All posts by z3u9t.icu

Everton signed off at Goodison Park with a rip-roaring victory over relegated Southampton, marking a historic and unforgettable day for Blues across Merseyside and beyond.

With no hyperbole, the emotion was palpable as the Premier League match entered the dying embers.

It was an emotional farewell, one which was always going to end with three points for the hosts. It was Southampton, but it could have been anyone unfortunate enough to be swallowed into the noisy sea of Everton support.

Everton say goodbye to Goodison Park

The Toffees have weathered some storms in recent years, and no mistake, but with David Moyes back at the helm, there’s something cyclical about this change of scenery.

It’s a new beginning, but one which shouldn’t see the club lose their sense of place, nor their deep-rooted ‘Evertonism’ as they finally close the door at Goodison Park for the final time.

And what a send-off. The fans were out in force, and so too were some club legends and former icons. Tim Cahill, Peter Reid and Graeme Sharp were all there as special guests, as was Wayne Rooney.

Rooney might not have played the prime years of his career out on Merseyside, but he was reared in the city and raised to the professional level by Moyes before signing for Manchester United in a £30m deal, aged 18.

One of the Premier League’s superstars, Everton may well have found their new version of the Three Lions legend, and he took centre-stage on Sunday.

Everton's new Wayne Rooney

Moyes elevated numerous players when he replaced Sean Dyche at the helm in January, and while this could be said for Iliman Ndiaye, the Senegal international had proved the bright spark for the Merseysiders across the first half of the season.

Signed from Marseille for £15m last summer, Ndiaye has been a pillar of strength for Everton throughout the campaign, and while he’s the top scorer with nine goals from just 28 starting appearances, his slickness and thrilling movements suggest he could become a talisman in the mould of Rooney, one who could actually devote some of their finest years to the club.

Rooney’s capacity to excite, especially in his earlier iterations, was something that differentiated him from other talented up-and-comers.

Though Ndiaye is 25, he bears a likeness to the English great in this regard, as evidenced by his underlying data this term. As per FBref, he ranks among the top 20% of positional peers in the Premier League for goals, the top 17% for pass completion, the top 7% for successful take-ons and the top 1% for ball recoveries per 90.

There’s certainly a spring in his step. Ndiaye has been hailed for his ability to produce “magic” moments by Sky Sports commentator Seb Hutchinson, and if Moyes and the owners can get it right in the transfer market this summer, there’s every chance he could hit the next level in his development and truly establish himself as one of the country’s heaviest hitters.

Man United

559

253

141

Everton

117

28

8

D.C. United

52

25

14

Derby County

35

7

3

Were Everton to end up selling their silky star, he would also fetch a large transfer fee, like Rooney. Whichever angle you look at it from, Moyes has hit the absolute jackpot with this one, and must ensure he retains his services for the upcoming campaign at the least.

Most exciting deal since Richarlison: Everton could sign “world-class” star

David Moyes will look to bring in one or two exciting names to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

ByAngus Sinclair May 18, 2025

Plans for Tottenham Hotspur’s summer rebuild are already underway.

Having won just one of their last nine, Spurs are languishing 16th in the Premier League, thereby on course for their lowest finish since being relegated in 1977.

However, Ange Postecoglou’s team could, of course, salvage the campaign in a big way, preparing for the Europa League Final against Manchester United later this month, with both silverware and a place in next season’s Champions League on the line.

Of course, Champions League qualification would massively help their summer transfer plans, both financially and in terms of prestige, although, regardless of the outcome in Bilbao, this squad requires serious surgery, but do Tottenham already boast a more valuable attacker than their potential new signing?

Tottenham's search for attacking reinforcements

As previously reported by Danny Rust and Dean Jones of Give Me Sport, Tottenham are ‘planning to make an offer’ to sign Liam Delap from Ipswich Town this summer.

Having scored 12 Premier League goals for the Tractor Boys this season, the 22-year-old is certainly a man in demand, with Wayne Veysey of Football Insider noting that Chelsea, Manchester United and Nottingham Forest are amongst his potential suitors.

This is surely partly due to the fact that, as reported by Jacob Steinberg and Nick Ames of the Guardian, Delap has a £30m release clause, following Ipswich’s relegation, which looks a major bargain for a player Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout labels an “absolute beast”.

Thus, Delap appears as though he would be an excellent addition for Spurs, but do they already boast a better attacker?

Tottenham's most valuable attacker

When Brennan Johnson joined Tottenham from Nottingham Forest for a reported fee of £47m in September 2023, a few eyebrows were raised, but he has certainly proved his worth, as the table below outlines.

Brennan Johnson

17

7

24

Dominic Solanke

15

8

23

Son Heung-min

11

12

23

James Maddison

12

11

23

Dejan Kuluševski

10

11

21

Pedro Porro

4

9

13

Pape Matar Sarr

6

3

9

Richarlison

5

2

7

As the table shows, no Spurs player has been directly involved in more goals than Johnson, 11 of which have come in the Premier League, also contributing four en route to Bilbao in the Europa League.

Paul Taylor of The Athletic labels Johnson “electric”, while Ali Tweedale of Opta’s the Analyst, outlines how the Wales international quickly went from Tottenham’s ‘lightning rod’ to their most important, most prolific attacker.

Meantime, Liam Tharme of The Athletic documents how ghosting in at the back post to score with a first-time finish has become Johnson’s trademark goal, making him a pivotal figure in Postecoglou’s team.

These performances mean Johnson is now Tottenham’s most valuable attacker, as the table below outlines.

Brennan Johnson

£60m

Dominic Solanke

£44m

Son Heung-min

£26m

Mathys Tel

£48m

Richarlison

£22.5m

Wilson Odobert

£21m

Liam Delap

£31m

Based on these market values, Delap’s aforementioned £30m release clause actually offers pretty fair market value, but the £47m fee paid to secure Johnson’s services was, in retrospect, actually a bargain, considering his current value of £60m.

So, while Delap may be a great signing for Spurs, whatever they’re planning for the summer, they need to ensure this gets the best out of their already excelling attacker.

Paratici tells Spurs to hire £105k-per-week manager with Ange "set to leave"

The incoming ex-managing director has preference.

ByEmilio Galantini May 9, 2025

Spanish giants Atlético Madrid now want to sign a £200,000-a-week Arsenal player as the Gunners begin talks over a new contract, according to a recent report.

Arsenal desperate for a new striker this summer

One of the main reasons why the Gunners were unable to mount a serious title challenge with Liverpool was because of the lack of goals in the team. There are not many weaknesses in Mikel Arteta’s squad, but the lack of a number nine has cost them in the last 18 months to two years, especially once injuries compounded the issue.

He's like Saka & Salah: Arsenal plan talks to sign £55m Ballon d'Or nominee

The free-scoring international could be just what Arsenal need.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Apr 28, 2025

Therefore, it is no surprise to see that Arsenal are already looking at the market and trying to find the best possible number nine who will fit into their team. Benjamin Sesko and Jonathan David of RB Leipzig and Lille, respectively, have been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium for a while now. Meanwhile, it was reported over the weekend that the Gunners have made an enquiry over the possibility of signing Christopher Nkunku, who looks set to leave Chelsea at the end of this campaign, given his lack of game time.

Reports have also stated that Arsenal are in advanced talks in a deal to sign Nico Williams from Athletic Club this summer. The Spain international has a release clause worth £50 million, and the Gunners are willing to trigger it to get a deal done.

Williams may not be the only high-profile arrival at the Emirates, as Arsenal are now willing to make a bid worth £69 million to sign Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP. This figure would be a lot lower than his release clause, which is reportedly worth £86 million.

Atlético Madrid want to sign £200k-p/w Arsenal ace

These potential arrivals will cost the Gunners a lot in terms of fees and wages, and there is an expectation that some players will have to be let go – Thomas Partey could be one.

According to Marca, relayed by The Mirror, Atletico Madrid are interested in signing Partey amid talks over a new deal with Arsenal.

Partey, who is out of contract at the end of the season, is currently in talks with the Gunners over extending his stay beyond this campaign. However, Arsenal need to act quickly, as Atlético are keeping a close eye on the situation and will be ready to make a move should an agreement not be found. They are not the only team interested either, as Juventus and Paris Saint-Germain are also keen, and the player himself is said to be open to joining Barcelona.

Partey, who has been labelled a player “Arteta loves”, has been a key player for Arsenal since arriving from Atlético back in 2020. This season the midfielder has played 31 games in the Premier League, 27 of which he has started. The Ghana international has also started 10 of the 11 Champions League games the Gunners have played, and he will be looking to add to that as Arsenal face PSG this week.

Apps

31

Goals

4

Assists

2

Touches

65.0

Big chances created

3

Key passes

0.5

Passing accuracy per game

46.5 (89%)

Tackles per game

2.5

Interceptions per game

1.0

Balls recovered per game

3.9

Arsenal appear keen to tie Partey, who earns a weekly wage of £200,000 at the Emirates, to a new contract, but it’s been reported that the player’s entourage are in active talks with other clubs, meaning he could be ready to move away from the London side.

Strikers have been iconic over the years at Liverpool football club, with different generations of attackers giving the supporters memories to last a lifetime.

Luis Suárez is just one talent who’s captured the heart of most during his spell at Anfield, registering 82 goals in his 133 appearances for the club.

The Uruguayan spent three years on Merseyside before moving to Spanish giants Barcelona, leaving a huge hole at the top end of the pitch as a result.

Talents such as Roberto Firmino, Divock Origi and Diogo Jota have all operated at the top end of the pitch in recent years, with only one of them remaining during Arne Slot’s reign at the club.

However, the Dutchman could be about to land a player who could be his new talisman ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, looking to make it back-to-back Premier League triumphs.

An update on Liverpool’s striker situation this summer

Darwin Núñez is a player who looks set to depart Liverpool this summer after failing to deliver following his £85m transfer from Benfica back in the summer of 2022.

The Uruguayan has scored just 40 times in his 139 appearances, an average of one goal every three and a half games, leading to murmurs around his long-term future.

Atlético Madrid has been mooted as a possible destination for the 25-year-old, with the Reds demanding just £35m to sell him – resulting in a £50m loss on their investment.

However, such funds could be used to sign another star, with Benjamin Sesko the latest player touted with a summer switch to Merseyside, according to GIVEMESPORT.

The report claims that the RB Leipzig ace has a £55m release clause in his current contract, with the Reds impressed by his goalscoring tally of 20 goals in his 42 appearances throughout 2024/25.

It also states that he’s high on their shortlist, seen as an affordable alternative to Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, allowing Slot to have the goalscoring striker he’s been craving.

Why Liverpool’s £55m target would be an upgrade on Nunez

It’s safe to say it’s unimaginable where Liverpool would’ve finished in 2024/25 if it wasn’t without Mohamed Salah, with the Egyptian producing countless moments of magic at key points of the season.

The 32-year-old has registered a combined 56 goals and assists in his 48 appearances across all competitions, by far and away the most of any player in the first-team squad.

Luis Diaz sits as the club’s second-highest scorer in the league on 12 goals, a staggering 16 behind Salah, highlighting his importance to the side over the last few months.

Despite his new contract, he’s undoubtedly coming to the back end of his professional career, needing to land other targets in forward areas to spread the load rather than be reliant upon one player.

Sesko would provide exactly, with his goalscoring record in the Bundesliga, one that could the side to have that focal point they have often lacked despite the success they’ve endured.

When comparing his stats to those of current forward Nunez, the 21-year-old has massively outperformed him, highlighting how much he would improve the attacking department.

The Slovenian, who’s been labelled “the new Erling Haaland” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has registered more combined goals and assists than the Uruguayan, along with a higher shot-on-target accuracy rate – showcasing his clinical nature.

Games played

30

26

Goals & assists

17

7

Shot-on-target accuracy

43%

37%

Take-ons completed

1.5

0.7

Take-on success

52%

38%

Aerials won

2.6

1.4

Aerial success rate

58%

35%

He’s also managed to complete more of the take-ons he’s attempted, whilst coming out on top in more of the aerial battles he’s entered – offering the side an all-round threat in the final third.

Whilst £55m may seem a risk for a player who’s never played in England before, it’s a deal worth completing, especially when taking his dominance over Nunez into account.

Given his tender age, he has the opportunity to improve further under Slot’s guidance, potentially becoming the club’s next star attacker to lead them to consistent Premier League glory in the years ahead.

A big Diaz upgrade: Liverpool make approach to sign future "£100m" star

Liverpool could be about to make a move for a sensation who could replace Luis Diaz.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 30, 2025

When Liverpool beat West Ham United, responding after losing against Fulham one week earlier, it felt like a corner had been turned. Perhaps that defeat at Craven Cottage was the final twist in the overtures of a certain Premier League triumph.

The ribbons will turn red this season. Later this afternoon, Liverpool have the chance to win the top-flight title against Leicester City at the King Power Stadium, should they return to winning ways on the road and second-placed Arsenal fall at Ipswich Town earlier in the day.

Though Mikel Arteta’s attention is almost solely focused on the continental stage, this feels improbable, if not out of the question. In any case, it’s a matter of when, not if, Arne Slot will join an exclusive list of managers to lift the Premier League trophy on their first attempt.

2004/05

Jose Mourinho

Chelsea

2009/10

Carlo Ancelotti

Chelsea

2013/14

Manuel Pellegrini

Man City

2016/17

Antonio Conte

Chelsea

Leicester might be doomed but they still have quality in attack and will look to capitalise on any Liverpool complacency.

Liverpool team news

Trent Alexander-Arnold is back in first-team training after his ankle injury suffered against Paris Saint-Germain at Anfield last month.

However, Conor Bradley looks set to reprise his role at right-back, with the under-fire Andy Robertson pushing for a recall after his cameo last week, skewing into his own net off the bench following a mix-up with the skipper.

Joe Gomez remains absent due to an ankle injury, but Darwin Nunez could feature after missing out on Merseyside one week ago.

Nunez might be destined for departure this summer, but his return does boost a Liverpool frontline looking to return to its best.

That’s not to say the Reds have been poor in attack lately, but Mohamed Salah hasn’t scored in five games, Diogo Jota and Nunez are out of sorts and Cody Gakpo hasn’t got going again since recovering from injury.

How Slot can respark Liverpool's frontline

Liverpool looked somewhat back to normal last weekend as they secured victory over West Ham, all but sealing the already overwhelming odds in the title race following Arsenal’s draw at Brentford.

Salah, after renewing his contract, produced a stunning trivela assist for Luis Diaz, the one man in Slot’s attack who is very much on form right now.

However, the Egyptian, 32, will be desperate to return his name to the scoresheet as he looks to build on his haul of 32 goals across all competitions

For whatever reason, it’s not quite clicking for Salah in front of goal. But it will again. With Trent not fit enough to start from the outset, Slot might be inclined to unleash Harvey Elliott in midfield, perhaps replacing Dominik Szoboszlai.

Liverpool enjoy the Hungarian’s tireless running but a more fixed creative point could be the perfect solvent of unfluent play in and around the final third.

Having featured prominently under Jurgen Klopp last year during Liverpool’s injury-hit spell, Elliott has played a reduced part since the spinning of the managerial wheel, yet to even start in the Premier League this year. Still he’s got six goal involvements across the different competitions.

And it’s not as if he hasn’t demonstrated his capacities when given a shot. As per FBref, Elliott ranks among the top 1% of midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for all of goals, assists and shot-creating actions, the top 3% for progressive passes and the top 5% for progressive carries per 90.

This perfectly illustrates his ball-playing game and skill in driving into dangerous positions, but most importantly, it underlines his ability to maximise his output when reaching such junctures, something Salah will be eyeing hungrily.

24/25

12 (0)

0

1

23/24

34 (11)

3

6

22/23

32 (18)

1

2

21/22

6 (4)

0

0

20/21*

0 (0)

0

0

19/20

2 (0)

0

0

As you can see, Elliott’s playing a bit part for the first time since his debut campaign, having only featured six times in 2021/22 but starting on four of those occasions before suffering a season-ending injury at Elland Road.

Elliott, described as a “special talent” by Sky Sports’ Neil Mellor, hasn’t played all that much this season, but he has showcased his vast playmaking skills on numerous occasions. For example, Liverpool might have been abject in their Carabao Cup final defeat against Newcastle United, but subs combined to score a late consolation, the young midfielder expertly playing Federico Chiesa through.

Ultimately, claiming that Liverpool are out of sorts simply isn’t true, having won five of their past six Premier League matches, but fans have been frustrated by the lack of spark in the centre at times this term and Elliott surely deserves a starting berth having been limited to full appearances in the cup competitions.

He’s come up trumps on several occasions, notably scoring the winner in the first leg against PSG, but now the £40k-per-week talent needs a chance to show he can pull strings in the Premier League and bring Salah back into goalscoring form.

Salah doesn’t dribble as much as he used to but he’s hardly averse to an electric burst, and with Elliott’s crisp timing, it could be the perfect tonic for his recent struggles to break the net.

Elliott has acknowledged Salah for “teaching him” over the past several years at Liverpool, and now he has the chance to repay his tutor on what could be a momentous day for the Merseysiders.

Leicester won’t want to repeat some of their dismal displays of late, but if Elliott gets into a creative flow and connects with Salah, the Foxes simply won’t have a say in the matter.

Worth more than Huijsen: Slot has hit the jackpot on Liverpool "monster"

Liverpool hope to employ this star for many years to come.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 18, 2025

Declan Rice’s magical free-kick double reignited Arsenal’s season as they thumped European champions Real Madrid on a historic Champions League night at the Emirates Stadium.

The England midfielder’s superb brace was even more incredible considering he had never scored a direct free-kick in his senior career.

Now a hero in N5, he joins a list of great free-kick goalscorers for the Gunners. Here, we rank some of the best free-kicks scored by those in red and white down the years.

10 best Premier League free-kicks of all time (Ranked)

David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo have scored two of the best free-kicks in recent history, but who has scored the greatest in the PL era?

ByLewis Thompson Jun 15, 2024 9 Mesut Ozil v Liverpool 2014/15 Premier League

Arsenal were flying when they took on Liverpool at the Emirates in April 2015, with Arsene Wenger’s side coming into the game on a six-game winning streak.

Backed to see off the Reds as they looked to overtake Manchester City in second place, the Gunners went ahead just before the break through Hector Bellerin.

Minutes later, Arsenal were awarded a free-kick on the right-hand side, with Mesut Ozil standing over it.

And despite placing it on the ‘keeper’s side, the German doubled Arsenal’s lead with a superb effort, which set the Gunners up for a 4-1 victory.

8 Cesc Fabregas v Aston Villa 2009/10 Premier League

With their title bid threatening to falter, Arsenal were struggling to break down a stubborn Aston Villa team that had been a thorn in the Gunners side.

Level on points with their opponents at the time, it was a must-win game. But with Arsenal toiling, a less-than-fit Cesc Fabregas was summoned to give the home side the advantage they craved.

Around 25 yards out, the captain stepped up to put his team in front with a superb curling effort that Brad Friedel could do nothing about.

7 Robin van Persie v Sunderland 2007/08 Premier League

Robin van Persie’s strike against Sunderland would probably still be travelling had it not nearly shattered the Emirates crossbar back in 2007.

His thumping early free-kick against the Black Cats was past Craig Gordon like a bullet, and was one of those you could watch over and over again.

The Dutchman then popped up late on after the Gunners had dropped a two-goal lead to take them to the top of the table.

6 Thierry Henry v Roma 2002/03 Champions League

Thierry Henry had such a knack for scoring great free-kicks, he could have his own ‘best of’ compilation.

But one of his finest has to be his clincher in the Stadio Olimpico against Roma in the Champions League, which not only secured a superb away win in the second group phase for Arsenal, but a magical European hat-trick.

Goalkeeper Francesco Antonioli had absolutely no chance.

5 Mikel Arteta v Aston Villa 2011/12 Premier League

Some free-kicks just stay hit, and Mikel Arteta certainly proved this against Aston Villa in the 2011/12 season.

During a routine victory for the Gunners, Arteta put the icing on the cake with a screamer into the net from miles out.

Shay Given appeared to have been expecting a shot into the opposite corner, but once he’d made the wrong decision, the ball was already past him.

4 Declan Rice v Real Madrid 2024/25 Champions League

This may be fresh in the memory, but Declan Rice’s first strike against Real Madrid was befitting of the occasion, not to mention a thing of beauty.

Having spotted the potential to curl one around the outside of the wall, Rice’s strike lit up the Emirates, handing Arsenal the lead over the European champions.

It was also Arsenal’s first direct free-kick goal since Martin Odegaard scored against Burnley in September 2021. The relief and ecstasy was tangible.

For the moment alone, it will likely be a special memory for years to come.

3 Thierry Henry v Wigan 2005/06 Premier League

Thierry Henry was up to his old tricks against Wigan in 2005, producing a superb free-kick – with a cold celebration to go with it.

Having built a reputation for taking free-kicks quickly, referee Graham Poll made it very clear he had to wait for the official’s whistle.

Clearly disturbed by this, Henry responded by placing an inch-perfect free-kick in off the post, leading him to ask the referee, “is that enough?”.

2 Santi Cazorla v Hull 2013/14 FA Cup

Arsenal had often been accused of lacking leaders, and when the Gunners were 2-0 down to Hull City in the 2014 FA Cup final, it looked like those concerns would re-emerge as their trophy drought threatened to extend further.

But after being handed a free-kick, Santi Cazorla scored perhaps his greatest Arsenal goal under the Wembley arch by torpedoing a strike past Allan McGregor in the Tigers net.

It set Arsenal up for the dramatic comeback that won them the trophy, and gave the supporters a moment to treasure forever.

1 Declan Rice v Real Madrid 2024/25 Champions League

The term ‘top bins’ has been around for a while now, but this may well be the ultimate epitome.

Having just scored a screamer past Thibaut Courtois in the Real Madrid goal, Declan Rice lined up what he hoped would be another screamer.

Buoyed by his earlier effort, Rice smashed home an all-timer to double the Gunners’ lead on the night and score what is surely the best free-kick the club has ever seen, with the ball arrowing into the top corner.

When you consider the importance, the opposition and the perfect execution, it is going to be hard for anyone to top this.

Ranking The Top 10 Free Kicks Of All Time

Football Fancast runs down the top ten best free kicks in football history.

ByAlex Roberts Dec 10, 2023

Will Regis Le Bris etch himself into the Sunderland history books at Wembley?

The Frenchman could well be the much-loved manager to finally catapult the Black Cats up to the Premier League after a long eight-season exodus, but Chris Wilder’s Sheffield United wait in their path, attempting to ruin a memorable day out to the English capital.

The Blades were even in the automatic promotion reckoning in the Championship before a late collapse, meaning Le Bris’ men will have to thwart many a dangerous United shirt if they want to return to the big time.

How Sunderland can stop Sheffield United at Wembley

if it hadn’t been for an extremely damaging late patch of losses, Wilder’s men could well have been in the hunt for a space inside the top two right up until the final day.

Instead, they’ve had to make do with a spot inside the nerve-wracking playoffs, but their 6-0 win against Bristol City over two legs to reach the final was done with an unbelievable swagger.

The Wearside giants will have to keep the likes of Callum O’Hare quiet who scored twice over the course of the two action-packed legs, alongside ensuring they’re aware of Harrison Burrows when he bursts forward from left-back after he picked up a goal and three assists himself.

Moreover, Le Bris will pray Wilson Isidor packs his shooting boots for the trip to Wembley, as Michael Cooper added two more clean sheets next to his name against the Robins to boost his already sturdy pile of 21 during the regular season.

That’s before you even mention the constant heroics of Gustavo Hamer, with the former Coventry City attacking midfielder picking up a hefty total of ten goals and seven assists from 47 games this campaign.

This scintillating form for the Blades has been recognised, considering Hamer was awarded the esteemed honour of Championship Player of the Season recently, but Sunderland do currently possess an equally bold midfielder who now has a higher transfer worth than the United number eight.

Sensational Sunderland star now worth more than Hamer

Wilder’s men are no doubt worried that failing to win promotion could see some of their top stars leave, with Sunderland also in the same anxiety-ridden boat.

Le Bris’ camp is overloaded with entertaining youngsters, as seen in 17-year-old Chris Rigg previously being on the shopping list of Manchester United, alongside Jobe Bellingham now attracting interest from the likes of Eintracht Frankfurt.

It will be a very tough ask on Sunderland’s end to keep Bellingham around past this season, therefore, with plenty more expected of the 19-year-old gem if he was to move onto more luxurious pastures after picking up four goals and three assists under Le Bris.

Bellingham could be the bright spark the Black Cats need to win a one-off tie at Wembley, but if they were to fall at the final hurdle, they should at least be able to sell on the 19-year-old on for a far higher amount than his original £3m price-tag.

Games played

89

Goals scored

11

Assists

4

Champ TOTS

1x

Champ YPOTS

1x

Value when joining

£3m

Value now

£22m

Now, according to Football Transfers, any suitor this summer attempting to land Bellingham will have to dish out a steep £22m. To add context, Hamer is worth a far lesser £13m according to the same source.

That’s the case despite Hamer’s glowing achievements to date in South Yorkshire

Indeed, the “sensational” Sunderland midfielder – as he’s been lauded in the past by journalist Josh Bunting – potentially possesses the ability to be a world-class performer in Germany if he does depart the Stadium of Light.

Before any big summer move occurs, however, Wembley will be the grand stage for the two attacking midfielders to battle it out, with only one being able to triumphantly head up to the Premier League.

He was saved by Ballard: Le Bris must axe 5/10 Sunderland star at Wembley

Sunderland sealed their dramatic place in the Championship playoff final courtesy of a last-gasp header from defender Daniel Ballard.

3 ByKelan Sarson May 14, 2025

Manchester City have now moved into pole position in the race for an “incredible” star, with Pep Guardiola captivated by him.

Man City's January transfer plans taking shape

It is clear that Man City could do with bringing in some additional attacking firepower this January, given that Erling Haaland has scored more than half of their 27 Premier League goals this season, although Phil Foden is showing signs he could be getting back to his best.

City survived a scare to defeat Leeds United 3-2 on Saturday, with their academy graduate bagging a brace, scoring the all-important third goal in stoppage time.

However, with Haaland perhaps still in need of additional support in attack, the Blues are looking to sign a new forward, and they are now exploring a move for AFC Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo.

Semenyo is not the only target though, with Guardiola’s side setting their sights on a new midfielder, amid Rodri being unable to overcome his injury woes, and there has now been a new update on their pursuit of Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson.

According to a report from Spain, Man City are now the clear favourites to sign Anderson, but they will have to shell out one of the highest transfer fees in their history to get a deal done, with a €100m (£88m) asking price being touted.

Guardiola has been left captivated by the midfielder, who has attracted interest from some of the world’s biggest clubs, including Manchester United and Liverpool, but City have now moved into pole position in the race for his signature.

The Blues’ financial resources should also give them the edge, and there is every indication he would be a fantastic addition to Guardiola’s squad…

"Incredible" Anderson has earned move to top club

The central midfielder has been nothing short of a revelation for both club and country this season, most recently putting in a top performance against Brighton & Hove Albion, despite Forest losing 2-0, winning more duels and completing more dribbles than any other player.

Elliot Anderson’s key statistics

Number completed

Dribbles

6

Duels (won)

17 (12)

Accurate passes

62/71 (87%)

Crosses (accurate)

13 (6)

Lauded as “incredible” by journalist Konstantinos Lianos, the Forest star has also received high praise from England manager Thomas Tuchel, who said: “He is an elite player with the right attitude and a lot of talent. He is fulfilling his role in the best way possible so we are very happy with him.”

Man City now frontrunners to sign "world-class" £80m star, Pep's a big fan

There has been a new update on City’s pursuit of a new forward, who Pep Guardiola has dubbed “extraordinary”.

ByDominic Lund Nov 27, 2025

With Rodri still struggling on the injury front, it would be ideal to bring in a new midfielder who could help keep the pressure on Arsenal in the Premier League title race, and Anderson has proven himself as a top player this season.

Newcastle United were unable to make it three Premier League wins in a row last night, as Eddie Howe’s men secured a 2-2 draw with Tottenham Hotspur.

After a drab first half with little to shout about for both sides, Bruno Guimaraes’ second-half strike put the Magpies ahead with just under 20 minutes remaining.

Anthony Gordon’s penalty with just a handful of minutes remaining put the hosts ahead once again, but for the second time in the contest, Cristian Romero managed to find a leveller.

The point takes Howe’s men up a place to 13th in the Premier League, but it could have been a whole lot better had his side managed to hold on for all three points.

Despite numerous positive showings, a handful of the players selected to start the game failed to impress, which could lead to numerous changes ahead of the weekend.

Newcastle’s poor performers against Spurs

For the third game in a row, Joelinton was handed a start at the heart of the Newcastle side, this time partnering Lewis Miley and Sandi Tonali, with the latter coming into the starting eleven.

However, the Brazilian was unable to repay the faith shown in him by the manager, with such a showing one to forget for the Magpies’ number seven on Tyneside.

He featured for the entirety of the contest, but only managed to come out on top in just 27% of the duels he entered, whilst being dribbled past on three occasions.

Joelinton wasn’t alone in struggling to deliver at St James’, with winger Jacob Murphy also struggling to provide his usual impact off the right-hand side of the attack.

The Englishman was largely unable to deliver in the final third, as seen by his measly tally of just three crosses completed, doing so at an accuracy rate of just 30%.

He also only managed to complete 50% of his attempted dribbles and completed just 16 passes before being substituted for Anthony Elanga with just over 20 minutes remaining.

The Newcastle star who needs to be dropped after Spurs

Home games against Spurs have often been a formality for Newcastle, as seen by the club’s recent record against the Lilywhites over the past couple of seasons.

Howe’s men had won four in a row against the North London outfit at St James’, but his men were unable to add to such a record during their lacklustre showing last night.

The inability to secure all three points was no doubt down to the disappointing showings from numerous players, with the aforementioned duo just two of the stars who failed to deliver.

However, they weren’t alone in struggling to match the expectations of the supporters, with winger Harvey Barnes unable to replicate his recent showings in the Premier League.

The 27-year-old has now started four league games in a row, with his two-goal game against Manchester City undoubtedly keeping his place in the starting eleven.

He’s now failed to score in each of the last two outings, including against Spurs, with winger Gordon now deserving of a start after his goal off the bench.

However, Barnes’ performance before his teammate’s arrival onto the pitch was certainly below par, which will no doubt contribute to the manager’s thinking.

The winger featured for 66 minutes on Tyneside last night, but could only muster 30 touches of the ball and made just ten passes, six fewer than Aaron Ramsdale, as he struggled to make the desired impact on proceedings.

He also only managed to complete one of his attempted dribbles and one of his crosses, which further highlights his struggles within the final third of the pitch.

Minutes played

66

Touches

30

Shots taken

2

Dribbles completed

1

Crosses completed

1

Possession lost

12x

Duels lost

75%

Passes into final third

2

Barnes massively struggled to find any of his teammates during the draw, as seen by his tally of 12 times possession lost – ultimately being wasteful when in possession.

The attacker was just as poor without the ball, often being dominated by the opposition, subsequently losing 75% of the ground duels he entered against Thomas Frank’s side.

As a result of his performance, Barnes was handed a measly 6/10 match rating by The Express journalist Lee Ryder – further showcasing his struggles against Spurs.

After such a showing, Howe will no doubt want to shuffle his pack on Saturday against Burnley to attempt to get their recent winning run in the Premier League back on track.

Gordon will no doubt be chomping at the bit after his goal, which could result in his compatriot being dropped after his recent flurry of starts in the North East.

Better than Anderson: £70m "monster" is now open to joining Newcastle

Newcastle plan on signing a new centre-midfielder in 2026.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Dec 2, 2025

Manchester United are battling Chelsea over the signing of RB Leipzig’s highly-rated young midfielder Assan Ouedraogo, as Ruben Amorim eyes up new additions.

The Red Devils fell to a woeful 1-0 defeat at home to Everton on Monday evening, failing to beat a Blues side who played most of the game with ten men.

It was a big setback for Amorim, with United now going three Premier League matches without a win, and the manager bemoaned the performance of his players at Old Trafford.

It was further proof that United need to look at midfield additions, whether that be in the January or summer transfer window, and an exciting update has now dropped in that respect.

Man Utd have upper hand on Chelsea in Assan Ouedraogo race

According to Sky Germany [via Sport Witness], Manchester United are pushing ahead in their efforts to sign Ouedraogo from Leipzig in 2026. The Red Devils’ interest in the 19-year-old is “becoming more concrete” all the time, with Premier League rivals Chelsea also pushing for a deal.

United have an upper hand in that they have already had contacts with the player’s camp, pursuing him before he left Schalke in June 2024, but a “top offer” will be needed to pry him away from Leipzig given he has no release clause.

Ouedraogo is a huge young talent with so much potential, so United should be looking at him as a fantastic option to add to their midfield in the coming months.

Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes are both in their 30s now, and struggled together against Everton, but the Leipzig star would be a long-term signing who would add much-needed fresh legs in the middle of the park.

Amorim and Wilcox agree on blockbuster Man Utd move for "elite" £80m star

The Red Devils could now make a notable signing that would be represent a statement at Old Trafford.

BySean Markus Clifford Nov 24, 2025

Ouedraogo recently scored on his debut for Germany, and he will be pushing to be one of the standout youngsters at 2026 World Cup, with scout Antonio Mango desribing him as a “midfield sensation” earlier this month.

While the German teenager is at his happiest in a central midfield role, he can also shine in a more attacking central berth, as well as on the left wing, and United beating Chelsea and others to his signature would feel like a major statement of intent.

Worse than Bruno Fernandes vs Everton: Amorim must bin Man Utd's 3/10 flop