Manchester United are in desperate need of investment during this summer transfer window if they are to avoid a repeat of the 2024/25 campaign in the Premier League.

The Red Devils ended the year in a measly 15th place last time around, only picking up 42 points in their 38 league outings, highlighting the terrible season they endured.

Ruben Amorim was unable to transform the club’s fortunes during the second half of the campaign, evidently needing added investment from the hierarchy if he is to be successful at Old Trafford.

£62.5m has already been spent on Matheus Cunha, potentially being joined at the club by Bryan Mbeumo after a £70m deal was agreed for his services in recent days.

Such deals would see them spend over £120m in the early months of the window, but more signings are to be expected to help add further strength to the forward line.

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

Juventus striker Dušan Vlahović continues to be linked with a move to United this summer, potentially being available for a bargain fee given his desire to leave the Serie A outfit.

The Serbian could be put on the market for just £15m, a deal that could be a bargain given his tally of 17 goals in 44 appearances across all competitions last campaign.

However, he’s not the only forward currently on Amorim’s radar this summer, with RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko once again linked with a move, according to GIVEMESPORT.

Their latest report claims that the Slovenian international would be keen on a move to Old Trafford this summer, after Arsenal decided to pursue a move for other targets.

It also states that the 21-year-old has been closely monitored by the club’s hierarchy over the last couple of seasons, potentially costing a staggering £78m during the current window.

Why United’s £78m target would be a better signing than Watkins

Alongside the names previously mentioned, Aston Villa star Ollie Watkins has also been thrown into the mix as a potential addition for United this summer.

The England international has become a viable option after it was confirmed that Unai Emery’s side may want to part ways with the 29-year-old if his £60m asking price is met.

He could provide an experienced Premier League-proven option for Amorim this side, with the forward netting 16 league goals in England’s top-flight last season.

However, the major downside of a deal for Watkins would be his age, with the forward entering the back end of his professional career, potentially being unable to receive any sell-on value after securing a move for his signature.

Such reasons could see them make a move for Sesko as a result, handing the Red Devils a much younger option within the final third, with the Leipzig star eight years younger than his fellow target.

Age is one thing, but when comparing their respective figures from the 2024/25 campaign, the Slovenian has managed to better him in numerous key areas, further showcasing why the hierarchy should make the move for him this summer.

Sesko, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by talent scout Antonio Mango, posted a higher goal per shot on target rate last year, making the most of more chances that fell his way in front of goal, handing Amorim that clinical edge he’s greatly lacked.

How Sesko & Watkins compare in the 2024/25 campaign

Statistics (per 90)

Sesko

Watkins

Games played

33

38

Goals & assists

18

24

Shot on target accuracy

44%

43%

Goal per shot on target rate

0.4

0.3

Take-on success

52%

24%

Carries into final third

1.1

0.7

Shot-creating actions

1.9

1.8

Aerials won

59%

42%

Stats via FBref

The youngster also completed more of the take-ons he attempted throughout the recent season, having the all-round ability to create chances for himself rather than relying on teammates around him.

His dominance over the Villa star doesn’t end there, coming out on top in more aerial duels, subsequently offering the side the focal point needed to play off and improve their link-up play next campaign.

Whilst Sesko would cost £18m more than Watkins this summer, it’s evident that he has the tools to make an immediate impact whilst also having the chance to improve in the years ahead.

If he can continue to build on the excellent progress he’s made in the game, he would be a sensational signing, potentially playing a pivotal role in any future success achieved at Old Trafford during the Amorim era.

Related He's perfect for Mbeumo: Man Utd discussing move to sign £100m-rated CF

Manchester United could be about to land another star alongside a deal for Bryan Mbeumo.

Posts 2 ByEthan Lamb Jul 18, 2025

Yorkshire are closing in on victory over Division Two leaders Sussex at Hove following Ben Coad’s new-ball five-for at Scarborough, setting up a victory target of 103 late on day three.Sussex started the day on 26 without loss in their second innings, 111 runs behind the league’s third-placed side, and were bowled out for 239 as seamer Coad returned five for 69. His wickets came with the first and second new balls.Half-centuries for Tom Alsop and captain John Simpson, who top-scored with 67, meant the visitors were not over-run. But they realistically needed more to defy a Yorkshire attack who kept on coming at them.The hosts then closed the day on 28 for 2 from 10 overs and require 75 more to seal a third win in as many four-day games. Sussex were teetering at lunch against their third-placed rivals, 66 for three in their second innings and still 71 runs in arrears. Only their second defeat of 2024 looked like it might come quickly.However, Alsop with 61 – his second fifty of the match – and Simpson held things up with a fifth-wicket partnership of 85, compiled through the majority of the afternoon.A 45-minute rain delay from 11.10am cut 10 overs from the day’s allocation of 103. Yorkshire still had enough time before lunch to prise out three Sussex wickets.George Hill claimed two of them with his seam after Fin Bean had helped Coad strike with a stunning one-handed leaping catch above his head at third slip to remove the Australian opener Daniel Hughes. That wicket had come in the opening stages of the day, before the rain.Afterwards, Hill had Tom Haines caught by Bean at first slip and Tom Clark caught behind by Jonny Bairstow – his first catch of the match. Both Toms were out playing loosely.By now, Sussex were faced with a pitch showing significant signs of invariable bounce. Clark, for example, faced balls which rapped him on the gloves from Jordan Thompson and shot past his ankle from Hill en route to 17. Thompson himself struck in the early stages of the afternoon when he uprooted James Coles’ leg stump.But that paved the way for the Sussex fightback, with Alsop and Simpson – their two most prolific batters this season – wiping out the remaining 53-run deficit and claiming a lead. Largely, they advanced with caution, though Alsop, who drove nicely, did reverse sweep one of his boundaries off Dan Moriarty’s left-arm spin.By the time tea arrived, Sussex were 164 for 4, 27 ahead and Alsop had reached a 125-ball fifty. Their partnership was closing in on three figures when Alsop was caught behind at the second attempt by Bairstow on the cut.And when Fynn Hudson-Prentice was run out at the striker’s end having been sent back by Simpson, with Jonny Tattersall from backward point and Bairstow combining, Sussex were 179 for six in the 78th over, leading by 42 and with the new ball on the horizon.That new ball worked immediately for Yorkshire, with Coad getting Jack Carson caught behind. At 188 for 7, the earlier good work of Alsop and Simpson was threatening to be undermined. So it proved.As Simpson reached his fifty off 129 balls, Ollie Robinson clubbed a quick 28, only for him to be caught behind off Coad. Bairstow’s fourth catch of the day left Sussex 226 for eight, leading by 89.Coad had Jaydev Unadkat caught at mid-on shortly afterwards before bowling Simpson, who tried to ramp a second six as he was shorn of partners, to wrap things up with his 35th wicket of the campaign. No bowler has taken more in Division Two this season.Unadkat and Robinson then had Bean and Thompson caught in the slips – 18 for 2 – to at least give Sussex a glimmer of hope that they can achieve what would be a remarkable turnaround.

Nottingham Forest fans must be having sleepless nights over the long-term future of Morgan Gibbs-White.

It looked nailed on that the 25-year-old was going to be the next through the exit door at the City Ground after Anthony Elanga, as Tottenham Hotspur smugly activated his release clause, yet this move looks to be fraught with controversy now, with the Tricky Trees even threatening legal action over Spurs’ cloak-and-dagger approach.

Whatever does occur between now and the entertaining transfer window closing involving Gibbs-White, Forest know they will need to press on with more incoming signings joining Nuno Espirito Santo’s group, with an ambitious midfield move now reportedly in the pipeline.

Nottingham Forest prepare move for £50m battler

Talk about fresh, new signings entering the fray has taken a backseat somewhat due to the drama of Elanga leaving and Gibbs-White nearly following suit.

Transfer Focus

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

However, there have been some notable links here and there, with Ben Doak allegedly on the Forest radar for around the £25m mark as the Scotsman contemplates a move away from Liverpool.

Another standout rumour comes in the form of ex-Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz who could make a return to the Premier League with Forest.

talkSPORT are reporting that Nuno’s men are ‘exploring’ a move for the former £50m Juventus buy, as Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis fancies the idea of bringing the top-flight-experienced Brazilian back to the Midlands.

It is stated that his £100k-per-week wage could be a potential stumbling block, but this might well be a standout signing Forest need to pursue in order to potentially convince Gibbs-White to remain put over favouring Champions League opportunities elsewhere, with the pair perhaps striking up an exciting midfield partnership very soon.

Why Gibbs-White could love playing with Luiz

Before flopping in Turin, starting just three Serie A games last term, Luiz was a dependable performer week in week out for Unai Emery’s Villans, with a sumptuous effort such as this one against AFC Bournemouth in his back pocket.

Not just an energetic battler in the middle of the park, Luiz has proven himself to be more than capable of chipping in with a goal and an assist in the final third.

Indeed, he collected a sizeable haul of 22 goals and 24 assists for Villa, with Gibbs-White coincidentally on the exact same tally at this point in time for Forest as another livewire in the centre of the pitch.

Games played

175

154

Goals scored

20

18

Assists

18

27

Passes completed

7,744 (87%)

4,106 (78%)

Dribbles completed

202 (66%)

298 (48%)

Duels won

775

591

Tackles won

285

123

Looking at the table above, it’s clear there are differences between the duo, however, that would help them form a healthy working relationship, with Luiz more than content sitting deeper in the pitch when viewing his high number of 775 duels being won across his Premier League career to date, alongside his 285 tackles.

On the contrary, Gibbs-White excels when bombing forward, with Luiz’s addition to the group gifting Forest more stability in the middle, alongside an equally combative Elliot Anderson, to allow for the ex-Wolverhampton Wanderers attacker to express himself even more.

During his final season at Villa Park, Luiz averaged a mightily impressive 5.3 ball recoveries in league action to be that tireless presence for his side, with football analyst Statman Dave even going out of his way to label the Brazilian as an “engine” for his relentless drive.

Away from competently completing his dirty work, Luiz would also be an addition that would stand out to the wantaway Englishman. Forest clearly need to showcase their ambition to Gibbs-White and the Brazilian’s pedigree in European competitions, as seen in the six Champions League appearances, would potentially be the type of signing to prove that.

Rather than deserting Forest, therefore, Gibbs-White might well believe Europe’s grandest stage can come to the City Ground shortly if Luiz’s expertise is added to the mix.

With new pictures coming out of Forest also showing Gibbs-White returning to training, it might not be a foregone conclusion anymore that the 25-year-old is on the move, especially if the “world-class” Luiz, as he was once labelled by ex-Villa teammate John McGinn, heads to Nottingham.

Dream Elanga replacement: Nottingham Forest in contact to sign £25m "menace"

Nottingham Forest now need to replace Elanga after his move to Newcastle

ByJoe Nuttall Jul 15, 2025

Liverpool are preparing to defend their Premier League title, with FSG’s ambitions evidenced through the heavy spending that has been enforced over the past few months.

And there’s likely more to come. With Darwin Nunez being touted with a move away, Napoli had been interested but have withdrawn their name due to differences in valuation. Sporting director Richard Hughes is thus perusing the market for a potential striker to lead the line over the coming years.

Nunez’s struggles to adapt to Arne Slot’s tactics were well documented last season, with the Dutch coach even stating that he “can’t accept” the 25-year-old’s work rate after a string of concerning performances in February.

With just one Premier League start to his name since Boxing Day, Nunez was routinely replaced at number nine by Luis Diaz, whose versatility allowed him to moonlight as a focal frontman to a title-winning effect.

However, Diaz may now be on the move.

The latest on Luis Diaz's Liverpool future

Diaz scored 17 goals and provided eight assists across all competitions last season, indeed playing a decent chunk of his football as Liverpool’s makeshift striker.

There’s no denying he was one of the most important parts of Slot’s squad, but Diaz is 28 and entering the second-to-last year in his £55k-per-week contract. In spite of Liverpool turning Barcelona’s approach aside last month, concrete talks for a new deal don’t appear to be forthcoming.

But interest has persisted. Bayern Munich are understood to have recently agreed personal terms with the Colombian, and while Liverpool’s stance remains the same, a lucrative offer could change the narrative.

Diaz is one of the best wingers in the Premier League, in Europe, but if Liverpool receive a compelling offer, there’s just cause for his summer transfer, especially if a new deal on Merseyside isn’t in the pipeline.

And indeed, Slot and Hughes appear to have identified a successor already.

Liverpool lining up Diaz successor

According to RMC Sport over in France, Liverpool have joined the race for Lyon winger Malick Fofana, who is also on Bayern Munich and Marseille’s radar.

Chelsea were previously interested, but their £51.5m signing of Jamie Gittens from Borussia Dortmund should put them out of consideration (emphasis on ‘should’).

Lyon’s financial struggles could ease negotiations for Liverpool, but the Ligue 1 outfit are likely to demand something in the region of €50m (£43m).

What Malick Fofana would bring to Liverpool

Fofana might only be 20 years old, but he’s already established himself as one of the most exciting offensive talents in Europe. Across 62 appearances with Lyon, he’s scored 15 goals and supplied seven assists.

He’s unpolished and would need plenty of coaching to reach Diaz’s slick level as a Premier League powerhouse, but the ingredients are absolutely there. Praised for his “style, swagger and charisma” on the field by journalist Antonio Mango, who was advocating in May for his potential to succeed Diaz at Liverpool, should the South American leave.

Fofana’s pace and power as a winger make the strong suggestion that he’s a tailor-made successor on the left wing. Last season, for example, he hit 17 goal contributions across all competitions despite only starting 23 times, with Mango also calling him a “game-changer”.

Fofana, moreover, has shown himself to have an eye for a wonder goal.

Diaz’s uniqueness will be hard to replace. Not only a dynamic athlete, he is intelligent and happy to perform across any number of roles in order to drive Slot’s project closer toward success.

But there’s a logic to FSG’s hesitance toward extending Diaz’s deal: he’s not exactly proved a winger of sustained prolificness across his time at Anfield, and ebbed and flowed from form throughout points of the 2024/25 campaign.

Diaz and Cody Gakpo equally provided an attacking output that was surpassed only by Mohamed Salah. With signing a new striker on the cards, the reorienting of Liverpool’s goal threat could actually work in Fofana’s favour, allowing him to arrive without the responsibility of emulating Diaz’s form from the off.

League Stats 24/25 – Malick Fofana vs Luis Diaz
Stats (* per game)	Fofana	Diaz
Matches (starts)	29 (16)	36 (28)
Goals	5	13
Assists	4	5
Shots (on target)*	1.1 (0.5)	2.0 (0.8)
Big chances missed	4	11
Pass completion	84%	86%
Big chances created	6	8
Key passes*	0.9	1.6
Dribbles*	0.8	1.5
Tackles*	1.1	1.1
Duels won*	2.9	3.8
Stats via Sofascore

Fofana’s limited starting action across all competitions didn’t stop him from displaying a promising clinical edge, though. As per FBref, the Belgium international ranked among the top 10% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues last term for non-penalty goals scored and the top 2% for progressive carries per 90.

Looking at Fofana’s crisp 84% pass rate in Ligue 1 last term, too, there’s surely just cause for Liverpool to push ahead and sign him before one rival or another steals ahead and snaps him up.

Given that Diaz’s stock is sky-high at the moment, Liverpool would also be able to complete this series of moves to their financial benefit, which could prove especially important given that signing a new centre-forward is indeed a matter of priority for the Reds.

With Gakpo easing the pressure on the left flank, signing Fofana before he hits his prime should prove a masterful move from FSG. One which rivals will look back on with envy in the coming years.

He’s not fully developed yet, but there’s so much to like with this Diaz-esque talent. And is that not the Liverpool way?

Hughes lining up Liverpool move for £34m Guehi alternative who's Konate 2.0

Liverpool’s search for a new centre-back continues, amid uncertainty over Ibrahima Konate’s future

By
Robbie Walls

Jul 13, 2025

Aliya Riaz and Fatima Sana tried to revive the chase from 47 for 5 but Pakistan eventually fell short by ten runs

Firdose Moonda16-Sep-2024

Tazmin Brits’ unbeaten 56 earned her the Player-of-the-Match award•Pakistan Cricket Board

Eighteen-year-old Seshnie Naidu enjoyed a dream T20I debut in Multan, taking a blinder of a catch at short fine leg and a wicket with her second ball as South Africa beat Pakistan by ten runs in the first match of a three-game series.In the first ever T20I, men’s or women’s, played at this venue, South Africa did not get the “ten or 15 runs over 150” that captain Laura Wolvaardt hoped they would, and with Pakistan 47 for 5, it did not look like they needed it. But a strong effort from Aliya Riaz and new Pakistan captain Fatima Sana made a fist of things with an unbroken sixth-wicket stand of 75 off 45 balls. That meant South Africa were made to work hard to defend their score and it did not help that they put down three catches, another area Wolvaardt earmarked for improvement.Wolvaardt herself was guilty of the first blunder in the fifth over, with Pakistan already struggling on 14 for 2. Nida Dar was on 4 when skied Tumi Sekhukhune to mid-off. Wolvaardt got to the ball but could not hold on. Later, Chloe Tryon put down Sana on 10 off Sune Luus and then Luus dropped Sana in the deep on 22, off Ayabonga Khaka. Happily for South Africa, none of that could keep them from a win, albeit a much closer one than they would have liked.South Africa’s experienced players produced the goods: Tazmin Brits scored her third T20I half-century in four innings to rescue South Africa from 20 for 2 in the third over, Luus hit a run-a-ball 27 (only her first score over 20 this year) and Tryon finished with 15 not out off 7. The 63-run stand off 61 balls between Brits and Luus anchored the innings.Pakistan made early incisions with spin when Sadia Iqbal dismissed Laura Wolvaardt and Anneke Bosch off successive deliveries, but they might need to rethink their reliance on slower bowlers. Overall, Pakistan bowled 16 overs of spin, and played only one seamer – Sana – with Diana Baig benched on what was expected to be a turning track.While Pakistan restricted South Africa to a mere 132 for 4, the value of variety in attack was evident when South Africa bowled. Their two senior seamers – Marizanne Kapp and Khaka – bowled their full quota of four overs each and five other bowlers rolled their arm over. Kapp started with a maiden and took a wicket with her second ball when Gull Feroza hit her in the air. From the other end, Khaka gave away only one in her first over before Kapp struck again, castling Sidra Amin to make it 6 for 2. Muneeba Ali broke the pressure with a boundary off the eighth ball she faced and Nida followed it up with another four and then came the moment of magic.Muneeba tried to flick Sekhukhune fine, Naidu dived, reached almost behind her shoulder, plucked the ball and held on as her elbow hit the ground. It took multiple replays to confirm what she knew: she had taken a wundercatch. She was brought on to bowl in the eighth over and had Sadaf Shamas caught off her second ball to leave Pakistan on 21 for 4.South Africa seemed to ease off after that and Pakistan found runs more easily, which would only make Aliya and Sana, especially, more upset with the way they started the chase. The pair hit cleanly into the night sky, with five fours each, and Aliya struck their only six, to take Pakistan close, but not close enough.

Manchester United will enter the 2025/26 campaign with new wide forwards. In Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo, there’s fresh cause for optimism.

So many things went wrong for Erik ten Hag and then Ruben Amorim last term, and perhaps we’ve dissected the woes of last year enough. United need to look forward, and Amorim knows that with such Premier League-proven stars strengthening his frontline, he might genuinely have the tools to push for a place at the top end of the table.

Last season was not good enough, and so the summer clearout is underway, and the new signings so far look to be on the money.

Cunha has been a menace for Wolverhampton Wanderers over the past several years, with a genuine wow factor to complement his hunger for goals and assists.

Brentford’s Mbeumo might not be so skilful, but who can argue against the 25-year-old’s goalscoring ability? Pen has not yet been put to paper, but it looks like the Red Devils have hit the jackpot with this one.

Why Man United are signing Bryan Mbeumo

First and foremost, Mbeumo fits the bill from a tactical standpoint. He’s powerful, precise and prolific. The right-sided forward is better than both Antony and Jadon Sancho, more accomplished in the English game.

And it’s that last point which tells all. Gone are the days of scattergun spending on those showing promise overseas. Hello, new regime, with tried and tested players like those discussed at the forefront.

Last season, Mbeumo forged an elite partnership with Yoane Wissa, one that forged 40 goals and 14 assists. They played with such gusto and coherence that they will feature heavily in wistful conversations in years to come. But it was truly a thing to behold, with former Bees boss Thomas Frank even calling his Cameroonian forward “unplayable” at times.

Mbeumo will be tasked with establishing new relationships at Old Trafford, and he might just at that, with INEOS now turning their attention to a centre-forward.

Man United in talks for new striker

Manchester United need to sign an upgrade on Rasmus Hojlund. The 22-year-old lost his way last year, scoring only four goals in the Premier League and routinely failing to deliver.

Transfer Focus

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

Therefore, United have set their sights on RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, with none other than Fabrizio Romano confirming a deal for the Slovenian striker has been discussed internally.

Liam Delap and Viktor Gyokeres are among the names targeted already this summer, but the former has signed for Chelsea, while Amorim’s former protege is in the process of joining Arsenal.

Reporter Ben Jacobs has corroborated Romano’s report, iterating United’s priority of signing a striker and noting that Sesko, who is 22, is back on the radar, having been earmarked one year ago. Leipzig are thought to be seeking something in the region of £78m.

Why Man United want Benjamin Sesko

While there’s a new emphasis on signing domestically, United aren’t going to turn a blind eye to those out on the continent who have enough talent to warrant a move.

And Sesko has the potential to be a superstar. Talent scout Jacek Kulig has even gone as far as to declare him as “the new Haaland”, for his strength, clinical power and tall, rangy figure are reminiscent of the Manchester City goal machine.

While 13 goals from 33 Bundesliga games last season isn’t a haul to set the world on fire, the £94k-per-week talent only missed ten big chances, notching five assists too.

And Kulig also noted that Sesko’s blistering running power makes him “one of the fastest players on the planet”.

Ranked among the top 11% of strikers across Europe’s top five leagues last season for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref, Sesko is also established as a ball-carrying talent. He has pace, to be sure, but manages that high-speed running well when on the ball, which is a noteworthy attribute indeed for someone leading the line.

The 6 foot 4 striker is truly shaping into one of the most dangerous forwards in the game. He’s not the finished product but instead the raw and untapped potential of someone who could lead the line for an ambitious Man United team over the coming years, combining with the likes of Mbeumo and Cunha to create an iconic strike-force built for illustrious success.

Take, for example, Mbeumo in his current form, and contrast that with the winger’s first tentative steps into the Premier League theatre. His growth, as you might imagine, has been impressive.

Matches (starts)

35 (34)

38 (38)

Goals

4

20

Assists

7

7

Shots (on target)*

2.2 (0.6)

2.2 (1.1)

Big chances missed

9

9

Pass completion

69%

74%

Big chances created

4

17

Key passes*

1.0

1.8

Dribbles*

1.1

1.4

Tackles + interceptions*

1.1

1.7

Duels won*

3.8

4.7

As you can see, Mbeumo has grown into his skin, these past years working hard to become more accurate and more engaged, more creative too. So it is clear. So it could be for Sesko, who already has the ingredients to become a high-level goalscorer for Man United.

The point of this is that Sesko isn’t in his final form. This tall and intelligent and instinctive striker, who moves with confidence and strikes true, would only develop in a United team on the up, flanked by Cunha and Mbeumo.

And if those forwards, already settled into the English game, as we have discussed, help him find his feet in those early stages, Sesko could truly rise above and become a world-class marksman for Amorim’s project.

The Portuguese tactician, after all, demonstrated his aptitude with a talented forward in Gyokeres at Sporting Lisbon, turning the Sweden star into a world-beater.

Without question, signing Sesko could be a deal that is looked back on as a game-changer in the years to come.

A Rashford upgrade: Man Utd open first talks to sign "complete" £50m star

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing a star who could be an upgrade on Marcus Rashford.

1 ByDan Emery Jul 20, 2025

Chelsea’s pursuit of yet more attacking players this summer suggests Enzo Maresca is looking to challenge for both the Premier League and Champions League next season.

Given their performances at the Club World Cup, where they defeated PSG to win the title, the Blues could be a force to be reckoned with throughout 2025/26.

Alexander Isak has been linked with a move amid the news that he is exploring options away from Newcastle United, with the Blues said to have the budget to lodge such an ambitious swoop.

While a transfer seems unlikely, it would signal another huge statement of intent by the Blues if they managed to land him.

As to a deal to secure the signature of Dutch sensation, Xavi Simons, this move does appear to be close.

Chelsea are closing in on next move

According to Caught Offside, Chelsea have reportedly reached an agreement on personal terms with Simons as they seek to sign him from RB Leipzig.

In terms of the fee, the German side are demanding €80m (£70m) to sanction a sale and, given Chelsea’s spending this summer, that shouldn’t pose too much of a problem.

Simons would add something extra to an already stacked Chelsea frontline next term, but imagine how better they would be should Isak secure an unlikely move to London.

Why Chelsea want to sign Xavi Simons

The Dutchman offers plenty of positional flexibility, which is an added bonus for Maresca. Indeed, last term, he played 16 games on the left wing and 15 as an attacking midfielder.

Across those two positions, Simons registered nine and ten goal contributions, respectively, proving that he can shine no matter where he is deployed.

Isak, of course, would operate through the middle as the lone centre-forward, but the Dutch youngster would thrive playing behind the Swede, no doubt about that.

When compared to his positional peers in the Champions League last season, Simons was sublime across several metrics.

Not only did he rank in the top 9% for successful take-ons per 90 (1.88), but the 22-year-old also ranked in the top 2% for shot-creating actions (5.91) and in the top 11% for progressive carries (3.22) in Europe’s premier club competition.

Goals

10

Assists

7

Key passes per game

2

Shots per game

2

Total duels won per game

5.4

Big chances missed

2

Producing the goods in the biggest tournament on the continent proves that Simons is a man who would generate plenty of opportunities for Isak should the unthinkable occur.

Indeed, in the Bundesliga, Simons created an impressive 12 big chances for Leipzig, while also averaging two key passes per game.

It is perhaps no wonder that the Dutch starlet has been hailed as a “game-changer” by talent scout Jacek Kulig recently, following a performance for the Netherlands against Spain.

Making a move for Isak would be the cherry on the cake for Maresca this summer. While Liverpool lead the race for the striker, nothing can be counted out at this stage.

Should he have the talents of a player such as Simons operating behind him, Isak would reach new heights at Stamford Bridge; that much is certain.

£80m Chelsea star tells agents to find him new club after becoming "unhappy"

He’s keen on leaving Stamford Bridge.

ByEmilio Galantini Jul 25, 2025

Left-arm spinner Inoka Ranaweera, 38, has been named in Sri Lanka’s women’s T20 World Cup 2024 squad, with 21-year-old seamer Kawya Kavindi making way. Ranaweera had been left out of the squad for the women’s Asia Cup, which Sri Lanka won, in July. She had also been omitted from Sri Lanka’s squads to Ireland, more recently.But with the T20 World Cup likely to be played on pitches that favour spin in the UAE, the experienced Ranaweera has been recalled. Although her bowling has not been especially penetrative in the shortest format this year, she does have 91 T20I wickets from 82 appearances for Sri Lanka, with an economy rate of 5.86.Kavindi’s omission, however, means Sri Lanka have just three main seam-bowling options in their World Cup squad: Udeshika Prabodhani, Achini Kulasuriya, and Ama Kanchana.Related

• Athapaththu and Sri Lanka manifest destiny to become champions

• Cricket belongs to Chamari's Champions right now

• Athapaththu: Franchise cricket isn't about the money, I learn from them

Their spin cupboard is fuller. Ranaweera joins Inoshi Priyadharshani, Sugandika Kumari, and Kavisha Dilhari, who may all play a role throughout the campaign. There is also always the offspin of captain Chamari Athapaththu.On the batting front, a Sri Lanka squad has never looked stronger. In addition to their talisman Athapaththu, the likes of Harshitha Samarawickrama, and 18-year-old Vishmi Gunaratne have also been among the runs in the last few months. Their triumph in the Asia Cup will give them confidence that they can push for a place in the final four of the T20 World Cup.The World Cup is scheduled to begin on October 3. Sri Lanka are in Group A for the first round, alongside Pakistan, Australia, New Zealand, and India.

Sri Lanka squad for T20 World Cup 2024

Chamari Athapaththu (capt), Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Kavisha Dilshari, Nilakshi de Silva, Hasini Perera, Anushka Sanjeewani (wk), Sachini Nisansala, Udeshika Prabodhani, Inoshi Priyadharshani, Achini Kulasuriya, Inoka Ranaweera, Shashini Gimhani, Ama Kanchana, Sugandika KumariTravelling reserve: Kaushini Nuthyangana

Leeds United are now in the race to sign a “highly rated” £17 million Ligue 1 ace who’s being chased by major teams throughout Europe, according to a new report.

As pre-season preparations get underway, Daniel Farke will be very pleased with the business the club have conducted so far, but he will be wanting more arrivals between now and September, as he knows Leeds have a lot of work ahead of them if they are to remain in the Premier League.

Better than Gudmundsson: Leeds want to land deal for "dominant" £22m star

Leeds United are reportedly interested in signing a star who would be even better than Gabriel Gudmundsson.

2 ByDan Emery Jul 7, 2025

Three players have already arrived at Elland Road, but that could soon be about to double. According to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Leeds are closing in on the signing of Gabriel Gudmundsson from French side Lille. The Sweden international was expected to travel to England on Sunday to complete the transfer and add more options in the left-back spot for Farke.

That is not the only full-back the Whites are chasing, as Leeds are also interested in signing El Hadji Malick Diouf and are in a good position to beat West Ham to his signature, as they have already seen a bid turned down.

Meanwhile, the Premier League newcomers have also held talks with goalkeeper Lucas Perri over potentially replacing Illan Meslier between the sticks at Elland Road.

Leeds in race for highly rated Neil El Aynaoui

The transfer news doesn’t stop there for the Yorkshire side, as according to Foot Mercato, Leeds are interested in signing midfielder Neil El Aynaoui from RC Lens.

The report states that after a successful 2024/25 season on a personal level, where El Aynaoui scored eight goals in 24 Ligue 1 games, the 24 year-old midfielder is now wanted by many teams across Europe. As well as Leeds, Sunderland and Wolves showing strong interest from England, they all face competition from Juventus and AC Milan.

But it could be AS Roma who are the significant threat to the Whites, as the Italian side have already submitted a bid worth 20 million euros, which is roughly £17.2 million, and are looking to continue talks with Lens over the coming days.

El Aynaoui, who has been dubbed “highly talented” in the past, would bring versatility to Leeds’ midfield department, as he can operate defensively and offensively, as well as being comfortable playing out wide.

Apps

56

Goals

9

Assists

5

Capturing El Aynaoui would show significant intent from the 49ers, given the interest from huge clubs with multiple Champions League titles to their name, with the American group seemingly intent on putting Leeds back on their perch.

With a new goalkeeper likely to cost in excess of £10m and El Aynaoui’s price looking likely to breach the £30m mark, it may not be long before the Whites are heading towards a nine-figure spend in the summer market.

Everton were slipping down a slope last season, headed for trouble with Sean Dyche in the dugout and Farhad Moshiri watching from above.

But David Moyes replaced Dyche, lifted the Toffees up, up, up. The relegation candidates finished 13th in the Premier League, comfortably away from the drop zone. Now, as they leave Goodison Park and step into a new home at the Hill Dickinson, with plenty to look forward to.

Thierno Barry has joined for £27m, replacing Dominic Calvert-Lewin after the striker went by the wayside at the end of his contract. Mark Travers has signed to provide competition for Jordan Pickford; Charly Alcaraz’s buy option has been triggered after his promising loan stint.

However, there’s been something of an exodus on the blue half of Merseyside. Departed players need to be replaced, with the midfield still a priority for Moyes and technical director Angus Kinnear.

Everton searching for midfielders

With Abdoulaye Doucoure having left at the end of his deal, Everton need new midfielders. The latest name to crop up belongs to Douglas Luiz, who, one year after leaving Aston Villa for Juventus in a £42m deal, is being touted for a return to the Premier League.

Reports from Italy claim Everton have actually tabled their opening offer for the Brazilian ace. However, their £26m bid falls below Juventus’ £35m valuation.

However, according to Football Insider, Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher is also of interest to the Merseyside outfit, though he’s worth a pretty penny at £50m and is also attracting intrigue from Newcastle United.

However, given his homegrown status and style of play, which would see him dovetail right into Moyes’ system, this could be a statement signing and a half.

Why Everton want Conor Gallagher

Gallagher left Chelsea for Atletico Madrid in a deal worth £33m last summer, with Enzo Maresca having informed the versatile midfielder he would be consigned to a bit-part role if he remained at Stamford Bridge.

Maresca’s flowing ball-playing style of football precluded Gallagher’s involvement in a prominent role, but Everton don’t need to worry about that: Moyes is rooted in his tactical principles, limited in possession but industrious and organised and direct.

An intense pressing force, Gallagher would slot right in, maybe even more complete than Luiz, the other top midfield target. Hailed as a “machine” by former Chelsea teammate Moises Caicedo, who also noted the 25-year-old “helps me a lot when we need to recover the ball”, it would be money well spent.

Luiz has struggled to adapt in Italy, only starting three Serie A games last season – albeit, this was marred by injury problems. Gallagher, meanwhile, hasn’t been a week-in, week-out starter for Diego Simeone’s Atletico, but he’s proved his worth, ranked among the top 10% of La Liga midfielders last year for ball recoveries and the top 11% for tackles won per 90, as per FBref.

And when looking at his last Premier League campaign, ranked against Luiz’s with Aston Villa, you begin to see that Everton might strike gold by signing the former Blue.

Premier League 23/24 – Conor Gallagher vs Douglas Luiz

Stats (* per game)

Gallagher

Luiz

Matches (starts)

37 (37)

35 (35)

Goals

5

9

Assists

7

5

Touches*

70.4

70.1

Pass completion

92%

89%

Big chances created

11

10

Key passes*

1.4

1.5

Dribbles*

1.0

0.7

Ball recoveries*

6.0

5.3

Tackles + interceptions*

3.5

2.4

Duels (won)*

5.7 (50%)

4.2 (51%)

Stats via Sofascore

Gallagher is crisper in possession, with more ground-covering energy and defensive sharpness too. Luiz might have outscored him in 2023/24, but he took penalties, with four of his nine strikes above coming from the spot. All seven of Gallagher’s were from open play.

There is little question that either player would have a positive impact on Moyes’ project. Both have shared qualities that align with Moyes’ vision, with the way the Scotsman wants to play.

But Gallagher might be that little bit better, and he would pack a punch that might even steer the Toffees back into the top end of the Premier League table.

Related He’s Ndiaye 2.0: Everton make contact to sign £22.5m "sensational prospect"

Everton will be hoping they can add to their attacking output this summer

Posts ByJoe Nuttall Jul 18, 2025