Chelsea have now submitted an opening bid of £64m for an “incredible” striker, but they are set to face fierce competition for his signature from their Premier League rivals, according to a report.

Blues ramping up striker pursuit

The Blues looked toothless in front of goal yesterday afternoon, drawing 0-0 away at Brentford, with Christopher Nkunku once again failing to deliver at striker, having scored just three Premier League goals all season.

The performance at the Gtech Community Stadium underlined the need for Enzo Maresca to bring in a top striker in the summer transfer window, and the west Londoners have been ramping up their pursuit over the past few weeks.

There has been a positive update on the move for Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, with the Nigerian now setting his sights on a move to Stamford Bridge, while Maresca’s side are also plotting an approach for Lille striker Jonathan David, who is set to be available on a free transfer.

Related Chelsea now interested in signing £43m Inter Milan star alongside Thuram

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Posts ByDominic Lund Apr 6, 2025

A number of Europe’s top strikers are on the shortlist, including Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, and a report from Spain has now revealed Chelsea have made their first move for the Swedish striker, submitting a €75m (£64m) bid for his services.

However, there may be fierce competition for Gyokeres’ signature, with Manchester United also submitting an offer of the same value, while recent reports have also detailed the Sporting star could be keen on a move to Arsenal following talks with sporting director Andrea Berta.

The Blues believe the forward will be able to adapt to life in the Premier League quickly, which is why they are willing to make a huge offer, and his goal record in Portugal this season indicates he could make an instant impact in Maresca’s side.

"Incredible" Gyokeres impressing in Portugal

The 26-year-old has been in simply sensational form for Sporting this season, amassing 43 goals and 11 assists in 43 appearances in all competitions, showcasing that he is ready for a big move to one of Europe’s top clubs.

Not only that, but the Sweden international, who has been lauded as “incredible”, ranks highly across a number of other key attacking metrics over the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

Statistic

Average per 90

Shot-creating actions

3.85 (95th percentile)

Progressive carries

4.29 (96th percentile)

Successful take-ons

1.18 (83rd percentile)

Touches (Att pen)

6.07 (86th percentile)

With Nkunku potentially in line to leave this summer, and Nicolas Jackson now without a goal in his last 10 Premier League games, it is clear the Blues will need to bring in a top striker this summer.

Gyokeres’ goal record indicates he could be one of the best options on the market, so it is exciting news that Chelsea have now made the first move by submitting an opening bid.

With the end of the campaign in sight, the race for the Championship automatic promotion places and playoff slots is heating up, and excitement is starting to build over who will earn a shot at Premier League stardom.

Promotion hopefuls planning for top flight return

Sheffield United retain a two-point lead at this stage, but know that Leeds United and Burnley lurk directly below and will be on hand to deal a blow to their title aspirations at the first sign of complacency.

Evaluating wider competition, Sunderland, Coventry City, West Bromwich Albion, Middlesbrough and Bristol City are directly contesting each other for a place in the playoffs, creating a tense atmosphere across the division ahead of this weekend’s matches.

How the race looks with eight matches left

1. Sheffield United

83

2. Leeds United

81

3. Burnley

81

4. Sunderland

72

5. Coventry City

59

6. West Bromwich Albion

57

7. Middlesbrough

57

8. Bristol City

57

Undoubtedly, the pick of the round has to be West Brom’s home clash with Sunderland on Saturday lunchtime. The former are desperately clinging to sixth place after a run of only one win in five league games.

Tony Mowbray may even find his side knocked off their perch by Middlesbrough amid the latter’s kick-off against Blackburn Rovers on Friday evening. Either way, there is a lot of tension brewing between divisional rivals desperate for a shot at top-flight football.

On one end of the scale, Burnley would be devastated to miss out on an automatic return at the first time of asking. Meanwhile, clubs such as the Baggies and Boro have strong Premier League pedigree, even if they have spent a few years away from the dizzying heights of England’s most prestigious domestic environment.

Championship Table: Latest standings for the 2024/25 season

Latest English Football League Championship standings 2024/25.

ByStephan Georgiou Apr 22, 2025

Intriguingly, the trio mentioned aren’t only battling on the pitch, they are also now fighting for the signature of an international player who could be available for free this summer.

West Brom, Middlesbrough and Burnley want to sign Tom Lawrence

According to The Daily Mail, West Brom are joined by Middlesbrough and Burnley in the hunt to sign Rangers midfielder Tom Lawrence, who is out of contract in Glasgow at the end of the campaign.

Competition is fierce for his signature, with Coventry City, Wrexham, PAOK, Olympiacos and Besiktas also in the mix to tempt the 23-cap Wales international elsewhere on a free transfer.

Having previously played in the Championship with Derby County, Wayne Rooney paid tribute to his “excellent” leadership skills while captain of the Rams under his stewardship.

Nevertheless, the 31-year-old’s injury struggles have limited him to just 25 appearances at Ibrox this term, during which time he registered six goals and two assists across all competitions.

No confirmation has emerged regarding Lawrence’s next steps, creating an opportunity for interested parties to present a vision that could tempt the Wrexham-born man to seek regular football in an alternative environment.

Who will win the race for his signature? It is too soon to say, but achieving promotion to the Premier League would certainly help West Brom, Middlesbrough and Burnley make a compelling case.

Everton’s nine-match unbeaten streak in the Premier League crumbled as David Moyes’ side lost to Liverpool at Anfield.

Moyes, who has never won across from Stanley Park over 22 visits, took the defeat on the chin, and fair play to him. Everton have been transformed since he waltzed through the gates in January, skipping far away from the relegation zone and instead creating a foundation from which new goals can be set for the 2025/26 campaign and beyond.

There’s still plenty to play for over the coming weeks, though, with the 15th-place Toffees set to welcome Arsenal to Goodison Park at noon.

The Gunners beat Fulham in midweek but were left reeling after their latest fitness blow in a season of fitness blows, Gabriel Magalhaes ruled out for the season after injuring his hamstring.

23/24

Premier League

1-0 loss

22/23

Premier League

1-0 win

21/22

Premier League

2-1 win

20/21

Premier League

2-1 win

19/20

Premier League

0-0 draw

Bukayo Saka has returned, scoring off the bench against the Cottagers. Everton will need to be on their A-game. However, Moyes will be buoyed by his thinning-out infirmary pile.

Everton team news

James Tarkowski will reprise his usual role at centre-half after escaping punishment for a lunging challenge on Liverpool’s Alexis Mac Allister.

On the injury front, Orel Mangala is still, of course, out for the season, but Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Dwight McNeil are nearing returns from respective setbacks; Saturday’s fixture might come too soon.

Armando Broja, talking of strikers, has been fit again for several fixtures and has featured off the bench in both of Everton’s recent Premier League games, but he’s unlikely to displace Beto, even if the powerful centre-forward’s Midas touch in front of goal has deserted him.

It’s unlikely Moyes will field more than one or two changes, but there is one potential tweak sure to be on the manager’s mind.

Iliman Ndiaye made his anticipated return in the second half at Anfield, fit again after being withdrawn injured in February, during the 2-2 draw against Liverpool at Goodison Park.

For him to return to the starting line-up, Moyes must axe another star.

Why Iliman Ndiaye could be the difference-maker

Ndiaye’s second-half introduction was met by a chorus of cheers from the travelling Toffees under the Liverpool lights. The game might have been lost, but he’s a devastating talent, signed from Marseille for about £15m last summer.

Eight goals across 29 appearances in all competitions for Everton speak of a blooming goal threat, not least because he bagged in each of Moyes’ opening three victories before falling to injury against the Reds.

Of course, the Senegalese is hardly just a ball-striking threat. As per FBref, he ranks among the top 19% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Premier League this term for pass completion, the top 7% for successful take-ons and the top 14% for tackles + interceptions per 90.

Capable across both attacking flanks, Ndiaye should replace Jack Harrison on the right, allowing Charly Alcaraz to continue his journey on the left; when you compare Ndiaye and Harrison’s respective data pools across the campaign, it becomes clear as to why.

Matches (starts)

26 (18)

25 (22)

Goals

1

6

Assists

0

0

Touches*

29.8

39.2

Shots (on target)*

1.0 (0.2)

1.0 (0.4)

Big chances missed

4

2

Pass completion

75%

84%

Key passes*

1.1

0.6

Dribbles*

0.8

2.3

Ball recoveries*

2.2

5.9

Tackles + interceptions*

1.2

2.5

Duels won*

2.7

5.9

Harrison’s a man of industry and energy, but he’s struggled to offer much of substance in the way of goals, assists, key contributions.

Ndiaye brings so much more to the table, with his unique brand of football sure to revive Beto at the front of the ship too. The hulking Bissau-Guinean scored five Premier League goals across four matches through February, skill set unlocked with Moyes in the driving seat.

However, the goals have dried up, with Beto now without a successful strike across four top-flight fixtures. But how exactly could Ndiaye fix his woes?

Well, while Beto’s litany of missed big chances – five since last scoring, to be exact – are a by-product of his own returned profligacy, he’s not exactly being supplied with the greatest supplementary force.

Harrison was particularly out of sorts against Liverpool on Wednesday evening, failing with both of his attempted dribbles while also losing every single one of his seven contested duels.

A loanee, he’s being outstripped by Ndiaye – who has been praised for his “dynamite” quality by Sky Sports’ Jamie Redknapp – and, frankly, most positional peers in the Premier League this season, and his 25-year-old teammate’s return could bear dividends for an Everton side seeking a return to winning ways.

Let’s not forget, the Blues have now gone five games without a win in the league, albeit only losing one of those matchups. Still, it’s clear that Moyes needs more firepower from varying angles to overcome tough opponents.

Arsenal have conceded the fewest number of goals in the Premier League this season, with David Raya also boasting the second-best save percentage in the division this term at 76.5% (FBref).

It’s going to be difficult, even if Everton have a stentorian Goodison crowd behind them. The players will need the 12th man, but they will also need Ndiaye in their starting mix, for he adds so much flavour and could elevate Beto up top.

Moyes may have found the new Gareth Barry in Everton's £100k-p/w "leader"

Everton went punch for punch with Liverpool in the Merseyside derby at Anfield.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 3, 2025

Regardless of what division Leeds United find themselves in next season, this summer is a huge window for boss Daniel Farke to provide the added quality to the first-team squad.

The German has already made some shrewd additions in the transfer market, landing the likes of Ao Tanaka and Jayden Bogle, who have both been two of the Championship signings of the season.

However, he will have to replicate such dealings this summer – especially if they secure promotion to the Premier League, needing to invest if they are to secure survival in 2025/26.

The Whites already have serious quality within the current squad, helping them sit second in the division with just a handful of games remaining this campaign.

If they are to reach the next level, Farke will want to build on the progress made, with one player seemingly already on their radar ahead of the summer transfer window.

Leeds set to make offer for defensive star

According to Africa Foot, Leeds are set to make a €2m (£1.7m) bid for Porto left-back Zaidu Sanusi regardless of what division they find themselves in next season.

The Nigerian has only made six first-team appearances for the Liga Portugal outfit this season as he continues his recovery from the ACL injury he suffered last season.

However, Sanusi has already stated that no deal has been agreed after other rumours suggested a deal was already agreed for him to move to Elland Road.

This report claims no bid has yet been made, but the Sanusi could be open to a move to Yorkshire in the near future to gain more first-team minutes given his lack of action since his return from injury.

It would be a superb addition for the Whites, potentially being the next version of a former fan favourite who captured the hearts of many during his time at the club.

Why Sanusi could be Leeds’ next Ben White

Defender Ben White thrived during the 2019/20 season at Leeds, spending the season on loan from Brighton and Hove Albion, making 49 appearances across the promotion-winning campaign.

He featured for every minute of the league campaign that season, highlighting the importance he held under Marcelo Bielsa in their return to the Premier League.

However, after promotion, the club tried to sign him on a permanent basis, but were unable to strike a deal with the Seagulls despite offering a £30m deal for his signature.

He’s since moved to Arsenal in recent years, featuring for the Gunners in the Champions League and thriving at right-back, taking his career to the next level.

The Whites could land their next version of White with a move for Sanusi, with the full-back being ranked as a similar player to the Arsenal star by FBref for his displays in Europe last campaign.

When delving into their respective figures, the Nigerian has matched or bettered the 27-year-old in various key areas, showcasing what a phenomenal addition he would be to Farke’s side.

Sanusi, who’s been labelled a “superstar” by one analyst, managed to win more tackles per 90 along with more interceptions made, highlighting the defensive quality he possesses – aiding Farke should he sign this summer.

Games played

4

10

Minutes played

307

754

Tackles won

1.2

0.6

Interceptions made

1.2

1

Clearances

1.8

1.2

Take-ons completed

1.5

0.5

Aerials won

2.7

1.1

He’s also managed to complete more take-ons per 90, whilst also winning more aerial battles, offering that all-round presence that may be needed should they achieve promotion this summer.

With Junior Firpo’s contract set to expire this summer, the club will need added reinforcements in the left-back area, with the Porto star certainly providing just that.

Should he get anywhere near the level produced by White during his time at Elland Road, he would be a superb addition – especially for the bargain fee touted for his signature.

Not just Meslier: Leeds must axe "reliable" star who won't cut it in the PL

Leeds United have a huge summer window ahead of them regardless of what division they find themselves in.

1 ByEthan Lamb Apr 2, 2025

Newcastle United are in a brilliant position under Eddie Howe, though could now be willing to facilitate a surprise departure for one of their strongest performers, according to a recent report.

Newcastle United's summer transfer plans

Eddie Howe is a man who has commanded mass respect from supporters at St James’ Park due to their recent EFL Cup win and Premier League standing, but he will have work to do to retain some of his key stars this summer.

Alexander Isak is a central target for Liverpool heading into the window and they appear to be setting the scene for Darwin Nunez to exit the club, paving the way for a blockbuster replacement.

Keeping hold of the Swede will be the main priority for everyone concerned at Newcastle, but there is also potential that they could add to their exciting pool of talent, especially if they secure Champions League qualification.

According to reports, Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo could be set for a move to the Magpies after claims emerged stating he could be set to leave London for £50 million.

The Geordies are said to be in pole position for his signature, potentially creating a deadly triple-axis with Isak and Anthony Gordon as Howe’s men look to compete for further silverware.

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On the same token, Real Sociedad star John Aramburu is being lined up to strengthen Newcastle’s backline, showing that they are covering all bases in the hunt for quality additions.

However, with PSR and other realities to take into account, don’t be surprised if one or two surprise stories emerge across the market this summer that lead to unexpected departures, something the Magpies won’t be immune to going by recent developments.

Newcastle willing to listen to Tonali offers amid Man City interest

According to CaughtOffside, Newcastle could be willing to accept offers upwards of £68.5 million for Sandro Tonali after it has become apparent that he is open to leaving Tyneside this summer.

Pep Guardiola is reportedly on alert as Manchester City retain an interest in the Italy international, while Barcelona, Real Madrid, Juventus, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain remain in pursuit, with the Magpies prepared to accept a large sum after the player indicated he’s open to an exit.

Sandro Tonali key statistics in 2024/25 – Premier League

Pass accuracy

85%

Chances created

13

Tackles won

29

Shots

28

Touches in opposition box

36

Ball recoveries

152

Enjoying a fine campaign, Tonali has registered five goals and three assists in 39 appearances across all competitions as the Toon Army look to edge closer to claiming Champions League qualification.

Manchester City have an obvious void in midfield to fill amid Kevin De Bruyne’s impending departure, though it is hard to believe that Newcastle would be willing to sell one of their star assets directly to a rival.

Nevertheless, his openness to changing projects could throw the cat among the pigeons in that respect, especially given that selling Tonali may negate the need to fund their summer business by cashing in on other first-team players.

Wolverhampton Wanderers are on a four-match winning run in the Premier League, and they will hope to continue this when they face Manchester United this afternoon.

The Old Gold defeated the Old Trafford side 2-0 at the end of December to maintain their perfect start under Vitor Pereira, and hopes will be high that they can complete the double over the Red Devils.

Man United were taken to extra time by Lyon in the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday evening and there will be a few tired legs among the squad.

This could give Wolves the advantage, while Pereira may make a few changes of his own ahead of the clash.

Jean-Ricner Bellegarde played against Tottenham Hotspur last weekend, but it remains to be seen whether he will return to the starting XI after suffering a minor injury.

Why Pereira must axe Bellegarde for Man Utd trip

Bellegarde played 42 minutes last week against Spurs before being subbed off due to injury.

Chalkboard

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

While on the field, the attacking midfielder completed just six passes, failed with his only dribble attempt, lost possession six times and was dribbled past once.

He has been a solid signing for the Old Gold, that much is certain. Given the nature of the game, however, plus the fact that Matheus Cunha is ready to make his first start following his four-match suspension, it makes sense to bring the Brazilian back into the starting XI.

This would see Bellegarde drop to the bench. That is if he is fit enough to make the matchday squad in the first place.

How Pereira can replace Bellegarde vs Man Utd

Cunha has a decent record against Man United since joining Wolves, scoring once and grabbing two assists across four games.

His goal came in the famous 2-0 win last December, and it proved that Cunha was capable of scoring in the biggest games.

Metric

2023/24

2024/25

Goals

12

14

Assists

7

4

Key passes per game

0.9

1.7

Big chances created

7

12

Successful dribbles per game

2

1.9

The £90k-per-week forward has been in sublime form for Wolves this season. A total of 16 goals and four assists have been registered by the former Atletico Madrid star, and he has arguably single-handedly kept the club floating above the relegation zone.

When compared to his positional peers in the top flight, Cunha ranks in the top 3% for non-penalty goals (0.58) per 90, while also ranking in the top 17% for successful take-ons (2.16) per 90 for the Old Gold this term.

Hailed as “unbelievable” by current teammate Mario Lemina earlier this season, Cunha might well be heading into his final few weeks as a Wolves player.

Cunha has sparked plenty of controversy in recent weeks, notably when hitting out at Wolves’ fans on social media who have criticised his attitude and commitment to the club.

Should a big offer arrive in the summer, it is likely he will be sold, giving Pereira plenty of cash to spend. The club might not have a player of his quality for quite some time, and he could shine against the Red Devils this afternoon.

Pereira's "sensational" Wolves star is now slowly becoming the new O’Hara

Wolves “sensational” star in danger of becoming new Jamie O’Hara

ByConnor Holden Apr 18, 2025

Enzo Maresca’s Blues started the season in red-hot form, dispatching teams and finding themselves second in the Premier League just before Christmas.

However, since then, Chelsea have struggled, dropping points to bottom-half sides and now finding themselves sixth and on the fringes of Champions League qualification.

Cole Palmer has struggled for form in recent months, playing in the middle of the park behind the striker, often dropping deep to receive the ball and aid Chelsea’s progression through the lines.

Whilst his goal-scoring numbers have dropped off, his creativity remains effective, having the joint highest xA (expected assists) in the Premier League this season with 7.9 xA.

With six games to go, it remains in the balance whether the Blues can obtain a precious top five spot, securing Champions League football for next season, in their ability to do so may well impact their ability to sign players this upcoming summer.

Chelsea favourites to sign Bundesliga sensation

According to reports from CaughtOffside, Chelsea are now leading the race and are favourites to sign Borussia Dortmund superstar, Jamie Gittens this summer.

Other Premier League clubs such as Liverpool have shown interest and scouted the 20-year-old winger, but it looks like the Blues may be ahead in the race.

With Jadon Sancho’s future currently in question, the Blues could opt to send the winger back to Manchester United, freeing up funds to acquire Gittens – who has been touted at around £85m – from Dortmund and reinvent the left side of their attacking unit.

Gittens has made 44 appearances for the German outfit this campaign, netting 12 goals, providing five assists and totalling 2,648 minutes played. The English winger came through Manchester City’s academy, much like another one of Chelsea’s superstars.

Gittens vs Palmer comparison

Palmer was, of course, signed from Manchester City back in 2023, joining the Blues for a fee of around £40m plus £2.5m in add-ons. That signing has proven to be well worth the investment made, with the 22-year-old already making 82 appearances for Chelsea, scoring 39 goals and providing 24 assists in 6,575 minutes played.

Goals

0.41

0.41

Assists

0.10

0.24

xG

0.19

0.54

xAG

0.13

0.31

Progressive Carries

5.58

3.25

Progressive Passes

2.07

6.24

Shots Total

2.56

3.65

Goals/Shot

0.16

0.09

Key Passes

1.09

2.54

Shot-Creating Actions

3.66

5.93

Successful Take-Ons

3.73

1.46

Carries into Pen Area

3.08

1.15

When comparing the underlying metrics of both young England stars, you can see how each of their games differ. Gittens clearly excels at carrying, looking to be direct with the ball at his feet, beating players 1v1 and attacking the box. Meanwhile, Palmer looks to express himself through creative passing, creating for himself and others, whilst also not being afraid to pull the trigger.

The 20-year-old has already been described as the “next English diamond” by Saul Morris, via Football Talent Scout, back in 2023. Since then, we have seen Gittens go on to produce some excellent form with Borussia Dortmund, thus earning him recognition from clubs back in England.

If Gittens does join Chelsea, the ex-Manchester City academy duo could be a lethal combination in attack, with Palmer dropping deep and finding those incisive passes in behind opposition defences, allowing Gittens to attack the box and get those shots off.

All the signs then point to this exciting deal proving to be the Blues’ best since snapping up Palmer in 2023.

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ByJoe Nuttall Apr 16, 2025

Aston Villa are battling Manchester United in the race to sign a teenager who has a release clause worth just £4 million, according to a new report.

Aston Villa's plans for the summer begin to take shape

Villa are hoping to seal a spot in next season’s Champions League, as the race to finish in the top five in the Premier League gathers pace in the final weeks of the campaign. But whether the Midlands side secure Champions League football or not, it is likely to be a busy summer for Unai Emery and co. as most summers have been since his arrival.

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ByKelan Sarson May 1, 2025

There is a lot to decide in regards to the futures of Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio, both of whom are on loan from Manchester United and Paris Saint-Germain, respectively. Meanwhile, rumours have started to begin regarding the future of Morgan Rogers, as he is linked with several high-profile teams in the Premier League.

But Villa’s focus will be on strengthening the team this summer, and one player they appear keen on signing is Kevin de Bruyne. It was reported last week that Villa held internal talks over signing the Belgian this summer.

It’s now been reported by Football Insider that club chiefs are ready to go and sign De Bruyne should Emery want a deal to be done. The midfielder is coming to the end of his contract at Manchester City and therefore can be picked up on a free transfer.

Aston Villa face Man Utd in race to sign £4m teenager

As well as looking at signing an experienced head like De Bruyne, the Villans also have their eye on adding more exciting youth to their team. According to Spanish reports, relayed by Sport Witness, Aston Villa are among the teams interested in signing Christian Kofane from Albacete Balompie.

The report states that as well as Villa holding a keen interest in the 18-year-old forward, Manchester United and Newcastle United are also in the race to sign the teenager. It claims that all three clubs have already made contact with Albacete Balompié over signing Kofane, but so has ‘half of Europe’, with teams such as Atlético Madrid, Real Madrid, Barcelona, Villarreal, Real Betis, Lille and AS Monaco all interested.

Kofane, who is described as a ‘sensation’ in this update, is under contract until 2031, but this report does state that he has a release clause which is worth €5 million, which is roughly £4.2 million, and this is described as easily affordable for the Premier League teams.

Apps

15

Goals

6

Assists

1

Kofane has gathered more attention in recent weeks, as he’s scored five goals in his last seven games. His arrival at Villa Park would likely see him join up with the club’s academy team, but the Villans must believe that Kofane has the ability to become a star for their first team, and therefore, they may be willing to trigger his release clause, given it is a small amount.

Barcelona and their sporting director Deco have made £120,000-per-week Newcastle United star a top transfer target, according to a recent report.

Newcastle chasing attacking reinforcements this summer

The Magpies still have plenty to play for in what has been a tremendous campaign, as they ended their long wait to lift a trophy. Eddie Howe’s side are still firmly in the race to secure a place in next season’s Champions League, and the hope will be that securing that will help them when it comes to transfers this summer.

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Newcastle are hoping to strengthen in the transfer market this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 23, 2025

The transfer window doesn’t open until the beginning of June, but already, Newcastle are lining up potential arrivals. According to a recent report, Newcastle are interested in a move to sign Alexis Saelemaekers from Italian giants AC Milan. The midfielder has been sent out on loan to AS Roma this season, and on his return at the end of the campaign, he could be allowed to leave, with Milan looking to get around £17 million for his services. His arrival would strengthen a midfield that already has plenty of exciting options.

As well as looking at ways to improve their midfield, Newcastle are also looking at improving their forward line, especially as Alexander Isak continues to be linked with a move away from St James’ Park.

According to L’Equipe, Newcastle have made Emanuel Emegha a transfer target, as the forward has been mightily impressive for Strasbourg. The striker is said to be open to a move to England and could be seen as a potential replacement for Isak, should he depart.

Barcelona now choose £120k-p/w Newcastle star to replace De Jong

However, signing a player like Saelemaekers may become more of a priority for the Magpies, as according to a report from Spain, Barcelona now want to sign Sandro Tonali from Newcastle as a replacement for Frenkie De Jong.

The report states that Deco is now working on a replacement for De Jong, as while the Dutchman is under contract until the summer of 2026, talks over a new deal are not advancing.

Therefore, he could be moved on by the Spanish giants, and they have identified Tonali as the perfect replacement. It claims that Barça see the Newcastle midfielder as someone who can immediately fit into their system and would be perfect to cover De Jong.

Tonali, who earns £120,000 a week at St James’ Park, has been on Barça’s radar for a while, even before he joined the Magpies. His performances in England for Newcastle have now confirmed to the Spanish giants how good he really is.

Apps

31

Starts

23

Goals

3

xG

3.53

Shots per game

0.9

Assists

2

xAG

1.35

Big chances created

2

Key passes

0.4

Tackles per game

1.5

Interceptions per game

0.9

Barça would place Tonali as essential to their midfield plans, but the fact he is under contract until 2028 and is expected to cost a lot of money are two stumbling blocks for Barcelona. However, they are confident that if De Jong doesn’t sign a new contract, it will give them an opportunity to sign Tonali, but this transfer hinges on what happens to the future of De Jong.

From afar, the intense battle for automatic promotion in the Championship is an enthralling spectacle to watch.

But, for those locked deep in it, there is nothing more nerve-wracking, with one minor misfire squandering your chances of an instant path up to the Premier League.

Chris Wilder’s Sheffield United have found out the hard way how cruel the tense promotion fight can be, with the one-time leaders now out of the top two after two humbling losses on the spin.

Time is still on their side to atone for these missteps, but Wilder will need to be more cutthroat with his team selections and drop underperformers, with Ben Brereton Diaz’s first-team spot on shaky ground.

Why Brereton Diaz needs to be dropped

The Chilean attacker won’t be deemed as a blunder in the transfer market, however, with Brereton Diaz boasting a mildly impressive three goals and three assists from 14 encounters since joining on loan in January.

But, to the dismay of the Blades faithful watching on alongside his manager, the usually potent forward was largely anonymous in the last two defeats against Oxford United and Millwall.

Brereton Diaz’s numbers vs Oxford + Millwall
Stat	Oxford	Millwall
Minutes played	59	45
Goals scored	0	0
Assists	0	0
Shots	0	2
Touches	20	21
Accurate passes	7/10 (70%)	9/14
Possession lost	7x	6x
Stats by Sofascore

Looking at the table above, it’s clear that Brereton Diaz has been massively underperforming to the detriment of his promotion-chasing side, with only two shots registered in total across a combined 104 minutes versus the U’s and Alex Neil’s visitors.

Moreover, his wastefulness on the ball as a right winger has killed many an attacking opportunity, with possession given up a high seven times at the Kassam Stadium, despite only mustering up a weak 20 touches of the ball.

Wilder substituting off the Southampton loanee at the half-time interval versus Millwall could mean he’s willing to drop the 25-year-old completely for his side’s mammoth trip to Plymouth Argyle later on, therefore, which might potentially gift this exciting winger the chance to nail down a starting spot on the right subsequently.

How Wilder can replace Brereton Diaz

After all, if the Blades do decide to go all gung-ho on their travels to Devon, they could gain a lot of joy from a leaky, relegation-doomed side in the Pilgrims, considering Plymouth have given up a high 81 goals in league action.

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Jesurun Rak-Sakyi could be licking his lips at the prospect of a start at Home Park, consequently, with the Crystal Palace loanee gifting his side a lot more on the right flank last time out than the out-of-sorts Brereton Diaz.

Across his bright 45-minute stint on the Bramall Lane turf, Rak-Sakyi managed to tally up three more shots than his poor counterpart, on top of also twisting and turn Millwall shirts for fun with three successful dribbles, as per Sofascore.

Winning 100% of his ground duels too, the 22-year-old attacker would have been kicking himself that he didn’t add to his growing goal and assist tally for the club in the unfortunate 1-0 defeat, having picked up six strikes and two assists away from this second successive loss.

Hailed as a “remarkable” player by former Eagles boss Roy Hodgson, Rak-Sakyi would love to close out his memorable stint in South Yorkshire with a promotion on his fledgling CV.

With double the amount of strikes compared next to Brereton Diaz’s league output – on top of his promising cameo against Millwall – the time could be right to hand the entertaining youngster a start, as Wilder attempts to roll the dice subtly to get his team’s stuttering promotion push back on course.

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