All posts by h716a5.icu

Bedingham makes way in the only batting change from South Africa’s squad that drew 1-1 in Pakistan

Firdose Moonda27-Oct-2025Temba Bavuma will be back to lead South Africa’s Test side in their two-match series against India next month after recovering from a calf strain. Bavuma missed the start of their World Test Championship title defence against Pakistan after sustaining the injury in England in September.He will not play in any of the white-ball matches that start in Pakistan this week but will be in a South African A side to play India A in a first-class match in Bengaluru before joining the Test squad.Bavuma’s inclusion is the only batting change from South Africa’s squad that drew 1-1 in Pakistan and comes at the expense of middle-order batter David Bedingham, who did not play either of the matches.Related

Reverse swing on the cards in Kolkata for India vs South Africa Test

Colossal task awaits SA's eight newcomers in India, but can they adapt?

Temba Bavuma named in South Africa A squad for India tour

South Africa prove they can win with spin on the subcontinent

Rabada: South Africa 'a young team that wants to do the dirty work'

Bedingham has played 15 Tests for South Africa and scored one hundred and four fifties, but before his 82 against Zimbabwe in Bulawayo he had gone 12 innings without a fifty. With Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Dewald Brevis and Zubayr Hamza in the squad, there is no room for Bedingham.”The guys that did duty in Pakistan in the Test matches have shown what they’re capable of, and a case can be made for all of them to be re-selected. The reason why they got selected ahead of David was because I feel that in these conditions they’ll be more effective,” Shukri Conrad, South Africa head coach, said on Bedingham. “It doesn’t mean that it’s the end of the road for David. It wasn’t so long ago that he was one of our star performers at Lord’s so really horses-for-courses. For what we’re potentially going to face, I believe the guys that we got are ahead of David in that respect.”You leave a player out and it’s never easy, especially if they’ve done as well as they have done. But again, I’ve got to take the emotion out of all of it. We’ve made some tough decisions along the way so every time you make a decision like that, it’s particularly tough, but you’ve got to take the emotion out of it.”You basically look at the raw facts and say, ‘right, what do we believe is going to be effective on these surfaces? And who best to stack up against said opposition on those surfaces,’ you know? And look, in eight months’ time, however long, when we play a Test match back home again, I’m sure David will be in that line-up. But purely for Pakistan and India, what we’re expecting, the guys that we’ve selected, we believe, are better equipped.”On Hamza’s selection for the India Tests, Conrad said that he’s a “really good player of spin, it’s as simple as that.” Hamza had recently scored a century for South Africa A against New Zealand A in Potchefstroom last month.”He [Hamza] was close to playing in Pakistan when we considered balance of side and he is the next batter up,” Conrad said. “In these conditions, I must continually add that, in these conditions, we’ve always said that everything we do is conditions-based and condition-specific.”South Africa have stuck with three specialist spinners as all of Keshav Maharaj, Simon Harmer and Senuran Muthusamy performed well in Pakistan. Offspinner Prenelan Subrayen, who played in the first Test while Maharaj was recovering from a groin strain, has not been included.ESPNcricinfo LtdKagiso Rabada, Corbin Bosch and Marco Jansen make up the pace pack, with Lungi Ngidi not included after also missing out on the Pakistan tour.The two-match series starts in Kolkata on November 14 before the second Test in Guwahati from November 22. South Africa will also play three ODIs and five T20Is on the tour.South Africa Squad for India Tests
Temba Bavuma (capt), Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne, Dewald Brevis, Zubayr Hamza, Tony de Zorzi, Corbin Bosch, Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy, Kagiso Rabada, Simon Harmer.

Newcastle United supporters are frustrated at the moment, and justifiably so.

Only last weekend, Eddie Howe’s side put in a herculean performance, a display of great resilience and strength, to see off Manchester City in the Premier League.

But that was at St. James’ Park, and the Magpies’ issues on the road deepened against Marseille in the Champions League, going ahead through the in-form Harvey Barnes but succumbing to defeat after two second-half strikes from Roberto De Zerbi’s side.

11

Games

8

8

Wins

1

0

Draws

3

3

Losses

4

16

Goals scored

8

8

Goals conceded

10

2.18

PPG

0.75

As Barnes goes from strength to strength, with three goals from his past two Premier League matches too, Anthony Gordon’s struggles on Tyneside have been accentuated.

The England international is among the most talented players in Howe’s squad, but he’s not been at the races this season.

Anthony Gordon's form for Newcastle

Gordon took some time to get going at Newcastle after joining from Everton for £45m in January 2023, but he thrived across the 2023/24 campaign, winning the club’s Player of the Year after recording 11 goals and ten assists in the Premier League.

Last season was a testing one for the 24-year-old on an individual level, though, and he’s sunk deeper into his struggles this season, yet to score or assist in the Premier League.

Though Gordon is impressing in front of goal on the continent, he’s been out of sorts as a whole this season, with Newcastle blogger Thomas Hammond saying “a summer sale is looking more and more favourable” given clubs like Liverpool have been interested in the £100m-rated winger in the past.

Matches (starts)

7 (7)

5 (5)

Goals

0

4

Assists

0

1

Touches*

35.4

39.2

Shots (on target)*

2.0 (0.7)

2.2 (1.0)

Accurate passes*

14.7 (80%)

16.4 (77%)

Chances created*

1.0

0.4

Dribbles*

1.4

1.4

Ball recoveries*

2.6

3.2

Tackles + interceptions*

0.7

1.4

Duels (won)*

4.7 (49%)

4.0 (41%)

There’s a tenacity and will to win embedded in Gordon’s footballing brain, but this has led to some questionable decision-making, with the £150k-per-week talent sent off three times across 120 appearances as a Magpie.

And with Barnes getting better and better, it could be that PIF look to cash in on their profitable asset going forward. After all, if he continues to struggle, his market value will only depreciate.

Against Marseille, Howe opted to field Gordon as his central striker. This is nothing new, but the versatile forward toiled away. Considering the different variables, there might be cause for Gordon to be sold, especially when considering another Newcastle star’s form this season.

The Newcastle star who could end Gordon's stay

Since arriving on Tyneside at the end of August, Nick Woltemade has been a revelation for Newcastle.

The 23-year-old completed a club-record move from Stuttgart to St. James’ Park after establishing himself as one of German football’s most exciting up-and-coming strikers, and while Howe’s side have problems, six goals from his first 16 games for the club suggest the jackpot has been struck.

The 6 foot 6 star is far more than just a goalscorer, of course, and his ability to drop deep and influence across different areas of the pitch suggests that Woltemade could play alongside Yoane Wissa when the DR Congo star returns to fitness.

And he’s thriving for Germany too. Woltemade is nailing down his claim for the number nine spot ahead of the 2026 World Cup in North America, having posted four goals from his past three matches for his nation.

Hailed as a “world-class talent” by content creator Adam Pearson, Woltemade cannot be expected to haul all this weight by himself each week. He needs players like Gordon to step up.

But with Barnes establishing himself as United’s clear-cut left winger and Wissa soon to enter the equation as he nears the end of the recovery from a knee injury that has kept him out since signing for the club from Brentford last year, there’s a sense that Gordon may find regular minutes from the outset hard to come by down the line.

Woltemade is not a winger, of course, but he does bring many dynamic qualities to the table that emphasise his protean attacking ability. As per data-led site FBref, the German ranks among the top 9% of strikers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for successful take-ons and the top 6% for shot-creating actions per 90.

His knack at finding space to shoot and then doing so clinically is the staple of his skillset, but Woltemade is also a menace in that he has different creative and athletic attributes that help him transcend his striking role.

Could we see a scenario in which Woltemade plays alongside Wissa, flanked by Barnes and Anthony Elanga? It might be the case, and with Newcastle eager to strengthen across the park next summer – notably with a deal for academy product Elliot Anderson in the pipeline – there’s a case to be made that Gordon’s days on Tyneside could be numbered.

He has, of course, proven himself at Newcastle before, but time is running out for Gordon to reestablish himself as one of Howe’s talismanic forwards, and while Barnes appears the most direct threat to his place in the starting line-up, Woltemade’s continual growth adds another chapter to the story.

PIF have signed an "explosive" talent who can end Gordon's Newcastle career

Newcastle United already have an exciting attacker up their sleeve who can end Anthony Gordon’s stalling Magpies career.

ByKelan Sarson Nov 27, 2025

Leeds United fans will be praying Daniel Farke can be the manager in the Elland Road dug-out to consolidate the Whites as a Premier League regular again, but they won’t be holding their breath.

After all, there was even talk this off-season that the German could reportedly be relieved of his duties, with his worrying track record in the top division – as seen in his one relegation with former side Norwich City – meaning he could be in too deep on his return again.

The Whites hierarchy have admirably stuck by the promotion-winning expert, though, with a barrage of transfers now needed to give the ex-Canaries boss his best chance at remaining put in the Premier League with his current employers.

Leeds now targeting £10m-rated ace

Whilst the West Yorkshire titans would storm to the Championship title with a club-record 100 points, improvements need to be made all over the pitch to make the gulf in quality feel less stark.

Already, Farke and Co. have been linked with moves for Emiliano Buendia, Tammy Abraham and Kalvin Phillips to significantly bolster their squad, but it’s in the goalkeeper department where the Whites are crying out for their most pressing upgrade.

It has now been widely reported that Illan Meslier will be ditched as Leeds’ first-choice stopper in the big time after one too many error-strewn performances in the second-tier, with the Daily Mail Online following this up with a report that Newcastle United ‘keeper Nick Pope is now on their agenda as they hunt down a new number one.

With a move for Caoimhin Kelleher also falling by the wayside, Pope could be the next best thing for Farke’s men, with the Magpies perhaps now ready to offload their £10m-rated figure amidst interest in Burnley’s James Trafford.

Why signing Pope is a must for Leeds

With Phillips available for around the same £10m price tag, it could end up being a toss-up between Pope and the former fan favourite.

Well, when assessing which transfer is most needed, it’s a no-brainer that Leeds must prioritise picking up the 6-foot-6 ‘keeper over a sentimental Elland Road return for the midfielder.

Transfer Focus

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

Leeds could well look a little light on their feet centrally when making the step-up, with Joe Rothwell returning back to parent side AFC Bournemouth this summer, but the Whites are in dire need of a solid pair of hands in between the sticks over urgently requiring any midfield additions.

After all, away from Meslier nearly costing his team dear last campaign with three errors directly leading to goals, the ex-Lorient stopper has struggled in the intense environment of the Premier League previously.

Games played

107

221

Saves made

377

687

Goals conceded

198

252

Clean sheets

21

73

Wins

32

86

Losses

50

71

The table above highlights the 25-year-old’s struggles in the big time compared to the more comfortable Pope, with Meslier only keeping a meagre 21 clean sheets from 107 top-flight outings next to the Magpies’ number 22 collecting a sturdier 73.

Away from just their clean sheet numbers, Pope has also shown he can cut it at the level over a prolonged time, even as Eddie Howe and Co’s aspirations have changed from being a middle of the road outfit to a Champions League challenger, with a bumper 86 wins sticking out from his 221 Premier League clashes and counting.

Therefore, the “phenomenal” Pope – as he’s been previously praised by ex-Toon goalkeeping great Shay Given – would easily displace Meslier on his arrival to West Yorkshire.

Whereas, it’s not a given that Phillips would be able to shake up things centrally, with faces such as Ao Tanaka and Ilia Gruev likely getting the immediate nod over the Manchester City flop.

Having already suffered a relegation with the Whites too, it just feels like Leeds would be sleepwalking into another disaster if Meslier were kept in between the sticks.

Whereas, with the 33-year-old coming in as the new number one instead, the confidence levels would be increased that Farke and Co. could put up a stern fight to beat the drop.

A bigger coup than Buendia: Leeds looking to sign "exceptional" £10m star

Leeds United would pull off a bigger coup than landing Emiliano Buendia by signing this exceptional midfielder.

3 ByKelan Sarson Jun 1, 2025

Manchester United have been in contact to sign a “standout” £10m midfielder this summer ahead of Tottenham Hotspur.

Fernandes hints he could leave Man Utd after Europa League final

The nail in the Red Devils’ coffin for the season was hammered in by Spurs on Wednesday night, with Ange Postecoglou getting the better of Ruben Amorim in the Europa League final in Bilbao.

A 1-0 win for Tottenham ensured they’d win their first trophy in 17 years and qualify for the Champions League, whereas United will now have to make do with no European football and one of their worst seasons for more than 50 years.

Bruno Fernandes captained Man Utd in Bilbao but failed to take his side to glory, and with a summer of uncertainty at Old Trafford incoming, spoke about his future in Manchester.

“I will be here until the club tells me it is time to leave. I am available to make the club have great days again.

“The day the club thinks I am too much, or it is time to leave, football is like that and you never know. If the club thinks it is time to leave, because they want to make some money, that is what it is and football is like that sometimes.”

The Portuguese star is wanted in Saudi Arabia by Al-Hilal, and with the likes of Casemiro and Christian Eriksen also ageing and on big money, a new midfield gem could be on the to-do list for the Red Devils and Sir Jim Ratcliffe ahead of his first summer transfer window as co-owner.

Man Utd in contact to sign £10m midfielder ahead of Spurs

According to TBR Football, Man Utd are one of numerous clubs who have been in contact with Motherwell over a deal to sign midfielder Lennon Miller.

The 18-year-old is emerging as one of Scotland’s most exciting talents and has had approaches from the Red Devils, Spurs, Arsenal, Brighton, Brentford, Crystal Palace, Liverpool, Leeds, Newcastle and West Ham.

Games

39

Goals

4

Assists

8

Minutes played

3,398

Atalanta, Bologna and Como in Italy are all keen on Miller, as are French side Strasbourg and Scottish champions Celtic, with reports earlier this year claiming Motherwell would want £10m for the teenage gem.

Set to turn 19 in August, Miller has already made more than 75 senior appearances for Motherwell, even captaining them between November and December last year.

Talking during that time, Barry Ferguson called Miller a “standout” performer for Motherwell and said “he has the potential to play at the highest level”.

The Red Devils have already shown they are looking at the future with recent deals for Patrick Dorgu, Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven and Chido Obi-Martin, and by the looks of things, Miller could be the next if they manage to win the huge race for his services.

Celtic were hit with a devastating blow at the start of this month when it was revealed that Jota could be out of action for up to nine months with a knee injury.

The Hoops winger hobbled off during the 5-0 win over Dundee United away from home at the end of last month, the game that clinched the Scottish Premiership title, and is now set to be out of action until next year.

Brendan Rodgers has confirmed that he will be out for between six and nine months after suffering cruciate ligament damage, which means that he will miss pre-season and the start of next season at a minimum.

It comes as a big blow for the Scottish giants because the winger had provided four goals and two assists in seven league matches after his return to Parkhead in the January transfer window.

Celtic reportedly paid £8m to sign the Portuguese wizard from Rennes on a permanent deal, 18 months on from selling him to Al Ittihad for a fee of £25m.

How Celtic played a masterclass with Jota

Ange Postecoglou initially signed the forward on loan from Benfica in the summer of 2021 before a permanent deal was struck to bring him to Parkhead on a long-term contract in 2022.

The Hoops reportedly splashed out a fee of £6.5m to convert his loan into a permanent deal, as per the option to buy that was included in the initial move, and the exciting attacker justified that fee with his performances on the pitch in the Premiership.

Jota scored ten goals and provided ten assists in less than 30 appearances in the Scottish top-flight during his loan spell at Parkhead, which convinced the club to activate their £6.5m option to sign him permanently.

The dynamic forward instantly repaid their faith in him with another excellent campaign in the Premiership during the 2022/23 season under Postecoglou’s management, as he delivered goals and assists on a regular basis once again.

Appearances

33

Goals

11

Big chances missed

4

Big chances created

13

Key passes per game

1.9

Assists

11

As you can see in the table above, Jota scored more goals and provided more assists than he did in his first year at the club, which shows that he was heading in the right direction from a development perspective.

His impressive form for Celtic in those seasons, however, led to interest from elsewhere, and Al Ittihad eventually swooped in to sign him for a fee of £25m, representing a significant profit on the £6.5m that they paid for his services.

This shows that the Hoops played a masterclass with Jota because they snapped up a young talent from Benfica, initially on loan, and provided him with a platform to showcase his quality before selling him for a huge fee, only to re-sign the winger 18 months later.

Celtic could, now, repeat that masterclass by swooping to sign another talented young winger who has been linked with a move to Parkhead, Kwame Poku.

The latest on Celtic and Kwame Poku

GIVEMESPORT recently reported that Birmingham City are concerned that they could lose the race to sign Peterborough United forward Kwame Poku to Celtic or Rangers.

The outlet pointed out that the two Scottish giants would have to pay a significantly lower compensation fee for the winger, whose contract expires this summer, because of the UEFA cross-border compensation deals, than any English team would have to pay.

Transfer Focus

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

GIVEMESPORT added that Peterborough’s director of football, Barry Fry, has already confirmed that Rangers and Celtic scouts have been at their games this season to watch the 23-year-old talent in the flesh.

The report revealed that Birmingham and Sheffield United, among other English sides, are also interested in the winger, though, and that means that there is likely to be plenty of competition for his signature.

Celtic must, now, push to win the race for his services because he could arrive at Parkhead with the potential to be the next version of Jota for the club.

Why Kwame Poku could be Celtic's next Jota

The Ghana international could be Jota 2.0 for the Hoops for several reasons, most notably that he is also an exciting winger who can provide goals and assists on a regular basis.

Whilst he is a left-footed forward who predominantly plays on the right, as opposed to a right-footer on the left like Jota, Poku is similar to the Portuguese talent in the way that he looks to make an impact in the final third.

Appearances

37

27

Goals

11

12

Big chances missed

11

3

Big chances created

10

9

Key passes per game

1.5

1.2

Assists

7

8

As you can see in the table above, Poku has delivered 21 goals and ‘big chances’ created combined in his last two seasons in League One with the Posh, which shows that he can offer a constant threat at the top end of the pitch.

Whilst he is yet to show that he can translate that to the top level in England, these statistics show that the potential is there for him to be a Jota-esque figure for Celtic with his quality on the wing.

Such is his potential, Peterborough owner Darragh MacAnthony believes that his next move could cost £30m: “He’s top drawer. He has everything, a great technique, pace and physicality. He will be a Premier League star in the future and that next move will probably cost £30m.”

At the age of 23, Poku still has plenty of time left to develop and improve, and he could use a transfer to Celtic as a platform to shine on the domestic and European stage whilst winning trophies to enhance his value, as Jota did under Postecoglou.

Not just Nawrocki: Exciting Celtic star just made himself unsellable

Maik Nawrocki was not the only rarely seen Celtic star who caught the eye against Aberdeen.

ByDan Emery May 15, 2025

Therefore, the Hoops could find Jota 2.0 by signing Poku because he is another exceptional wing talent who can provide goals and assists, whilst also having the potential to be worth millions more in the future if he hits his stride at Parkhead.

Have you ever seen an end to the season like this? For Mikel Arteta and his Arsenal side, it was more stressful than they ever hoped for.

After being sent out of the Champions League by PSG, they have been left to bemoan a run of awful results in the Premier League, putting their hopes of qualifying for a place at Europe’s top table next season in danger.

The 4-0 win over Ipswich Town aside, the Gunners have not picked up all three points in the top-flight since the very first day of April when they defeated Fulham.

So, their 1-0 win over Newcastle United, their top four rivals on Sunday, was rather timely. While Arteta’s side haven’t sewn up second place just yet, they have confirmed their participation in next season’s Champions League.

Behind them, there’s an almighty battle taking shape to finish inside the top five. Thankfully, Arsenal can go to Southampton next weekend with nothing riding on it.

37

19

14

4

71

37

20

6

11

66

37

19

9

9

66

37

19

9

9

66

36

19

8

9

65

37

19

8

10

65

So, who stood out in the new red home strip on Sunday?

How Arsenal beat Newcastle United at the Emirates

When Alexander Isak, William Saliba’s nemesis, was not named on the Newcastle teamsheet due to injury, Arsenal knew they were in for an easier ride.

Chalkboard

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

Yet, during the first half, they had their goalkeeper to thank for keeping them in the game.

This certainly wasn’t a straightforward win, particularly for those at the back who worked tirelessly to preserve the club’s clean sheet.

While Raya’s passing was rather errant inside the opening half, he made up for it with a string of superb saves, the two most notable of which saw him the Spaniard sprawl down low to his left to deny Harvey Barnes and then again to his left to keep out Dan Burn’s header from a corner.

Handed the Player of the Match award by Sky Sports after the game, Raya certainly proved why he’s one of the division’s best stoppers.

That being said, it wasn’t Raya who had the most decisive of says. That was Declan Rice who with a swish effort from outside the box, gave Arsenal the win.

It was a peach of a goal from a man who is only going from strength to strength in the final third. He is the Granit Xhaka replacement everyone at the Emirates hoped they’d find.

Raya and Rice were certainly the best players in Arsenal red and will play a crucial part in rebuilding next season. That said, there are some who won’t be around to see the stadium again as a home player.

The players who featured in their last home game for Arsenal

The raucous reception that Kieran Tierney was given as a late second-half substitute was joyous. The Scot has had an injury-hit time in north London and this was sadly the last we will get to see of him as an Arsenal player at home.

The left-back’s contract is expiring at the conclusion of the campaign and it’s widely expected that he’ll head back to Celtic, the side who sold him for £25m.

Also likely playing their last home game was Jorginho. Another of Arsenal’s out-of-contract stars, it looks as though he’ll be going off to end his playing days in Brazil.

Jorginho’s fellow midfielder in Thomas Partey would also be fortunate to be back at the Emirates next season.

The £45m signing from Atletico Madrid has had his days in the famous red and white but Arsenal need fresh blood, and that was certainly evident against Newcastle.

Partey’s day certainly wasn’t disastrous, but it was a shoddy display nonetheless, with the Standard handing him a 5/10 match rating, writing that he was ‘one of Arsenal’s sloppiest players during a poor first half and he was caught in possession a few times’. Meanwhile, one content creator and podcaster, Le Grove, even suggested it looked like the midfielder “was already on the beach.”

His numbers certainly weren’t the finest either, chiefly losing four of his five battles in the air.

Minutes played

90

Touches

61

Accurate passes

40/49 (82%)

Key passes

1

Long balls completed

4/8

Shots on target

1

Shots off target

0

Dribbles

0

Ground duels won

4/7

Aerial duels won

1/5

Possession lost

11x

Tackles

3

Interceptions

0

The 31-year-old is usually a monster in the duel but his lack of pace and athleticism in the transitional phases of the game is becoming a concern.

He’s quick to get the ball out of his feat but he lacks the drive to get forward and then doesn’t have the speed required to track back if Arsenal get done in the press. He’s the polar opposite to Rice in that regard.

As a result, with Partey’s contract due to expire in a few months, now is surely the time to sever ties with a player who isn’t going to get any better.

There is a reason the club plans to sign Martin Zubimendi this summer. Let him be Rice’s partner next season, please Mikel.

Arsenal could see £59m bid accepted for "monster" upgrade on Sesko

Arsenal have been handed the chance to sign an upgrade on Benjamin Sesko.

ByMatt Dawson May 18, 2025

Everton are ready for a summer of change as they move to a new home and are now looking to fend off competition for a direct forward, according to reports.

Everton prepare for summer upheaval

David Moyes led Everton out for their penultimate fixture at Goodison Park over the weekend in a match where they showed their strengths and weaknesses in a 2-2 draw against Ipswich Town. With only one match left at the famous old ground before the Toffees move to Bramley Moore Dock, there is plenty of anticipation over who could line up at the new stadium in a few months time.

Internally, Dominic Calvert-Lewin leads a plethora of influential players who could leave at the end of the season, either on free transfers or when their loan deals expire. Intriguingly, Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap is now a public Everton target and may be the ideal replacement for the Three Lions international.

Moyes has signalled his desire to bring the ex-Manchester City forward to Merseyside, stating: “He would be one who we would certainly have an interest in. We would certainly be interested if he was interested in us. That’s for sure.”

Everton’s lack of striking potency this season

Dominic Calvert-Lewin

Appearances – 23 Goals – 3 Assists – 2

Youssef Chermiti

Appearances – 4 Goals – 0 Assists – 0

Armando Broja

Appearances – 11 Goals – 0 Assists – 0

Beto

Appearances – 31 Goals – 9 Assists – 0

Beto has been the main man in attack this campaign after being drafted in from the wilderness. Six goals in 13 Premier League matches have probably made his place safe, but there is room for added depth through the middle.

Having said that, Everton are now targeting a powerful forward to strengthen their frontline ahead of next season, per recent developments.

Everton in the mix to sign Tim Kleindienst

According to CaughtOffside, Everton are willing to pay a maximum of £30 million to sign Tim Kleindienst following his excellent campaign at Borussia Monchengladbach. Tottenham Hotspur, Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United are also keeping an eye on the German striker, while the same applies for AC Milan, Roma and Bayern Munich from the continent.

A massive Beto upgrade: Everton enter talks to sign "phenomenal" star

Everton are making moves to land a new striker for David Moyes ahead of the summer.

ByEthan Lamb May 1, 2025

Lauded for his “direct” nature by Gerardo Seoane, the 29-year-old has registered 16 goals and ten assists in 32 appearances across all competitions this season. The Germany international has been a constant for Monchengladbach, directing 38 of his 73 shots taken on target in the Bundesliga in a disappointing term for his current employers.

Potentially set for a new challenge, he could feasibly be a replacement should Calvert-Lewin opt to move elsewhere once his contract comes to an end. Financially, The Friedkin Group should be able to shoulder the burden, so now it remains to be seen if Everton can force a deal over the line.

Despite the phenomenal effort by Bruno Fernandes in 2024/25, Manchester United simply haven’t been good enough in attacking areas, undoubtedly contributing to their lowly league standing.

The Portuguese international has notched a staggering 33 combined goals and assists in all competitions, but has been alone in his attempts to transform their fortunes in recent months.

Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund have both shared the responsibility of leading the line for Ruben Amorim, but have both been massively disappointing and struggled to provide the goods.

The aforementioned pair have only netted six Premier League goals between them this campaign, leading to huge rumours over new additions this summer.

One player in particular has emerged as a key target, with the club wasting no time in identifying players to make amends for the dismal season this time around.

The latest on Matheus Cunha’s move to United

Over the last week, huge rumours have emerged linking Wolverhampton Wanderers star Matheus Cunha with a move to join United this summer, as the hierarchy looks to back Amorim in the market.

The Brazilian, who’s registered 18 combined goals and assists in the league this season, currently has a £62.5m release clause within his current contract – something which the club could look to exploit.

According to Fabrizio Romano’s latest update, the 25-year-old is keen on a move to Old Trafford this summer, with the hierarchy willing to trigger his release clause and being confident of completing a deal.

However, they could turn their attention to another summer target in the form of Villarreal star Alex Baena, who’s emerged as an alternative to Cunha for the upcoming window.

According to Spanish journalist Eduardo Burgos, United have already entered talks with the Spanish side over a deal for the 23-year-old, who has a £50m release clause.

Why Baena would be a better signing than Cunha

There’s no denying that Cunha is a fantastic talent, as seen by his tally of goals and assists this season, but the only major concern is his attitude issues that have prevented him from starring further in 2024/25.

He received a two-match ban for an incident after the clash with Ipswich Town, whilst also receiving a separate four-game suspension for headbutting Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez.

If he is to move to Old Trafford this summer, there’s hope that Amorim will be able to separate that side of his game, allowing him to become a key member of the side.

However, it’s a huge amount of money to spend with a risk lingering over his head, potentially opening the door for a move for Spanish star Baena in the coming months.

When comparing the pair’s respective stats from the ongoing campaign, the LaLiga ace has managed to outperform the Brazilian star in numerous key areas, showcasing what a superb addition he would be to Amorim’s squad.

Baena, who’s been labelled a “creative machine” by one analyst, has managed more progressive passes per 90, along with a higher tally of passes into the final third, highlighting his ability to find his teammates in attacking areas.

The 23-year-old is best suited in a role behind the striker, but that hasn’t stopped him from achieving a higher goal per shot on target rate and more shot-creating actions than the Wolves star.

Games played

27

28

Goals & assists

13

18

Progressive passes

6.7

4.7

Goals per shot-on-target

0.4

0.3

Passes into final third

3.5

3.2

Shot-creating actions

6.1

4.2

Aerials won

46%

27%

He’s also won more of the aerial battles he’s entered, offering Amorim a dangerous all-round option alongside Fernandes in the number 10 role at Old Trafford.

It’s unclear whether Cunha would be signed to play as the focal option or slightly deeper, but if it’s for the latter, there’s no denying that Baena would be a better option this summer.

Given his age, he has the ability to improve further in the years to come, playing a vital role in Amorim’s ambitions of taking the club back to the heights they’ve achieved in previous years.

Amorim's next Gyokeres: Man Utd hold talks to sign "unplayable" £70m star

It isn’t just Matheus Cunha who could be on their way to Man Utd this summer

ByRobbie Walls Apr 23, 2025

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

Man Utd produce historic comeback

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

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

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

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

Man Utd make contact for Kaua Santos

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ByRobbie Walls Apr 18, 2025

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

Arsenal transfer chiefs have been told exactly what they need to sign Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres this summer, according to Fabrizio Romano, with the Gunners given a “clear” message behind-the-scenes.

Arsenal's shortlist of summer striker targets for Mikel Arteta

Alongside Gyokeres, new sporting director Andrea Berta is believed to be looking at a number of centre-forwards to potentially move for in the summer transfer window.

Arteta has "serious" wish to sign £40m star with Arsenal contact made

The Gunners boss is “huge fan”.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 16, 2025

Newcastle United star Alexander Isak is taking the Premier League by storm yet again this season, racking up 24 goals and six assists in all competitions, and reliable media sources indicate Gyokeres’ international teammate is actually a “dream” target for Arsenal (Ben Jacobs).

However, while Isak is reportedly top of Mikel Arteta’s wishlist, a move for the Swede is less viable considering his rumoured price tag stands at a minimum of £150 million.

Arsenal want to bolster the goalkeeping position, full-back area, in midfield and sign further upgrades out wide in the summer (GiveMeSport), so Berta simply cannot afford to splash such a figure on just one signing, no matter the quality.

RB Leipzig starlet Benjamin Sesko is another striker target for Arsenal, and one who could leave for just £62 million, due to the value of his current release clause (Sky Sports). The Slovenian boasts 19 goals in all competitions, and Arsenal did attempt to sign Sesko as a top target last summer, so this could still be one to watch.

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

The competition for his signature will be fierce, as a host of elite Premier League sides, including Chelsea and Man United, are also reportedly looking to bring in a prolific number nine this summer.

The same can be said of Gyokeres, who has been repeatedly linked with a move to N5 recently as interest in the former Coventry City star grows stronger from Arsenal’s side.

There are even reports that Arsenal are ready to offer Gyokeres a £192,000-per-week contract to join Arteta’s side, and now Romano has shared a fresh update on their pursuit of the 26-year-old.

Arsenal told price to sign Viktor Gyokeres "in recent days"

Writing in a column for GiveMeSport, Romano claims Arsenal have been given a “clear” communication over Gyokeres’ price “in recent days/weeks”.

The Primeira Liga sensation can leave for much less than his £86 million release clause, namely a fee of up to £60 million, with add-ons, deal structure and payment terms still to be discussed.

Berta is also said to be a huge fan of his, so the Italian’s stance on a deal is also crystal clear. While Gyokeres has been a pivotal player for the Portuguese heavyweights, racking up a sensational 44 goals and 11 assists in all competitions this season, the club are impressed with his conduct since last summer as well.

He’s made no trouble behind-closed-doors over a transfer and has behaved professionally, meaning Sporting are more inclined to help facilitate his dream move, with the Premier League looking more and more like a credible destination.

Gyokeres’ quality is evident for all to see, and often doesn’t get discussed enough, and some around the game are convinced he’s actually a “massively underrated” player for all he’s achieved in terms of a very impressive goalscoring record.

It’s arguably a mystery why no club has invested in the forward’s capture just yet, but it probably won’t be long now.