All posts by z3u9t.icu

Being a football manager is hard. It’s hard to keep your cool when you’re receiving criticism from every possible angle, so naturally, some managers don’t. Sometimes that pressure gets too much and it boils over.

Whether it’s a contentious decision, an annoying journalist or a disappointing result, these moments often make headlines. The unrelenting schedule of interviews and media duties, unsurprisingly, begin to take their toll.

Football FanCast takes a look at ten of the angriest press conference moments that left us all stunned and bemused.

10 Giovanni Trapattoni lays into his own team

Bayern Munich, March 1998

In 1998, during the legendary Italian coach’s time as the Bayern Munich manager, he delivered an impassioned rant to address his team’s recent poor performance against Schalke, which marked a third successive league defeat.

Firstly, he went after the media, frustrated at the fact they had been unimpressed by Bayern’s style of play. “No team in the Bundesliga plays as offensively as Bayern,” he said, going on a tirade about how he had three forwards on the pitch in the last game.

Speaking in broken German with an Italian accent, Trapattoni unleashed a fury of emotions, exclaiming, “These players complain more than play.” He criticised his players, in particular Thomas Strunz, whom he bemoaned was “always injured.”

Despite being pretty funny, this reflected Trapattoni’s intense commitment to the game and his frustration with Bayern’s lacklustre form. It may have happened before the internet was as big as it is today, but it’s still remembered as one of the most shocking press conference moments.

9 Roy Keane fumes over journalist's ringtone

Ipswich Town, November 2009

Roy Keane isn’t known to be a man who lets things go. He had great success as a player, less so as a manager. During his spell at Ipswich Town, he was less than impressed by a journalist whose phone went off.

“Whose phone is that? That’s the second time it’s gone off,” he said menacingly, his eyes darting around the room to find who the culprit was. Eventually, a journalist sheepishly admitted he was at fault, but for some reason, he just let it ring.

This infuriated Keane further. “Why don’t you turn it off? Or put it on silent?” he said while staring down the no-doubt terrified journo. After he let it ring out, Keane bemoaned his lack of manners.

Keane didn’t see out his contract at Ipswich and was promptly dismissed after a disappointing run of form in 2011.

8 Sir Alex Ferguson takes offence to 'struggling' label

Manchester United, November 2011

If you thought Roy Keane had a temper, wait until you find out about his old boss Fergie. The term “hairdryer treatment” was coined due to the fact that he would yell at a player with such ferocity, it was like having a hairdryer blowing in your face.

Fergie had a frosty relationship with the press; when you’re in a job for that long, there will no doubt be times you lose your rag a bit. After he received a question about Manchester United struggling in the Champions League, he had enough.

“Struggling… are you serious?” he said as the blood rushed to his face. “We’re not struggling.” He then turned away with a terrifying smile on his face, got up and walked out. Fergie was done, he would take no further questions.

We could probably write a top 10 times Fergie lost it, but for the sake of this list, this will be the only time the Manchester United great features.

In fairness to the reporter here, United didn’t make it out of their group…

7 Arsene Wenger gets hot under the collar

Arsenal, February 2013

Wenger was the opposite of Fergie in many ways – that’s why their rivalry was so perfect. But every now and again, he had it in him to be a little feisty. That’s exactly what happened during his press conference preceding a Champions League game against Bayern Munich in 2013.

When asked about a possible contract extension, he angrily told the journalist that he had the “wrong information” before asking a question back: “Why do you look at me?”. Bemused, the journalist responded with, “because it’s your press conference.” To be fair, he wasn’t wrong.

Wenger then went on to get even more frustrated when asked about his commitment to the FA Cup, a competition Arsenal had just been knocked out of by Championship side Blackburn Rovers. “I have won the FA Cup four times. Who has won it more? Give me one name.”

No one responded with Sir Alex Ferguson, who had won it five times, although it must have been tempting.

6 Rafa Benitez goes on legendary 'facts' rant

Liverpool, January 2009

OK, let’s talk about facts. Benitez was another manager who had a famous rivalry with Fergie, and another manager to crumble under the pressure of the Scotsman’s mind games. Of course, according to Benitez, “I don’t want to play mind games.”

Benitez was growing increasingly annoyed by the FA’s apparent reluctance to punish Sir Alex for his touchline antics. “He is the only manager in the English league that cannot be punished for these things, it’s a fact.”

This 2009 meltdown, along with Benitez’s prepared list of “facts” is without a doubt one of the most memorable press conference moments, it’s ingrained into the minds of Liverpool and Manchester United fans alike.

5 Ian Holloway gets fed up with transfer rumours

Crystal Palace, January 2013

When you’re the manager of a smaller club, and the big boys are circling your best player, you’re going to get annoyed when you’re constantly being asked questions about their future. The lines are fine, as losing that player could cost you your job.

That must have been exactly how Ian Holloway felt when he was Crystal Palace manager. Talismanic winger Wilfried Zaha had been linked with a move to pretty much every big club in the Premier League before joining Manchester United, and Holloway was tired of it.

After Zaha got a slight injury, Holloway said, “He might be out for about six months, to stop you from talking about him all the time.” He then sarcastically smiled before adding, “Get my message, do you?”

His phone then rings and he jokes about it being Arsene Wenger on the other end. That joke quickly turns and he starts to have a go at the journalists in the room, saying they need to “get a life” instead of writing articles about Zaha. We’ll keep that in mind, Ian.

4 Pep Guardiola gives in to foe Mourinho pre-Clasico

Barcelona, April 2011

It’s hard to imagine Pep Guardiola losing his temper, he’s just too cool. Before he was winning Premier League after Premier League, he was Barcelona manager, while Jose Mourinho was the Real Madrid boss. It was one of the greatest managerial rivalries we’ve ever seen.

Guardiola came in hot, ranting and raving about how well Mourinho manipulates the media into being on his side. “In this room, he’s the f****** chief,” he said in his native Spanish. “He has already won the battle off the pitch. He has been winning it all season.”

This was his breaking point. Mourinho had poked and prodded all season, and at the back end of the 2010/11 campaign, he finally broke and the Portuguese coach got exactly what he wanted – except, perhaps, the better of Barcelona on the pitch.

3 Joe Kinnear welcomes journalists in his own unique way

Newcastle United, September 2008

This one is going to be a little tricky. Not because there isn’t enough to cover, but because there are so many expletives, it’s difficult to quote it while doing it justice. This is by far the most swear-filled press conference on this list.

Before his spell at Newcastle in 2008, Kinnear had been without a club for four years. it was a bemusing appointment that didn’t go down well with fans or players. After reporting that Newcastle players took the day off from training the day after he was appointed, journalists were on the receiving end of Kinnear’s fury.

Kinnear cursed out the two journalists responsible and an argument ensued. The journalists questioned whether Kinnear had even read the pieces that brought about his ire, but he wasn’t having any of it. He called them very rude words to their face. Kinnear was unable to stop Newcastle from being relegated that season.

Here’s the clip, for those who are unfamiliar (viewer discretion is advised).

2 Ian Holloway wades into heated Rooney debate

Blackpool, October 2010

Oh Ian, did you think we were done with you? This time it was during his spell at Blackpool. He did an incredible job to get them up to the Premier League, as they became everyone’s second club during the 2010/11 season. They even managed to do the double over Liverpool.

Interestingly, this outburst wasn’t aimed at any of his own players, or the press, but at Wayne Rooney and his agent. Rooney had expressed his desire to leave Manchester United on a free, and Holloway wasn’t happy about it.

“They bought him for 30-odd million, and he’s going to be allowed to walk out of there if he stays and sees his contract out for nothing.”

He then went on to defend Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson, “If Alex Ferguson is being bullied by a player and his agent, whatever you wanna call it, how wrong is the game!?”

He then called on FIFA or UEFA to act against such player power.

1 Kevin Keegan falls for Fergie's mind games

Newcastle United, April 1996

It’s hard not to feel a little sorry for Kevin Keegan. He was such a fantastic footballer, and he was doing a great job as Newcastle’s manager. All of that has become a meme thanks to one moment: his rant about Manchester United in 1995/96.

It will be on ‘Premier League’s most shocking moments’ TV shows until the end of time. Newcastle had fallen off after an impressive start to that season’s campaign and Manchester United had caught up.

Keegan had had enough of Sir Alex’s mind games. “I’ve kept really quiet,” he yells into the camera. “You tell him now if he’s watching it, we’re still fighting for this title, and he’s got to go to Middlesbrough and get something.”

Then he said the famous line, “I would love it if we beat them.” As soon as that happened, it was as if Manchester United had won the league there and then. Keegan’s head was gone.

High-pressure situations are hard to deal with, no matter how successful a manager is. There will surely be more meltdowns along the way.

Thrashing Aston Villa 5-1 and easing past Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League for their biggest win yet under Eddie Howe, things were going well for Newcastle United in the opening stages of the season. And then the injuries began to pile up and Sandro Tonali received a 10-month ban. Since then, the results on the pitch have matched the misery away from it, with defeats in Europe against Borussia Dortmund followed by a disappointing loss at Bournemouth to leave the Magpies six points behind a top four place in the Premier League.

It's clear that Howe needs to add more depth to his squad, and the January transfer window gives the former Bournemouth boss the chance to do exactly that, which could finally see the arrival of a long-term target.

Newcastle United transfer news

When looking back on the summer transfer window that Newcastle had, it's easy to see why they've struggled at times so far this season. Their two big signings were Tonali and Harvey Barnes, one of whom is banned for 10 months and the other is struggling with injuries, to make it a summer window to forget. The Magpies failed to address their attacking depth and remained with just two options to lead the line, which are Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson, who have both had their own problems with injuries.

Feeling the need to solve this issue, however, reports suggest that Howe could have a potential January solution. According to Pete O'Rourke of Football Insider, Newcastle could sign Hugo Ekitike on loan in January. The PSG striker previously rejected a move to St James' Park in 2022 after Newcastle had reportedly agreed a £30m deal with Stade de Reims. Opting to move to PSG instead, Ekitike has since struggled for game time in the French capital, and the Premier League club could now offer the 21-year-old a winter lifeline with PSG opening the doors to a temporary exit.

"Special" Ekitike could solve Newcastle problem

Attempting to compete on all fronts with just two recognised strikers was always going to be a struggle for Newcastle, especially with their place in the Champions League. Welcoming Ekitike on loan in January would solve that depth problem, however, albeit only momentarily.

The 6 foot 2 forward would also benefit from the move, having played just eight minutes in Ligue 1 for PSG this season. At such a young age, minutes are crucial and it's clear that the 21-year-old will not receive an opportunity with the French champions this season.

During his time at Reims, Ekitike showed plenty of potential and earned high praise as a result, including from then manager Oscar Garcia. Garcia told the Ligue 1 Show on beIN Sports, via Chronicle Live: “There is something very special about him. He’s young, and he has the quality to become a very good player. He’s a young man with a lot of quality but also a lot to improve on, but he works hard in training.”

We've seen Howe get the best out of struggling players before through his work with the likes of Miguel Almiron. Now, he could be handed the chance to get Ekitike back on course for success.

It is believed that one player finds the idea of a move to West Ham quite tempting, with a January transfer now possible for him.

West Ham facing mass 2024 exodus

The Hammers are facing a pretty real prospect of losing key players in 2024, with many squad members currently out of contract next summer as things stand. Pablo Fornals, Ben Johnson, Vladimir Coufal, Michail Antonio, Conor Coventry, Aaron Cresswell, Lukasz Fabianski and veteran defender Angelo Ogbonna could all depart the London Stadium for free at the end of this Premier League season, giving London Stadium chiefs some big decisions to make.

Manager David Moyes is another important figure who may leave next year, with reports suggesting that West Ham are unlikely to offer the Scotsman a new contract.

Coufal is a pretty interesting case, as the Czech Republic international has been one of the arguable success stories of Moyes' second stint in charge.

Signed for just £5.4 million in 2020, which looks like a real bargain, the full-back has gone on to become a fixture in the West Ham eleven alongside Czech teammate Tomas Soucek. Both dazzled in their debut season and have played a major roles in West Ham's European success since then. Saying goodbye to Coufal in June could come as a pretty tough call from sporting director Mark Noble and transfer chief Tim Steidten.

The 31-year-old's contract contains a club option to extend by an additional 12 months, but there have been reports that West Ham are targeting long-term replacements for Coufal regardless.

Wolves star Nelson Semedo has been linked with a West Ham move in recent months, while another option could be Man United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

Wan-Bissaka finds West Ham move tempting

According to a report by Football Transfers this week, it is believed Wan-Bissaka is enticed by potentially joining West Ham over London rivals Crystal Palace. A winter window exit is apparently on the cards for United's full-back, and West Ham are targeting the Englishman as a possible replacement for Coufal.

Indeed, Steidten is said to be chasing a new right-back for as soon as the January window, with Wan-Bissaka viewed as a serious option. The former Palace star has made six appearances for United so far but could depart Old Trafford mid-season, something which may benefit West Ham in their hunt for a Coufal heir.

Spurs star James Maddison, commenting on Wan-Bissaka's ability, said that the Englishman is one of world football's best one-v-one defenders – calling him "ridiculously good" in that aspect.

This sentiment is echoed by BBC pundit Alan Hutton, who urged West Ham to make a move for the £100,000-per-week ace earlier this year (Salary Sport).

“If we are talking about just as a defender, West Ham need to strengthen and there is no doubt he is one of the best 1v1 defenders that there is as a full-back," said Hutton to Football Insider.

"I think he could definitely make them better but the fee is going to be the big thing, probably a stumbling block."

Tottenham Hotspur had been exceptional in the Premier League this season before recent losses against Chelsea, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Aston Villa halted the resurgence under Ange Postecoglou, but there is still plenty of reason to be optimistic.

It's important to remember that prior to the triad of defeats, where injuries and suspension shaped the narrative, Spurs were perched at the top of the table and looked as formidable as any outfit in the division.

With a new era still in its maiden stage and Postecoglou's charisma and vision hinting at a successful future, the recent setbacks must be taken with sanguine confidence that a return to form is on the horizon.

That being said, Spurs' squad is currently bordering on threadbare and Postecoglou, chairman Daniel Levy and the club's transfer team will have their work cut out in January, bolstering the ranks across different departments and ensuring that Champions League qualification remains attainable.

Another Spurs star now set to miss rest of 2023 alongside Bentancur

He was expected back sooner.

ByEmilio Galantini Nov 30, 2023

It's understood that strengthening the defence will take precedence, and while the midfield will also need attention, it might be the perfect opportunity for Spurs to make good use of their talented academy players, with Rio Kyerematen among the most talented that English football has to offer.

Rio Kyerematen's youth statistics

Kyerematen, aged 18, has posted 13 goals and 11 assists from just 55 appearances for Tottenham's various youth outfits, with his natural inclination for sniffing out direct offensive contributions certainly swaying the odds in his favour when Postecoglou looks to pluck the best talents from Wayne Burnett's development side.

The centre-midfielder has made ten appearances across all competitions this term and given his versatile skills in the engine room, could be the perfect youthful addition to fortify Tottenham's squad.

The "big talent" – as he has been called by Tottenham podcaster Chris Miller – might not be quite at the level to wedge his way into a fully-fit Spurs first-team, but given that Rodrigo Bentancur has suffered an agonising injury blow against Unai Emery's Villa, hands may well be forced.

Rodrigo Bentancur's season in numbers

Bentancur scored five goals and supplied two assists from 18 Premier League starts last season before disaster struck and he sustained an ACL injury in February during a 4-1 defeat against Leicester City.

The £75k-per-week midfield star only returned to action last month and managed to earn three substitute appearances before receiving a starting berth against Aston Villa, but Matty Cash's lunging challenge wrecked his afternoon and any chance of building form over the coming months.

The 56-cap international offers a rounded game and would have perfectly complemented Spurs' existing options, potentially proving to be the difference-maker over the forthcoming period.

He's even been described as a "Rolls-Royce" by football writer Tom Robinson, and after starting so brightly against the Lions on Sunday – completing 86% of his passes and winning all three ground duels in little over 30 minutes of action, as per Sofascore – his loss comes as a major blow for an already depleted outfit.

Why Kyerematen could replace Bentancur

Were Bentancur to be the only unavailable star throughout the winter period, it's unlikely that Kyerematen's name would be considered, but circumstances spin a different narrative.

The African Cup of Nations is only one month away and will ensure that both Yves Bissouma and Pape Matar Sarr will be absent for January and potentially early February.

The duo had formed a cohesive bond over the opening months of the campaign and looked the real deal in the centre, working overtime to ensure that Postecoglou's vision was implemented on the pitch.

Player

Club

Casemiro

Manchester United

Declan Rice

Arsenal

Moises Caicedo

Chelsea

Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg

Tottenham

Sandro Tonali

Newcastle

*Sourced via Football Transfers

But with the pair set to be unavailable to compound the problem, Kyerematen may well get the nod, with James Maddison also out until the new year.

Profiling the midfielder last year, club insider superhotspur underscored the dynamism and talent that would set Kyerematen in good stead for a rise to prominence among the seniors in the near future.

He wrote: 'Always looking to make decisive forward passes, Rio is a very good passer of a football, and he has a good range of passing. In addition, he is also very reliable on the ball, is very good at dribbling with the ball and at turning with it, and he uses the ball really well.'

The observer also noted that he is 'tenacious and good at winning the ball in midfield, on the occasions that he has played in that position. A clinical finisher with the ball on the edge of the penalty area, Rio Kyerematen can strike a football really well, and it resulted in him finishing last season as the third highest top scorer for the Spurs Under 18 side in 2021/22.'

Bentancur is a bit of an all-action midfielder; he's ambitious and tenacious in striving for goals and assists, he is a sterling passer of the ball, and his technique mirrors the elegance and grace of a pirouetting dancer, putting not a foot wrong.

He's been hindered over the past year; detrimentally. The Uruguayan has been unable to build on his excellent start to life in London and now looks set to sit back on the sidelines until February, which is a hammer blow for Postecoglou's side ahead of the gruelling winter period.

Unleashing Kyerematen could also provide Postecoglou with an upgrade on Oliver Skipp, who is industrious and useful as a squad option but, now aged 23, has not started in the Premier League since the opening day against Brentford and is unlikely to secure a prominent role going forward.

Should Kyerematen find himself in contention for a first-team debut over the coming months, he may well be partnering Skipp on occasion, especially when the likes of Bissouma and Sarr deepening the woes during AFCON.

But such a promotion to the senior set-up could conjure a window from which this exciting teen talent could step through, announcing himself as one of English football's most talented prospects.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is on the lookout for new reinforcements to continue his squad rebuild at Anfield and is personally now eyeing a transfer of his own.

Sheffield United 0-2 Liverpool

On Wednesday evening, the Reds ensured they took maximum points from Chris Wilder's first match back in charge of Sheffield United at Bramall Lane, with strikes from Virgil van Dijk and Dominik Szoboszlai making certain of all three points in South Yorkshire.

Coupled with Manchester City's loss away to Aston Villa, the Reds have now moved into second place in the Premier League table, just two points off leaders Arsenal, who themselves will face the difficult task of travelling to face Unai Emery's men this weekend.

Nevertheless, Klopp refused to entertain the notion of writing off Manchester City in spite of their recent dip in form that has failed to provide a win in four top-flight matches, stating in his post-match press conference when asked whether the title race will go down to the wire:

"I have no clue! If we win it, I hope not. I have no clue. We will see that. I don't know if they lose or whatever, if somebody would write City off, that would be the biggest joke in the history of football, that really makes no sense."

Undoubtedly, these comments could come as music to the ears of Reds supporters, who will be conscious that the landscape can change at any given moment regarding the potential destination of the league trophy. Heading into the New Year, the Merseyside giants may also be expected to strengthen their own squad depth as they attempt to foil other suitors in the hunt for English football's greatest prize.

Liverpool make first move to sign "starlet"; he's impressed Reds scouts

The Reds have reportedly turned their attention towards the future…

ByTom Cunningham Dec 6, 2023

Now, Klopp is believed to have a talented player on his radar who has enjoyed an encouraging rise to prominence in recent times, albeit as someone who may be more of a long-term project if he moves to Anfield.

Liverpool keen on Maximilian Beier

According to reports in Germany, Klopp is chasing Hoffenheim striker Maximilian Beier, who has impressed this term for the Bundesliga outfit. The 21-year-old is said to have a €30 million (£25.7 million) release clause in his contract, which could make him a prominent target for clubs next summer in light of his recent form, something that has enticed Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann as he prepares for EURO 2024.

Maximilian Beier's Bundesliga stats in 2023/24 – Sofascore

Scoring frequency

152 minutes per goal

Expected goals

4.47

Shots per game

2.4

Shots on target per game

1.2

Touches per game

26.6

The Reds now 'have him on the list' in what appears to be a personal pursuit from Klopp as he eyes extra options in the final third. At the same time, Everton have been credited with an interest in the in-form poacher. Hoffenheim sporting director Alexander Rosen has praised the youngster recently, saying:

"Maxi Beier is a super guy and an extremely talented striker. He is incredibly fast, goal-threatening and can kick really well. For me, Maxi is one of the absolute shooting stars of this Bundesliga season."

Maximilian Beier in action for Hoffenheim.

In the Bundesliga this term, Beier has been in some excellent form, registering six goals and four assists in 13 appearances for Hoffenheim (Beier statistics – Transfermarkt).

Emerging as an exciting prospect with the capability to link the play and score with regularity, Beier could be a smart addition to Liverpool's star-studded forward line either in January or later down the road, making this one to watch.

Tottenham Hotspur have wrestled with a stark loss of form over recent weeks but returned to winning ways with an excellent 4-1 victory over Newcastle United last weekend.

Ange Postecoglou will have been most displeased with his side's decline, having won eight of his first ten matches in the Premier League – drawing the other two – and winning a trio of Manager of the Month awards to announce himself to English football emphatically.

How Spurs have been restored since the Australian's appointment has been stunning, with the eighth-placed finish of 2022/23 a poignant memory fading into the ether: while Tottenham's thinness has been their undoing of late, the fluency and attacking verve has hinted at fruitful future fortunes.

Postecoglou needs to strengthen in January, bolstering his ranks to compete against the division's best as the season stretches into its decisive phase after the new year, and the attacking area is of great importance.

Tottenham transfer news – Matias Soule

While many Lilywhites supporters will be aware of Tottenham's interest in a young Juventus forward named Samuel Iling-Junior, Daniel Levy and his transfer team have been enticed by further starlets from the Old Lady's squad, with Matias Soule identified.

Spurs could repeat Maddison masterclass with move for £20m "assist machine"

Tottenham will look to strengthen the ranks in January.

ByAngus Sinclair Dec 12, 2023

According to journalist Fabio Santini – via Sport Witness – Spurs, alongside Crystal Palace, are interested in signing Soule after his impressive performances on loan with Serie A side Frosinone, following news from Calciomercato earlier in December that revealed Tottenham's attention.

Santini said that Juve could seek to recuperate funds as they target central midfield additions and will attempt to cash in on Soule, valued at a ballpark fee of €25m (£21m).

Tottenham have a good relationship with the Turin club after signing Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur in recent years, and could use such former deals to engineer a transfer.

Matias Soule's season in numbers

Last season, the 20-year-old scored his first goal for Juventus and played a bit-part role as he honed his craft, starting four times in Serie A, but Massimiliano Allegri probably made the right decision in allowing him to further improve elsewhere, shipping him out on loan in the summer.

As per Sofascore, the 5 foot 9 whiz has been immense now he has been taken off the leash, scoring six goals and supplying one assist across 13 outings in the Italian top-flight this term, however, his influence stretches far beyond this surface-level contribution.

Completing 81% of his passes. Soule has also averaged three key passes and 5.6 ball recoveries per game while making 4.5 dribbles each outing – for comparison, Manchester City's Jeremy Doku is averaging 4.0 dribbles per game in the Premier League.

Described as an "exciting talent" by Statman Dave, Tottenham would pull off a coup in securing this youngster's signature, and Postecoglou simply has to act incisively to snap him up.

Matias Soule's style of play

While Soule's "superb" dribbling style is his standout attribute – as hailed by talent scout Jacek Kulig – there is little question that he is blooming into a multi-faceted player with a keen eye for goal and a natural intelligence in decision-making and movement.

While he would be effective on the left, his eagerness to weave inside and beat his man highlights his hunger and mettle in attacking sequences, always looking to inflict damage on his opponents and earning praise from journalist Zach Lowy, who noted his "special" skill set.

Boasting some impressive and evenly spread metrics, Soule ranks among the top 13% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for goals, the top 7% for shot-creating actions, the top 9% for progressive passes, the top 1% for successful take-ons and the top 5% for blocks per 90, as per FBref.

Artful and penetrative, he is likened to Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze, which is probably a definitive factor behind the Eagles' interest as they look to complement their fleet-footed star.

For Spurs, augmenting their offensive ranks with a player of such quality is only going to tantalise riches down the line, with Soule's innate eye for goal and skill in driving the ball forward, progressing the play as an unstoppable wide vehicle, something that will prove invaluable as Postecoglou looks to return to European competition and indeed thrive on the continental stage.

How Soule compares to Dejan Kulusevski

Since Soule principally plays on the right wing, he would find himself in direct competition with Kulusevski, who intriguingly also arrived from Juventus, signing for £25m in the summer after completing an initial 18-month loan.

It's perhaps a fair assessment that Soule has the makings of a natural finisher in a way that Kulusevski cannot emulate; the Sweden international has a melange of noteworthy qualities but ranks among the bottom 29% of positional peers for goals scored per 90.

That said, he ranks among the top 19% for tackles and the top 20% for interceptions per 90, having been praised for his attributes recently by Sky Sports' Jamie Weir.

The reporter said: "Dejan Kulusevski really is a special special player. Works so hard, covers every blade of grass. Hell of an engine on him, and just so much heart."

Player

Club

Bukayo Saka

Arsenal

Ousmane Dembele

Paris Saint-Germain

Hirving Lozano

PSV Eindhoven

*Sourced via Football Transfers

As per Sofascore, the 23-year-old has also completed 83% of his passes in the Premier League this season while averaging 2.3 key passes per game, evidencing his creative flair and effectiveness in Postecoglou's squad, having started all 16 league fixtures.

Such contrasting skill sets could be crucial for Spurs going forward, adding some prodigious talent to the right flank to further the development – with the struggling Bryan Gil the counterweight, the balance is somewhat askew.

Given that Kulusevski has also played a central creative role at times recently, and by utilising his spark he could create a constant passage through to the danger area, from which the Argentinian talent could wreak havoc.

Bolstering with an exciting youngster such as Soule could be the perfect move for Spurs, who can look ahead with much optimism once again after a testing period.

Norwich City still find themselves settling for averageness with 26 games of the Championship season up, the Canaries occupying 13th spot in the division under the disappointing reign of David Wagner to date.

Yet, it looks as if the underwhelming German manager is here to stay at Carrow Road with no real indicators that the ex-Huddersfield Town boss will be relieved of his duties in Norfolk anytime soon.

So, this month's transfer window could see the underperforming 52-year-old scramble about to bring new personnel into the building to kickstart a turnaround in fortunes.

EFL Championship done deals: Every January 2024 transfer

As the January transfer window closes, FFC has you covered for every in and out involving your club in the EFL Championship.

ByLuke Randall Feb 1, 2024

With that in mind, here are three potential signings Wagner could make this month to save his skin in the Canaries hot-seat…

1 Joshua Stokes

Wagner could well look to the non-league market to sign an explosive talent this January, the sort of purchase that could have the Carrow Road masses off their seats on a consistent basis if all goes to plan.

Joshua Stokes is a player in high demand this January, the Aldershot Town star wanted not just by the Canaries in the second tier according to TEAMtalk but also by the likes of Ipswich Town and Sunderland higher up the rankings in the Championship.

The attacking midfielder warrants such fervent interest in his services too, standing out as a talent who could play at a far higher level by scoring 15 goals in a gung-ho Aldershot side in all competitions this season.

Stokes could well be the goalscoring midfielder Norwich desire if Gabriel Sara ends up leaving this January, a risky signing that could really pay off and get fans back on side watching a player who strides across the turf whenever selected with a smile on his face.

2 Jesurun Rak-Sakyi

This next potential move could also occur off the back of another departure happening in Norfolk, Jesurun Rak-Sakyi coming in on a potential loan deal to the Canaries to fill the void left behind by Jonathan Rowe leaving.

That would be a very hard gap to fill but Rak-Sakyi has shown in the EFL in the past – albeit in League One – that he is equally as tricky and hard to contain as Rowe on his day.

Even if Rowe did stay put at Carrow Road, Rak-Sakyi could displace below-par performers such as Christian Fassnacht if signed.

The current Crystal Palace winger's loan spell at Charlton Athletic during the 2022/23 season was the making of the 21-year-old, blossoming into a potent attacker at the Addicks with 15 goals and nine assists notched up from 43 games.

Another loan move away from Selhurst Park didn't materialise for the former Charlton fan favourite this summer, but Norwich were reportedly interested then and could revive their interest this month especially if Rowe ups and leaves for pastures new.

3 Dexter Lembikisa

Norwich could utilise the loan market once more by signing Dexter Lembikisa this month, the current Rotherham United loanee a wanted man according to TEAMTalk with Middlesbrough and Ipswich Town also wanting to sign the young full-back alongside the Canaries.

Supporters of Norwich know all too well what Lembikisa is capable of, the Wolverhampton Wanderers youngster turned crucial Millers first-teamer scoring a sensational first-time strike against Wagner's men earlier in the season.

The Canaries could well want to turn back the clock and sign a full-back reminiscent of Max Aarons in Lembikisa, pushing the likes of Jack Stacey all the way currently at Carrow Road to a starting spot if purchased.

Wagner knows that he will have to get his recruitment spot on this month to improve his side and get more wins on the board, or he could finally be put out of his misery and fired from his precarious job post.

Journalist Fabrizio Romano says Liverpool are interested in signing a player who is "characterised by his calm" and excels in passing out from defence.

Liverpool's title hopes surge

The Reds produced a scintillating performance to beat Newcastle United 4-2 in the Premier League on New Year's Day, pulling three points clear at the top of the table in the process. It was arguably one of Liverpool's most convincing performances in a number of weeks, and while some of the finishing was disappointing, it was a night that suggested that they are very much Manchester City's biggest rivals in the title race.

Some fans feel that new signings in the January transfer window would give Jurgen Klopp's side an even better chance of going all the way, with certain areas of the pitch looking light. Centre-back is a position that could do with reinforcements after Joel Matip was ruled out for the season, and the Reds have been linked with a move for Bayer Leverkusen ace Piero Hincapie.

The midfield was revamped last summer, following major issues with Fabinho, Jordan Henderson and others, but Fulham's Joao Palhinha is seen as a reported target for Liverpool, too, should Klopp feel the need to bring in a more out-and-out defensive midfielder than Alexis Mac Allister.

It looks as though the Merseysiders could be eyeing a player who is capable of shining in both of the aforementioned positions, according to a new transfer claim.

Liverpool eyeing Ko Itakura

Taking to X, Romano revealed that Liverpool are one of the clubs showing an interest in Ko Itakura, with the Borussia Monchengladbach centre-back scouted by the Reds a number of times.

"Ko Itakura, one to watch in 2024 as top clubs are monitoring Japanese CB. Understand Liverpool have sent their scouts multiple times to follow Itakura’s performances. Tottenham also monitored him as Ange Postecoglou wanted Ko at Celtic. Release clause NOT valid in January."

Ikatura could be a really good signing by Liverpool, with the 26-year-old someone who could add much-needed depth at the heart of the defence, following the ACL injury suffered by Matip. The Japan international was once described as a player who is "characterised by his calm" by former Schalke coach Dimitrios Grammozis, and he represented his country three times at the 2022 World Cup, while his composure is really shown in his passing ability.

Ikatura would clearly have to accept that he was coming in as a squad player, with Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate Liverpool's undisputed first-choice centre-back pairing, but he has been phenomenal this term, actually ranking as one of the best passers out of all European centre-backs.

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At 26, the Monchengladbach hero is at a great age, having years under his belt at the top level but still arguably not at his peak, and in Wataru Endo, he would have an international colleague at Anfield who could help him settle quickly.

There is also the added bonus of Ikatura being capable of playing in defensive midfield if needed, and Klopp may see such versatility as a key asset.

Manchester United are in the market for deals this window and have now been told how much they will need to pay in order to acquire a key target, according to a report.

Who are Man United's transfer targets?

Despite the excitement surrounding the arrival of Sir Jim Ratcliffe and company at Old Trafford, there is a yearning among supporters for new players to be announced at Manchester United to help combat their mixed fortunes in the Premier League.

Erik ten Hag will be eager to ensure capable reinforcements pitch up in the North West and a striking addition is reportedly on his transfer wishlist. Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has revealed that the Red Devils have held tentative conversations regarding Bayern Munich's Eric Choupo-Moting, Stuttgart forward Serhou Guirassy and Borussia Dortmund attacker Donyell Malen.

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Romano told the outlet: "To be honest, Manchester United never had the concrete negotiation with RB Leipzig. United had a discussion with Timo Werner's agent just to understand the conditions of the deal. How was the situation around Timo Werner for the January window, but Manchester United.

"United never decided to proceed for the proper negotiation for the transfer of Timo Werner. So they had the same kind of discussion for example with the agents of Choupo-Moting, with the agents of Donyell Malen, with the agents of Serhou Guirassy. All players that could be available on the January transfer market with different conditions."

Queens Park goalkeeper Callan McKenna is believed to be in advanced talks over a move to Old Trafford; nevertheless, he is likely to be one for the future and will take a few years to develop into a senior player. Now, fresh reports suggest that United have been told the price tag of a key target who they have already seen their advances rejected for this month.

Manchester United bid for Morten Hjulmand

According to The Sun, Manchester United offered Facundo Pellistri in exchange for Sporting CP midfielder Morten Hjulmand; however, their bid has been knocked back by the Portuguese giants, who have since laid down the law regarding the Denmark international.

Morten Hjulmand key statistics in 2023/24 – Liga Portugal (Sofascore)

Big chances created

2

Tackles per game

2.1

Balls recovered per game

5.7

Clearances per game

1.0

Accurate passes per game

42.8 (87%)

Average match rating

7.06/10

Ruben Amorim's men would require the Red Devils to trigger the 24-year-old's release clause before sanctioning a deal, which is believed to sit at the £69 million mark. United have scouted him in both domestic and European action this term; meanwhile, Christian Eriksen is close friends with the Kastrup-born man and acts as his mentor on international duty.

Hjulmand, who has been praised for his tenacious qualities by Italian journalists, had made 23 appearances in all competitions this campaign, registering one goal and two assists (Hjulmand statistics – Transfermarkt).

The Red Devils have managed to unearth starlet Kobbie Mainoo as a first-team regular and slotting Hjulmand in beside him and Bruno Fernandes could provide Ten Hag with a nicely balanced engine room for years to come.

Celtic are now seemingly close to announcing their first signing of the January window with a reported target now due to have a medical after a "total agreement" was reached with the Scottish Premiership champions.

Celtic slowly making moves in the transfer market…

Brendan Rodgers made his desire to add extra quality to his side in the January window clearer than ever to the point the Northern Irishman has almost sounded like a broken record as he looks to guide Celtic to a third successive league title.

Back in December, the 50-year-old signalled his plan for the mid-season market, stating via Sky Sports: "There's no doubt now that, one, the squad will come down in numbers and obviously we need to add quality. There is no dressing it up, the group lost real quality players in the summer. That's something that over the coming windows we will look to improve on."

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Nevertheless, departures have mainly filled the brief for reporters when discussing the Hoops' transfer business. Yosuke Ideguchi and Kwon Hyeok-kyu have left the club for Vissel Kobe and St Mirren, respectively. Gustaf Lagerbielke, Yuki Kobayashi, Marco Tilio, Benjamin Siegrist and Alexandro Bernabei have also been mentioned as potential undesirables in the context of Rodgers' squad heading into the second half of the season.

Getting players off the books this window will be an important endeavour for the Hoops to reduce wage expenditure; nevertheless, in more exciting news, Celtic now look to be on the verge of confirming their first winter signing, as per a new development.

Nicolas Kuhn set to join Celtic…

Taking to social media platform X, Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg has confirmed that Rapid Vienna winger Nicolas Kuhn is now on the verge of joining Celtic after reaching a "total agreement" for a fee in the region of €3.5 million + add-ons, with a medical scheduled for Monday.

Celtic fans will be delighted to see a deal to sign the former Germany Under-20 international now being close to completion and their hopes of bringing the 24-year-old to Parkhead were subject to a major boost earlier this week after The Scottish Sun revealed that Kuhn had been granted a work permit ahead of his move to Glasgow.

Labelled "technically strong" by Bayern Munich academy manager Jochen Sauer, Kuhn has notched three goals and seven assists across 22 appearances this season (Kuhn statistics – Transfermarkt).

Nicolas Kuhn key statistics in 2023/24 – Austrian Bundesliga (Sofascore)

Big chances created

11

Shots per game

1.8

Shots on target per game

0.9

Key passes per game

1.8

Average match rating

7.22/10

Providing excitement and trickery in the wide areas, Kuhn will undoubtedly be someone who Rodgers will look to against low-block defences in the second half of the season.