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With the Euros out of the way and another season of Premier League football on the horizon, will it be third time's the charm for Arsenal in 2024/25?

After two seasons of challenging Manchester City at the top of the table, Mikel Arteta and his squad of talented players must take that next step before they begin to lose momentum.

The best thing that Edu Gaspar and the club at large can do to help them in that endeavour is to bring in some quality additions in the transfer window.

Luckily for fans, that may well happen, as the latest player touted for a move to the Emirates has been compared to Leandro Trossard and would be the perfect rival for Bukayo Saka on the right – oh, and he's already played for the club before.

Arsenal transfer news

According to a recent report from German publication Bild, Arsenal are interested in Borussia Dortmund's Dutch attacker, Donyell Malen.

The report claims that the 25-year-old dynamo is considering his future and eyeing a challenge away from Germany, and in an interview from earlier this year, he opened the door for a return to N5, where he spent several years as a youth player before moving to PSV in 2017.

The good news for the Gunners is that this potential signing wouldn't cost them an arm and a leg, as the report has revealed that Dortmund are prepared to sell him for around £34m.

It wouldn't be a bargain, but given his performances last season, the comparisons to Trossard and the potential that he could offer Saka a real challenge on the right, £34m doesn't seem too bad.

Malen's comparison to Trossard and Saka

Now, before assessing how Malen stacks up against Saka and how effective he could be as a challenger to the incredible Englishman, let's look at this comparison to Trossard.

It stems from FBref, which compares every player in Europe's top five leagues based on their position and then creates a list of the ten most comparable for each player and, in this case, they have identified the Belgian as the most similar attacking midfielder or winger to the Dortmund ace across those five competitions.

The easiest way to see this similarity is by looking at the underlying numbers where the pair rank quite closely, such as non-penalty expected goals and assists, actual non-penalty goals and assists, progressive carries and passes received, key passes, aerial duels won and shot-creating actions, all per 90.

That said, while the comparisons to the former Brighton & Hove Albion ace are now far clearer, how would the "sizzling" Dutchman, as described by U23 scout Antonio Mango, get on as a rival to the Gunners' Hale End superstar on the right?

Well, the first thing to say is that while he would likely be talked about as a rival for the Englishman, in reality, he'd probably end up becoming a backup, which, given the Ealing-born superstar's tally of 20 goals and 14 assists in 47 games last season is not a slight at all.

However, even as a de facto backup for the 22-year-old ace, the former PSV winger would still get plenty of game time across all the competitions Arsenal are set to play in next season.

Moreover, considering he scored 15 goals and provided five assists in 38 games last season, he'd be an incredible weapon off the bench for Arteta.

Ultimately, Malen proved that he was more than good enough to play for a top team last season, and while he would almost certainly remain behind Saka in the pecking order at the Emirates, he'd still end up getting a fair amount of game time as the Gunners look to attack on all fronts next season.

Moreover, if he's the player who can finally allow the North Londoners' number seven to get some genuine rest during the season, then his importance to the team would stem from more than what he can do on the pitch. Therefore, Edu and Co should do what they can to bring him to the club this summer.

Arsenal chasing £60m England star who's more exciting than Martinelli

The impressive international could make the Gunners even more dangerous.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Jul 16, 2024

Manchester United have made a new bid for a top summer transfer target, looking to sign him next after the imminent deal for Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee.

Man Utd transfer news

The Red Devils look increasingly likely to confirm Zirkzee as their newest signing, with Fabrizio Romano claiming that a deal is now close to being agreed: "Manchester United and Joshua Zirkzee, almost there. Man Utd have now informed Bologna about agreement reached with Zirkzee over personal terms. All done also with JZ’s agent. Man Utd, talking to Bologna about new deal structure… or they can trigger €40m release clause."

The Dutchman won't be the only player who comes in this summer, however, and Bayern Munich central defender Matthijs de Ligt is also being looked at by United, seeing him as a standout option to arrive and be Lisandro Martinez's long-term partner at the heart of Erik ten Hag's defence.

New faces are also needed in the Red Devils' midfield, with Casemiro looking like a faded force last season, and Joao Neves and Manuel Ugarte have both emerged as eye-catching options, shining at Benfica and Paris Saint-Germain respectively.

It is also important that the club continue to plan for the future, however, ensuring they bring in some of the most exciting teenage talent around, and Tottenham attacking starlet Mikey Moore has been backed to move to Old Trafford. They are battling with Manchester City, among others, ahead of being able to sign his first professional deal when he turns 17 next month.

Man Utd make low-ball offer for Everton star

Football Insider claimed on Monday morning that Manchester United are planning a new offer for Branthwaite, having gone directly to the player already to agree terms on a £160,000-a-week contract. They reported that while Everton have "set a £70-80m asking price" for the centre-back after knocking back a £35m bid last month, United will still go nowhere near that price as they seek to find a middle ground with their next offer.

That news has now been confirmed, wirh a £45m bid reported by various outlets, which is still far below the Toffees' asking price. It has been rejected again, with Everton pointing to deals like Joško Gvardiol's move to Man City as a benchmark on pricing.

At this point, it would be a huge surprise if United didn't sign at least one of Branthwaite or De Ligt this summer, with the duo standing out as their primary centre-back options. To snap up the Everton man for less than the Blues want could be a great piece of business, though, as they potentially acquire the signature of a future regular starter for England.

At just 22, the Englishman has already become an established player in the Premier League, starting 35 out of a possible 38 matches in the competition last season, and he already has the confidence and physicality to go straight in as a key man for Ten Hag next term.

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has waxed lyrical over Branthwaite, too, heaping praise on him back in February, lauding his performances alongside James Tarkowski: "Branthwaite has been outstanding. I think this lad is pretty special. He's a big part of why Everton in my eyes have a good chance of staying up, him and his partnership with [James] Tarkowski."

Man Utd given "green light" to sign "wonderful" star after Ten Hag talks

A major step for the Red Devils.

By
Tom Cunningham

Jul 8, 2024

Nailing United's centre-back business is essential in the coming weeks and months, and while supporters may be divided over who they want out of Branthwaite and De Light, the Everton ace could be an outstanding addition for the next decade, and has been more of a regular at his club than the Dutchman of late.

Mats Hummels is considering bringing an end to his storied career amid a tumultuous start to his time at Roma.

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• Hummels has played 23 minutes for Roma
• Already working under third coach
• Considering January move or retirement

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  The 35-year-old has clocked just 23 minutes of playing time in Serie A since joining Roma in a free transfer following his departure from Borussia Dortmund. It has been a hectic time for the club, having already fired two coaches – Daniele De Rossi and Ivan Juric – this season as they sit 12th in the Italian top-flight with just three wins from 12 matches.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Hummels' lack of playing time and the chaos around the team has resulted in the centre-back considering his future, as reports he is willing to leave the club in the January transfer window. If no suitable offer arises, he could decide to hang up his boots.

• WHAT CLAUDIO RANIERI SAID

  Roma appointed Claudio Ranieri as the club's new coach and he has suggested Hummels will play a more prominent role from now on.

  "I watched a few games. But why shouldn't this boy play? Let's see, he's of a certain age too," Ranieri said in his first press conference as Roma boss. "I choose who makes me win, the good coach is the one who makes the fewest mistakes."

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  WHAT NEXT FOR HUMMELS?

  The former Germany star is yet to make a final decision on his future and may decide to stay if he plays more under Ranieri and results improve between now and January. The capital club face a massive test as they take on league leaders Napoli in their next game on November 24.

GOAL takes a look at the biggest storylines among Americans Abroad, including key matches in Serie A, Bundesliga and Eredivisie

International breaks are over for the foreseeable future, with the USMNT next set to take on Panama in the CONCACAF Nation's League seminfinals in March at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. As a result, this is not the last-minute frantic effort to impress Mauricio Pochettino time of year.

Instead, it's about individual quality, and surviving the chaos of the Christmas period in European football. It is a good thing, from an American point of view, that there are a number of names well-positioned to do so.

Leading the charge – at this moment – is not Christian Pulisic, but rather Ricardo Pepi. The PSV striker is in a rich vein of form, and should bounce Luuk de Jong from the lineup before too long. There's also Tim Weah, who in brief moments has been an attacking X-factor for Juventus – who look so solid defensively that they sometimes forget that you have to do things at the other end of the pitch. Also, a word for the Dortmund duo – yes, duo – with Gio Reyna returning to form and fitness to complement to exciting flashes shown by U.S. U19 international Cole Campbell.

It will all make for compelling watching, especially in Italy and Germany. The Serie A title race is razor-thin, while both Campbell and Reyna could have an opportunity to shake Bayern Munich's title charge in Der Klassiker on Saturday. GOAL US looks ahead at some of the biggest storylines to follow among Americans Abroad this weekend.

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  Ricardo Pepi, prolific goalscorer?

  Let's make something clear: Ricardo Pepi, in all likelihood, won't be playing for Liverpool next year. Nor will he be suiting up for the likes of Real Madrid, Bayern Munich or Manchester United. That is neither fair nor realistic. But if he keeps banging in goals at this rate, Pepi might just get a step up.

  The American has always run a bit hot and cold as a forward – it's why he burst onto the scene so quickly for the USMNT before falling out of favor. But the "hot" part has been running for more than just a few weeks now. Pepi hit the ground running to start the campaign, and hasn't really stopped.

  In August, the rhetoric was mostly around where Pepi's minutes would come from. These days, it's a question of why Luuk de Jong, the guy ahead of him in the striker rotation, starts any games at all when Pepi is right there.

  With 10 goals in 16 games, five in his last three, he's a constant threat up front. Pepi is in a fine run of form, and seems poised to continue that. PSV have second-place Utrecht – home to fellow American Paxten Aaronson – to worry about on Sunday. A win and they go eight points clear. Lose, and there's a title race in the Eredivisie. Pepi's inclusion, ideally from the beginning, could quite literally define where PSV's season goes from here.

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  Tim Weah to turn things around?

  We could have all seen this coming, right? Juventus, the team that concedes the fewest goals in Europe, and do everything humanly possible not to get hit on the counter-attack, spent their last two games playing out 0-0 draws against counter-attacking sides. Sure, there was hype leading up to Juventus' games against Milan and Aston Villa, but two scoreless draws were fairly easy to call (and likely won't concern Thiago Motta too much, either.)

  The issue is, those scoreless draws can't keep coming forever, and at some point some attacking intent has to emerge. Dusan Vlahovic, a well-rounded striker, is usually the guy to provide. But he is still recovering from an injury, and might not be fully sharp against Lecce on Sunday. Attention, then, turns to Weah, who has grabbed a few timely goals for Motta's side. The Serie A title race is a deviously packed affair, four points separating the top six teams. Win, and hope results elsewhere go their way, Juventus could finish the day in second.

  It will require, perhaps, just a bit more imagination in the final third. Weah, as he has shown for club and country, could be the man to provide it.

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  Christian Pulisic, superstar?

  Just when you thought Christian Pulisic has scored or assisted every kind of goal this season, he adds another to his locker. The latest addition to his fine collection came against Slovan Bratislava in the Champions League. The American saw a gap, waited momentarily for a pass, and darted onto a through ball before finishing into the bottom corner. Pace on the ball, and agility in small spaces, has always been Pulisic's thing. Pure speed? Maybe not so apparent.

  But it showed up all the same midweek. At times, it truly seems as if the American has carried Milan this season. And there's some accuracy to that sentiment. Rafael Leao might be the most overtly talented winger for the Rossonieri, but Pulisic is certainly the most materially impactful.

  Milan, at least in an attacking sense, will go as far as Pulisic can carry them. The next challenge is Empoli, a pesky mid-table side. Milan have won just two of their last five. Their opponents have just three Serie A wins all season. Pulisic needs to step up, again.

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  More minutes for Gio Reyna?

  Finally, Reyna returns. And he made it through 30 agreeable minutes as Dortmund won 3-0 in the Champions League midweek. There wasn't much to his performance, but there really didn't have to be. This is a footballer whose upper leg muscles are so fragile that minutes, not performances, mean more.

  There is also perhaps the harsh reality that with the rise of exciting teenage winger Cole Campbell that Reyna is no longer the most relevant American for the German side.

  Either way, it would appear likely that Reyna will have another chance to impress this weekend. A start in Der Klassiker against Bayern Munich would be an immense surprise. Reyna isn't fit enough for a game of this magnitude. But if there ever was a time for him to come off the bench, impact a game, and perform a bit of casual miracle working, it is this weekend. Expectations should be tamed, but Reyna's return could take a leap on Saturday.

West Bromwich Albion fans will be eagerly awaiting the start of the next Championship season now, hopeful that their side can push on, dust themselves down after play-off disappointment last campaign, and go again in the promotion spaces near the top of the division.

They could well have to put together another promotion push without the likes of John Swift or Okay Yokuslu present, who both look likely to leave the Hawthorns at some point this summer, but there should still be enough in the tank from the Baggies' perspective to dream about a Premier League return again.

Brandon Thomas-Asante will hope he can have a positive season in front of goal after struggling for consistency at points last campaign.

But, if the ex-Salford City forward does continue to find himself falling victim to barren patches of form, Carlos Corberan could utilise a new attacker in his place.

West Brom interested in £0 centre-forward

As per the Daily Mail, West Brom are eyeing up a £0 swoop for recently released striker Tyrese Campbell, who was let go of by his long-standing ex-employers Stoke City this summer.

It was an injury-ravaged season last time out for the 24-year-old, but his previous goalscoring exploits for the Potters when fully fit means many an EFL suitor are willing to take a risk, with Sheffield United, Cardiff City, Preston North End and many more Championship outfits waiting to pounce on the free agent's services ahead of the Baggies.

What Campbell can offer West Brom

Campbell could well fancy a switch to the West Midlands to link up with Tom Fellows, who has been devastatingly effective rampaging forward for Corberan's men ever since he was given his first big break by the Spaniard.

Linking up with the homegrown Baggies product week in week out could see Campbell find his shooting boots again as well, with Thomas-Asante fearing for his concrete starting spot if the 24-year-old is a success donning his new West Brom jersey.

Despite only featuring 23 times last season for the Potters, the forward would still chip in with some vital strikes, including the one above against Southampton which meant Stoke were safe as a Championship side for another season.

In total, across 164 Stoke clashes, Campbell would bag 36 strikes and amass 21 assists, with a flexibility in his locker to play down the right or left wing if needed.

The attacker could be licking his lips at the prospect of lining up alongside the aforementioned Fellows to truly kickstart his career again, therefore, with the dynamic 21-year-old only really getting started last season with this impressive output.

Creating eight big chances in total, it wouldn't be a shock to see Fellows' assist haul of three from last campaign be increased this forthcoming season, especially if Campbell – who was previously labelled as a "great finisher" by former Potters boss Michael O'Neill – is firing on all cylinders again and free of his recurring injury demons.

Away from the exuberant Baggies number 31, the likes of Jed Wallace and Grady Diangana to name just a few will also be eager to tee up the 24-year-old for chances galore to get his career back on track, as West Brom aim to become an entertaining outfit to watch on the way to another promotion charge happening.

West Brom could sign amazing Swift replacement who outscored Thomas-Asante

West Bromwich Albion would feel more comfortable ditching John Swift with this arrival joining.

By
Kelan Sarson

Jul 19, 2024

Vanney completed yet another strong rebuild with Galaxy after previously bringing Toronto FC to summit

CARSON, Calif. — Prior to Saturday's MLS Cup final, there had been just three league coaches who had led multiple clubs to titles: Bruce Arena, Caleb Porter and Sigi Schmid. Greg Vanney can now add his name to that list.

Vanney guided the LA Galaxy to a dramatic 2-1 win over the New York Red Bulls Saturday, cementing the team's MLS-record sixth title. Equally as impressive is in the manner in which LA secured it. The scored a record 18 goals en route to their postseason success. This all came one year removed from the Galaxy being the second-worst team in the Western Conference, due to injuries and a transfer ban.

If it sounds familiar, it should.

Vanney experienced similar success with Toronto FC as their head coach, lifting another ambitious team with middling results to the top of the league. And the playoff record of goals scored was previously held by none other than the Vanney's Reds in 2016, which had 17 before bowing out in the MLS Cup final that year on penalties. The coach, who was then on his first lead job, would deliver Toronto FC its first title in 2017.

"This is also why I do it, to try to win championships, try to continue to push this league forward in any way I can," Vanney said about his second title.

While Vanney isn't often mentioned among the elite American soccer coaches, his track record would suggest otherwise. Here's a look at how he was able to turn around two struggling franchises with deep pockets.

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  Finding the right pieces

  The past decade for the LA Galaxy was unprecedented, for all of the wrong reasons. The team missed the playoffs three times and recorded its two of its lowest point totals during that period: 22 in a COVID-shortened 2020 season, 36 last season. This was despite having big name players such as Javier "Chicharito" Hernandez and Christian Pavon.

  To put that into perspective, in the 18 years of the Galaxy's existence prior, LA had won five titles and missed the playoffs just three times – a dark patch between 2006-09. Otherwise, this was a team defined by its excellence.

  Vanney arrival came following the disappointing 2020 season after the franchise fired Guillermo Barros Schelotto. A former LA Galaxy player from 1996-01, Vanney insisted he wanted to take a holistic approach towards getting the team back to its best.

  “It felt for years, from an outside perspective, as a former Galaxy player who always watched the club, that the club was sort of chasing that next championship one year at a time instead of building that infrastructure” said Vanney when he was hired by the club. “I felt like that was one of the things that we needed to do as well. We need to lay the groundwork.”

  Due to injuries to Hernandez in 2021 and 2023, along with a transfer ban in the latter year, the Galaxy failed to make the playoffs in both of those years. However, with a healthy roster in 2022, the team finished fourth in the Western Conference and made a run to the quarterfinals.

  Instead of focusing on the threadbare years, the organization decided to seek the managers' input on the types of players he needed to be successful.

  "We didn't necessarily go look for guys with big names and huge careers already and that are kind of behind them," Vanney said. "We went for guys that are hungry and super talented and athletic and fit our style of play."

  As a result, the Galaxy became the first team in MLS history to feature four players who all scored 10 or more goals in a single season in Gabriel Pec, Dejan Joveljić, Riqui Puig and Joseph Paintsil – with Pec and Paintsil's arrivals this season spurring that change.

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  Another gamble that pays off

  Vanney's approach on the pitch is all about attacking and being proactive, risks be damned. He has also shown a willingness to make bold decisions in lining up his team.

  After a week of speculation over who would replaced the injured Puig, which was partially fueled by the coach naming Diego Fagundez and Marco Reus as potential options, Vanney pulled the ultimate poker move by handing Puig's significant playmaking to Gaston Brugman.

  Brugman set the tone for the Saturday's win early on with a masterful assist to Paintsil in the 10th minute. The Uruguayan midfielder also put in a shift in midfield, winning tackles and continuing to make sure that the Galaxy got into dangerous positions throughout the game. In match that featured European internationals in Emil Forsberg and Dante Vanzeir for the Red Bulls and LA's well-known stars, it was Brugman who would be the final's best player – taking home MVP honors.

  "For me, it was, it was coming down to the battles in the midfield, the competitive side, the ability to, again, just win the middle of the park against a team like that – especially early in the game, when they usually like to have it really like fast and pressing and disruptive," Vanney said of the decision. "Gaston was able to step in win balls. He played an incredible pass through the lines. I mean, he was a warrior in both directions, and I'm happy for him."

  The roster construction and making bold decisions on the biggest stages are all traits that Vanney showed during his success in Toronto as well.

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  The Toronto FC blueprint

  Vanney was thrust into his first coaching job during a nightmare season for Toronto FC. The team went on a $100 million spending spree that included bringing in England international Jermain Defoe, U.S. international Michael Bradley, Brazil No. 1 keeper Julio Cesar and local Canadian legend Dwayne De Rosario. Despite all of the buzz, Toronto slugged to a 9-9-6 record under previous coach Ryan Nelsen.

  Vanney, who was previously the club's academy director, was promoted and although the team would not make the playoffs this season. He outlined what needed to change.

  “I think we need to change the energy, be more aggressive, be potentially less careful about making mistakes and looking to be more aggressive," he said. “Over the last several games, we’ve looked energy-less. I think our team is at its best when we’re out and we’re sprinting and we’re running and we’re getting after other teams.”

  In the 2015 season, working in tandem with the front office, Vanney got players who better fit his approach — finding stars who fit his athletic and energetic style of play in Jozy Altidore and a player who has some similarities to Pec in then-star Sebastian Giovinco.

  And then the attacking brand of football Vanney has become known for started to take shape. Toronto was among the top five teams in scoring during his first four years as manager, with the 2017's 74 goals the fourth-most in MLS history. Similar to his time in LA, he also made bold calls.

  He drafted Marky Delgado and made him a key figure in Toronto's midfield. After failing to use the then-young player in the 2016 playoffs, Vanney rectified the mistake in 2017 – making the midfielder a vital cog of a team headlined by Bradley, Giovinco and Altidore.

  Toronto FC was a consistent contender under Vanney, before the coach stepped down in 2020. They have not been to the playoffs since his exit and have had several seasons near the bottom of the league.

  "My decision to leave Toronto was not an easy one," Vanney said in his pre MLS Cup press conference Friday. "I mean, even the season I left, we were competing for the Supporters' Shield to the last year, right? I love those guys, and I love the people there….I learned, I think, a lot of things, but really the challenge [of] those things, is to do it again somewhere else and have to rebuild it."

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• Future is bright in LA

  When he compares Toronto and LA, he can also see some of the similarities.

  "I don't think it's that different," Vanney said Friday. "I mean, again, what I would say is the group of players is different, and the group of players in Toronto was more experienced in the grand scheme of things."

  Now, reflecting on this title in LA, Vanney doesn't shy away from what this all means.

  "This is kind of the stamp that we're back," Vanney proclaimed following LA's win. "At the Galaxy, it's about winning championships. And I think that was going into this week, that was the thing – like, we've proven, I think, that we're back as an organization, and now it's to prove that we're back as champions, and we're on top again. And these guys did it, and they sent them, cemented their legacy. A club with incredible history and legacy And I'm proud of them."

  Vanney can count himself as one of the league's best title-team builders. He's earned it.

West Brom have hijacked another Championship club's move for a 25-year-old defender and a medical is now imminent, according to an exciting update from reliable journalist Gianluca Di Marzio.

West Brom transfer news

The Baggies are preparing for their opening game of the 2024/25 season this weekend, with a trip to Queens Park Rangers kicking off their campaign on Saturday lunchtime. Carlos Corberan's men will again be hoping to finish in the playoff positions, at worst, with automatic promotion the primary aim.

For that to happen, some more new signings will be needed before the summer transfer window reaches its conclusion, and a number of players have been linked with switches to the Hawthorns in recent times. One such figure is midfielder Besard Sabovic, with a formal offer already made for the 26-year-old.

Meanwhile, Standard Liege and Northern Ireland youngster Isaac Price has been touted as an exciting long-term option for West Brom, as he potentially looks to seal a return to England this summer. He moved to Belgium from Everton last year, having spent 12 years in the youth system at Goodison Park before deciding a move abroad was best for his development.

Leicester City attacker Thomas Cannon is also being looked at by the Baggies, according to recent claims, with the 21-year-old unlikely to earn regular playing time for the Foxes, following their return to the Premier League. A loan move looks most likely, allowing him a year to hone his skills elsewhere.

West Brom hijack move for 25-year-old

According to Sky Italy's Di Marzio, West Brom are now set to pip QPR for the free signing of left-back Gianluca Frabotta, having hijacked the Championship rival's move for him, adding an extra edge to their weekend clash.

The 25-year-old is expected to undergo a medical in London on Tuesday, sealing a 3-year move from Juventus and strengthening the Baggies' left-back options in the process. His contract is ready to sign on the dotted line and his agent has also travelled to complete the deal, while Juve will keep a 20 per cent sell-on clause in his contract.

It looks as though the Baggies have won the race to sign the Italian, in what could be an exciting piece of business for Corberan. Frabotta is at an ideal age to come in and hit the ground running, possessing enough experience but also still having plenty of years ahead of him in his career.

He has made 18 appearances for Juventus despite spending most of his career on various loans, which says a lot about his pedigree, and he has also been capped for Italy at four different youth age groups at international level.

The fact that West Brom are beating another Championship team to the left-back's services makes it all the more sweet, and the hope is that he comes straight in as a key squad player, providing much-needed depth in his position at the same time.

GOAL US discusses which Americans need a move, which should be in January camp, and who is the 2025 MLS Cup favorite?

MLS season is over, and after all the twists and turns, the most well constructed team won it. Yes, Inter Miami had Leo Messi. Yes, Columbus Crew were managed by Wilfried Nancy. And we know, Olivier Giroud forgot how to play soccer for a while. But the Galaxy had a crucial consistency about them, which was enough – even when they lost their best player to a serious knee injury in the Western Conference final.

Elsewhere, attention turns to the Americans abroad. There are some real talents that could do with a move this January, and the transfer rumor mill will undoubtedly churn in the coming weeks. Gio Reyna for one, Matt Turner for another, are among those who should be looking for ways out.

Meanwhile, there's a January USMNT camp to think about. It's not a FIFA window, which means some big names will be out. So it might be an opportunity for some to step into the fold – and prove they might just have a place at the highest level under new coach Mauricio Pochettino.

GOAL US breaks it all down in the latest edition of… The Rondo.

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  Which American, beyond Gio Reyna, needs a club move?

  Tom Hindle: For the love of God, someone get Matt Turner out of London. The USMNT goalie clearly doesn't have a Premier League suitor and THAT IS OK! But he really needs to be getting reps, especially if he's going to be Mauricio Pochettino's No. 1 for the USMNT going forward. It doesn't matter if he has to go to the Championship, or even abroad, the guy just needs to play football. A word, too, for Yunus Musah, who could really do with consistent minutes (he's certainly good enough).

  Jacob Schneider: Brandon Vazquez definitely needs a move. He's too talented to be riding the bench at Monterrey – even if German Berterame moves in January, too. A move to San Jose under Bruce Arena could prove to be incredible for his development. Another shout is youngster Rokas Pukstas. He's continually elevated his game in Croatia with Hadjuk Split, and is being touted for his senior debut in 2025. Now is the time to make the move to ensure that.

  Ryan Tolmich: It's odd because, at the moment, there really aren't many glaring issues for USMNT stars. Several made moves during the summer. Aside from Reyna, the ones that didn't are generally playing and playing well. Some, like Ricardo Pepi and Johnny Cardoso, look set for a move up the ladder, but that won't come until the summer. Neither would a move for Gianluca Busio, who has proven that he shouldn't go down with the ship at Venezia. This winter, largely, is about MLS players going abroad, if anything, so keep an eye on guys like John Tolkin as they look to take a leap.

  Alex Labidou: Musah DESPERATELY needs a move. It hasn't been all bad for the 22-year-old, and he's seen an uptick in starts recently with three in Milan's last four games. Yet, it seems as if Musah's inclusion is putting a square peg in a round hole. According to , Musah has played six positions under new manager Paulo Fonseca and that lack of consistency is likely affecting his confidence on a club level. He has loads of potential as a deep-lying midfielder or a right-sided playmaker, but he's not going to properly develop unless he goes to a situation where he is more valued and his skills are better utilized. His mistake in the Champions League against FK Crvena Zvezda shows a player who needs to get back some confidence. Hopefully, he'll find a better situation in January.

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  Which CONCACAF player could use a change of clubs?

  TH: It seems like the Jonathan David move has been coming for some time, right? The Canadian is too good for Lille and it wouldn't be a surprise to see an Arsenal, for example, come for him next summer.

  JS: David is the only answer here. He is too talented for Lille. He has the goal-scoring prowess to be playing with a top-six club in the Premier League, or top-four in Spain, Germany or Italy.

  RT: Is it finally time for David? There isn't much left to prove in Ligue 1 and, if the rumor mill is to be believed, big clubs have been eyeing him for some time now. It seems as if it's getting close to time to make that move, although it has to be the right one given the upcoming World Cup. David has the potential to be a top striker, but he needs to find a club that allows him to be that. Maybe the best way to do it is to stay at Lille, but fortune favors the bold.

  AL: Everyone is talking up Viktor Gyokeres as the most in-form striker right now, and with just reason, but David isn't too far behind and is doing it in a more competitive league. David has 15 goals overall this season and Lille has surprisingly been one of the best teams in the Champions League, sitting eighth above teams like Bayern, Juventus and Gyokeres's Sporting. It would be exciting to envision David on a team such as Arsenal, who needs more of a clinical edge, or maybe Chelsea, who could add a piece to challenge Nico Jackson when needed. David's done everything he can do in Lille, it's time to take the next step.

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  Which uncapped player deserves a nod from Pochettino?

  TH: Tough one, because it seems like everyone who should have a cap has already earned one. Even the fringe guys got some love in Gregg Berhalter's final days. To be honest, the January camp seems like a good opportunity to play the kids. A good shout is Caden Clark, who seems to have fallen out of the picture after such a promising youth career. Throw him into a pretty low stakes camp against experienced players and see how he fares. Also worth taking a proper look at Diego Luna – even if U.S. soccer doesn't get on with him, for some reason.

  JS: Daniel Edelman of the New York Red Bulls comes to mind, while other MLS midfielders Leon Flach, Hassani Dotson and Quinn Sullivan come to mind. One to keep an eye on is Clark, who found some form late in 2024 after a midseason transfer to CF Montreal. The one that makes the most sense though is Luna. Arguably the most talented American prospect in MLS in his age group, he was MLS' Young Player of the Year in 2024 and has been linked with a transfer abroad. Get him into the team before Mexico comes swooping.

  RT: We're all about rewarding good performances in January Camp, and it's about time that Matt Freese got his chance. He was one of the best goalkeepers in MLS but, despite playing in New York, has widely been overlooked. He's exactly the type of player that January camp is designed for – desperate for a chance. We'll see if he gets it, but based on his play in MLS, he's earned the look.

  AL: As much as an answer such as Cavan Sullivan would be fun and intriguing, this January camp actually means something as Pochettino has very limited windows to find his squad, and also learn about players in MLS. So how about Cavan's brother Quinn? Lost amid all of the hype for his 15-year-old brother, Quinn can actually ball. And if the Union weren't so inconsistent last year, we'd be talking about him more. While Quinn plays in two positions the U.S. is stacked – attacking mid and wing – there's no such thing as having too much attacking talent in the national team pool. Quinn deserves a look. And if we want to give the other side of the spectrum some love, why not throw a cap out there for Brad Guzan? Until Turner is No. 1 at his own club, the goalkeeper position is a question mark – and Guzan was the hottest in the MLS postseason. Yes, he's 40. Sure, he's a known commodity with 64 caps. But is he as good, or even better than, say Patrick Schulte or Zack Steffen? Won't know unless you take a look.

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• Are LA Galaxy favorites to repeat as MLS Cup winners?

  TH: Nah. They're going to get absolutely gutted this winter. Gabriel Pec is surely off to Europe, or maybe even Brazil. Riqui Puig will miss most of next season with his knee injury. It's also unclear how Marco Reus' body can deal with a full MLS campaign. Plus, if Miami retool properly, and buy some actual MLS players, they're streets clear of everyone else.

  JS: Nope, because no matter what coach Greg Vanney says, Pec will be gone in 2025. He is too talented and money talks in this league. Europe should be pouncing on him come January, and as a result, the LA attack won't be as connected in 2025. That, and the favorites are still Inter Miami. Lionel Messi is Lionel Messi, and for as long as he plays, he will be the favorite.

  RT: Logic would say yes, given the pieces, but we all know MLS doesn't operate on logic. The recent trend in MLS is teams going from missing the playoffs to MLS Cup contenders, so every team will head into next season with legitimate trophy dreams. Even so, it's hard to look past teams such as LAFC and Inter Miami, who will reload and retool to go after MLS Cup. Becuause of that, while the Galaxy are among the favorites, they're probably third or fourth on the list.

  AL: The Galaxy built their squad in the right way, adding really dynamic young wing players to go along with battle-tested MLS ones. Their performance in the first half of the MLS Cup was up there among MLS finalists. But as long as Messi is in MLS and the young pieces around him take a step forward – looking at you Benjamin Cremaschi – Inter Miami are the favorites. Also if LAFC somehow get Antoine Griezmann, they once again probably are the best team in the City of Angels.

Kalvin Phillips is a player who has constantly been linked with a move to Everton this summer as Sean Dyche looks to provide added quality and depth to his midfield.

The Manchester City talent, who cost Pep Guardiola’s side £45m back in 2022, has failed to make an impact at the Etihad, featuring just 31 times for the club – costing them £1.4m per appearance.

He was subsequently sent on loan to West Ham United in January for the second half of the 2023/24 campaign, but could only muster ten appearances – in another unsuccessful stint in the Premier League.

Given his recent drop in form, it would certainly be a risk to sign the 28-year-old with the Toffees undoubtedly having to contribute a large portion of his £150k-per-week wages should they sign him on a temporary basis.

As a result, the club could look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements, potentially reigniting interest in one talent who’s previously been on their radar.

Everton could land £17m midfield sensation

In recent weeks, numerous midfielders have been linked with a move to Merseyside, including Colombian talent Richard Rios.

The 24-year-old, who plies his trade for Palmeiras in Brazil, has also been subject to interest from Manchester United as Erik ten Hag aims to rebuild his squad ahead of the upcoming campaign.

It’s previously been reported that Rios could be available at around the £17m mark this window, with Everton undoubtedly able to pay the rumoured price tag after the £50m departure of Amadou Onana to Aston Villa.

Whilst they face competition from one of the biggest clubs in the division, he would be an excellent addition, potentially being the Toffees’ version of a talent who cost over £100m.

Why Rios could be like Caicedo for Everton

12 months ago, Moises Caicedo caught the eye of almost every football fan, with his eye-watering £115m move to Chelsea from Brighton.

The Ecuadorian arrived in England as an unknown quantity, but a few years on from his move, he’s now one of the leading midfielders in England’s top flight – as his transfer fee suggests.

However, when comparing his stats from this summer’s Copa América, he was unable to get the better of Rios in multiple key areas – with FBref ranking the pair as similar players – ensuring Everton can potentially grab themselves a bargain.

The Colombian averaged 2.2 progressive carries per 90, along with 3.6 successful take-ons – backing up analyst Ben Mattinson’s description of Rios as a “ball-carrying machine”.

He also matched the Chelsea man with his passing, achieving the same pass accuracy rate, whilst averaging the same amount of passes into the opposition’s penalty area.

Whilst it’s unknown if a deal could still be completed after their previous interest, his form at the Copa América is evidence of the quality he possesses, with the Toffees needing to make a move to secure his services.

The loss of Onana will undoubtedly hurt Dyche’s side, but, although they possess different styles of play, Rios has the ability to be a real hit at Goodison Park.

Everton battling to sign "freak" £10m talent who's better than Onana

The club are looking to replace the Belgian who departed Goodison this summer.

By
Ethan Lamb

Aug 7, 2024

Carlo Ancelotti scripted history as Real Madrid won the inaugural Intercontinental Cup in Doha, beating Mexican side Pachuca in the final.

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• Ancelotti created history as Madrid boss
• Real Madrid won the inaugural Intercontinental Cup
• Picked win over Liverpool as one of his most memorable moments

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  Ancelotti became the most successful Real Madrid manager in history as he won his 15th title, thereby surpassing club legend Miguel Munoz's tally. The Spanish champions thrashed Liga MX side Pachuca 3-0 in the final of the inaugural Intercontinental Cup on Wednesday courtesy of goals from Kylian Mbappe, Rodrygo and Vinicius Jr.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  This was Real Madrid's fifth trophy of the 2024 calendar year and after winning the Intercontinental Cup, the Italian coach was on cloud nine. When asked about the most memorable titles he had won at Santiago Bernabeu, the 65-year-old picked La Decima from his first stint and the Champions League win over Liverpool in 2022.

• WHAT CARLO ANCELOTTI SAID

  Speaking to reporters in his post-match press conference, the Madrid boss said: "It's difficult to say, but the La Decima was special for me and for Madrid. Also, the Champions League win in Paris. If I had to choose, it was these two."

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  WHAT NEXT FOR REAL MADRID?

  Ancelotti's side will play their final game of 2024 on Sunday as they take on Sevilla before La Liga comes to a halt due to the winter break in Spain.