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Having not won the Premier League since 2004, Arsenal fans are growing increasingly desperate for their club to reclaim the title. However, Mikel Arteta’s side keep falling short.

The Gunners have finished second in each of the past two seasons, narrowly missing out by just two points to Manchester City last year and five points the season before.

While it’s still early days, all signs suggest Arsenal may once again miss out, with Liverpool seemingly unstoppable under Arne Slot.

8 reasons Arsenal can still win the Premier League title

Liverpool may be racing ahead, but there is still cause for optimism in north London.

ByRoss Kilvington Jan 23, 2025

So, what’s holding them back? Is it a shaky defence? Probably not. Is it the absence of an elite winger who can rack up goals and assists like Mohamed Salah does for Liverpool? Possibly.

Or is it the lack of a world-class striker who can deliver goals week in, week out, much like Erling Haaland has for City? Definitely.

To finally get over the line and win their first title in over a decade, here are six players we believe Arsenal should target in the summer to restore their former glory.

1 Viktor Gyokeres Sporting CP

Signing a world-class striker is Arsenal’s top priority, with many believing it’s the missing piece that will finally see them lift the Premier League title once again.

Viktor Gyokeres is undoubtedly the player they should pursue with everything they’ve got.

Often compared to Haaland due to his size, speed, strength, and natural goalscoring instinct, the sensational Swede has netted an impressive 77 goals, including 34 in 33 games this term, for Sporting since the start of last season – a tally that no other player in Europe is even close to matching.

You wouldn’t blame him if he wanted to prove himself in a bigger league, and former Gunners defender Bacary Sagna believes Arsenal’s style of play would be perfect for the 26-year-old.

“He’s amazing,” Sagna told Metro. “He’s a pure striker who would add depth to the squad. He’s also quite tall, so whenever the team is out wide, they can deliver crosses, which has been missing a bit, for me.”

Kane, Gyokeres, Mbappe: Ranking Europe's top 12 goalscorers in 2024

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ByHenry Jackson Jan 2, 2025 2 Leroy Sane Bayern Munich

If Arsenal sign Viktor Gyokeres, he’ll need quality service from both flanks to maximise his goalscoring potential.

Bukayo Saka is the ideal provider from the right, but his increasing injury troubles are becoming a concern, while on the left, Gabriel Martinelli remains inconsistent.

Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane could be the perfect solution to both problems. Capable of playing on either wing, the Germany international has registered 25 assists over the past two and a half seasons. He’s also chipped in with 31 goals of his own.

Now in and out of the Bayern team, Sane is out of contract at the end of the campaign and has yet to agree to a new deal, making his departure from the Allianz Arena increasingly likely.

His versatility, ruthlessness in the final third and proven Premier League experience – having previously starred for Manchester City – would make him an excellent addition to Arsenal’s squad.

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ByRoss Kilvington May 27, 2025 3 Bryan Mbeumo Brentford

Saka is frequently sidelined with injuries, Martinelli blows hot and cold, and Kai Havertz has yet to deliver consistently.

Gabriel Jesus, while brilliant when fit, struggles to stay available for more than a handful of games before another injury setback. Leandro Trossard, meanwhile, is now 30, and while still valuable, his influence is starting to wane.

Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, who has 14 goals this season, would be an excellent addition to the squad. Not only could he provide backup for Gyokeres – should Arsenal land the Swede – but his ability to operate out wide would also give Arteta additional options in attack.

Mbeumo’s pace, intelligent movement, and finishing ability make him a constant threat, while his versatility ensures he could cover multiple positions in the frontline. With his proven Premier League pedigree, he would be a smart, dynamic signing to help Arsenal finally bridge the gap to a league title.

4 Daniel Munoz Crystal Palace

Despite their defensive solidity, right-back remains a potential weak spot in Arsenal’s defence. Jurrien Timber is dependable but appears more comfortable at centre-back and lacks the attacking output expected of modern full-backs.

The Gunners still have no natural backup to the injured Ben White – a fact Mikel Arteta highlighted when questioned about deploying midfielder Thomas Partey in the role in his absence: “I have no choice. I don’t have another right full-back.”

Crystal Palace’s Daniel Muñoz has been one of the Premier League’s standout right-backs since arriving at Selhurst Park in January 2024. As of February 2025, he leads the league in combined tackles and interceptions this season, while also contributing three goals and two assists.

With his relentless work rate and pressing ability, the Colombian would not only add to Arsenal’s depth at right-back, but also bring an attacking threat their current options lack.

5 Kenneth Taylor Ajax

Arsenal’s central midfield lacks depth, particularly in attacking creativity. Without captain and talisman Martin Odegaard, the team often struggled to generate chances and score goals from the middle of the park.

While Odegaard will remain the first-choice playmaker, Mikel Arteta needs a reliable alternative – both to cover for injuries and to offer the Norwegian much-needed rest.

According to CaughtOffside, Ajax midfielder Kenneth Taylor has emerged as Arsenal’s preferred target to fill this role.

The 22-year-old has been outstanding in Amsterdam over the past season and a half, contributing 18 goals and 13 assists across all competitions for Francesco Farioli’s side.

Arsenal have a strong history of recruiting ex-Ajax stars, with legends like Dennis Bergkamp, Nwankwo Kanu and Thomas Vermaelen among their past successes. Taylor has the potential to follow in their footsteps – and in our view, he absolutely should.

6 Ronald Araujo Barcelona

While Arteta’s main priority this summer will likely be bolstering Arsenal’s attack, reinforcing the defence remains a possibility – especially if William Saliba makes a widely rumoured move to Real Madrid.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the Gunners were preparing a bid for Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo in January, though no deal materialised. However, with Saliba’s future potentially uncertain and Araujo hinting at an openness to playing in the Premier League, Arsenal could reignite their interest.

The Uruguayan is one of Europe’s most commanding defenders, blending pace, strength, and exceptional passing ability. He also poses a significant aerial threat in the opposition box, as evidenced by his seven headed goals for Barcelona – including four from corners.

كشف نادي الإسماعيلي حقيقة استقالة المهندس نصر أبو الحسن من رئاسة النادي، والتي ترددت خلال الساعات الماضية.

وقال محس عبد المسيح عضو مجلس الإدارة، في تصريحات إذاعية عبر ميجا إف إم: “لم يتقدم المهندس نصر أبو الحسن بأي استقالة، وهو حاليًا متواجد في اجتماع رابطة الأندية مع بقية رؤساء الأندية، ولا صحة إطلاقًا لما يُشاع عن رحيله”.

وأضاف: “فوجئت بخروج أنباء عن استقالته، وهو أمر غير صحيح تمامًا، وإن شاء الله خلال الساعات المقبلة ستكون هناك أخبار جيدة تُسعد جماهير الإسماعيلي”.

طالع.. بثنائية هلال.. مودرن سبورت يضرب مسمارًا في نعش الإسماعيلي بـ الدوري

وتطرق عبد المسيح إلى أزمة الدوري قائلاً: “كل الأندية تضررت من خوض 9 مباريات فقط هذا الموسم، وهو أمر غير عادل، لكن الجميع وافق على هذا النظام في بداية الموسم بهدف إنهاء البطولة في موعد محدد، ووضع نظام مستقر للدوري كما هو معمول به في الدوريات العالمية”.

وأضاف: “كنا نأمل أن يؤدي ذلك إلى إصلاح حال الكرة المصرية، لكن للأسف الأخطاء التحكيمية كانت من بين الأسباب التي أوصلت الإسماعيلي إلى وضعه الحالي”.

وعن الحديث حول إلغاء الهبوط هذا الموسم، أوضح: “أعلم أن هناك تعاطفًا كبيرًا من الأندية مع الإسماعيلي وغزل المحلة، وأن البعض يطالب بإلغاء الهبوط لهذا السبب، لكن الحقيقة المؤلمة أن رؤية الإسماعيلي في قاع الجدول أمر لا يليق بتاريخه”.

واستكمل: “لا يمكن أن نرضى ببقاء الفريق في الدوري بقرار إداري، فهذا انتقاص من اسم وقيمة النادي”.

وتابع: “نأمل أن تكون هذه آخر مواسم المعاناة، وأن يشهد المستقبل القريب بداية عهد جديد للإسماعيلي، أشكر اللاعبين الموجودين حاليًا، وأتفهم قلة خبراتهم، لكن لا يمكننا الاستمرار على هذا الوضع.”

واختتم عبد المسيح حديثه قائلًا: “إذا لم نتمكن من فتح باب القيد الموسم المقبل وحل الأزمات المالية والإدارية التي تحاصر النادي، فإنني أرى أنه يجب على مجلس الإدارة بالكامل أن يتقدم باستقالة جماعية، ويترك المهمة لوزارة الرياضة لتعيين من هو قادر على إنقاذ النادي. الأمور صعبة جدًا، لكننا نحاول قدر الإمكان”.

Leeds United are back in action in the Championship once again this evening as they prepare to welcome Norwich City to Elland Road, with the chance to move top of the league with a win.

Sheffield United’s comeback against Swansea on Tuesday night placed them at the top of the second tier, but three points for the Whites tonight would immediately put them back in first place.

Daniel Farke’s side should be high in confidence ahead of this clash with the Canaries after they beat Sheffield Wednesday 3-0 last time out on Sunday.

The West Yorkshire outfit could end the night level on points with Burnley, if they win their match, and only two points ahead of Sunderland if Norwich come to Elland Road and claim three points.

That illustrates how tight it is at the top of the Championship table and that is why Leeds may still be looking at their options in the January transfer window to see if they can improve the squad before the deadline.

The Whites have reportedly set their sights on attacking reinforcements as they have been linked with an interest in a forward who could become the manager’s next Emi Buendia…

Emi Buendia's magic for Farke

Leeds are reportedly battling it out with unnamed clubs from LaLga to land a loan deal for the Aston Villa attacking midfielder, as the Whites boss looks to reunite with the talented playmaker.

Farke worked with Buendia during his time at Norwich City, signing him from Getafe in the summer of 2018, and won two Championship titles in three seasons with the right-footed magician.

The German head coach lifted the second tier trophy in the 2018/19 and 2020/21 campaigns, with the Argentina international an influential figure in both of those successes due to his ability to score and create goals from an attacking midfield or wide position.

Emi Buendia (Championship)

18/19

20/21

Appearances

38

39

Goals

8

15

Big chances created

7

18

Key passes per game

2.4

3.1

Assists

12

16

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, Buendia played a key role in those two promotion-winning seasons by contributing with 23 goals and 28 assists combined.

The 28-year-old star has, therefore, proven that he has the quality to make a consistent impact at the top end of the pitch at Championship level, whilst working under Farke, and that is why he could be a terrific signing for Leeds this month.

If Leeds are unable to strike a deal to sign Buendia, though, due to interest from LaLiga, then the German boss could unearth his new version of the former Norwich sensation by securing a deal to sign someone else.

Leeds in the race to sign Burnley star

According to Belgian outlet Voetbal Nieuws, as relayed by Sport Witness, Leeds are one of a number of clubs lining up a move to sign Burnley attacking midfielder Mike Tresor this month.

Transfer Focus

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

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The report claims that the 25-year-old wizard is looking to move on from Turf Moor before the end of the January transfer window, as an outing in the FA Cup against Reading earlier this month was his only appearance of the season so far.

It states that the Clarets are also keen to part ways with the Belgian dynamo, who they signed on a permanent deal from Genk last summer after having him on loan in the Premier League last term, but it does not reveal exactly how much they are looking for in return for his services.

Voetbal Nieuws adds that Belgian sides Anderlecht and KAA Gent are also interested in a swoop for the Burnley outcast, whilst Dutch giants Ajax are among the clubs eyeing him up and are said to be Tresor’s preferred destination at this moment in time.

This suggests that this could be a difficult deal for Leeds to get over the line, given the competition for his signature and the fact he plays for a direct rival in the Championship, but it could be one that is well worth pushing for.

Tresor could arrive at Elland Road as Farke’s new version of Argentine magician Buendia. Here’s how they compare…

Why Tresor could be Farke's new Buendia

It is fair to say that Tresor has endured a difficult time in England since his initial move to Turf Moor on loan from Genk in the summer of 2023.

He only started three of his 16 appearances in the Premier League under Vincent Kompany in the 2023/24 campaign and has yet to play in the league under Scott Parker this term.

The 25-year-old gem has, therefore, not had many opportunities to truly showcase his quality in England, with just three starts, and Leeds could offer him a chance to play week-in-week-out to get back to his best on the pitch.

Tresor’s form for Genk in the 2022/23 campaign, before his move to Burnley, suggests that the potential is there for him to be a Buendia-esque talent for Farke if he can hit his stride in the final third again as an attacking midfielder or wide player.

22/23 Pro League

Mike Tresor

Starts

38

Goals

8

Big chances created

22

Key passes per game

2.8

Assists

24

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the Belgian sensation, whose form was praised as being “absolutely sensational” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, provided a regular threat at the top end of the pitch, particularly as a creator.

The Leeds target has the vision and technical ability in the final third to consistently unlock opposition defences to create high-quality chances for his teammates, which could help the likes of Joel Piroe and Mateo Joseph to thrive in the second half of the campaign.

He was directly involved in 32 goals in those 38 games, and that is more than Buendia was ever involved in in one season for Norwich, with 31 in the 2020/21 campaign being his best return, which speaks to his potential to make a huge impact as an attacking force.

Related Joseph upgrade: Leeds considering bid to sign "powerful" £4m striker

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Therefore, Farke could unearth his new version of the Argentine ace, and forget about a swoop for the Aston Villa man, by securing a deal to sign Tresor from Burnley this month, because he has the playmaking and goalscoring tools to emerge as a star for Leeds.

“It’s just how we play, mate”. That’s often been the response from Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou when quizzed on the club’s current playing style.

It’s certainly entertaining. That said, Spurs have now conceded over 50 shots in their last three home matches and also conceded 13 goals in those clashes.

Now, you may well argue that the Lilywhites are without the likes of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven but there is a lack of planning from Postecoglou when the going gets tough.

Where’s the plan B? It doesn’t look like there is one. As such, no matter the scoreline, Spurs play a high line and are repeatedly punished for doing so.

When will the penny drop? It might not be until the Aussie is relieved from his duties, not that it looks like that will happen anytime soon.

Ange is a likeable bloke, let’s get that out there. He really is. He’s been an honest voice and knows the culture of this football club has to change if they want to win trophies. However, as a team like Arsenal have shown, you need a strong defence in order to build the foundations from the ground up.

Van de Ven and Romero’s returns will be key, but so will some January recruits. Speaking of which, here’s one that may well happen in 2025…

Spurs chasing Serie A star in 2025

So, on this occasion, it’s not the defence that’s being touted with being strengthened. Instead, it’s a midfielder who would undoubtedly make the spine of this Spurs team a great deal stronger.

Indeed, according to reports from ESPN last week, it revealed a few targets that the Londoners could look towards in the new year.

Transfer Focus

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

One of those is Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders, who the club have reportedly been scouting with a view to making a move.

Previous reports have suggested that the talented Dutch midfielder could set any suitor back a £50m fee.

So, what would Reijnders offer anyone who signs him? The answer is a great deal.

Why Spurs should sign Tijjani Reijnders

Celebrated as one of the “top five midfielders this season” in Europe by data analyst Ben Mattinson, it’s already evident that Spurs would be making quite the statement by signing Reijnders.

Aged 26-year-old, the Milan star is swiftly approaching his prime and he’s certainly playing like that at the moment.

A scorer of eight goals in 2024/25 to date, he can offer you goals but he’s a creative asset too, registering three assists this term. Those numbers are already better than what he posted last campaign when the Dutch midfielder scored four times and supplied four assists.

So, he’s getting better all the time and he also gives you versatility, capable of playing as a holding midfielder, a number 8 or as an attack-minded midfielder.

That would paint him in the James Maddison or Dejan Kulusevski mould, so one might question the need for him. Well, look at how he stacks up to Arsenal’s Martin Odegaard and Phil Foden and let us know what you think now.

Indeed, according to FBRef’s similar players tool, the three are noted as comparable assets. Reijnders might not have a 27-goal seasonal haul in him like Foden registered in 2023/24 but there are some parallels to draw.

Reijnders vs Odegaard & Foden
Stat (per 90 mins)	Reijnders	Odegaard	Foden
Progressive passes	6.65	10	5.18
Key passes	1.53	2.90	2.23
Passes into final 3rd	4.92	4.70	2.29
Pass success %	89%	84%	85%
Long passes completed	2.99	2.47	2.43
Long pass success %	71%	63%	53%
Touches	62	66	66
Successful take-ons	1.24	1.18	1.35
Progressive carries	3.08	2.72	2.78
Tackles won	0.63	0.53	0.52
Stats via FBRef.

The numbers outlined above are particularly impressive and although Odegaard is by far the most creative of the three, making 2.90 key passes per 90 minutes, there are a number of similarities to dive into here.

Firstly, they both have a similar influence on the ball in their team, with only four touches per 90 separating the trio. Interestingly, they make a very similar number of progressive carries and successfully take on a player with a near-identical level of efficiency.

It’s perhaps unsurprising to see that Reijnders completes more long balls per 90 given he can play in a deeper role but it outlines the sheer range of his skillset here. He can play long, he can play short, he can beat opponents with his dribbling and he can score goals.

This would be a fabulous signing for Spurs and one that could take Postecoglou’s team to the next level.

As bad as Dragusin: 3/10 Spurs star doesn't deserve his £100m price tag

Tottenham Hotspur once again fell to a huge home defeat in the Premier League last night.

1

By
Ethan Lamb

Dec 23, 2024

John Terry revealed that he came close to taking up his first head coaching job in the Saudi Pro League, but the deal collapsed at the last moment.

Article continues below

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• Terry had opportunity to manage SPL club in 2023
• Deal collapsed at last moment
• Terry dreams of managing senior Chelsea side

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• WHAT HAPPENED?

  The Chelsea legend started his coaching career at Aston Villa, where he was appointed as the assistant manager to Dean Smith. He left the job after three years, but in April 2023, he reunited with Smith to become his assistant once again at Leicester City. Seven months later, Terry returned to Chelsea as an academy coach. Before taking that job, the former England defender had an opportunity to take up his first head coaching role at Saudi Pro League club Al-Shabab, however, the deal collapsed at the last moment.

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• WHAT JOHN TERRY SAID

  Speaking to , the 44-year-old said: "I got very close with that and things got moved at the last minute, which meant it didn't go through. I've done my badges. I'm ready. If the right opportunity comes up, and it has to be the right opportunity in terms of squad and location, I'm all ears. I'm watching every game of football I can possibly watch. I've still got my eyes in it. There will come a point for me when I need to say 'that's it'.

  "But you have to be obsessed with it and I'm still obsessed with it. I'm analysing games, I'm reviewing stuff, I'm doing online courses and all of that to be a better coach or a better manager that I can be. So who knows if that opportunity comes along? I've got a lot to give. I know that I've managed dressing rooms and groups before."

• Getty Images
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Terry is currently serving his beloved Chelsea as an academy coach twice a week, but went on to reveal that he still dreams of managing the club's senior team someday. He added: "I led Chelsea for 22 years. So to get thrown at me that I've got no experience as a number one is a little bit baffling. But again, I'll keep trying until that kind of day stops because I have a dream of managing Chelsea one day, and that's the ultimate for me. Would I love to be part of it? Of course I would. Chelsea's my club."

• Getty Images Sport
  

  WHAT NEXT FOR JOHN TERRY?

  The ex-England and Chelsea star is also currently managing the 26ers team in the new Baller League in the UK, which kicked off on Monday.

England manager Thomas Tuchel took a subtle dig at Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta as he clarified his stance on the club vs country rotation debate.

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• Tuchel aimed dig at Arteta
• Revealed his plan on squad rotation
• England face Latvia on Monday

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  The Tuchel era kicked off in style as England comfortably beat Albania in their first World Cup qualifier on Friday. With the Three Lions set to face Latvia in their second qualifying game on Monday, Tuchel explained his stance on rotating players in international matches. He also hinted that all his important players like Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice could feature once again against Latvia, while aiming a swipe at Arsenal's Arteta.

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• WHAT THOMAS TUCHEL SAID

  Speaking to reporters, the German coach said: "Given the fact Declan Rice played in the next [Champions League] match after a 7-1 first leg [win] with Arsenal, I didn’t have the feeling that they think so much about us. So I don’t think we have to break our heads about this [keeping clubs happy]. I take care of the players. We take care of the schedule. But it would be the wrong signal to tell players now ‘hey, you have tough [club] matches coming up so I rest you now’.

  "We have a qualifier to play, we do what's good for us. We monitor them, we are in contact with the clubs, we are in high-level monitoring where the statuses are known and we won’t take any unprofessional risks. Because first of all, I feel responsible for the players. I don't want the player to be injured, I want the players to play in the quarter-finals of the Champions League – all of them – because I want to watch it, I want to see it. So this is where it is and in the end, we take care of ourselves and the clubs take care of themselves, and the main focus is taking care of the players."

• Getty Images Sport
  

  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  The ex-Chelsea boss added: "I know that this window, this camp, is a window where the clubs play at a very crucial time of the season. They play for championships, they play in the quarter-finals of the Champions League. We are very well aware of it, but we also have our own goals, we have our own targets. The players are keen to play and it has to be like this. I experienced it many, many times in clubs that players from South American countries don’t even think about dropping one minute because they want to play for their country, they’re proud to play for their country.

  "This is also something that we have to understand and accept. I always accepted it as a club manager. I never got involved in line-ups. I never pushed any national coach because I was hoping that my players get picked. I was also hoping that they are proud to play. Of course, you’re never happy if something happens. No one can predict that there is no accident, but we have a World Cup qualifier and we’ll make responsible decisions."

• WHAT NEXT?

  Rice has featured in five matches for club and country in a span of 17 days in March. However, after the Latvia clash on Monday, the midfielder will get eight days to recover from the fatigue before taking the field for the Gunners on April 1 against Fulham.

Tottenham Hotspur have endured mixed fortunes in the transfer market over the last decade or so.

For example, while they’ve signed the likes of Son Heung-min, Christian Romero and Pape Matar Sarr, they’ve also splashed the cash on flops like Bryan Gil, Emerson Royal and Matt Doherty.

However, while those three examples didn’t end up costing the club too much money in the long run, the same cannot be said about a flop signed by former manager Mauricio Pochettino in August 2017.

This player was a disaster for the club, and what makes it worse is the fact that he earned more than current first-teamer Micky van de Ven.

Van de Ven Spurs record

Van de Ven has made 39 appearances for Spurs since completing his £43m move from VfL Wolfsburg last summer, in which he’s scored three goals and provided two assists, but his most meaningful contribution has been at the back.

However, he is more than just his speed; his ability to adapt to Postecoglou’s demanding tactics and the fact he’s been able to create such effective partnerships with his teammates as quickly as he can is a testament to his football IQ.

Moreover, the “complete and dominant” international, as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, can play at left-back and centre-back, giving the manager even more tactical flexibility.

Overall, it would be fair to say that with how well Van de Ven has adapted to life in North London, he is more than justifying his £50k-per-week wage, which cannot be said of the defensive flop signed by Pochettino in 2017.

Pochettino's costly Spurs dud

So, to cut straight to the point, the player in question is not Tanguy Ndombele but Colombian defender Davinson Sanchez.

Now, while he’s not a name that many Spurs fans will remember all that fondly today, there was a lot of excitement around his £42m signing in the summer of 2017. After all, the season prior saw him score six goals and provide two assists in 45 appearances for Dutch giants Ajax, which is undeniably impressive for a centre-back.

However, the Caloto-born wasn’t able to have the same sort of impact in North London, and by the end of his first campaign with the club, he had made 41 appearances but had failed to score or assist a single goal.

Worse yet, the 28-year-old’s defensive stability would become an increasing issue in the following seasons.

He eventually turned into something of a figurehead for the club’s dreadful defensive record, with former professional turned pundit Jamie O’Hara labelling him “deadwood” and “one of the worst players I’ve ever seen” during his final season in N17, during which the team shipped 63 goals in the league.

Unfortunately, while it wasn’t all his fault, it was impossible to ignore the Colombian’s poor displays, and so it would be hard to say he even came close to justifying his £65k-per-week wages at the club, which amounted to a total of £20.4m by the time he finally left to join Galatasaray last summer.

Transfer Fee

£42m

Wages (Total)

£65k (£20.4m)

Appearances

207

Cost per Appearance

£301k

Goals

5

Cost per Goal

£12.4m

Assists

1

Cost per Assist

£62.4m

Goal Involvements

6

Cost per Goal Involvement

£10.4m

That means he cost the club a combined £62.4m during his stint, which breaks down to around £301k-per-appaearance, £12.4m-per-goal, £62.4m-per-assist, or £10.4m-per-goal-involvement.

Ultimately, while Sanchez wasn’t the worst signing made under Pochettino’s tenure, he’s certainly up there, and the fact Van de Ven is now earning less than him doesn’t help.

Spurs struck gold selling 4/10 flop who's been even worse than Kyle Walker

The international defender has been terrible since leaving Spurs in the summer.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 26, 2024

Paddy Upton joins as “Team Catalyst” and will look after the players’ mental well-being

ESPNcricinfo staff11-Mar-2022

Lasith Malinga is the highest wicket-taker in the IPL•Getty Images

Rajasthan Royals have roped in Lasith Malinga as their fast-bowling coach ahead of IPL 2022, and Paddy Upton as “Team Catalyst”.Malinga, who retired as a player in 2021, is the highest wicket-taker in the IPL with 170 scalps across nine seasons for Mumbai Indians. In 2018, he was Mumbai’s bowling mentor as well, and earlier this year, he was appointed Sri Lanka’s bowling strategy coach for the T20I series in Australia.At Royals, Malinga will work alongside his former captain Kumar Sangakkara, who is the franchise’s head coach and director of cricket, and Steffan Jones, who was named as high-performance fast-bowling coach last week.”It’s a wonderful feeling for me to return to the IPL and an absolute honour to join Rajasthan Royals, a franchise that has always promoted and developed young talent,” Malinga said. “I am excited by the pace bowling unit we have going into the tournament and looking forward to supporting all the fast bowlers with the execution of their game-plans and their overall development. I’ve made some very special memories in the IPL with Mumbai Indians and now with Royals, looking forward to new experiences and creating great memories in this journey.”Upton returns to Royals having previously worked as their coach from 2013 to 2015 and then in 2019, leading them to a top-four finish in 2013 and 2015. He will be with the team for the first four weeks of the season, after which he will support them virtually.”Being the Team Catalyst, Upton will play a crucial role in establishing team integration by bringing them together as a cohesive and mutually supporting unit, and look after their mental well-being with the use of various mental conditioning processes and activities that aid in maintaining a healthy culture and environment, especially within the restrictions of being in a bio-bubble,” a Royals statement said.Sangakkara said both Malinga and Upton would be great additions to the coaching staff. “Lasith is arguably one of the greatest T20 fast bowlers of all time, and to have a personality like his around the training ground, and the expertise he brings to the table, is certainly something we feel the team can benefit from,” he said. “We have some of the best fast bowlers in our squad and we are delighted that they will have the chance to work with Lasith and get to learn and develop further.”It’s the same with Paddy, who has been a great servant for the Royals, and has done an exceptional job in building that cohesion between players and also conditioning them mentally. We believe he will act as a great addition to our coaching staff.”Trevor Penney (assistant coach), Zubin Bharucha (strategy, development and performance director) and Dishant Yagnik (fielding coach) will continue in their respective roles.

Todd Boehly has addressed Chelsea's striker struggles, pointing out that it is not a case of picking up a new No.9 from "the grocery store".

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Failed to sign a striker in summer of 2024Current options yet to truly convinceBlues have spent big across multiple windowsFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?

The Blues were heavily linked with Nigeria international Victor Osimhen during the summer of 2024, as he was nudged towards the exits at Serie A side Napoli, but no deal was done and the prolific 26-year-old is now with Galatasaray – competing against former Chelsea boss Jose Mourinho in the Turkish Super Lig.

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In west London, Nicolas Jackson managed nine goals before succumbing to a hamstring injury. Marc Guiu is also nursing a knock, Christopher Nkunku has struggled to live up to expectations, and Enzo Maresca has taken to using Portuguese winger Pedro Neto as a false nine.

WHAT TODD BOEHLY SAID

Speaking at the Financial Times Business of Football Summit, Chelsea co-owner Boehly said of the firepower issues: "Strikers are hard to find. You don’t go into the grocery store and say, ‘I am going to get a striker’. It is an amazing skill set and you have to have the right mentality."

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On Chelsea’s overall strategy, which has seem them invest heavily on young players, Boehly added: "What we were really thinking about is how you put together a team that has the ability to stay together. When you read about the teams who were the dynasties over the years, they had superstar captains that really led them. What you're trying to find is that superstar captain."

Everton have suffered some howlers over the years, but the Friedkin Group’s forthcoming club takeover will hopefully signal a new era and indeed a fresh take on transfer activity.

It sure is needed, with Farhad Moshiri failing to match the fanbase’s expectations with the performances on the pitch – indeed, the Toffees have been stuck in a bog of struggle for the past several years, and though results have recently improved under Sean Dyche, big change is needed to sculpt a future of promise in the Premier League.

The strategy needs changing, to be sure. Let’s take a look at some of the worst signings since Moshiri took the head seat back in 2016, and remind ourselves why.

Everton's decline under Farhad Moshiri

Iranian businessman Moshiri acquired a 49.9% stake in Everton back in February 2016, having previously owned a minority slice in fellow Premier League club Arsenal.

The deal was soon ratified, and the 69-year-old’s role as principal shareholder was projected as a watershed moment for Roberto Martinez’s side, which had found comparative success over the years but wanted to ascend to a regular position in and around the Champions League spaces.

What happened was the inverse. Slowly, Everton’s lifeblood has trickled away, with the success of recent years merely that of preserving top-flight status, pitted against the relegation fodder.

There have been some pretty notable howlers. Cenk Tosun joined in a £27m deal after Romelu Lukaku was sold for what is still a club record, but flattered to deceive and scored just seven times across his two full seasons at the club – having promised so much upon his January 2018 arrival, notching four Premier League goals from his opening 14 fixtures.

Davy Klaassen’s another, moving from Ajax for £24m in 2017, billed as one of the most talented midfielders in the Netherlands. He failed to adapt and started just seven league games before fleeing to Germany and joining Werder Bremen after one lonely year.

Chuck in Sandro Ramirez, Salomon Rondon, Yannick Bolasie and more. If TFG can succeed in purchasing Moshiri’s majority stake, getting the venture over the line, then there’s every chance that the slate will have been wiped clean and Everton can begin anew.

There are too many blunders to count with two hands, but undoubtedly the deal at the nadir of Moshiri’s transfer failures is that of Jean-Philippe Gbamin, who endured a wretched spell at Goodison Park.

Jean-Philippe Gbamin's cost to Everton

Later down the line, Gbamin’s agent would describe his client’s time at Everton as a “nightmare”, which is probably an apt summation of a wholly forgettable time for all parties involved.

Alex Iwobi

Arsenal

£35m

Moise Kean

Juventus

£25m

Jean-Philippe Gbamin

Mainz

£25m

Andre Gomes

Barcelona

£22m

Fabian Delph

Man City

£9m

Dijibril Sibide

AS Monaco

Loan

Jonas Lossl

Huddersfield

£0

Branded “the worst signing of the Moshiri era” by journalist Paul Brown, the Ivorian midfielder was purchased from German club Mainz for a £25m fee, with the whole ordeal at least financially mitigated by Idrissa Gueye – who he was replacing – transferring to Paris Saint-Germain in a £30m deal.

Gbamin had certainly made a good impression with Mainz, featuring 95 times for the Bundesliga outfit and leading the club’s sporting director Rouven Schröder to declare that the centrepiece was totally unsellable, such was his importance.

Earning a reported wage of £75k per week, Gbamin was supposed to bring steel and dynamism to the centre of the park, but his catastrophic injury failure led to the most miserable of fringe roles, scarcely showing his face on the Premier League pitch at all before seeing his contract cut short in 2023, then joining French Ligue 2 club Dunkerque later that year until the end of the campaign.

Gbamin had reportedly attracted interest from Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur in the lead-up to Everton’s acquisition, illustrating the calibre of prospect that Marco Silva had attracted to his project.

But he didn’t so much fall as was thrown with force to the wayside, shockingly featuring just six times for the Premier League side.

Though he sought to bring himself back from the ditch, the Argentina-born midfielder was simply unable to meet the rigours of the Premier League, beset by injuries that prevented him from finding his feet across two loan spells while at Everton too – with Russian side CSKA Moskow and Trazbonspor in Turkey.

Indeed, it proved to be a total calamity. When considering the now 29-year-old Gbamin’s wages, alongside that lofty transfer fee, it can be seen that he drained Everton of £33m, something that really puts into perspective how dreadful Moshiri’s deal was – claiming around £4m from the Merseysiders for each appearance made.

It’s somewhat ironic that Everton re-signed Gueye in a £2m transfer in 2022, something that proved a good financial venture but contextualises the gravity of the whole thing – Moshiri effectively swallowing his pride and moving back to his erstwhile number six, who had by that point turned 32.

Fans don’t mind running the gamut of emotions. Football is like that, cyclical, up and down. But Everton need to reach a level beyond that which has been provided to them over the past several years; it’s not befitting of the raucous Goodison Park crowd.

Blundered transfer moves like that of Gbamin must not be repeated. A little more due diligence would be good, with a revised take allowing the Blues to sign players who will actually raise the bar on the blue side of the River Mersey.

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