All posts by z3u9t.icu

Social media propagated the idea that Liverpool were set to suffer a reversal under Arne Slot, stepping into Jurgen Klopp’s shoes, but such hopes from arch-rivals have been proven false after an excellent start to the campaign, with nine wins from ten matches across all competitions.

Of course, the one blot on the record came in a shock Anfield defeat against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League – a match that arrived straight after the September international break.

Now, the October international break has hit like a stabbing storm, and minds will be inevitably ahead to the home fixture against Chelsea next weekend. Could lightning strike twice, or will Slot devise a plan to avoid another setback on Merseyside?

With the backline shored up, Liverpool still needs to work on finishing their chances, even though they have one of the best strikeforces in Europe. According to Understat, Liverpool’s xG (expected goals) stands at 16.55 after seven fixtures, and they have scored 13.

This is by no means poor – after all, the Reds are table-toppers right now – but it’s something Slot will want to consider, especially if Mohamed Salah packs his bags in May.

Liverpool transfer news

Salah is out of contract at the end of the season, like skipper Virgil van Dijk and vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold. It’s a quandary, to be sure, but in Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes, Liverpool are in safe and discerning hands.

Regardless, Liverpool are interested in bolstering their frontline, with reports suggesting that Eintracht Frankfurt forward Omar Marmoush is firmly on the radar.

According to Sky Germany earlier this week, Liverpool are monitoring the Bundesliga star – as well as Borussia Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi – in the eventuality that Salah, his Egyptian teammate, does leave.

Die Adler want to extend the 25-year-old’s deal after his brilliant start to the season, but it’s thought that a fee of €47.5m (roughly £40m) would make them consider parting ways.

Why Liverpool want to sign Omar Marmoush

Marmoush joined Frankfurt last summer after his contract expired with Bundesliga rivals VFL Wolfsburg. Last term, he helped his side to a sixth-placed finish, qualifying for the Europa League. The Egypt international scored 17 goals and added six assists across 41 appearances, leading talent scout Jacek Kulig to hail him as a “10/10” signing for the club.

Jumping into the Premier League from overseas can often be an onerous translation, but there’s a high chance that Marmoush’s athleticism and natural-born potency, in the same vein as that of Diogo Jota, could cinch his success at Anfield.

A versatile forward, Marmoush would compete for a place against a high-class attack with a breadth of experience and pedigree, but he could prove to be an upgrade on Darwin Nunez if the Uruguayan doesn’t convince Slot of his place in good time.

Centre-forward

120

45

16

Left winger

24

6

4

Right winger

14

0

0

Second striker

13

5

3

Attacking midfield

4

1

0

Nunez’s wastefulness is the grist for detractors mills, but dig a little deeper and you shall find that he is a dynamic and influential forward. As per FBref, he actually ranks among the top 20% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for assists, the top 12% for shot-creating actions, the top 10% for progressive carries and the top 6% for tackles per 90.

Liverpool must not discard him just yet, though a season that fails to showcase improvements upon his first two terms on Merseyside could leave Slot fixed on giving in to that flash of ruthlessness and moving for Marmoush.

The Egyptian isn’t exactly struggling for purchase in the final third this season, with nine goals and six assists from nine matches in all competitions. His compatriot Salah can’t even keep pace with that record, with the 32-year-old chalking up ‘just’ six goals and five assists across all fronts.

Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley recently described him as a “relatively late bloomer”, but oh how he’s soaring to the skies for Frankfurt. He’s actually considered to be a similar player to Nunez by FBref, who have crunched the data and delineated the differences between the two. Let’s take a look.

Goals scored

0.51

0.71

xG (expected goals)

0.73

0.57

Total shots taken

4.74

3.59

Assists

0.24

0.36

Shot-creating actions

3.52

3.80

Progressive carries

2.57

3.48

Successful take-ons

0.83

1.60

Ball recoveries

2.41

3.20

Tackles + interceptions

1.38

1.14

The above illustration highlights some impressive metrics from both forwards – from statistics pulled across the past 12 months – but there’s little chance that Nunez can stake a claim to be the superior finisher at the moment, with Marmoush eclipsing him for goals scored per 90 (0.71 vs 0.51) while far outstripping him in regard to the economics too, for he is overperforming in front of goal, as per the xG (expected goals) and has fire shots on goals at a more conservative rate.

What does this actually tell us? Well, it certainly makes a comment on Marmoush’s faculty for efficacy in front of goal while also speaking of the sharp rate of scoring (and assisting, for that matter) that he has infused into his game, also more progressive and creative in his overall play too – as per further underlying metrics.

Would it be a punt? In fairness, Liverpool need not spend on another forward unless absolutely certain that he is going to make a difference in Slot’s side, but there’s every chance that Marmoush can hit the ground running; should Nunez fail to put in his best performances yet over the coming months, it might be time to shuffle the pack. It’s a new era after all.

£216m duo sign: Liverpool starting XI if Trent, Salah & Van Dijk all leave

Let’s take a look at this worst-case scenario, shall we?

ByAngus Sinclair Oct 9, 2024

Liverpool have some pretty serious fault lines that need to be bridged. Arne Slot’s exciting start to life as Jurgen Klopp’s successor cannot, must not, be constrained by lingering contractual irresolutions.

There’s a case to be made that in Mohamed Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool’s most important triangle teeters on the precipice. Losing them would be like a house on a mountaintop suffering from a landslide and losing half of the framework.

It is paramount that all three don’t go. Candidly, the uncertainty suggests that at least one of the players could be plying their art elsewhere this time next year. Such an eventuality might not bear thinking about, but heed this: there’s also a conceivable world in which all three flutter off into the wind by the climax of the campaign, amid the looming end of their respective contracts.

Should this be the case, Liverpool need to strengthen accordingly. Losing the lifeblood of Slot’s team will have catastrophic effects if first-class players are not brought in to take their still-warm seats.

Let’s talk theoretical. Let’s say, in some hopeless, apocalyptic world, that these fears are realised. Let’s take a look at how Slot could shape Liverpool for the 2025/26 campaign. Would he be able to save the club from falling by the wayside?

1 GK – Alisson Becker

Alisson Becker is injury-prone, there’s no getting around that fact. That said, the Brazilian is also one of the best shot-stoppers in the world and will continue to be Slot’s number one next season.

Of course, Liverpool completed the signing of Giorgi Mamardashvili this summer, loaning him back to the La Liga outfit for the duration of the campaign, but he’ll not displace Alisson, not from the bat.

2 RB – Conor Bradley

Farewell, Trent. Thanks for the memories. We all hope it doesn’t come to that, of course, but if it does, at least Liverpool have one of Europe’s most talented young right-backs in Conor Bradley, aged 21.

The Northern Irish star broke onto the scene last term and was hailed for his “sensational” start to life in Liverpool’s first team by pundit Alan Shearer, who was gushing after the young gun’s “man-of-the-match” display against Chelsea in the Premier League.

3 CB – Ibrahima Konate

Jarell Quansah has recently signed a new long-term contract at Liverpool, with Ibrahima Konate also in talks for a fresh deal after his inspired start to the season.

FSG and Anfield’s sporting director Richard Hughes are desperate to avoid another quandary such as the one that hangs over the Red half of Merseyside like brooding clouds, portending a storm.

Konate has been brilliant, and if he can keep fitness levels on his side, will dominate under Slot’s leadership for years to come.

4 CB – Jarrad Branthwaite

This one might stir the pot a tad. Jarrad Branthwaite, Everton superstar, is bound to be one of the names considered if Van Dijk leaves Liverpool at the end of the campaign.

According to GIVEMESPORT’S Ben Jacobs, Liverpool do hold an interest in the hulking centre-back – who has been dubbed a “beast” by analyst Ben Mattinson – though intrigue is just that at the moment.

However, if Van Dijk does go, it could be accelerated, and Liverpool could shatter their city to bring over one of the most talented young defenders on the continent – albeit with an £80m fee likely to be required.

5 LB – Andy Robertson

Andy Robertson, aged 30, has possibly not been as good as he was when Klopp’s Liverpool was at its zenith, but he’s still a top left-back and will continue to star as the club’s first-choice in that role next season.

6 CM – Ryan Gravenberch

Revised efforts to sign the likes of Martin Zubimendi might have to be put on hold in the near future, for Liverpool and FSG will need to focus directly on replacing their soon-contractless triumvirate.

But would persisting with Ryan Gravenberch in the centre of the field be such a bad thing? After all, he’s probably been the Anfield side’s finest player throughout the early stages of the Slot era.

Matches (starts)

26 (12)

6 (6)

Goals

1

0

Assists

0

0

Touches*

29

80

Shots (on target)*

0.9 (0.3)

0.3 (0.3)

Pass completion

83%

89%

Key passes*

0.6

0.3

Dribbles completed*

0.9

1.0

Ball recoveries*

2.8

6.5

Tackles + interceptions*

1.5

4.2

Total duels (won)*

2.8 (47%)

6.3 (64%)

A wider-stretched performance roll will need to be analysed before the Netherlands international cements himself as one of Europe’s finest number sixes, but he’s certainly on the right track.

7 CM – Alexis Mac Allister

Liverpool well and truly hit the jackpot when they snapped up Alexis Mac Allister, World Cup winner and Brighton & Hove Albion “superstar”, as he has been called by pundit Joe Cole, for a shrewd £35m fee.

It was a bargain, and he’s brilliant. Liverpool are a better team for the Argentine’s influence, and he will continue to have a say in the club’s hopes for an illustrious era.

8 RW – Rodrygo

Salah might be 32, but he’s still one of the finest players in the Premier League. This season, the Egyptian king has posted six goals and five assists from ten matches (nine starts) in all competitions.

His successor would need to be capable of bringing an elite class of attacking talent, and Real Madrid’s Rodrygo – who reportedly has a £136m price tag – would certainly fit the bill.

Rodrygo, who was described as one of “the best players in the world” by manager Carlo Ancelotti, has been on Liverpool’s radar for a while, with reports from Spain this summer suggesting that Liverpool are biding their time ahead of an official transfer bid.

Los Blancos have an embarrassment of riches that will potentially include Alexander-Arnold in the near future, but Rodrygo might want to leave and prove himself elsewhere. At Liverpool, the Brazil international could become the main man.

9 AM – Dominik Szoboszlai

There’s no question that Dominik Szoboszlai has elements of his game that require improvements, but the Hungary captain is a veritable engine and works tirelessly to enable the fluency and success of Liverpool’s attack.

10 LW – Luis Diaz

Luis Diaz was one of the most talked-about Liverpool players across the summer months, with Barcelona in need of a left winger and Liverpool linked with Anthony Gordon.

The Colombia international has taken loping strides under Slot this term, already boasting five goals and an assist from just seven Premier League matches. He’s going nowhere.

Following a mixed start to the current campaign, Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly already identified a 2025 transfer target in a battle with rivals Arsenal.

Tottenham transfer news

Spurs remain one of the most difficult sides to predict in the Premier League. Whilst things were finally looking up after they brushed Manchester United aside to win 3-0 at Old Trafford, they’ve since followed that up with a narrow victory over Ferencvaros in the Europa League before capitulating when 2-0 up against Brighton & Hove Albion to lose 3-2 in dramatic fashion.

Heading into the international break off the back of such a frustrating result, the focus has since shifted towards further reinforcements for Ange Postecoglou and his side, who already welcomed the likes of Archie Gray and Dominic Solanke in the summer.

Real Madrid could now make "strong offer" to sign £35m Tottenham star

The Galacticos are very keen on him.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Oct 12, 2024

In fact, the Lilywhites have already reportedly started thinking about next summer’s transfer window and one particular target. According to Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider, Tottenham have already identified Georgiy Sudakov as a transfer target for next summer and could make the Shakhtar Donetsk star their first arrival of the new year.

The Lilywhites aren’t alone in their interest, however, with Manchester City and Arsenal also keen to add the attacking midfield to their ranks next year to create a highly-contested battle for his signature.

Still just 22 years old, Sudakov is quickly becoming one to watch amid an electric start to the current campaign. A player who’s already got Champions League experience to his name, the Ukraine international would undoubtedly be an impressive coup to hand Postecoglou a major boost in North London next year.

"Amazing" Sudakov could unleash Solanke

As if things couldn’t get any better for Solanke, who has well and truly found his goalscoring touch at Spurs, those in North London could now welcome an added source of creativity in Sudakov. The attacking midfielder, combined with the former Liverpool man, would form the foundation for Postecoglou’s attack for years to come, perhaps taking Spurs back to the Champions League in the process.

Starts

8

5

Goals

7

2

Assists

1

1

The introduction of another creative midfielder alongside the likes of James Maddison could only increase Solanke’s numbers even further, whilst handing Postecoglou another player capable of getting on the scoresheet himself.

Praised for his “amazing” diagonal passing ability by analyst Ben Mattinson, Sudakov is a player who looks destined to reach the very top. The only question is the route that he takes. Whether he stops in North London, and Spurs in particular, on his way to the top remains to be seen.

Given how inconsistent they’ve been so far this season, the Lilywhites could certainly do with a reinforcement of such calibre in what would see them avoid losing out to Premier League rivals in the transfer market.

For the first time in Liverpool’s 132-year history, distinguished and draped in honours, 11 matches from 12 have been won to start a campaign, with the club’s six successive away victories since August equally setting a significant record.

RB Leipzig, unbeaten in the Bundesliga, were put to the sword in Germany despite threatening throughout their Champions League clash, allowing Liverpool to claim their third continental win on the trot.

To think that Merseysiders had failed to bring in a new midfielder this summer, as had been the plan as Arne Slot settled into the chair, also neglecting ostensible fragilities at the back, and have still emerged as the most in-form team across Europe’s top five leagues is quite a thing.

The winter period looms large. There are many top teams both domestically and abroad who will seek to stifle Slot’s success, but the Dutchman’s Reds will continue to fight for silverware to the last.

27/10/24

Arsenal (A)

Premier League

30/10/24

Brighton (A)

Carabao Cup

02/11/24

Brighton (H)

Premier League

05/11/24

Leverkusen (H)

Champions League

09/11/24

Aston Villa (H)

Premier League

Darwin Nunez stepped up big time to score and put in a big performance against Leipzig, but Liverpool owe much to the continued rebirth of Ryan Gravenberch, with Mohamed Salah’s ceaseless output proving vital, yet again.

Salah & Gravenberch continue to thrive

Let’s get to Salah in a moment. We have Gravenberch to discuss first. Against Leipzig, yet again, the rekindled midfielder showcased his quality in the middle of the park, battling hard in a fierce war of attrition

It wasn’t his finest performance, but the 22-year-old’s energy and press resistance were both on full colourful show against the German side. So alert to potential threats, the Netherlands international made a crucial intervention early into the second half and looks like he’s shaping into one of Europe’s finest number sixes, playing a role that no one envisaged last year.

Liverpool’s promising start to the season has since developed into something more special, and with every passing fixture, Gravenberch continues to prove his worth in Slot’s system. It’s like he’s been tailor-made for it.

Minutes played

90′

Touches

76

Accurate passes

60/63 (95%)

Long balls

2/2

Tackles

3

Interceptions

3

Clearances

1

Blocked shots

2

Total duels (won)

7 (5)

Peter Gulacsi was fantastic for the hosts, making seven saves and repeatedly denying the hungry Reds. The one-time Liverpool reserve goalkeeper denied Salah and saved three shots from Nunez, but it wasn’t enough to stop the Slot machine from ploughing forward.

It bears testament to Salah’s almighty skillset that he had a bit of an off day, failing to win a duel or complete a dribble, while still playing a crucial part in the match-winning moment, setting up his Uruguayan teammate.

That’s seven goals and seven assists apiece for the 32-year-old this season, whose £350k-per-week contract is entering its final stretch, heightening Liverpool’s fears of a departure by the end of the campaign.

It’s an eventuality that feels inconceivable. Unacceptable. Salah is still Liverpool’s main man in the final third, so influential and indomitable in his prolific ability. Alongside Gravenberch, the Egyptian has been one of the players of the season for sure.

He hasn’t quite been the cream of the club’s crop, however. Slot will have nestled into sleep in Saxony last night, where the squad remained until the morning, but awoken with a fresh solemnness that derives from the driven coach’s knowledge that the mountain yet scaled is vast and vertiginous.

Liverpool have it all still to do. Attack might win you games, as the axiom has it, but it is your defence that wins you titles. Virgil van Dijk has hardly been away from the pantheon of modern centre-backs over the final years of Jurgen Klopp’s tenure, but he’s back with a vengeance this season and is spearheading the revolution at Anfield.

Virgil van Djik has been Slot's hero in 24/25

12 matches, 11 victories, seven clean sheets. Liverpool conceded mere minutes into their Champions League campaign following fine work from AC Milan’s Christian Pulisic, but they rallied to win that one 3-1 and have since claimed slender but significant victories over Bologna and Leipzig.

Van Dijk has been imperious. Liverpool’s vanguard might be earning praise for its potency in the final third, but let’s take a minute to hail the backline, leaps and bounds above its level under Klopp, where the gegenpressing nature of the style perhaps negated defenders from making the most of their acumen.

Penny for the thoughts of rivals who had written Liverpool off, consigned them to the wastebasket following the end of an era. One tenure might have taken its final breath but the body of the outfit has been given new life, and it is thriving.

In Germany, the Liverpool and Netherlands captain was the cement of his side’s football, keeping it together against a talented Leipzig frontline, swatting the danger away like a fly, barking at those around him, organising, marshalling, leading.

Duly rewarded with an 8/10 match rating by This Is Anfield, Van Dijk, 33, didn’t catch the eye as his robust partner did, and in fairness, hat tipped to Ibrahima Konate for yet another remarkable display.

Oh how he counterbalances Van Dijk’s style, melding together to form one utterly ridiculous defensive wall that has foiled all but Nottingham Forest this season. The one blot on the copybook. The lonely blemish that Slot cannot shake from his mind, revealing a layer of this man’s determined mind.

But Konate’s flashy athleticism and spatial awareness, as eye-catching as it was, were not mimicked by Van Dijk because the skipper’s intelligence and anticipation are almost prescient.

Both of his duels were won at the Red Bull Arena, and it was indeed Van Dijk who claimed more touches of the ball (81) than any other player on the pitch, having recorded a standout 95% pass accuracy.

Partner such facts with his expertly-saved header, and domination in possession, and it’s really not hard to piece together the focal point of Liverpool’s success this season.

Van Dijk is simply the best, and he proved once again on Wednesday evening that he is the driving force behind Liverpool’s pursuit of glory this year.

He’s been Slot’s main man. Van Dijk is playing with unparalleled verve and the wiseness of one who has been around the block many times, but still craving another taste of the pinnacle.

Winning one of football’s biggest prizes would surely consolidate his name, but just take a look at his performances. He’s the best in the world.

As bad as Trent: Slot must drop 6/10 Liverpool star who lost the ball 13x

Liverpool made it three wins from as many games in the Champions League in Germany last night.

ByEthan Lamb Oct 24, 2024

Liverpool are believed to be preparing an incredible £58m offer for a “wonderful” footballer who is lighting up his league this season, according to a fresh transfer claim.

Latest Liverpool news

The Reds continue to be backed to make new signings, with Eintracht Frankfurt attacking star Omar Marmoush linked with a move to Anfield various times in recent weeks. He is seen as a potential long-term replacement for compatriot Mohamed Salah, with doubts still surrounding his future.

Liverpool are also reportedly interested in securing the signing of Real Madrid midfielder Aurelien Tchouameni in the January transfer window, should the reigning Champions League holders decide to allow him to leave midway through the season. The Frenchman was considered a target back in 2022, prior to moving to Spain from Monaco instead.

Away from transfer rumours, it is also an incredibly busy time at Anfield regarding the futures of so many key players, especially Trent Alexander-Arnold, Virgil van Dijk and Salah. All three are out of contract next summer and none have signed extensions yet.

That said, they aren’t the only individuals in question, with midweek hat-trick hero Luis Diaz also potentially getting a new contract in the near future, as well as Ibrahima Konate and Andy Robertson. Retaining the services of these figures feels every bit as important as new signings.

Liverpool prepare £58m offer for "wonderful" star

According to a report from Spain, Liverpool are now preparing what is called an “incredible” £58m bid for Marmoush, as they continue to pursue a move for him.

The 25-year-old appears to be a primary target for the Reds at this point, as CEO of Football Michael Edwards and sporting director Richard Hughes look to get an exciting piece of business over the line. This update comes after reports said it was Marmoush’s “dream” to join Liverpool.

The idea of Marmoush in a Liverpool shirt is mouthwatering, considering the exceptional season he is having for Frankfurt, scoring 10 goals and bagging six assists in the Bundesliga already, in just nine appearances.

The Egyptian has a strong case for being seen as the most in-form player in his whole league and Ahmed Schubert has said of him: “I think that what Omar Marmoush has done in the German League since last season deserves greater praise and attention. Marmoush confirms day after day that he is a distinguished talent and a wonderful player. There is no doubt that his move to one of the big clubs in Europe is very close.”

Admittedly, Liverpool’s attack is already full of riches, but if Salah does move on he will leave a gaping void, considering he is now deservedly seen as one of the greatest players in the club’s history.

Diogo Jota’s injury problems are also a concern, with the Portuguese finding it tough to remain fit for long periods, and doubts persist over Darwin Nunez’s long-term worth, not least his finishing.

Move over Jones: Slot can unleash his own Xabi Alonso in Liverpool starlet

Liverpool have a “special” teenager who could be their next Xabi Alonso.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Nov 8, 2024

Marmoush can shine both as a centre forward and out wide, and if Liverpool were able to snap him up for £58m, it could look like a steal over time.

2019 is a poignant year for Tottenham. It’s the year they reached the Champions League final and rather shockingly, the same year Mauricio Pochettino was given the boot.

For all of the outstanding work Pochettino did in north London, turning the likes of Dele Alli and Harry Kane into genuine stars, he left the Lilywhites behind having not won a trophy.

So, what did Levy do? He went and hired one of the most successful managers of the 21st century; Jose Mourinho.

The self-proclaimed Special One has been there and got the t-shirt as far as English football is concerned. He’s a multiple Premier League winner, and a multiple FA Cup winner. He’s even won the Champions League.

Surely he was going to help Spurs earn the trophy they were craving? Think again. It all ended in tears.

Mourinho lasted just 86 games with a points-per-match record of 1.77, the third worst of his career. That rather said it all.

Mourinho's first transfers at Spurs

Entering in November of 2019, it wasn’t until January 2020 that the great Portuguese coach got the chance to welcome his own players to the capital.

It wasn’t the most rip-roaring start to proceedings, bringing Giovani Lo Celso and Steven Bergwijn to the club. The duo only just left Spurs in the summer but did so having not played very much football.

The summer of 2020 was a tad more promising though. Despite a world ravaged by the global pandemic, he welcomed two faces to the club from Real Madrid.

Mourinho was the one to entice Gareth Bale back to English football, welcoming the Welshman back on a loan deal. Bale was rather forced out of Madrid despite several years of wonderful service, scoring in a Champions League final and winning three LaLiga crowns.

He wasn’t the only player arriving from the Spanish capital, however. Left-back Sergio Reguilon joined and initially started very well in Spurs colours.

Indeed, analyst Raj Chohan admitted that the Spaniard was “unstoppable” at points, notably after a first-class assist for Bale’s goal against Brighton in a 2-1 win.

Remarkably, via loan spells at Atletico Madrid, Manchester United and Brentford, he is still on the books at Tottenham.

First Impressions

What did pundits and fans alike think about their new star signing when they arrived? Football FanCast's 'First Impressions' series has everything you need.

Why it's time for Reguilon to go

It’s now been four years, some might say arduous years since Reguilon first arrived under the tutelage of Mourinho.

In that first campaign, he proved to be an excellent acquisition, supplying five assists in all competitions from the left-hand side of defence.

2020/21

27

0

3

2021/22

31

2

3

2022/23

0

0

0

2023/24

0

0

0

2024/25

0

0

0

In 2021/22, he still impressed in the final third, scoring twice and assisting three goals but he ultimately wasn’t fancied by a ruthless and no-nonsense Antonio Conte who shipped out on loan in 2022/23. Since then, the 27-year-old has struggled to ever really catch the eye.

United only signed him on loan because of a lack of fit left-backs and that deal was cancelled in January 2024. Brentford did come calling and he featured regularly but it wasn’t enough to force himself into Ange Postecoglou’s plans.

Reguilon – who earns £53k-per-week – is still on the books at Spurs but is simply stealing a living at this point.

He’s not played a single minute all season and for the good of everyone, he surely has to leave in the January transfer window. Although he is named in the club’s 25-man Premier League squad, he was omitted from their Europa League squad list.

The Spaniard has gone from being an unstoppable asset during the days of Mourinho to someone with no chance of ever earning minutes again at Spurs. The only good thing for the Londoners is that he is actually out of contract next summer. An end, it would seem, is finally in sight.

Time's up: Spurs can finally axe Dragusin by signing "immense" £68m star

The exceptional star would be incredible for Spurs as a Radu Dragusin replacement.

2 ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 11, 2024

Manchester City are willing to offer £100 million to sign a Kevin de Bruyne replacement for Pep Guardiola, according to a new report.

The Blues return to Premier League football on Saturday, as they host Tottenham Hotspur at the Etihad, looking to end their terrible run of form, which has seen them lose four games on the bounce in all competitions.

Man City make contact to sign £40m+ star who is excited over Etihad move

A January move could be possible.

1 ByBrett Worthington Nov 20, 2024 Latest Man City news

Despite the current run of form, there has been some good news for City fans this week, as Guardiola has agreed to sign a new contract to remain as manager. Guardiola’s contract was due to end after this season, but he has now agreed to an extension that also includes an option to extend by another 12 months.

As well as news about Guardiola, it also emerged this week that Man City have made contact with the agents of Ederson over a possible move to the Etihad. The Atalanta midfielder has been looked at by the Blues for some time now, and given Rodri’s injury, they could be ready to make a move in January to ease their injury burden.

But while City chiefs have their eye on a replacement for Rodri, they also appear ready to spend a large sum of money on a player who would replace De Bruyne.

Man City now willing to offer £100m to sign De Bruyne replacement for Pep

According to a report from Spain, Manchester City are prepared to offer £100 million to sign Florian Wirtz as De Bruyne’s replacement. The 21-year-old is considered one of the hottest prospects in football and he has already performed very well at the highest level.

Wirtz, who has been dubbed a “little genius” by Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig, has become a really crucial player for Bayer Leverkusen in recent seasons, playing a key role last term as he scored 11 goals and recorded 12 assists in 32 Bundesliga games.

This report states that Guardiola has identified the player as a priority signing, and they are willing to offer £100 million to bring the German to the Etihad. Wirtz’s ability on the ball, with his passing range and eye for goal, makes him a player that several top European clubs are looking to sign, and he appears high on Guardiola’s list as he looks to bolster his attacking midfield options.

Apps

169

Goals

48

Assists

52

Leverkusen is aware of the interest, but they are not willing to let Wirtz leave easily. However, should City put an offer of £100 million on the table, it could be too hard to turn down. Wirtz may prove to be a key player for the Sky Blues, as they see him as a player who can lead the club forward.

The German would be seen as a replacement for De Bruyne, as the Belgian is in the final year of his contract at City, and it is unclear if an agreement will be found, or whether he will leave come the end of the campaign.

Arsenal got a much-needed three points against Nottingham Forest at the Emirates Stadium to keep up with the likes of Liverpool and Manchester City at the top of the Premier League. The Gunners had previously gone three games without a win in all competitions, including a 1-1 draw away to Chelsea last time out.

It was a dominant performance from the Gunners, who put the men in Garibaldi Red to the sword in North London. Bukayo Saka gave his side the lead, thrashing in a shot following a mazy run after he picked up a loose ball.

Thomas Partey doubled the Gunners’ lead just seven minutes after half-time, before youngster Ethan Nwaneri scored his first-ever Premier League goal to seal the points. It was a lovely finish from the youngster, who drove forward into space and found Raheem Sterling out wide. The experienced winger pulled it back to Nwaneri who slotted the ball past Matz Sels.

It is a huge three points for Mikel Arteta’s men, who will now be hoping to get some momentum ahead of a huge month over the festive period. There were certainly some standout performers from those in an Arsenal shirt this afternoon.

Arsenal’s best performers vs. Forest

Unsurprisingly, Saka was one of the main man against Forest, putting in a superb performance to go along with his goal. The England international stood out from a statistical standpoint, too. As per Sofascore, the winger created four chances, completed two dribbles and had a pass accuracy of 88%.

Complimenting a phenomenal display from Saka was Gunners skipper Martin Odegaard. The Norwegian, who created a whopping six chances, received a 9/10 for his performance from GOAL journalist Charles Watts. He summed up Odegaard’s performance in one word, “outstanding”.

It was a fantastic influence off the bench for Nwaneri. Although the youngster only made an eight-minute cameo, he certainly left his mark. He was always involved and had 16 touches of the ball and completed 100% of his passes, 11 from 11 to be specific. The teenager also created one chance, and, of course, got a memorable first Premier League goal.

However, it was not just the Gunners’ attacking players who stood out against Forest. Their defenders were superb, keeping a clean sheet and never really giving the visitors a sniff. One of the standout defensive players for Arsenal was William Saliba.

Saliba’s stats vs. Forest

Arsenal journalist Will Balsam was full of praise for the French defender, explaining that it was one of his “best performances” of the 2024/25 campaign so far. It has not been the smoothest start to the season for Saliba, but he looked much more like his old self against the East Midlands outfit.

The France international was, as usual, composed on the ball, a key component of the Gunners’ build-up play. He made life tough for Forest striker Taiwo Awoniyi, who got the nod over the in-form Chris Wood. Saliba ensured the Nigerian international fed off scraps at the Emirates Stadium.

Indeed, his stats from the game were superb. He was flawless on the ball, having 105 touches and completing 98% of his passes, specifically 96 out of 98 he attempted. Saliba also won three from four ground duels.

Stat

Number

Touches

105

Pass accuracy

98%

Passes completed

96/98

Ground duels won

3/4

Tackles won

2/3

Clearances

3

Watts was full of praise for the French defender following his impressive performance. He gave him a 7/10 rating for his efforts, explaining that ‘he seemed to really enjoy’ the battle against Awoniyi, describing his performance as ‘solid’.

It was an assured performance from Saliba, who will be hoping he can continue this run of form as Arsenal look to climb back up towards the top of the Premier League table.

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Newcastle United are said to be leading the race to sign a player with a “magical” left foot, according to an encouraging new transfer claim.

Newcastle transfer news

Magpies supporters will be desperate to see reinforcements come in during the January transfer window, and if business is limited at that point, lots of additions will be needed in the summer instead.

Plenty of players are being linked with moves to St James’ Park, with Felix Nmecha one player who has been mentioned as a target. Borussia Dortmund are thought to be open to offers for the 24-year-old midfielder, with Newcastle one of those in the mix to snap him up.

Brentford winger Bryan Mbeumo has arguably emerged as one of Newcastle’s main transfer targets in recent months, as he continues to impress for the Bees, scoring and assisting against Eddie Howe’s side in their 4-2 win in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.

Chelsea wide man Mykhailo Mudryk has also been mentioned as a loan option for Newcastle in January, as he looks to seal a move away from Stamford Bridge to enjoy more regular football.

Newcastle leading race to sign "magical" ace

According to L’Interista [via Sport Witness], Newcastle are now in “pole position” to sign Boca Juniors attacker Kevin Zenon, in a potential £16.5m deal next summer. The Magpies are far from the only club showing an interest in the 23-year-old, however, with Inter Milan, Tottenham, Brighton and Lyon all mentioned in the report.

This is an exciting update from a Newcastle perspective, considering Zenon is a talented young player with so much potential, hence the level of interest in him. He has been capped once for Argentina at under-23s level, scoring in his solitary appearance for them, and he may think that a move to Europe could improve his chances of featuring for the senior side.

Zenon has five goals and seven assists in 44 appearances for Boca, providing quality out wide, with analyst Ben Mattinson lauding the “magical” left foot at his disposal.

Zenon is primarily a left winger, however, and with Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes already representing strong options there for Newcastle, it could be hard for the Argentine to be a key man. That said, if Paul Mitchell and Howe see him as a potential right-sided option, too, it would make far more sense going for him, as they look for an upgrade on the likes of Miguel Almiron and Jacob Murphy.

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The fact that Zenon lacks European experience means that he could have to be a work in progress as he adjusts to a different style of play, but his potential means that he is worth taking a punt on.

Leeds United welcome Oxford United to Elland Road in the Championship this afternoon as they look to return to winning ways after their draw last weekend.

The Whites needed a stoppage-time own goal from Jack Whatmaugh to secure a 1-1 draw with Preston North End at Deepdale on their travels last time out.

Daniel Farke’s side had 65% possession in the game and only created two ‘big chances’ to find the back of the net, as they struggled to break down Paul Heckingbottom’s team.

The German head coach could look to make some changes to his starting XI from that draw, and Wilfried Gnonto is one player who could miss out.

Why Wilfried Gnonto should be dropped

With games coming thick-and-fast in the busy festive schedule, Farke may not be able to start players in every game over the next fortnight or so.

This means that he has to take any opportunities he gets to drop and rest players, and Gnonto’s performance against Preston provides him with a chance to take him out of the line-up.

Minutes

65

Key passes

0

Pass accuracy

75%

Shots

1

Shots on target

0

Duels won

3/9

As you can see in the table above, the Italy U21 international did not do enough with the ball in the draw at Deepdale to justify keeping his place in the XI for this clash with Oxford.

The 21-year-old forward did not offer a threat with his shooting, failing to hit the target with his only effort on goal, and did not create a single chance for his teammates.

Chalkboard

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Taking him out of the left wing spot would then open the door for Largie Ramazani to come back into the starting XI for the first time since he returned from injury.

Why Largie Ramazani should start

The £17.5k-per-week winger missed five matches with an ankle injury and has come on as a substitute in his four appearances for the club since he recovered.

Ramazani replaced Gnonto for the final 25 minutes of the match against Preston and immediately offered more than the Italian forward, with a shot on target to test Freddie Woodman and a chance created for his teammates.

His bright cameo should earn him a chance to finally return to the starting XI after his spell on the sidelines since injuring his ankle against Watford.

Ramazani, who was once hailed as an “electric” player who is a counter-attacking “weapon” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has only started six Championship games since his move to the club from Almeria in the summer transfer window.

The 23-year-old star has, however, scored three goals and provided one assist in that time, including a goal against Watford in his last start for the Whites, which shows that he does have the quality to make a difference in the final third for Farke.

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Therefore, the German head coach should finally unleash Ramazani from the start again and ruthlessly ditch Gnonto, who struggled last time out, to facilitate it.