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With just five games remaining and three points standing between themselves and the relegation zone, Portsmouth have been dealt another ill-timed injury blow as they look to confirm their Championship safety.

Portsmouth facing crucial run-in

Having achieved promotion back to the Championship last season, it would be an incredible success if Portsmouth managed to stay afloat at the first time of asking. On that front, John Mousinho’s side have still got a job to finish, however. As things stand, they sit 17th and a precarious three points above the dropzone ahead of a crucial few weeks.

Portsmouth’s final 5 Championship games

Date

Portsmouth vs Derby County

12/04/2025

Norwich City vs Portsmouth

18/04/2025

Portsmouth vs Watford

21/04/2025

Sheffield Wednesday vs Portsmouth

26/04/2025

Portsmouth vs Hull City

03/05/2025

Squaring off against two of the eight sides currently below them in the Championship standings ahead of their final five games, Portsmouth will hope to get back to winning ways as soon as possible after losing in the 94th minute against Coventry City last time out.

Mousinho had his say on the devastating last-gasp defeat, telling reporters: “It was a really difficult one. I was going to say what a really good point away from home at Coventry, a very, very solid performance, we caused them problems and nearly caught them at the very back end of the game.

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Posts ByCharlie Smith Mar 4, 2025

“The difference between that – the positivity – to where we are now. It’s obviously a solid display and then 10 seconds of madness.We have to be realistic about that. We can’t have those moments in games where we make really, really poor decisions because the ball ends up in the back of the net.”

What certainly didn’t help Pompey was the fresh injury news that they suffered in the build-up to the Coventry game, adding to their list of absentees alongside the likes of Connor Shaughnessy, Rob Atkinson and Ibane Bowat.

Milosevic adds to Portsmouth's injury woes

Now without four central defenders, Mousinho confirmed that Alexander Milosevic is set for a spell on the sidelines after suffering an injury in the build-up to Portsmouth’s defeat against Coventry. Left to call on Connor Ogilvie, who can play left-back or centre-back, and Regan Poole, Pompey are one more defensive blow away from a makeshift backline.

Mousinho confirmed Milosevic’s injury, telling reporters: “Alex picked up an injury in training so we are going to scan that on Thursday and see how he is.”

Having arrived in March on a free deal, the 33-year-old is yet to make his Portsmouth debut and will now have to wait even longer just when Mousinho may have needed his services most amid an injury crisis.

Those around Fratton Park will simply be hoping to avoid another lengthy absence at a crucial time for the club. With just five games left to play, Portsmouth are so close to Championship safety and confirming that before a nervous game against Hull City on the final day would certainly come as a major relief.

Tottenham Hotspur were made to settle for a 1-1 draw against Eintracht Frankfurt in their Europa League quarter-final first-leg clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Thursday evening.

It was a game in which the Lilywhites had chances to secure the victory but could not find a winning goal that would have given them a crucial advantage in Frankfurt next week.

It was the visitors who took an early lead, just six minutes into the clash. The goalscorer was one of Europe’s most wanted centre-forwards, Hugo Ekitike.

He showed exactly why the biggest clubs want to sign him, cutting inside on his left foot and letting fly a shot from range that nestled into the bottom corner with pinpoint accuracy.

However, it was not long for Lilywhites fans to wait before their side clawed a goal back. The equaliser came from right-back Pedro Porro, who met a brilliant cross from James Maddison with a tidy, flicked finish into the back of the net.

In the third minute of stoppage time, Mickey van de Ven almost had a winner for Spurs. However, his header was superbly tipped over the crossbar by Frankfurt goalkeeper Kaua Santos to keep the score on level terms.

It was certainly a disappointing night for the Lilywhites, who could have easily run out winners. There were some poor performances from some of those in a Spurs shirt.

Spurs' worst performers vs. Frankfurt

One of the Spurs players who struggled against the German side was winger Brennan Johnson. He found it difficult to make a real impact on the game at all, barely getting into the game out on the right flank.

In fact, Goal journalist Sean Walsh noticed that the Welshman struggled to stamp his authority on the game, handing Johnson a 4/10 rating for his performance, suggesting that he spent “far too much time hidden behind defenders”.

Another player in Postecoglou’s attacking trio who had a tough night at the office was striker Dominic Solanke. The England international showed glimpses of his best, and although he has been on a lean run of goalscoring form, he did link play up well at times.

However, his stats from the game, courtesy of Sofascore, show just how little he got into the game at times. For example, Solanke managed just 22 touches, completing seven of ten passes and winning three of five aerial duels.

As tough of a night it was for Johnson and Solanke, they were perhaps not Spurs’ worst attackers against Frankfurt.

Chalkboard

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

Expand Collapse Spurs' worst player against Frankfurt

It has not been an easy season for Spurs captain Heung-min Son, and Thursday’s clash with Frankfurt summed that up in many ways.

The South Korean international lacked a real potency in his attacking play and did not pose too much of a threat to their opponents’ defence.

In fact, his stats really reflect Son’s struggles against the German outfit on Thursday. He had 61 touches in total, completing 38 of 44 attempted passes. However, the Spurs legend failed to compete either of his two attempted dribbles, and he lost the ball 12 times, once every five touches.

Son’s stats vs. Eintracht Frankfurt

Stat

Number

Touches

61

Passes completed

38/44

Number of times ball lost

12

Ground duels won

1/4

Dribbles completed

0/2

Crosses completed

1/3

Key passes

2

Stats from Sofascore

Son’s struggles against Frankfurt was a sentiment that the aforementioned Walsh seemed to agree with. He was critical of the Spurs captain, giving him a 4/10 for his performance, explaining that the winger was “seldom a threat in crucial areas” going forward.

It might be a worry for Spurs fans that their number seven’s career is petering out. While it’s certainly a different story, there is reason to suggest he’s winding down in a similar way to another modern-day club icon, Dele Alli.

The former Lilywhites midfielder was, at his peak, “the best” youngster in the world, according to Mauricio Pochettino.

However, Alli’s Spurs career tailed off when he began to have dips in form, and perhaps the same can be said for Son this season. It has certainly not been the easiest campaign for the attacker, who like Dele, has gone from an elite talent to someone struggling to make a real impact at Spurs in pretty swift time.

He has just 11 goals and 12 assists in 43 games, with seven goals and ten assists in the Premier League. Compare that to the 17 goals and ten assists in 35 games he managed last term, and there is certainly a Dele-esque decline in numbers.

It is a shame to see such a legendary Premier League player struggle to find his best form this term. No doubt, Lilywhites fans hope he can get back to the top of his game in what is a huge few weeks for the club.

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Posts ByJack Salveson Holmes Apr 10, 2025

This summer is massive for Arsenal football club in their attempts to finally end the two-decade wait for a Premier League title, with the transfer window providing them with a huge opportunity.

Numerous players will need to be sold and brought in to hand manager Mikel Arteta the best possible chance of being a success and completing the overhaul of the first team squad.

The Spaniard has done an excellent job in taking the side from mid-table struggling to title challenges in the five years he’s been in charge at the Emirates.

However, his side have finished second place in each of the last two seasons in England’s top flight, looking set to finish in the same position once again this season.

There’s no denying that key areas are in need of investment to take the side up a notch in 2025/26, with the hierarchy already laying the foundations for various moves in the summer window.

The latest on Arsenal’s hunt for new midfielders this summer

The one midfielder whose name is on the lips of many supporters is that of Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi, who’s been a constant target for the Gunners in the last few months.

Arteta’s men tried to land him during the January transfer window, but ran out of time to complete a deal, subsequently needing to wait until the upcoming window to land their target.

It appears they’ve done just that, with new sporting director Andrea Berta confident that the 26-year-old will become his first addition after joining the club after Edu’s departure a couple of months ago.

However, despite the potential incomings, it was confirmed earlier this week that the club were planning on offering Thomas Partey a new deal with his current one set to expire at the end of the campaign.

Whilst the 31-year-old would be a solid squad option in 2025/26, he shouldn’t be a regular starter in Arteta’s side – needing to utilise one player ahead of him at the Emirates.

The Arsenal star who should be ahead of Partey in 2025/26

Declan Rice has been a key player for Arsenal over the last couple of months, single-handedly playing a vital role in their two-legged Champions League quarter-final triumph over defending champions Real Madrid.

His two free kicks in the first leg helped the Gunners boast a three-goal lead ahead of the second leg, whilst producing another Man of the Match showing to seal the deal for the club at the Bernabeu.

The 26-year-old now looks to be a bargain at £105m, but he needs to be partnered by other top-quality talents if they are to go one better and win the title for the first time in over 20 years.

The hierarchy may not need to spend any money on finding a perfect player to play alongside him in the form of Myles Lewis-Skelly, who’s mainly featured at left-back after breaking into the first team.

However, the 18-year-old is a central midfielder by trade, subsequently having the tools to star in such a position – with his stats from the current season backing up his versatility.

The teenager, who’s been labelled “sensational” by former Spurs star Jamie O’Hara, has completed 94% of the passes he’s attempted, at an average of 40 passes per 90 – handing added opportunities to those around him in the process.

He’s also completed 57% of the dribbles he’s attempted, whilst notching 1.3 touches per 90 in the opposition box, showcasing the impressive talents he has with the ball at his feet.

Myles Lewis-Skelly’s stats for Arsenal in the PL (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

19

Goals & assists

1

Pass accuracy

94%

Passes completed per game

40

Dribbles completed

57%

Touches in opposition box

1.3

Tackles won

67%

Duels won

6.3

Stats via FotMob

Lewis-Skelly’s impressive ability doesn’t end there, winning 67% of the tackles he’s entered, and coming out on top of 6.3 duels per 90 – not afraid to put himself about despite his tender age.

The youngster’s performances in 2024/25 have been nothing short of remarkable, having the ability to star in Arteta’s side for many years to come.

He’s already earning rave comparisons, notably similar in style to fellow Hale Ender Jack Wilshere. Like Lewis-Skelly, his ability to evade the press, manipulate the ball in tight areas and dribble, are certainly reminiscent.

However, he should be doing so at the heart of the side alongside Rice, with the boss needing to drop Partey out of the side and utilise him as a bench option with Lewis-Skelly needing a chance to star in midfield.

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Posts 1 ByEthan Lamb Apr 26, 2025

Glasgow Rangers restored some pride when they avoided defeat to their city rivals in their last match in the Scottish Premiership last weekend.

The Light Blues had already had their second-placed finish confirmed, as Celtic won the league title at the end of last month, but they avoided their misery being compounded with a defeat.

Cyriel Dessers opened the scoring for the Gers in front of their home supporters with a composed finish before the break, but Adam Idah secured a point for the away side with a clever turn and finish inside the box in the second 45.

Whilst it was a decent point for the Light Blues, that result did extend Barry Ferguson’s winless run to six matches in all competitions, and he has won just four of his 12 games in charge so far.

There were some more positives to extract from the 1-1 draw with Celtic, though, including the performance of central midfielder Mohamed Diomande.

The Ivorian star assisted the goal from Dessers and won nine of his 12 duels throughout the game, as he showed that fans can be excited about what he could produce next season.

Why Rangers fans should be excited about Mohamed Diomande

The 2024/25 campaign has been the left-footed star’s first full season at Ibrox, having joined on a permanent deal last summer after his initial five-month loan, and he now has plenty of experience under his belt.

Diomande has played 70 matches in all competitions for the Light Blues to date, including 51 in the current campaign, and is now primed to kick on as a star for the club next term, having had 18 months of experience in Glasgow.

It did not take too long for the central midfielder to announce himself in Scottish football after his initial loan move from FC Nordsjælland, as he scored against St. Johnstone in February 2024.

His performances in that loan spell led to the club deciding to sign him on a permanent deal in the summer of 2024, with Philippe Clement in charge, and he has kicked on to become a key player in the current campaign.

Diomande showed potential as a goalscorer, as shown by his stunning strike against St. Johnstone, and as an all-action defender in his time on loan, but his creative quality has shone through this term.

Mohamed Diomande (Premiership)

23/24

24/25

Appearances

13

33

Goals

2

4

Big chances created

1

10

Assists

0

7

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.3

1.8

Ball recoveries per game

4.8

4.3

Duel success rate

52%

55%

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the left-footed star has created nine more ‘big chances’ and delivered seven more assists than he did in the second half of the 2023/24 campaign for the Light Blues.

Rangers fans should, therefore, be excited about what the £12k-per-week star could do next season, after 18 months of adjusting to Scottish football, as he has already shown plenty of signs of promise in the Premiership with his work in and out of possession.

Diomande provides great value for money, given that he is the 12th-highest earner at Ibrox, but that is not the case for every player in the squad. In fact, one of the players who should be sold by the 49ers this summer, Kieran Dowell, earns even more than the Ivorian.

Why Rangers should sell Kieran Dowell

The English attacking midfielder reportedly earns £16k-per-week, which is more than the likes of Diomande, Hamza Igamane, Jefte, and John Souttar, among others.

He has, however, not provided value for money for those wages because the former Norwich City man was deemed not good enough for the squad in January and was loaned out to English League One side Birmingham City.

Dowell enjoyed a successful second half of the season with the Blues, who won the League One title with a staggering 111 points, as he caught the eye with goals and assists.

The left-footed star ended the campaign with five goals, nine ‘big chances’ created, and four assists in 19 appearances in the third tier of English football, and is now set to return to Ibrox this summer.

Birmingham do not have an option to make the deal permanent but manager Chris Davies revealed that they will explore the possibility of a move to bring him back to England ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The 49ers, once the takeover is finalised, and sporting director Kevin Thelwell must take advantage of this interest from the Blues in order to ensure that Dowell never plays at Ibrox again.

He has one year left on his contract in Glasgow and this means that the upcoming summer transfer window would be the best time to cash in on the attacking midfielder if they are not planning to extend his contract beyond next year.

Dowell’s performances for Rangers since his move to Scotland on a free transfer from Norwich City in the summer of 2023 do not suggest that the 49ers should be aiming to extend his deal.

Kieran Dowell (Premiership)

23/24

24/25

Appearances

12

12

Starts

5

2

Goals

2

0

Big chances created

1

4

Assists

2

0

Duel success rate

49%

46%

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the 27-year-old flop failed to nail down a place in the starting XI on a regular basis under Michael Beale or Clement, and only contributed two goals and two assists in 24 appearances in the Premiership.

His underperformance on the pitch for the Light Blues in his first 18 months at Ibrox led to him being loaned out in the January transfer window, which shows that he was deemed surplus to requirements at the start of the year.

Therefore, Dowell has not done enough to justify his £16k-per-week wages, particularly when the impressive Diomande earns even less than him in Glasgow, and that is one of the reasons why the 49ers must ruthlessly cash in on him this summer.

The Gers should attempt to extract a fee from Birmingham for the English dud and ensure that he does not play for Rangers at Ibrox ever again, because the midfielder has not done enough in a Light Blues shirt to suggest that he would be a key player for the next manager coming in.

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Posts ByDan Emery May 8, 2025

Wolverhampton Wanderers do have a reputation for uncovering a gem in the transfer market with the deal to snap up Matheus Cunha on a permanent basis back in 2022 for £35m looking more and more like a steal by the day.

Indeed, the Brazilian superstar is a hot commodity ahead of the summer transfer window reopening, and for good reason, considering he’s amassed an explosive 15 goals and six assists in Premier League action this campaign.

Likewise, Wolves have seemingly struck gold on new defensive titan Emmanuel Agbadou, with the strong Ivorian picking up four clean sheets in the league to date since a January switch.

Therefore, the powers that be at Molineux will be hoping their gleaming track record in snapping up exciting gems continues on, with the rumour mill already linking the Old Gold to a number of new stars.

Wolves could sign Premier League midfielder

With their Premier League status now thankfully set in stone, Vitor Pereira and Co will want to kick on next season and aim for a top-half finish.

Adding in a few sprinkles of quality here and there will presumably aid this progression, with rumours already surfacing that the revitalised Old Gold are looking at snapping up the services of Atletico Madrid ace Samuel Lino.

Moreover, further speculation has seen Chelsea outcast Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall be tipped to make a switch to Molineux too, but a new, fresh report from GIVEMESPORT suggests their midfield positions could be enhanced by signing Liverpool product Harvey Elliott instead.

The report states that Wolves are likely to make an enquiry regarding the promising 22-year-old if some big-name departures are sanctioned, considering Elliott is priced around the £50m ballpark.

Transfer Focus

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

Expand Collapse

Landing Elliott could see Pereira win his very own Morgan Gibbs-White, with the ex-Wolves youngster never really coming into his own at his boyhood employers, but the Reds target certainly possesses a lot of similar easy-on-the-eye traits in his game when weighed up next to the now £100m-rated gem.

How Elliott can be the next Gibbs-White

Before exploring deeper how Elliott could be Wolves’ next Gibbs-White in the making, it’s only right to look at how much the Stafford-born midfielder’s game has been advanced since stepping away from Molineux.

Amazingly, the 25-year-old would only pick up three goals and one assist from 88 senior appearances in the West Midlands. Now, however, he’s up to a stunning 16 strikes and 27 assists for the Tricky Trees from 115 overall clashes, leading to Manchester City being keen onlookers.

Whilst Elliott hasn’t quite been as front and centre for Arne Slot’s Reds this season as Gibbs-White has been for Nuno Espirito Santo’s high-flyers – seen in his 25 games in all competitions next to his counterpart’s 35 – the 22-time England U21 international has still chipped in when needed with four goals and two assists.

Again, much like the Forest number ten, the 22-year-old is also more than capable of playing as a winger away from just lining up centrally.

Indeed, his 144 appearances in the men’s side at Anfield to date – alongside a blistering loan stint with Blackburn Rovers – have seen him take to the pitch in a sizeable six different positions.

Elliott’s career G/A numbers by position

Position played

Games played

Goals scored

Assists

RW

103

18

22

AM

67

5

5

CM

36

4

14

LW

14

2

3

CF

3

0

1

SS

1

0

1

Sourced by Transfermarkt

Previously lauded as “phenomenal” by journalist David Lynch, it will be up to Wolves to ensure they get the most out of Elliott on his arrival, with the versatile young English talent – as Gibbs-White is – surely itching to be a first-team regular in his new location.

If they do manage to get the best out of the 22-year-old, any lingering agony of losing the Englishman prematurely will be fixed by Elliott’s emergence.

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Posts ByRoss Kilvington May 2, 2025

Arsenal have been offered the chance to sign a cheaper alternative to Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko through a unique release clause, with the striker also in the form of his life after two impeccable seasons.

Arsenal identify Gyokeres and Sesko as top striker targets

While a plethora of reports over the last week have claimed that Arsenal are advancing in talks for Gyokeres, Sesko also isn’t completely out of the picture, one year after the latter rejected an offer to join the Gunners (Fabrizio Romano).

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Posts ByEmilio Galantini May 17, 2025

Portuguese and English media sources claim Arsenal are taking significant steps to agree a move for Gyokeres, with CaughtOffside reporting Andrea Berta is in advanced talks for the Swede, while A Bola state they’ve offered him a contract worth £135,000-per-week.

Arsenal transfer spending under Arteta (via Sky Sports)

Money on new signings

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

However, reliable journalist Simon Phillips, after speaking with his Arsenal sources, is also under the impression that Mikel Arteta actually prefers Sesko as a potential signing, even if Berta personally wants Gyokeres.

This would indicate a disagreement over Arsenal’s transfer plans between the pair, but Arteta insisted in a press conference on Friday that both the Spaniard and Berta are on the same page when it comes to the club’s recruitment drive.

“On what we have to do, yes [we are fully aligned],” said Arteta. “On what we can do, I don’t know. I think sometimes from the plan that we had, and actually what we’re able to execute, we’ve never been able to replicate it exactly.

“This is football. It happens to every football club, that’s why we plan certain ways, and okay, if we cannot do it, we do something else. I think the aim is clear but then you have to just do it slowly, thing by thing and start to achieve it.”

What has been made crystal clear, though, is that both Sesko and Gyokeres are top Arsenal targets. The former’s deal includes a release clause set at around £62 million, while it is believed the latter will be allowed to leave Sporting for around £63 million.

The striker duo have both enjoyed record-breaking seasons at their respective clubs, making either a standout upgrade to Arteta’s current options, but Arsenal now have a chance to seal an even cheaper alternative.

Arsenal can sign Borussia Dortmund star Serhou Guirassy for £59m

According to German newspaper Bild, that man is Borussia Dortmund star Serhou Guirassy. The Guinea international, after signing for Dortmund last summer, has proved he’s no one season wonder following a breakout campaign at VfB Stuttgart last year.

Guirassy’s built upon that stellar 2023/2024 in his debut season at Dortmund, bagging 33 goals in 44 appearances across all competitions, and he’s second only behind Harry Kane in the Bundesliga scoring charts.

It is now believed Arsenal can sign Guirassy for just £59 million as well, thanks to a unique release clause in his deal, which permits only a handful of elite sides to strike a deal for that amount.

Liverpool, Chelsea, Manchester United, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Barcelona can also activate this option, but it could be a fruitful avenue for Berta to go down if he cannot get Sesko or Gyokeres over the line.

Called “world-class” by Dortmund boss Niko Kovac, the 29-year-old is continuing to make waves in Germany.

It has been a strong season for Enzo Fernandez in a Chelsea shirt. The Argentina international, who joined the club in 2023, has largely been a key player under his namesake, Enzo Maresca, this term, despite a period where he was not first choice in midfield at the start of the campaign.

In all competitions, he’s made 44 appearances, scoring seven goals and registering 13 assists. Of those goal involvements, 13 have come in 35 Premier League appearances. He has also been the Blues’ captain this term, leading them in 29 appearances in total.

These impressive performances have clearly been eye-catching, with Fernandez now linked with a shock move away from Stamford Bridge this summer.

The latest on Enzo Fernandez’s future

It will be an interesting couple of weeks for Fernandez, who is reportedly a key target for one of Europe’s biggest clubs Real Madrid.

The former Benfica star was first linked to Los Blancos back in March by TeamTalk, who said they ‘are considering a move’ for him. Fernandez was reportedly ‘very interested in a move to Madrid if the opportunity presents itself’ this summer.

In recent days, there has been more positive news for fans of the West London club to hear. Highly reputable journalist Fabrizio Romano said that Todd Boehly and co are desperate to keep the World Cup winner, after interest from the Santiago Bernabeu.

In a news article from one Spanish outlet, it seems that a potential price tag for Fernandez this summer has been revealed. It is an eye-watering amount that the Blues would ask for, specifically £102m, if Madrid want a deal to get over the line.

Although Romano suggests Chelsea do not want to lose their vice-captain, there could be a ready-made replacement in the pipeline and ready to step if he does depart.

Chelsea’s in-house Fernandez replacement

It is not often midfielders are described as a “complete” midfielder at just 21 years of age, but that is exactly what football analyst Ben Mattinson said about Andrey Santos.

The Brazilian – who signed for a fee in the region of £18m in January 2023 – is still on Chelsea’s books, but is currently on loan at French side Strasbourg.

What a season it has been for the former Vasco da Gama midfielder, who was born in Rio de Janeiro. He has featured in 34 games across all competitions from the middle of the park, scoring 11 times and registering five assists.

In Ligue 1 for a Strasbourg side who impressed throughout the campaign, he managed to hit double-figure goals, one of only two players from his club to do so. The tenth was a special strike in the final game of the season, in a 2-2 draw with Le Havre.

Between Fernandez and Santos, Chelsea have two players of very similar profiles. Just look at the position they have played this season. Fernandez has played as a number eight for the most part, playing 28 times in that role, also playing 11 times as a number six. As for the Strasbourg star, he has played 24 times as an eight and ten as a six.

In fact, when looking at their stats from this season, their profiles seem to align well. They are all-action midfielders who can pop up with a regular goal, create chances and also put in some impressive shifts without the ball.

There are numbers on FBref that reinforce the fact they are so similar, with Santos arguably better. For example, he averages 0.32 goals and 5.93 ball recoveries per 90 minutes compared to 0.19 goals and 4.83 ball recoveries each game for Fernandez.

Santos and Fernandez – key stats compared

Stat (per 90)

Santos

Fernandez

Goals

0.32

0.19

Passes into final third

4.45

5.24

Progressive carries

0.91

1.86

Tackles and interceptions

4.48

2.46

Ball recoveries

5.93

4.83

Stats from FBref

Described as a “monster” in that midfield by Mattinson, it certainly seems like Santos could hold his own in the Chelsea side and replace Fernandez, should the need arise. He beats him in several key stats and has more combined goals and assists this season.

If Boehly and co do lose Fernandez, Chelsea fans must surely feel in safe hands, with Santos ready to step in at any given moment and help fill the void of such an important player in their side.

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Posts ByJoe Nuttall May 22, 2025

It’s fair to say Manchester United fans won’t be looking back on the 2024/25 season with any degree of fondness.

A miserable tally of 18 losses in total in the Premier League would see Ruben Amorim’s dismal Red Devils have to make do with an unimpressive 15th spot in the division, whilst a heartbreaking Europa League final defeat to Tottenham Hotspur means United won’t even have the joyful distraction of European football to look forward to next campaign.

It’s a huge summer at Old Trafford, therefore, as Amorim attempts to steer the sinking ship back on course, with a whole host of transfer rumours beginning to bubble to the surface involving outgoings and incomings.

The most notable exit that could soon be on the cards is Bruno Fernandes ditching the Theatre of Dreams, with United perhaps having to sell their standout star so they can finance some top-drawer signings through the door.

Man Utd's search for a striker

Although the ex-Sporting boss remains in good spirits that the attacking midfielder could stay put amidst interest from Al-Hilal, it could well be that United’s hand is forced in this regard if they want to upgrade their striker personnel this summer.

Indeed, French outlet Foot Mercato have reported that United will have to get rid of Fernandes and/or Marcus Rashford to try and tempt Galatasaray goal machine Victor Osimhen to England, with his annual wage costs alone coming in at an eye-watering £10m. After all, the Portuguese ace does earn a sizeable £300k-per-week salary in the current camp.

Therefore, the Premier League strugglers might well have to just bite the bullet and allow Fernandes to sadly depart, especially when you consider the Red Devils are crying out for a new, potent goalscorer away from the likes of a goal-shy Rasmus Hojlund.

That’s where the ex-Napoli man could come to the rescue, with Amorim potentially possessing his next Viktor Gyokeres very soon if his side can spectacularly purchase the “world class” – as he was once labelled by Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley – menace.

Why Osimhen could become Amorim's next Gyokeres

Before delving deeper into Osimhen’s own unerring ability in front of goal, it’s only right to look at how Amorim had an instrumental part to play in Gyokeres becoming an equally ice-cold finisher of chances in Lisbon.

The Stockholm-born striker would instantly hit the ground running under the 40-year-old’s stewardship in Portugal, with a bumper 43 strikes coming his way across a memorable debut season.

The former Coventry City marksman is now up to a stunning 97 goals from 102 total appearances for Sporting, and whilst there were murmurs Gyokeres could reunite with his former manager in England, a statement move hasn’t yet whirred into motion.

But, the under-fire Red Devils boss can begin to claw his way into the Old Trafford good books by landing Osimhen instead, considering the Nigerian’s explosiveness in front of goal out in Turkey and across his goal-laden career to date means he could be the manager’s next Gyokeres.

Osimhen’s league numbers (24/25) vs Gyokeres’

Stat – per 90 mins*

Osimhen

Gyokeres

Games played

29

33

Goals scored

26

39

Assists

5

7

Shots*

4.7

4.2

Shots on target*

1.9

2.4

Goal conversion %

19%

28%

Big chances missed

25

23

Big chances created

11

11

Stats by Sofascore

Amazingly, Osimhen isn’t a million miles off his Swedish counterpart’s insane Liga Portugal goalscoring numbers, with the Galatasaray number 45 actually boasting 37 goals and seven assists from 41 games in all competitions this season, away from setting the Turkish top-flight alight.

Additionally, away from just twisting and turning Super Lig defences for fun, the 26-year-old target has also proven himself as a clinical threat on the books of Napoli and Lille previously, as seen in his 94 goals for both the Serie A and Ligue 1 titans.

Therefore, whilst it might break United hearts to see Fernandes up and leave, it could well be a momentary, but necessary pain that then results in long-term success, particularly if Osmihen – who could be up for grabs for around £62m – enters the ranks and rips up yet another major league with his goalscoring prowess.

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Over the years, Manchester United have landed countless young talents who have joined the club and made a huge impact on the first team at Old Trafford.

Amad Diallo is just one player who falls into that category, costing £37m from Atalanta back in 2020, before spending various loan spells at the likes of Rangers and Sunderland.

The Ivorian has now registered over 60 appearances for the Red Devils, scoring on 14 occasions – including the winner in the Manchester Derby back in December.

However, the off-season presents Ruben Amorim with an opportunity to invest in more young talents who can make an immediate impact for the Red Devils, whilst also keeping an eye on the future.

Numerous names have been mentioned as potential targets ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, especially as the club looks to return to their former glory.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

Youngsters have been a key focus over the last couple of weeks, setting them up for potential long-term success, which aligns with the current project in operation.

Benjamin Sesko, Rodrygo and Yann Bisseck are just three names mentioned with a summer switch to join the Red Devils, all of whom are under the age of 24, having the ability to star in Amorim’s revival.

However, another name has been added to the mix over the last couple of days, with Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney the latest on their radar, according to GIVEMESPORT.

They claim that the Championship are willing to part ways with the 22-year-old after United’s interest, led by Jason Wilcox, demanding a fee in the region of £20m to sell the academy graduate.

The report also states that they face tough competition from the likes of Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, Spurs and West Ham for the midfielder, who made 43 appearances in the league last season.

Why United’s £20m star could be Amorim’s own Carrick

Midfielder Michael Carrick was a superb servant during his spell as a United player, racking up over 450 appearances for the club over a 12-year period at Old Trafford.

The Englishman joined the Red Devils way back in 2006 in a £13m deal from fellow top-flight side Tottenham Hotspur – a fee that would prove to be a bargain given his time at United.

During his time as a player, the now-43-year-old won five league titles, one Europa League and one Champions League, along with 11 other trophies – offering a consistent presence during Sir Alex’s reign.

He became known for his excellent work ethic and superb passing ability, which saw him register a total of 35 assists and 24 goals – an impressive tally from his deep-lying position.

However, in the present day, Amorim could be about to land his own version of the midfielder in Middlesbrough’s Hackney, with the youngster having the tools to follow in his footsteps.

The 22-year-old, who’s been labelled a “monster” by one analyst, has been able to learn from the United legend, after plying his trade under him for multiple years at the Riverside Stadium.

He’s also been dubbed a “young Carrick” by the Second Tier Podcast, further showcasing the potential he has to explode should he move to the North West this summer.

When delving into the youngster’s stats, he’s managed to impress with the ball at his feet, further indicating how he can replicate the 43-year-old’s achievements at the Theatre of Dreams.

Hackney has managed to complete 10.4 progressive passes per 90, with 8.6 of which going into the final third – handing those ahead of him the opportunity to impress at Old Trafford.

Hayden Hackney’s stats for Middlesbrough (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

43

Goals & assists

8

Pass accuracy

84%

Progressive passes

10.4

Passes into final third

8.6

Tackles won

1.3

Blocks made

1.5

Stats via FBref

He’s also won 1.3 tackles per 90, whilst making 1.5 blocks per game – subsequently having the defensive talents to be the perfect deep-lying option in Amorim’s midfield.

£20m could prove to be an absolute steal for the Red Devils, signing a youngster who can easily cement his place at the heart of the side for many years to come.

However, given the interest from elsewhere, they will have to work tirelessly to avoid missing out on his signature and subsequently improving a divisional rival ahead of 2025/26.

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Will Chelsea spend big again this summer?

Since being taken over by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital three years ago, the Blues have signed over 35 senior first-team players for in excess of £1bn, but are showing no signs of slowing down.

The Blues have already completed the signing of Liam Delap from Ipswich for £30m, meaning he will be eligible to feature at the Club World Cup, with Enzo Maresca’s side kicking off their campaign against LAFC next Monday.

Before that match in Atlanta, could Chelsea sign another young attacker?

Chelsea's search for a new wide-attacker

BlueCo are incredibly busy trying to improve the squad before the Club World Cup gets underway with Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan reportedly closing in on a move to Stamford Bridge.

Yet, he’s not the only player who could arrive before Chelsea’s American adventure.

According to a report by RMC Sport, Chelsea have agreed personal terms with Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens on a whopping seven-year contract.

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This comes after David Ornstein of the Athletic reported that the Blues have submitted an official bid, although Florian Plettenberg of Sky Sports Deutschland claims that Chelsea’s initial bid of €29.5m was “rejected”, with die Schwarzgelben “demanding” closer to £51m.

Jacob Steinberg of the Guardian has previously documented that adding a ‘right-footed left-winger’ to their squad, having previously assessed Nico Williams and Alejandro Garnacho, but Gittens has emerged as the first-choice target.

So, it appears to be just a matter of time until this deal gets done, although they only have until 7pm (BST) on Tuesday to finalise the transfer, if Gittens is going to feature at the Club World Cup.

How Jamie Gittens could unleash Liam Delap

Neel Shelat of Total Football Analysis outlines how Delap has all the attributes to be a top-class penalty box poacher, so why would Gittens’ arrival be the dream signing for him?

Well, Felix Johnston describes the 20-year-old winger as “electric”, praising his “variation with crosses” and ability to make threatening “back post” runs.

Meantime, Lebohang Mwamuka of Breaking the Lines believes Gittens has the ability to become a ‘regular creator from wide areas’, given that he is “strong with both feet… dynamic” and possesses “remarkable dribbling’.

Jacek Kulig of Talent Football Scout agrees, believing Gittens’ ‘potential is extremely high’, noting that his primary strengths are dribbling, ‘decision-making and movement’.

So, let’s analyse Gittens’ statistics in the Bundesliga this season.

Gittens Bundesliga statistics 2024/25

Statistics

Gittens

Bundesliga rank

Minutes

1,776

149th

Goals

8

32nd

Assists

3

71st

Progressive carries

113

4th

Attempted take-ons

171

1st

Successful take-ons

77

2nd

Carries into penalty area

63

1st

All statistics courtesy of FBref.com

As the table outlines, there are few better dribblers in the Bundesliga than Gittens, ranked first for attempted take-ons and carries into the opposition penalty area, behind only Liverpool-bound Florian Wirtz for successful take-ons.

In fact, across Europe’s big five leagues, the Englishman ranks seventh for attempted take-ons as well as seventh in the Champions League for the same metric. Thus, Gittens’ dribbling and creative abilities would surely get the best out of centre-forward Delap.

The duo have actually played together on nine occasions before, seven of which have been with England’s U21s, while they were briefly teammates in Manchester City’s academy too, with Delap assisting Gittens for a goal against Liverpool’s U18s in September 2019.

Thus, if the pair are reunited in West London later this summer, they could form quite the devastating attacking duo.

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