4

Tackles + interceptions*

2.9

2.4

Duels (won)*

4.8 (51%)

3.4 (51%

Rice is clearly the more creative player, and he’s playing top-flight football besides, but Everton fans aren’t expecting Moyes and the board to conjure up a signing carrying the elite-level status of the Gunners’ main man in the middle.

Rather, they just want to see progress, and that is exactly what Neil would provide if placed in the Everton centre. As you can see, he’s athletic, tenacious in the duel and willing to dribble the ball forward, with a crispness in possession that Moyes will need to help with his transitional play next year.

Moyes’ man management ability is second to none, and after several years of promise in the second tier, Neil is surely ready to step into the big time as an Everton player, where he could thrive as the centrepiece of a growing project.

He'd be Moyes' next Cahill: Everton plot move for "incredible" EFL star

Everton could be about to land a player who could follow in the footsteps of a former fan-favourite.

ByEthan Lamb May 15, 2025

Amorim must axe Hojlund & start Man Utd "monster" in a brand new role

Manchester United face Chelsea at Stamford Bridge tonight in the Premier League, entering the penultimate game of what has been a dismal year in England’s top-flight.

Ruben Amorim’s side will want to end the campaign on a high after their disappointment across the board, but all focus will undoubtedly be on the Europa League final.

The Red Devils face Tottenham Hotspur in Bilbao on Wednesday evening, with players wanting to save themselves and prevent injury ahead of the vital clash.

Manchester United manager RubenAmorimbefore the match

However, players will still want to impress against Enzo Maresca’s side, potentially landing themselves a start against Spurs and having the opportunity to make themselves a hero and end the season on a high.

It will hand the boss a chance to assess his squad, but he should drop one player for the clash in West London tonight, after what has been a below-par year at Old Trafford.

Why Amorim needs to drop Hojlund against Chelsea

Striker Rasmus Hojlund had huge hopes of being a success at United following his £72m move from Atalanta back in the summer of 2023 – but it’s safe to say his time at the club has been a disaster.

The Danish international has often been the Red Devils’ main talisman this campaign, but has failed to deliver, netting just four league goals in his 30 appearances.

The 22-year-old even went 21 games without a goal across all competitions earlier this campaign, highlighting his lack of impact at the top end of the pitch.

His all-round play has been just as disappointing, completing an average of just 11 passes per game, unable to offer the side the link-up play needed for success within the final third.

Such a record has led to numerous links to other attackers all across Europe, with the manager needing to experiment with multiple other options against Chelsea to evaluate his side further ahead of the summer.

The United star who Amorim should start in a new role

Over the course of 2024/25, Amorim has experimented with multiple options at the top end of the pitch in an attempt to combat their issues in the final third.

Harry Maguire

Centre-back Harry Maguire has often been called upon to operate as a makeshift centre-forward this campaign, most notably against Nottingham Forest, where he had an effort cleared off the line.

He’s not been the only player to operate out of position, with midfielder Kobbie Mainoo operating in such a role during the defeat at home to Crystal Palace.

However, he could continue in such vein, by utilising Amad Diallo as a centre-forward, adding yet another position to his resume this season after switching since Amorim’s appointment.

The Ivorian has operated at wing-back and attacking midfield, starring in both positions and being one of the club’s most effective players, given his tally of 10 goals and eight assists across all competitions.

However, his ankle injury has derailed his progress, needing vital minutes before the Europa League final to hand himself the best chance of swinging the game in their favour.

Amad, who’s been labelled a “monster” by former teammate Scott Arfield, has registered 2.3 shots per 90 – undoubtedly aiding his excellent tallies, making him a superb option at the top end.

Games played

24

Goals & assists

13

Pass accuracy

86%

Shots taken

2.6

Chances created

2.4

Successful dribbles

2.1

Touches in opposition box

7.2

He’s also completed 86% of the passes he’s attempted, and whilst creating 2.4 chances per 90 – handing the other players around him the opportunity to thrive at the Bridge.

It may seem a bold call to utilise the 22-year-old in such a role, but given the lack of impact from other players in the department this campaign, it could be another masterstroke from the boss.

Ultimately, attention will be fully on next week’s European final, but it presents another chance for the youngster to get minutes under his belt, possibly registering a positive end to what’s been a year to forget for the Red Devils.

INEOS now in direct talks to bring Premier League star to Man Utd with Cunha

The Red Devils have set their sights on an attacking rebuild.

ByTom Cunningham May 14, 2025

Levy's top Tottenham target to replace Ange confirms where he'll be next season

Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy reportedly has one tactician at the top of his list of potential targets to replace Ange Postecoglou, and the man in question has now confirmed where he’ll be next season in a statement.

Tottenham now '50/50' over sacking Ange Postecoglou after Europa League win

Spurs ended the campaign with an historic Europa League triumph in Bilbao, at the expense of Man United, which ended their 17-year wait for major silverware and secured their first European trophy since 1984.

England star keen to hold Tottenham talks as Europa League gives deal hope

Spurs have been given “fresh” belief his signing can be done.

1 ByEmilio Galantini May 23, 2025

Their 1-0 victory over Ruben Amorim’s side at the Estadio de San Mamés also presented Levy with a major conundrum, which he must now resolve in quick fashion after the conclusion of this Premier League campaign.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Postecoglou paraded the Europa League trophy around Spurs’ stadium after their 4-1 defeat at home to Brighton on Sunday, which confirmed their 17th-placed finish in the table after a dismal 22 league defeats in total.

While the Lilywhites lifted their first piece of silverware in nearly two decades and qualified for next season’s Champions League, their league form has been simply unacceptable, so you can see why Levy and the Spurs board are reportedly ’50/50′ over sacking Postecoglou right now (Football Insider).

“My gut feeling is I feel right now that I’ve done something that no one believed I could,” said Postecoglou when asked about his future after their loss to Brighton.

“And I shouldn’t be sitting here talking about it (my future). That’s my feeling, but it is what it is. I just want to go on a break and enjoy my family and reflect on being part of something unbelievably special, unbelievably special. I’ve been fortunate to be in this position a number of times, but seeing those scenes Friday, and people have reached out and talked to me about how it has affected them, what has happened over the last couple of days, it’s a beautiful thing and I just want to enjoy that.”

Tottenham manager target Marco Silva confirms where he'll be next season

In terms of possible replacements for Postecoglou, Sky Sports reporter Gianluca Di Marzio recently reported that Fulham boss Marco Silva was the “first name” in their target list.

However, they’re now set to run into a brick wall regarding his appointment, with Silva now confirming that he’s staying at Fulham.

The 47-year-old has done an impressive job at Craven Cottage on a shoe-string budget, and briefly had them contending for Champions League qualification before they ultimately fell out of the race.

This would’ve undoubtedly turned Levy’s head, but after Silva confirmed his intentions, he must now look to other Postecoglou alternatives.

Tottenham’s list of managerial candidates is also said to include Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth), Oliver Glasner (Crystal Palace), Thomas Frank (Brentford), Scott Parker (Burnley), Jürgen Klopp (Head of Global, Red Bull), Niko Kovač (Borussia Dortmund), Edin Terzić (free agent), Xavi (free agent) and Francesco Farioli (free agent).

Ian Wright urges Arsenal to sign "top" £42m forward after alleged talks

It is no secret that Arsenal are actively in the market for a new attacking player or two for Mikel Arteta this summer, with the Gunners now urged to make a move for one highly-rated forward who’s reportedly on Andrea Berta’s list.

Arsenal targeting new winger with "numerous talks" held

Bukayo Saka’s lengthy injury absence midway through 2024/2025, combined with uncertainty surrounding the long-term future of Leandro Trossard, has seemingly pushed Arsenal into considering the signing of a winger.

Arsenal talks could advance in "next few days" as Berta eyes £59m signing

The Gunners have been in contact this week.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 5, 2025

The Belgian is about to enter the final 12 months of his contract in north London, and there are even some suggestions that Arsenal would also entertain suitable bids for Gabriel Martinelli, who is valued at around £50 million, so Arteta’s wide options could look slightly different by the time we reach 2025/2026.

In terms of potential incomings, talks have been held over a deal for Real Madrid forward Rodrygo, who is considered the “dream signing” by Arsenal in that position, but negotiations are proving complicated due to wage demands (Florian Plettenberg).

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

That being said, Rodrygo is by no means their only option, with Berta holding “numerous talks” over many targets, including Atalanta star Ademola Lookman.

The Nigerian is reportedly valued at around £42 million, which could prove to be a bargain considering his exploits in Serie A over the last two seasons.

Lookman’s devastating performance in the 2024 Europa League final ended Bayer Leverkusen’s historic unbeaten run, and he’s fresh off scoring 20 goals in all competitions for Atalanta over the season just gone.

Atalanta's AdemolaLookmanin action

Multiple reports have claimed that Arsenal have held talks over a move for Lookman, with club legend Ian Wright now urging Berta to seal a deal.

Ian Wright urges Arsenal to sign Ademola Lookman after alleged talks

Speaking on the Wrighty’s House podcast this week, the N5 icon expressed his admiration for Lookman’s journey to the top, branding him a “top” player.

Wright also urged Arsenal to sign Lookman before the start of next season, explaining exactly why he believes the African would do an excellent job under Arteta.

“I’m going to go with Ademola Lookman winning the African Player of the Year in respects of that man’s journey,” said Wright.

Atalanta's Davide Zappacosta celebrates scoring their fifth goal with AdemolaLookman

“I remember him from Charlton, it didn’t work out, £10 million to Everton, then moving all over the place, the journey from loan to this, then I think that’s one of the most devastating performances I’ve seen in any final with that hat-trick he scored.

“I hope we can buy him, Arsenal. I would love someone like him to come back to the Premier League and say, ‘listen, I have unfinished business here, so I am going to help Arsenal win the league’.

“But I just admire his journey, and now he’s recognised rightly as a top player, unbelievable.”

Terms agreed: "Dominant" £17m star says yes to signing for Leeds United

Leeds United know that they will need to make key additions across the pitch to improve their squad after they were promoted to the Premier League at the end of the 2024/25 campaign.

Leeds United's goalkeeper priority this summer

A new goalkeeper is high up on the list of transfer priorities for the Championship champions during the summer transfer window, after veteran shot-stopper Karl Darlow had to end the season between the sticks.

Illan Meslier’s high-profile errors were hard for Daniel Farke to ignore, and the Frenchman had to sit on the bench for the final seven matches of the campaign.

The Whites are now reportedly eyeing up a deal to sign Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic, who was omitted from their squad for the Club World Cup in America this summer.

He spent the 2024/25 campaign and caught the eye with his impressive performances in Ligue 1, preventing 7.91 goals and avoiding any errors that directly led to a goal in 31 matches in the French top-flight.

Petrovic, who is a Serbia international, could come in to solve Farke’s problem in the number one position at Elland Road, if they can convince the Chelsea stopper to make the switch to West Yorkshire.

Leeds will also need strong defenders in front of their goalkeeper to prevent them from being overworked, though, and the club are reportedly closing in on a new centre-back.

Leeds United agree terms with new centre-back signing

According to LeedsLive reporter Isaac Johnson, Udinese defender Jaka Bijol has ‘agreed’ terms over a move to Elland Road in the summer transfer window, which is also backed up by reports in Italy, relayed by Sport Witness.

The journalist claims that the Whites are ‘growing in confidence’ that they can reach an agreement with the Serie A side over a deal to sign the Slovenia international, who has already given the transfer a green light.

Napoli's David Neres in action with Udinese's JakaBijol

Johnson adds that a fee of around £17m should be enough to get the move over the line, and that talks are ongoing between the two clubs over the fee.

Meanwhile, Italian outlet TuttoUdinese reports that negotiations are ongoing and that the Premier League side have already had a bid of £14m turned down, with an improved offer of £15m said to be inching the two clubs closer towards an agreement.

TuttoUdinese backs up Johnson’s claim that the player wants to sign for Leeds, as they reveal that Bijol has opened the door to a move to Elland Road, and that is now down to the teams to agree a fee.

Pass accuracy

84%

77%

Progressive passes

2.98

2.10

Tackles + interceptions

2.46

2.33

Blocks

1.15

0.99

Clearances

5.53

5.57

Aerial duels won

3.31

3.07

Leeds have also been linked with an interest in Millwall centre-back Japhet Tanganga, but the statistics in the table above suggest that the Serie A star, dubbed “aerially dominant” by writer Kyle Newbould, would be the better option out of the two.

Bijol has proven that he can deliver quality performances in one of Europe’s major leagues, in Italy, and he could arrive in West Yorkshire as a strong signing for Farke’s team, as a centre-back who could protect the goalkeeper who is eventually signed to replace Meslier.

Ampadu 2.0: Leeds ready to pay up for “tremendous” £1.2m star

Leeds United could be about to sign their next Ethan Ampadu with this summer purchase.

ByKelan Sarson Jun 14, 2025

Nottingham Forest make £5m bid for the "hardest defender" Messi's ever faced

Nottingham Forest have now made a £5m bid for the “hardest defender” Lionel Messi has ever faced, having struck an agreement with his entourage on personal terms, according to a report.

Forest looking to kick on after impressive 2024-25 campaign

Although they will be disappointed to have missed out on the Champions League, Forest defied all expectations by finishing seventh in the Premier League last season, but Simon Jordan believes it will be very difficult to build on a remarkable 2024-25 campaign.

The talkSPORT presenter said: “They’ve got the resources in the fella (Marinakis), but he can’t introduce the money because it’s not allowed because of the governance. So unless there’s going to be a governance change, it’s very difficult to see lightning striking twice.”

Given that Europa Conference League football will be on offer next season, however, a move to the City Ground should be appealing this summer, and the Tricky Trees have set their sights on a new winger, with Juventus’ Timothy Weah and FC Porto’s Pepe emerging as targets.

Nottingham Forest join race for one of the rising stars of U21 Euros

Anderson already knows all about his quality…

ByTom Cunningham Jun 26, 2025

Despite already having Ola Aina at his disposal, Nuno is also interested in signing a new right-back this summer, and an offer has now been made for Mallorca’s Pablo Maffeo, with Forest submitting a €6m (£5m) bid for the defender’s services.

That is according to a report from El Chiringuito (via Sport Witness), which states Nuno’s side are now pushing to secure a deal for Maffeo, having already struck an agreement with his entourage on personal terms.

Real Madrid's Vinicius Junior in action with RCD Mallorca's PabloMaffeo

Mallorca don’t have a pressing need to cash-in on the defender, as he remains contracted until the summer of 2027, but they are now set to weigh up Forest’s offer, which would allow them to double their money, having signed him from Stuttgart for €3m (£2.5m) back in 2022.

Maffeo leaves lasting impression on Messi

Very few full-backs have been able to cope with Messi throughout the Argentinian’s illustrious career, with the 38-year-old widely regarded as the greatest player in history, but the Spaniard once gave the Barcelona legend a very tough time during his spell with Girona.

Although Barca ultimately triumphed 3-0, Messi was unable to get on the scoresheet, and the forward went on to say: “Pablo Maffeo, when he was at Girona, was the hardest defender I’ve ever faced.

“I’ve never been one to complain. I believe that physical contact is part of football.”

Barcelona’s LionelMessiin action with Girona's PabloMaffeo

Since then, the full-back has remained a key player for Mallorca, although he has developed a reputation for being one of La Liga’s more physical players, with Real Madrid columnist Kiyan Sobhani describing the 27-year-old as a “thug” last season.

However, Maffeo could be a bargain addition to Nuno’s squad at just £5m, and his experience coming up against the likes of Messi and Vinicus Jr in La Liga should stand the right-back in good stead to be a success at the City Ground.

He's better than Eze: "Phenomenal" £85m sensation now wants to join Spurs

Thomas Frank will be entering the biggest season of his managerial career in 2025/26, as he looks to take Tottenham Hotspur to the next level after his appointment this summer.

The Dane spent seven years in charge of Brentford across the capital, but he’s now been tasked with the challenge of leading the Lilywhites back to the top end of the Premier League.

Whilst he’s constantly thrived during his stint with the Bees, the expectations of the fanbase of Spurs will bring added pressure to him in his quest for success in North London.

The Europa League success back in May will only heighten the need for added trophies in the years ahead, with the fanbase wanting to reach the next level under Frank’s guidance.

Undoubtedly, he will want to make his own mark on the side, needing funds to make additions to land the players he craves, with numerous players already on their radar.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Attackers have been the main focus for Frank in recent weeks, with numerous forwards already touted with a move to join Spurs during the current window.

Antoine Semenyo, Rodrygo and Xavi Simons have all been touted with big-money moves to join the Lilywhites, as the hierarchy look to back the Dane in his quest for success.

Xavi Simons celebrates

However, none of the aforementioned stars have been close to a move, but the same can’t be said for West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus, who’s emerged as a key target.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed that positive talks have commenced over a deal to sign the 24-year-old winger this summer, with the player himself wanting a move to join the club.

However, any deal could prove to be an expensive one, with the Ghanaian currently having a £85m release clause within his contract at the London Stadium.

Why Kudus would be a better signing than Eze for Spurs

In their quest for added attacking reinforcements, Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze has been strongly linked with a move to join Spurs this summer, but not for the first time in his career.

Eberechi Eze for Crystal Palace.

He’s been a player firmly on their radar over the past couple of years, but no deal has ever been agreed for his services, however, that could change this summer.

The 27-year-old currently has a £68m release clause in his contract, a deal which could be a bargain given his tally of 14 goals and 12 assists across all competitions last season.

However, it appears as though they will face stiff competition from North London rivals Arsenal, after they made contact with his representatives over a move to the Emirates.

The Spurs fanbase shouldn’t worry, with a move for Kudus being a better addition, having the tools to become a key player in Frank’s ambitions of taking the side to the next level.

When comparing the player’s respective stats from the 2024/25 campaign, the West Ham star has managed to outperform him in numerous key areas, highlighting the talent he possesses.

Kudus, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by journalist Joel Bortey, has registered a higher shot on target rate, demonstrating his accuracy within the final third.

Games played

32

34

Goals & assists

8

16

Shot on target accuracy

28%

27%

Pass accuracy

84%

74%

Take-ons completed

3.2

2.3

Carries into final third

2.1

1.6

Carries into opposition box

1.5

0.7

Fouls won

2.2

1.7

He’s also completed more take-ons per 90, along with more carries into the opposition penalty areas, showcasing his desire to get the ball forward at any given opportunity.

The Ghanaian has also won more fouls per 90 and completed more of the passes he’s attempted, offering a real nuisance to the opposition’s backline – something which has been desperately missing in North London.

It’s unclear if Spurs will negotiate a deal for the winger this summer, but it’s evident that he could provide Frank with the tools to thrive in his first season in charge.

Eze will remain as a key target no doubt, but it’s clear that Kudus is a better option in attacking areas, with the hierarchy desperately needing to pursue a move for his signature.

More exciting than Semenyo: Spurs in talks to sign "generational" £85m star

The brilliant attacker could be just what Spurs need.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 1, 2025

Perfect for Bruno & Mbeumo: Man Utd to make bid for £20m star this week

Manchester United star Bruno Fernandes has been a player who has thrived at Old Trafford over recent years, undoubtedly being the shining light in the first team squad.

The Portuguese international managed to register 37 combined goals and assists in the 2024/25 campaign, by far and away the highest tally in Ruben Amorim’s side.

Since his arrival back in January of 2020, the 30-year-old has notched 98 goals and 83 assists, averaging a contribution every 1.15 games he’s featured in – a simply staggering feat for a midfielder.

However, there’s only so much the former Sporting CP talent can do alone, desperately needing added reinforcements if the side are to rise up the Premier League table next campaign.

Work is already underway behind the scenes, as evidenced by the addition of Matheus Cunha, but further signings are expected between now and the end of the transfer window.

The latest on United’s hunt for new signings this summer

Over the last couple of days, midfielder Douglas Luiz has reemerged as a potential addition, with a move away from Juventus expected after starting three league games last season.

He’s not the only Juventus star on their radar, with striker Dušan Vlahović also a player in their sights, with the Serbian available at a cut-price of just £15m this summer.

Juventus' Dusan Vlahovic

However, work has also been done elsewhere, resulting in progress being made on a deal to secure Valencia midfielder Javi Guerra, according to one Spanish outlet.

They claim that the Red Devils are set to make a bid for the Spanish U21 this week, after he made 36 LaLiga appearances throughout the 2024/25 campaign.

It also states that the 22-year-old could be available for as little as £20m this summer, but numerous sides such as AC Milan are also in the race for his signature.

Why United’s £20m target could be perfect for Bruno & Mbeumo

After Cunha’s subsequent transfer to join United, fellow Premier League attacker Bryan Mbeumo has been a player hugely linked with a move to Old Trafford.

Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo celebrates after the match

The 25-year-old has been the subject of two separate offers from Amorim’s side this window, but no agreement has yet been reached for the Cameroonian’s signature.

Mbeumo has already stated his desire to join the Red Devils, but no deal can progress if a fee isn’t agreed with Keith Andrews’ side, who are demanding a package totalling £65m.

However, his tally of 20 league goals last season showcases the threat he possesses within the final third, undoubtedly handing Amorim the talent he needs within attacking areas.

Should he complete any move, a deal for Guerra would also aid the forward, whilst also being perfect for Bruno and bolstering the ranks at the Theatre of Dreams.

The Spaniard’s arrival would allow the club captain to operate in his more natural number 10 role, having more of an impact in such a position as seen by his tallies from 2024/25.

He also has the tools to provide Mbeumo with the tools to thrive, as seen by his tally of 4.8 progressive passes and 4.2 passes into the final third per 90.

Games played

36

Goals & assists

6

Progressive passes

4.8

Passes into final third

4.2

Take-ons attempted

2.7

Carries into final third

1.5

Tackles won

1.7

Guerra, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by journalist Zach Lowy, also attempted 2.7 take-ons per 90, along with 1.5 carries into the final third – showcasing his ability to get the ball into the opposition’s defensive third.

Out of possession, the youngster had also won 1.7 tackles per 90, winning 46% of the tackles he entered, having the ball-winning capability that the heart of the side has been lacking in recent months.

The £20m fee touted for the LaLiga star would be an excellent piece of business, having the potential to build on his early success in the professional game, given his tender age.

Should he carry his skillset over to England, he would be a phenomenal signing, having the ability to allow Bruno and fellow pending addition Mbeumo to thrive in the process.

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£34m Arsenal star is in talks to leave; it may free up room for Rodrygo

It’s hard to think of another summer quite like this one for Arsenal.

Preseason hasn’t even started yet, and the club has already signed four players, including Martin Zubimendi and Noni Madueke, for a combined £112m.

Moreover, talented centre-back Christian Mosquera is set to have a medical today, Viktor Gyokeres looks likely to have his on Friday, and Eberechi Eze continues to be linked.

Arsenal manager MikelArteta

As if that wasn’t enough, rumours concerning a £80m move for Rodrygo keep popping up, although to complete a deal to sign him on top of everyone else, the Gunners will surely have to make some sales, and it looks like they will.

Why Arsenal want to sign Rodrygo

Even though it would require a massive financial commitment, and he’d become their second most expensive signing of all time, it’s really not hard to understand why Arsenal would want to bring in Rodrygo.

Firstly, he may be a natural left-winger, but as the last couple of seasons have shown us, he can still be incredibly effective off the right and even up, which could help massively if the Gunners endure another torrid year with injuries.

More importantly, though, is the fact that the Brazilian has remained incredibly effective even out of position over the last few years.

Appearances

51

54

Minutes

3707′

3452′

Goals

17

14

Assists

9

11

Goal Involvements per Match

0.50

0.46

Minutes per Goal Involvement

142.57′

138.08′

For example, since the start of the 23/24 season, the “special” talent, as dubbed by former manager Carlo Ancelotti, has found the back of the net on 31 occasions and provided 20 assists in 105 appearances, totalling 7159 minutes.

That means the former Santos gem has been averaging a goal involvement every 2.05 games, or every 140.37 minutes across the last two years, which is undoubtedly impressive.

Finally, with two La Liga titles and two Champions League titles among an array of other trophies under his belt, the 24-year-old dynamo would bring a real know-how to the Emirates, which is something the team have been lacking in recent years.

However, to afford Rodrygo’s wages and transfer fee, Arsenal will surely have to offload a few players this summer, and based on reports, it looks like one out-of-favour ace could be nearing the exit.

The Arsenal star who could be sold

With the signings already made, those set to be completed soon, and the additional links to players like Rodrygo, it’s no surprise to see speculation arise around the possible sale of certain players.

Transfer Focus

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

At first, there were reports about a possible move for Gabriel Martinelli by Al-Nassr, reports that were quickly rubbished.

Since then, Leandro Trossard has been linked with several moves, including a potential transfer to Bayern Munich, and Jakub Kiwior is also reportedly no longer in the manager’s plans.

However, there is now another player being linked with an official exit from the club this summer, someone who wasn’t even part of the squad last season: Fabio Vieira.

Yes, according to a recent report from GIVEMESPORT, the player’s representatives are currently working on getting him to a new team this summer, and have even been in talks with several interested clubs from ‘Turkey and Germany’s top divisions.’

Interestingly, the report reveals that an unnamed Serie A side would be willing to pay €18m for the Portuguese ace in a deal structured like Nuno Tavares’ to Lazio, but as Arteta and Co paid £34m for the player just three years ago, that is not a price they would entertain.

Whatever the final fee ends up being, it is probably time to move the 25-year-old on, as after two underwhelming campaigns in England in which he amassed 13 goal involvements in 49 games, he enjoyed a decent enough spell with Porto last year.

Appearances

39

33

16

42

Goals

7

2

1

5

Assists

16

6

3

6

Goal Involvements per Match

0.58

0.24

0.25

0.26

For example, the “exceptional” midfielder, as talent scout Jacek Kulig once dubbed him, produced 11 goal involvements in 42 games, but eight of those came in just 26 league clashes.

In other words, this summer may well be the last time Berta and Co will be able to get decent money for the Santa Maria da Feira-born ace.

Ultimately, Vieira is not a bad player, but it just has not worked out for him in an Arsenal shirt, and if selling him this summer frees up space to sign Rodrygo, then that is a no-brainer.

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