Nottingham Forest “want to do a deal” for an “amazing” Liverpool player, with the Reds now “willing” to sanction a departure this summer, according to former scout Mick Brown.
Forest set for Europa Conference League campaign
After spending large parts of the season in the top five, Forest will no doubt be disappointed to have missed out on the Champions League, but the 2024-25 campaign still has to go down as a success for Nuno’s side.
The Tricky Trees have sealed a return to Europe for the first time since 1996, and West Ham United’s victory in the 2023 Europa Conference League final suggests Nuno’s men will also be able to be competitive in the competition next season.
However, a European campaign comes with a more congested fixture list, which means it will be important for Nuno to improve his squad depth in the summer transfer window, and there is a desire to bring in a new defender.
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Indeed, according to Brown, in an interview with Football Insider, Nottingham Forest are now interested in signing Liverpool centre-back Jarell Quansah this summer.
The former scout said: “Nottingham Forest are one of the sides interested in Quansah. Whether it’s a permanent move or a loan, they want to do a deal.
“From what I hear, Liverpool and the manager would be willing to let him go on loan, and a loan spell is exactly what he needs.
“At Forest, he’d have to step up and be counted, which would be good for his game. They want to strengthen their squad to prepare for competing in Europe, and he’s on their radar.“
Forest move could be ideal for "amazing" Quansah
The 22-year-old played a role in Liverpool’s Premier League title triumph last season, making 25 appearances in all competitions, but he predominantly deputised for Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, finding it extremely difficult to dislodge the centre-back duo.
As the Warrington-born defender is now at an age where he needs to be playing regular football, it could make sense to leave the Reds this summer, and a move to the City Ground would allow him to continue playing in Europe for a big club.
There are signs the Englishman may have a lot to offer Forest too, having been lauded by teammate Alexis Mac Allister, who said: “He was amazing. The job he did with Virg [Virgil van Dijk] is so important for the team because it gives us that calmness that we need to play football. “Even on the ball he was amazing. Very happy and very glad for him.”
Having also received an endorsement from Arne Slot, Liverpool may be unwilling to cash-in on Quansah for good this summer, but a move is not completely ruled out, with a £50m fee touted.
A whopping 102 days on from Philippe Clement’s sacking at Ibrox in February, Rangers finally have their man.
On Thursday morning, Russell Martin was unveiled as the 20th permanent manager in Rangers’ 153-year history, and he has a big job on his hands.
Southampton manager Russell Martin.
His first competitive fixture in charge of the Gers, coming up on 22/23 July, will be a big one, as his new team face a Champions League qualifier, ten days before the start of the new Premiership campaign.
The identity of their opponents will be confirmed on 18 June.
So, with plenty of work to do before then, we look at a dream line-up Martin could field when he takes charge at Ibrox for the very first time next month.
1 GK: Liam Kelly
One of the first major decisions Martin will have to make straight away is picking a number one goalkeeper.
After arriving in 2023, Jack Butland was the undisputed first-choice for so long, starting 100 of 109 matches across all competitions, that is until a string of errors saw him dropped by Barry Ferguson back in April.
Thus, Liam Kelly came in for the Europa League quarter-final against Athletic Club, memorably saving Álex Berenguer’s late penalty in front of the Broomloan Road Stand, preserving a goalless draw on the night.
Thus, Kelly concluded the campaign as the number one, doing very little to suggest he was not worthy of that jersey, meaning the gloves are currently his to lose, even if Butland will certainly fight for his place.
2 RB: James Tavernier
James Tavernier is a bona fide Rangers legend, having made 513 appearances since arriving from Wigan Athletic a decade ago; only ten men have featured on more occasions for the club than the current captain.
Now 33 years old, his position did come under some scrutiny last season, hence why interim boss Ferguson trialled him as both a wing-back and a right-sided centre-back in a three.
Nevertheless, in Martin’s system that prioritises possession, Tavernier will be able to operate high-and-wide, providing him with a platform to get back to his best.
3 CB: Harry Darling – new signing
Rangers surely need to bolster their centre-back options this summer, so could they sign a player the new boss knows rather well?
Robin Pröpper did not impress much after arriving a year ago, while Leon Balogun cannot be relied upon week in week out, as he’s now 36 years old, so could Harry Darling be the new central defender the Light Blues are looking for?
The 25-year-old played for Martin at Milton Keynes, before he also signed him after joining Swansea City, which is where Darling has been ever since, making 112 appearances to date for the Welsh EFL Championship outfit.
Reports have suggested that Martin would like Rangers to make a move for Darling this summer, who is out of contract in South Wales, thereby available for free, so could the prospect of reuniting with his former boss once more convince him to choose a move to Govan?
4 CB: John Souttar
John Souttar
Alongside, John Souttar was indisputably Rangers’ best defender last season, with Scotland captain Andy Robertson describing his performances as “unbelievable” and “different class”, adding that he “showed his quality”, following the Dark Blues’ 2-1 victory over Poland in Warsaw in November.
The 28-year-old, who has endured such horrendous luck with injury throughout his career, suffering two anterior cruciate ligament injuries, managed to start 38 games in all competitions last season, racking up over 3,400 minutes, the most in a single campaign of his entire professional career.
Thus, Souttar was a reliable figure, both in terms of performance and availability, so should be a central pillar for Martin.
5 LB: Rıdvan Yılmaz
Ridvan Yilmaz
Left-backs Rıdvan Yılmaz and Jefté appeared to have some sort of timeshare agreement last season, but most would agree which of the pair impressed more.
The Türkiye international did have to deal with various injury issues throughout the campaign, but did impress when available, with then-manager Ferguson stating “he’s become a big player”, adding “he’s one player I can rely on”.
Still only 24 years old, Yılmaz has the potential to get even better too, so he can be trusted to start on the left side.
6 CM: Metinho – new signing
According to widespread reports, including by the Daily Record, Rangers are interested in signing midfielder Metinho, claiming that the 22-year-old is valued at £5m by his parent club Troyes, who are owned by the City Football Group.
The defensive midfielder spent the second half of last season on loan at Basel, helping the RotBlau win the Swiss Super League and Coupe de Suisse double, starting as they beat FC Biel-Bienne in the final of the latter in Bern last Sunday.
He has previously been nicknamed ‘the Brazilian Paul Pogba’ due to their stylistic similarities, while Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout believes he is “very talented”, suggesting Metinho would be worth spending £5m on.
7 CM: Nicolas Raskin
Rangers’ Player of the Season, and rightly so, was Nicolas Raskin, so keeping hold of the Belgian international this summer will be vitally important.
Former manager Philippe Clement stated recently that his compatriot “would fit perfectly in the Premier League”, with Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider having previously documented Leeds United’s interest, following their promotion.
Nevertheless, if the Gers harbour any hopes of negotiating Champions League qualifying, and ultimately wrestling the title away from Celtic, they simply cannot afford sell the Belgian.
8 CM: Mohamed Diomandé
Mohammed Diomande
Another Rangers midfielder earning admiring glances from south of the border is Mohamed Diomandé, with TEAMtalk claiming that Everton are one of six Premier League outfits chasing the Côte d’Ivoire international’s signature.
The 23-year-old racked up 54 appearances across all competitions last season, scoring six times, including in the League Cup Final against Celtic, as well as during the 4-1 Europa League demolition of Nice by the French Riviera.
Ivory Coast manager Emerse Faé praised Diomandé’s “great season”, with the midfielder having become a regular for les Éléphants during the last year, so he is one Martin will want to build around.
9 RW: Largie Ramazani – new signing
In search of greater attacking firepower, could Rangers’ new owners use their connections to get this deal over the line?
49ers Enterprises have now completed their takeover of Rangers, and they also own Leeds United, with Paraag Marathe the Chairman at Elland Road.
Thus, according to reports, they are planning to use this connection to make a move for Largie Ramazani, who is expected to leave Leeds this summer, having seen only 963 minutes of action during his debut campaign in West Yorkshire, starting a mere 17 EFL Championship fixtures.
Before that however, the winger had impressed at Almería, with Karim Bouaicha of Breaking the Lines describing him as a breakout star in La Liga, adding that he possesses the quality to perform at a “high level” in one of Europe’s best leagues, hence why Leeds paid a reported £10m to sign him in the first place, but could Rangers secure a cut-price deal?
10 ST: Jamie Vardy – new signing
In potentially one of the blockbuster signings of the summer, could Jamie Vardy be heading north of Hadrian’s Wall?
Now 38 years old, the striker has left Leicester City, having scored exactly 200 goals in 500 appearances for the Foxes, very aesthetically pleasing numbers for fans of symmetry, with whom he won the Premier League title and the FA Cup.
Now, reports, via the Daily Mail, claim that Rangers are one of the clubs in contention to sign Vardy and, despite his age, he’d surely score a bucket load of goals in Scotland.
The 2025/26 campaign will be all change for Wolverhampton Wanderers. After a strong end to last season for Vitor Pereira’s side, the Old Gold promptly lost their two biggest names, Matheus Cunha, who switched to Manchester United and Rayan Ait-Nouri, who joined their rivals, Manchester City.
Now, the West Midlands side will have to recruit well and pick themselves up to build on what was an impressive end to the season. Under Pereira, they went from relegation candidates to one of the inform sides, going unbeaten in eight of the final 11 top-flight games.
The transfer window reopens on Monday, giving Wolves the chance to reshape their squad ahead of a huge campaign in 2025/26. Here is a look at their dream lineup next season, with some of those potential new additions.
1 GK – Jose Sa
The man between the sticks once again next term for the Old Gold will surely be Jose Sa. The Portugal international just won the Nations League for the second time with his country, and will surely be hoping to carry that form into the new Premier League season.
Last campaign, Sa started off shakily and was actually dropped from the starting lineup by former boss Gary O’Neil. However, his performances picked up, and he ended the season with seven clean sheets to his name in 29 games.
2 CB – Santiago Bueno
Santiago Bueno
Santiago Bueno’s future at Molineux isn’t as clear-cut as others in this side. Wolves may well recruit at centre-back, but with the need to replace Cunha and Ait-Nouri, they might not have the money left over.
The Uruguay international played 29 games in the Premier League last season, but his involvement definitely decreased under Pereira. However, his performance at Old Trafford at the end of the campaign was described as “assured” by journalist Liam Keen. Perhaps the new boss will have seen enough promise in that to show faith.
3 CB – Toti
Toti Gomes warming up for Wolverhampton Wanderers.
A key man at the back for the Old Gold last season was Toti, and it seems like he will be one of their first-choice defenders again in 2025/26. His role in this side is as the central centre-back in Pereira’s back-three system.
Last season, Toti, who has also played international football for Portugal, made 31 Premier League appearances. He also captained the side in their penultimate game of the season, showing excellent leadership skills and trust from the manager.
4 CB – Emmanuel Agbadou
A January addition for the Old Gold, Emmanuel Agbadou, was impressive during his first few months in the Premier League. He played 18 times in all competitions, helping his side to five clean sheets and even managing to get himself on the scoresheet.
He has certainly made a great impression during his short stint in the West Midlands. Journalist Nathan Judah said he was “one of the signings of the season” before going on to say that “he looks so comfortable” playing in the English top flight. A great start to life at Molineux.
5 RWB – Nelson Semedo
It is imperative for Wolves that they manage to keep Nelson Semedo at Molineux this summer. The club “have made an offer” to their captain, with his contract set to expire in a few months time. They can’t afford to lose such an experienced player.
Semedo was crucial for both O’Neil and Pereira last term, taking over the captaincy halfway through and dealing with that situation admirably. He played 34 Premier League games and grabbed four assists. Given this is a dream lineup, let’s assume he chooses to stay in the West Midlands. He would certainly be a huge loss.
6 CM – Andre
After his summer move to Molineux from Fluminense last summer, Andre really grew into his role in that Wolves midfield. Football analyst Ben Mattinson said he “quietly had a really good season” for the Old Gold, praising him for his technical ability in possession. As per FBref, he averaged 3.96 progressive passes per game, highlighting exactly what Mattinson meant.
In total, the Brazilian, who is a full international for his country, made 33 Premier League appearances last season. He played 90 minutes on 11 occasions under Pereira, showing just how much he trusts the midfielder.
7 CM – Joao Gomes
Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes
The other half of Wolves’ Brazilian pivot is Joao Gomes. The former Flamengo man was a key member of the Old Gold midfield, playing 36 games and using his extra attacking responsibility well, scoring three goals and grabbing an assist.
If some of Andre’s statistics stand out, then Gomes’ certainly do. He played the most progressive passes among his teammates last season, with 165, and topped the charts for tackles and interceptions, with 141, just pipping Andre in second, who notched up 128. That is a midfield pairing that will be crucial to Wolves’ success next season.
Progressive passes
165
1st
Passes into final third
122
1st
Tackles and interceptions
141
1st
Ball recoveries
200
1st
Progressive carries
59
4th
8 LWB – Gerard Martin
Finally, we reach the first new signing of this Wolves dream lineup. That man is Barcelona left-back Gerard Martin. According to a report from one Spanish news outlet, the Old Gold have ‘expressed interest’ in signing Martin this summer. They suggest that an offer of £10m or more would be enough to convince the La Liga champions to sell him.
Make no mistake about it, Martin would have a tough job on his hands, replacing Ait-Nouri, “the best left back” in the Premier League, according to Wolves man Jean-Ricner Bellegarde. However, he has been in and around a fantastic environment at Barca, and played an important role under Hansi Flick last term.
In total, the 23-year-old featured 42 times for the club last season, grabbing three assists, including two against Inter in the Champions League semi-final. With the quality of delivery on show from Martin, it surely showcases just how deadly he can be as a wing-back.
9 RAM – Bilal El Khannouss
Leicester City's BilalElKhannoussin action
The second new signing in this dream Wolves side is Leicester City star Bilal El Khannouss. GiveMeSport reported at the end of May that the Old Gold ‘have set their sights on making a move’ for the Morocco star ‘as a direct replacement for Cunha’. It is a deal that could cost them upwards of £22m.
Replacing Cunha will obviously be no easy task for whoever Wolves sign this summer, but perhaps El Khannouss is the best man for the job. After all, he is a “magician” according to football scout Antonio Mango, and that is what they are surely looking for.
At just 21 years of age, it was a seamless adaptation to the Premier League for the Morocco international last season. The Foxes’ attacking midfielder scored twice and grabbed three assists in 32 Premier League games last season, including a winning goal away to Tottenham Hotspur.
10 CF – Jorgen Strand Larsen
Jorgen Strand Larsen’s silky link-up play, which should combine superbly with El Khannouss, will still make for a great watch. Last term, he played 21 key passes in the Premier League.
The Norway star will join the club permanently after he made 35 appearances in the Premier League, enough to trigger the buy clause. In that time, he was sensational, with 14 goals and four assists, showing some of the aforementioned link-up play. Pereira will hope he can continue that excellent form into next season.
Manchester United are closing in on the signing of another attacking player after Matheus Cunha in what will be their third capture of the summer.
Cunha delighted as Man Utd prepare more attacking signings
The Red Devils have made a positive start to the summer transfer window, officially securing the signing of Cunha from Wolves, which represents exciting business.
The Brazilian was his side’s standout player in 2024/25, scoring 15 goals in the Premier League, and speaking about his move to United, Cunha couldn’t hide his delight, admitting it is something he has dreamed about since he was a young boy.
“It is hard to put into words my feelings about becoming a Manchester United player. Ever since I was a child in Brazil watching Premier League games on TV at my grandmother’s house, United was my favourite English team and I dreamed of wearing the red shirt.
“I want to thank my family and everyone who has helped me make that dream a reality. I can’t wait for the start of pre-season to get to know my team-mates and prepare for the season ahead.”
United fans will be hoping that this is just the start of the club’s transfer business this summer, with huge improvements needed, and they have also signed young left-back Diego Leon, who will join from Paraguayan side Cerro Porteño in July.
Up front, the Red Devils have been strongly linked with a move for Bryan Mbeumo as they make a point of upgrading on the struggling Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, both of whom could leave the club.
Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo celebrates after the match
However, it seems the first out and out striker signing will be one to improve the academy ranks, potentially following a similar path to the first-team as a certain Paul Pogba.
Man Utd close in on deal for Le Havre teenager
According to an update from The Manchester Evening News, Manchester United are now “set to complete” the signing of Enzo Kana-Biyik from Le Havre’s academy.
The 18-year-old has looked likely to join the Red Devils for some time and now the transfer is nearly sorted, with the club “expected to formally announce the arrival” imminently.
The last academy-to-academy transfer between the two clubs was of course Pogba, who joined two years earlier than Kana-Biyik at the age of 16, eventually going on to play 157 Premier League games for United.
The teenage striker is a player with so much long-term potential, and such signings are something the Red Devils must focus on more moving forward, having too often taken a punt on ageing attackers who are past their very best, from Zlatan Ibrahimovic to Edinson Cavani, to name just a few.
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Kana-Biyik has been described as a “talented” player by journalist Fabrizio Romano, and he has scored nine goals in 18 appearances for Le Havre’s Under-21s, showcasing his attacking prowess.
If United could secure the services of Kana-Biyik, and also bring in a more proven striker this summer, it would set them up nicely in that area of the pitch for years to come. Hojlund doesn’t look like being the solution, and if their new arrival has even half of the career success of Pogba – he won a World Cup after all – he could be a bargain.
As soon as promotion to the Premier League was officially confirmed earlier this year, the powers that be at Leeds United knew that they would need to be busy this summer.
The Whites have been fairly quick out of the blocks so far, as they have wrapped up the free transfer signing of Lukas Nmecha and signed Jaka Bijol on a permanent deal from Udinese.
Improving the team’s options at the top end of the pitch is a priority for the Championship champions, and they have already started their efforts to do that by signing Nmecha.
In May, Football Insider claimed that the club have doubts over whether or not Joel Piroe has what it takes to make the step up to the Premier League next season, and that they are not going to build their attack around the Dutchman.
Joel Piroe
This suggests that the former Swansea star is unlikely to be the first-choice number nine option for Daniel Farke when the new campaign gets underway.
However, the only new centre-forward signing so far has been Nmecha, and he does not appear suited to firing the team to safety as a regular starter next term.
Why Lukas Nmecha may not be a regular starter for Leeds
The Whites have taken a gamble on the former Manchester City academy prospect on a free transfer, after a rough few seasons for the former Germany international.
Since the start of the 2023/24 season, Nmecha has only played 24 games in all competitions for Wolfsburg in Germany, scoring five goals in that time.
24/25 (Wolfsburg)
8
20
3
23/24 (Wolfsburg)
39
4
2
22/23 (Wolfsburg)
17
18
4
21/22 (Wolfsburg)
9
31
10
20/21 (Anderlecht)
0
37
18
19/20 (Wolfsburg + Middlesbrough)
4
25
0
18/19 (Preston North End)
0
41
4
As you can see in the table above, the 26-year-old striker has consistently struggled with injury issues over the past four seasons, missing far too many games and not delivering enough quality on the pitch.
These statistics suggest that Nmecha is unlikely to be available to be a regular starter for Farke, nor does he have the goal return to suggest that he can step up to be a regular goalscorer in the Premier League.
Therefore, the German forward may be more suited to being a squad option, who can come off the bench or start the odd game, rather than being the replacement for Piroe as a regular in the XI.
That thought process is further backed up by a new report that claims that the Championship champions are eyeing up another number nine signing.
Leeds make contact to sign Premier League striker
According to iNews writer Mark Douglas, Leeds United are one of the teams interested in a deal to sign Dominic Calvert-Lewin on a free transfer before the end of the summer transfer window.
The reporter writes that the Whites have already made initial contact with the former England international to discuss a possible move to Elland Road when his contract at Everton expires at the end of this month.
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Douglas adds, however, that his future at Goodison Park is not set in stone as of yet, as the striker wants to remain at the club, but has yet to agree to an extension on Merseyside.
The journalist reveals that West Ham United and Leeds are both looking to take advantage of his potential availability, as they have both picked up the phone to make contact.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin in action for Everton.
However, neither team have progressed anything beyond that at this point, which may suggest that they are waiting for final confirmation on his future at Everton before taking it any further.
Why Leeds should sign Dominic Calvert-Lewin
The Whites should push to win the race for the English striker’s services if he becomes available on a free transfer this summer because the forward would come in as an immediate upgrade on Nmecha at Elland Road.
Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin
Calvert-Lewin does not have the best injury record out there, having missed 21 games since the start of the 2023/24 campaign, but Nmecha has been absent for 16 more matches in the same period, suggesting that the Everton man is likely to be more reliable as an option for Farke.
The Toffees marksman has played 38 games or more in five of the last eight seasons. Meanwhile, Nmecha has only played more than 25 times in three of the last eight seasons, and has only featured in more than 37 matches once in his career, in the 2018/19 season with Preston.
As well as potentially being available more often, Calvert-Lewin could also be an upgrade on the German striker because of the proven Premier League quality that he would provide.
The 28-year-old star has been a staple of the English top-flight over the last eight seasons or so, and has proven that he can score goals at that level.
Appearances
239
71
Goals
57
16
Games per goal
4.19
4.44
xG per 90
0.47
0.51
xA
14.85
3.09
Assists
15
0
As you can see in the table above, Calvert-Lewin has scored goals and created goals more regularly than Nmecha has in the Bundesliga, which suggests that he would offer more to Farke’s team in front of goal next season.
As well as his ability in the final third, the Everton forward also provides physicality up front. Just last year, journalist Connor O’Neill claimed that the “sensational” striker “bullied” Liverpool defenders Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate with his physical play.
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk
Calvert-Lewin won 51% of his aerial battles in the 2024/25 campaign, winning 3.3 per match, which further speaks to his ability to hold his own in contests with Premier League centre-backs, something that will be important to the Whites as they battle relegation.
Overall, Leeds should sign the Toffees frontman because he is a known quantity who would give Farke a reliable, proven, top-flight striker as an upgrade on what he already has.
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Celtic are back in pre-season training with the new campaign on the horizon and could be set to add a fresh face to their camp imminently, according to reports.
Brendan Rodgers looks for Celtic to make more additions
The Bhoys are back in action this Friday against Queens Park and Brendan Rodgers has already hinted Celtic are set to make further signings after the arrivals of Kieran Tierney, Ross Doohan, Callum Osmand and Benjamin Nygren.
He stated: “We’re not needing a major overhaul of the squad, but freshness is so important. Some of these guys have been here a long time. It’s so important, even in a winning squad, that you refresh that and reset the competition in the squad.
Celtic managerBrendanRodgerscelebrates after winning the League Cup
“We’ve done some really good business up until now. I see us doing more to get us set up for hopefully what will be a really exciting season.”
While not a direct first-team arrival, Cork City winger Cathal O’Sullivan could be next in line to join Celtic, and they will have the added bonus of being able to witness him live in the flesh when both sides meet in a friendly at Páirc Uí Chaoimh next Tuesday.
Former Aberdeen striker Bojan Miovski has also been linked with a move to Parkhead, potentially adding more SPFL pedigree to their forward line following 44 goals in 98 outings for the Dons before his move to the North East.
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Planning ahead for the defence of their Scottish Premiership title and featuring in the UEFA Champions League playoff round will be of immediate concern for the Hoops, so it will come as no surprise that they are closing in on yet another signing.
Celtic-bound Hayato Inamura spotted ahead of medical
According to Sky Sports, Albirex Niigata defender Hayato Inamura has travelled for his Celtic medical and was spotted boarding a plane to London on Wednesday before conducting the formalities needed to ratify his move to Glasgow.
His club have already announced his departure, and a fee in the region of £250,000 is said to have been agreed between both sides ahead of the transfer becoming official.
Hayato Inamura’s key J League statistics – 2025 (Fotmob)
Tackle success rate
76.5%
Aerial duels
33
Pass accuracy
86.4%
Successful dribbles
7
Cross accuracy
50%
Primarily a centre-back, Inamura can also feature on the left of a back three or at left-back if needed, which could offer cover now that Greg Taylor has left the Scottish champions to join Greek Super League outfit PAOK.
Beginning his professional journey at Albirex Niigata, the Tokyo-born man has registered a goal and two assists across 36 appearances for the club in all competitions.
Celtic have been in the hunt for a defender this window and Inamura could prove to be a bargain if he manages to replicate his exploits in the J League once he settles in at Parkhead.
New Tottenham Hotspur boss Thomas Frank will want to hit the ground running after being appointed following Ange Postecoglou’s dismissal from the role.
However, if he is to be a success during his spell in North London, he will have to do so without Bryan Mbeumo, with the Brentford star looking set to move to Manchester United.
The Lilywhites were linked with a move for the Cameroonian’s signature this window, but rejected a reunion with his former boss in favour of a move to Old Trafford.
Brentford's Bryan Mbeumo celebrates after the match
Frank has since turned to Mohammed Kudus instead, costing a £55m from London rivals West Ham United this window, as he looks to add further quality to his frontline.
Despite the big-money addition, the hierarchy are still targeting added reinforcements in such a department, leading to numerous names being touted with a switch to North London.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new signings this summer
Ademola Lookman has been one player who’s emerged as a potential addition this summer, but it appears as though he’s set for a move elsewhere during the off-season.
The Nigerian international appears to be edging closer to a move across Italy to join Inter Milan, with a £40m transfer fee being touted for his services.
Atalanta's Ademola Lookman celebrates scoring their second goal with Atalanta's GiorgioScalviniand Atalanta's Matteo Ruggeri
However, another name has emerged as a potential addition for Frank and the Lilywhites, with Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott being considered, according to journalist Sebastien Vidal.
He claims that Spurs are set to hold talks with the 22-year-old forward, who has been allowed to depart Anfield this window, leading to a £40m transfer fee being mooted.
Vidal also states that Newcastle United and Brighton are also showing interest in the youngster, who’s demanding regular first-team action upon any transfer away from Merseyside.
Why Spurs’ £40m target has shades of Mbeumo
There’s no denying that last campaign, Mbeumo was one of, if not the key reason, why Brentford performed so well in the Premier League last campaign.
The 25-year-old found the back of the net on 20 occasions, with only Alexander Isak, Erling Haaland and Mohamed Salah netting more than the forward in 2024/25.
After Frank’s appointment, many Lilywhites supporters would’ve been wishing that the forward moved to North London with him, but other targets are now being considered.
Kudus will undoubtedly be one player to try and be his next version of Mbeumo, but a deal for Elliott could also provide the manager with the depth he requires.
The English star has showcased in recent weeks that he’s capable of starring at the top-level, scoring five times at the U21 Euros, leading his nation to the title and winning the Player of the Tournament award.
Harvey Elliott celebrates for Liverpool
Whilst he struggled for minutes in the Premier League last season, he also managed to demonstrate why he possesses similar qualities to the Brentford star.
He is also a left-footed star who likes to cut inside off the right-hand side and curl an effort into the top corner – something which could make him a hit with the Lilywhites supporters.
When comparing their respective stats from last season, Elliott has managed to outperform Mbeumo in numerous key areas, highlighting what a superb addition he would be.
The Liverpool ace, who’s been labelled “outrageous” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has registered a higher tally of progressive passes and passes into the final third per 90, highlighting the creative ability that he possesses with the ball at his feet.
Games played
18
38
Goals & assists
3
27
Progressive passes
10.7
3.7
Pass accuracy
82%
66%
Key passes made
2.4
1.8
Passes into final third
6.3
1.6
Take-on success
47%
46%
Carries into final third
2.7
1.8
He also made more key passes per 90, whilst achieving a higher take-on success rate, having the direct nature in attacking areas to cause concern for the opposition.
If he can add more goals to his game in the near future, he can certainly emulate the levels produced by the Cameroonian, potentially making a small fortune on any investment this window.
Liverpool's HarveyElliottcelebrates
£40m would be a great deal for a young talent who has the perfect opportunity to kick on in his career, arguably being key to any success Frank could achieve during his spell in charge at Spurs.
He'd be perfect alongside Kudus: Spurs in talks for "remarkable" £40m star
Tottenham Hotspur have made a move for another Premier League talent this summer.
Manchester United have been constantly pursuing a move for Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo throughout this summer window, but it appears their persistence has finally paid off.
The Red Devils managed to agree a deal with the Bees for the 25-year-old forward, in a move that could reach up to £71m should all the add-ons be reached in the future.
There’s no denying that it’s a huge fee for a player who’s only had one top-level season in the Premier League, but it highlights the ambition shown by the board this window.
The Cameroonian international registered 20 league goals last time around, over two times more than any player within Ruben Amorim’s side that finished the 2024/25 campaign.
However, despite agreeing to such a hefty sum for the forward, the hierarchy appear to be continuing their hunt for added reinforcements, including the signing of one player who could prove to be a better addition than that of Mbeumo.
The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer
Emiliano Martínez is one high-profile signing United are looking to complete during this summer’s market, with the Aston Villa shot-stopper available for a fee in the region of just £21m.
It’s been reported that the player himself would be keen on a move to Old Trafford, potentially taking advantage of Villa’s PSR situation, which could require player sales before the end of the window.
Aston Villa'sEmilianoMartinezreacts after Paris St Germain's Nuno Mendes scores
However, another player has emerged as a potential target for the Red Devils during the off-season, with RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons on their radar, according to Sport via Sport Witness.
They claim that higher-ups from United have already had meetings with the Dutch international’s representatives over a possible transfer before the September 1st deadline.
It also states they aren’t alone in their hunt for the 22-year-old, with Chelsea also firmly in the race for his signature, leading to a £60m price tag being mooted.
Why United’s £60m target would be a better signing than Mbeumo
Given his tally of goals last season, it’s no surprise that a deal for Mbeumo would excite the fanbase, subsequently handing Amorim the clinical talent he’s lacked in attacking areas since arriving.
Brentford's BryanMbeumocelebrates scoring their first goal
However, the 25-year-old mainly operated in a wide right role at Brentford last season, a position which he won’t be able to occupy at Old Trafford, given the manager’s 3-4-2-1 system.
It’s already confirmed that he won’t be utilised as a striker, leaving the Cameroonian to play in one of the two number ten positions behind the striker, potentially partnering Matheus Cunha in providing the goods.
Such a deal could prove to be a risk, splashing serious money on a player and utilising him in a slightly unfamiliar role, especially considering the other options available this summer.
As seen by their attempts to convince Simons to join the club, the club have been targeting countless options, with the Dutchman a much bigger talent than Mbeumo.
He’s a younger star, subsequently having the potential to explode into an elite-level talent in the years ahead and would’ve even been a cheaper deal given his £60m valuation placed on his shoulders by the Bundesliga outfit.
However, when comparing his stats to those of the pending new arrival, he managed to outperform him in multiple areas, highlighting why he’d be a better signing for Amorim’s system.
Games played
25
38
Goals & assists
16
27
Shot-on-target accuracy
46%
43%
Goal per shot on target
0.5
0.4
Progressive passes
5.9
3.7
Pass accuracy
78%
66%
Key passes made
2.2
1.8
Take-on success
1.4
1.3
Carries into final third
2.9
1.8
Fouls won
2.4
1.1
Simons, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by OptaJohan, may have been outscored, but did manage to post a better goal per shot on target rate than Mbeumo, showcasing he’s more clinical with the chances he’s presented with in front of goal.
He also completed more key passes per 90, along with more progressive passes per 90, having the end product to allow those ahead of him to find the back of the net – a crucial component for any number ten in the modern game.
The Leipzig star’s dominance doesn’t stop there, completing more take-ons per 90, highlighting the ability he possesses with the ball at his feet, offering a more all-round threat than United’s soon-to-be £71m signing.
Given the difference in figures produced and the price tags between the pair, it’s evident that a deal for Simons would be a better signing for the Red Devils this summer.
Xavi Simons celebrates
Both players possess a lot of talent, but ultimately, if the club are to reach the next level in the years ahead, they need to be making the correct calls in the market, something which they’ve failed to do once again if they land Mbeumo over Simons.
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Manchester United could be about to land another star alongside a deal for Bryan Mbeumo.
Chelsea are in the market for more attacking options, with BlueCo looking to add to their summer contingent of Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens.
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Enzo Maresca has reportedly identified the final third as a key area to improve after struggling against the low-block last season (Simon Phillips), and it is basically a foregone conclusion that they’ll face this time and time again next term.
Cole Palmer
7.33
Moises Caicedo
7.02
Enzo Fernández
6.95
Nicolas Jackson
6.88
Noni Madueke
6.82
via WhoScored
The Blues do wish to improve other areas of their squad, like at centre-back, with Ajax starlet Jorrel Hato among their chief targets for the backline amid uncertainty surrounding the futures of Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile.
However, in the meantime, Maresca is believed to be prioritising another forward signing in his bid to mount a Premier League title challenge – which looks more and more likely after a very successful last few months.
Chelsea have money to spend after raising nearly £100 million through player sales and winning the Club World Cup, which brought in around £87.5 million worth of prize money to the Stamford Bridge coffers.
Chelsea manager EnzoMarescabefore the start of the second half
While they still need to sell players and balance out the squad, given Chelsea’s pact with UEFA after breaching FFP rules, there is still scope for them to bring in fresh attacking talent.
Chelsea are even thought to be weighing up ‘unofficial swap deals’ as a solution to offload surplus players whilst reinforcing Maresca’s ranks further, and some reports suggest that the west Londoners could let Nicolas Jackson head to Aston Villa in exchange for Morgan Rogers.
Multiple sources have also claimed that Chelsea are in dialogue with the representatives of Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze, who bagged 14 goals and 11 assists in all competitions last season, not to mention the FA Cup final-winning strike against Man City.
Eze is emerging as a key target for Maresca, and he could battle both Arsenal and Tottenham for the 27-year-old, amid some reports that their London rivals have fallen behind Chelsea in the race for his signature (TEAMtalk).
Chelsea expected to be offered Xavi Simons by super agent Ali Barat
However, according to newspaper BILD, via Get German Football News on X, another opportunity has come to light in the form of RB Leipzig star Xavi Simons.
Netherlands'XaviSimonscelebrates scoring their third goal
Simons sealed a permanent move to Leipzig from PSG in January for around £43m, not including hefty add-ons, but he could already be on the move. The 22-year-old put pen to paper on a deal running till 2027, and Simons is prepared to leave Leipzig this window amid interest from both Chelsea and Arsenal (Fabrizio Romano).
BILD report that Chelsea are expected to be offered Simons by super agent Ali Barat, and the representative is set to work on finding him a new club.
The Netherlands international has racked up an impressive 21 goals and 23 assists in total for Leipzig since first joining them on loan in 2023/2024, with a move to England now firmly in his sights.
Simons is actually the highest-paid player in Leipzig’s history, on a reported £192,000-per-week, and he’s been praised as an attacker who “has everything”.
“He is a very good player. He had a very good European Championship and a great season with Leipzig,” Bayern Munich sporting director Christoph Freund said last year.
“He’s developed really well. I think he’s going to have a really good career at the highest level. He has everything, mentality, character and is just an exceptional player.”
Everton were one of the four sides involved in the Premier League Summer Series held in the United States. They ended up finishing bottom in the four-team competition, with Manchester United, West Ham United and Bournemouth the three sides who placed above them.
What might concern manager David Moyes is that they scored only three goals across the three games, fewer than any of their opponents. Two of those came in the final game against Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United. That came after the Toffees boss said he was “disappointed” with striker Beto’s performances in the competition.
So, it seems like the Toffees need attackers to help end this drought in front of goal. They are reportedly targeting a Premier League attacker to help their cause.
Everton’s next attacking target after Dibling
Of course, with Everton needing to become more clinical, the likes of Beto must step up, with new signing Thierno Barry waiting in the wings. Yet, they also need more creativity in attack, and seem to be targeting a Premier League star to help solve their problem.
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According to a recent report from talkSPORT, the Merseysiders are ‘set to step up their interest’ in signing Manchester City and England international attacker Jack Grealish.
They are said to have been interested in the 29-year-old ‘for much of the transfer window’, and could now accelerate a move.
That comes after Southampton asked for £50m to sign Tyler Dibling, after Moyes’ side ‘have seen multiple bids rejected’ for the winger. Thus, they will ‘turn their attention’ to signing Grealish this summer, with a loan swoop seemingly on the cards.
Why Grealish would be a good signing
It has been a tough 12 months at the Etihad Stadium for Grealish. The former Aston Villa star seemingly fell out of Pep Guardiola’s plans and was not even taken as part of the squad to the Club World Cup earlier in the summer.
He played just 32 times for the Citizens last season, chipping in with eight goals and assists. That included just 20 Premier League games, where the attacker scored and assisted one goal apiece. He played 715 minutes in total and completed a full game three times.
A fresh start is needed for Grealish, but if Everton can recapture his best form, then they have a “generational talent” on their hands, according to former Villans chief executive Christian Purslow. He made 213 appearances in that famous Claret and Blue shirt, scoring 32 times and assisting 43.
Perhaps signing the England international will be like bringing a more experienced version of Dibling to the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
The pair have been compared before, with Tony Cascarino explaining he has “elements” of Grealish’s game, and analyst Umir said on The Overlap: The Breakdown that “the way he carried” the ball is similar to the City man.
Of course, Dibling, at just 19 years of age, is far from the finished article. Last season, he scored two goals and assisted one in 33 Premier League games, including this well-taken effort against Ipswich Town.
Yet, the similarities are there to see, and there is a bit of Grealish in the way he took the ball on the half turn, evaded the defender and fired home. The numbers also back up the theory, and if Everton can help Grealish rediscover his best form from his Villa days, they’ll have a more refined version of Dibling who can have an impact now, rather than later down the line.
Using stats on FBref from Grealish’s last season at Villa, he averaged 2.67 completed take-ons and 4.03 carries into the final third per 90 minutes. In comparison, the Southampton forward averaged 2.16 successful take-ons and 2.4 carries into the final third each game.
Progressive passes
7.78
3.08
Take-ons completed
2.67
2.16
Progressive carries
7.08
3.32
Carries into final third
4.03
2.4
Carries into penalty area
3.25
1.25
The similarities between the two attackers are clear. Whilst Dibling can be a long-term addition for Everton, there is a strong case to make that Grealish would be a better signing for Moyes’ side this season.
He is far more experienced and closer to the finished product. The 29-year-old is almost guaranteed to have an instant impact if Moyes can help him rediscover the form he showed at Villa. This could be a genius move for Everton.
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