After Mohamed Salah finished fourth in the 2025 Ballon d’Or, Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has revealed why he thinks France Football looked past the Egyptian’s incredible year.
2025 Ballon d'Or rankings cause controversy
As ever, the Ballon d’Or rankings caused plenty of debate. There wasn’t a place in the top 10 for either Virgil van Dijk or Harry Kane, whilst many have even disputed eventual winner, Ousmane Dembele. Truth be told, the award has lost some of its value ever since Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo vacated their throne.
The most controversial placing was Salah’s. The Egyptian, who broke records as Liverpool sealed the Premier League title in Arne Slot’s first season at the club, finished fourth and below Vitinha, Lamine Yamal and Dembele. Whilst there’s an argument to be had that he shouldn’t have won the award, it feels harsh that he missed out on a place in the top three altogether.
Games
52
53
Goals
34
35
Assists
23
16
If the award is based on individual performance, then it’s hard to find a more worthy winner than Liverpool’s star. He was involved in more goals than Dembele, Yamal and, of course, midfield star Vitinha, but failed to finish above all three.
It comes just one year on from missing out on a nomination entirely in 2024, as France Football continue to look beyond Anfield’s Egyptian King. At 33 years old, it seems unlikely that Salah will have a better opportunity to win the award than in 2025, either.
Many have had their say as to why the winger missed out on the award, including Liverpool legend Carragher, who recently put Salah’s snub down to one particular reason.
Carragher reveals why Ballon d'Or snubbed Salah
Speaking on The Overlap, Carragher revealed why he believes Salah missed out on the Ballon d’Or to Dembele. The former central defender looked back on Liverpool’s meeting with Paris Saint-Germain and claimed that the French side’s victory made all the difference.
There will be many who disagree with that verdict, but previous years have highlighted just how important the Champions League is in deciding these awards.
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With that, Salah’s snub arguably came down to two games against the European champions last season rather than the sensational campaign that he otherwise enjoyed.
Manchester United have finally landed the signature of Bryan Mbeumo, after a pursuit that felt as though it lasted a lifetime, even having two previous bids rejected.
The Cameroonian joins the Red Devils in a £71m deal which includes add-ons, surpassing the fee paid for Matheus Cunha from Wolves earlier this summer.
Such a deal has made him one of the most expensive transfers in the club’s history, placing huge expectations on his shoulders to be a success at Old Trafford.
However, he does arrive with a decent pedigree after netting 20 Premier League goals last campaign, in what was the best season of his professional career to date.
The fanbase will be hoping he can replicate such form at the Theatre of Dreams next season, but he may be joined by other players to help Ruben Amorim in his quest for success.
The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer
Over the last couple of days, United have once again been linked with a move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson in an attempt to strengthen their forward line ahead of 2025/26.
The Senegalese international registered 13 goals across all competitions last season, but would be an extremely expensive addition, with the Blues demanding £80m for his signature.
However, other areas of the pitch are also in need of investment, with Aston Villa shot-stopper Emi Martinez now seen as a viable target, according to the Daily Mail.
They claim that the Red Devils have already had a loan offer for the Argentine rejected after talks at the weekend, and are expected to return with a permanent offer for the 32-year-old.
It also states that the player himself would be keen on a move to Old Trafford, with Unai Emery’s side currently demanding a fee in the region of £40m to sell the former Arsenal star.
Why United’s £40m target would be a better signing than Mbeumo
There’s no denying that Mbeumo is an excellent signing, especially if he can repeat the feats he achieved during his time at Brentford throughout 2024/25.
Brentford's BryanMbeumoreacts
However, he’s set to operate in one of the two attacking roles behind the striker, a position that is somewhat unnatural given he featured off the right-hand side for the Bees.
Such a move would also see captain Bruno Fernandes drop into a deeper position, possibly restricting him from replicating his figures from last season, which saw him register 37 goal contributions.
Also, given the addition of Cunha within the attacking department, his signing may not have been needed, with other areas of the pitch desperately lacking quality.
Goalkeeper Andre Onana has been prone to mistakes during his time in England, notching seven errors that led to goals throughout 2024/25, costing the side in numerous key moments.
The Cameroonian also remains on the sidelines with a hamstring injury, leaving Altay Bayindir as the most senior option ahead of the start of the new season.
Such scenarios have seen Martinez be linked with a move to join United this summer, providing an upgrade on the options currently at Amorim’s disposal.
Games played
37
34
Goals conceded
1.2
1.3
Saves made
4
3.7
Save percentage
70%
68%
Pass accuracy
78%
72%
Long pass accuracy
49%
36%
Penalty save percentage
50%
25%
Crosses claimed
1.6
0.6
The Argentine, who’s been labelled “world-class” by Mauricio Pochettino, managed to make more saves per 90, along with a better save percentage – offering a more commanding presence between the sticks.
He also completed more of the passes he attempted, handing Amorim the option for his side to play out from the back should he desire such a playstyle in 2025/26.
£40m for a player of his calibre would be an excellent price, massively bolstering one area of the pitch that has been an issue over the last few months.
If he can transfer his form across to Manchester with him ahead of next season, it would be a phenomenal signing and one that could prove to be more important than Mbeumo.
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Manchester United appear to have moved on to other targets after missing out on Viktor Gyokeres.
Tottenham Hotspur recently splashed the cash to sign Mohammed Kudus from London and Premier League rivals West Ham United for a reported fee of £55m.
The 24-year-old star, who provided an assist in a friendly against Reading on Saturday, will be hoping to offer a big threat at the top end of the pitch for Thomas Frank’s side next season.
He will need to improve on his output from the 2024/25 campaign, though, as the Ghana international only managed five goals and three assists in 32 games as a winger or attacking midfielder for the Hammers. Kudus did produce 14 goals and six assists in all competitions in his first season in England, though, so it is more of an issue around consistency rather than quality.
Tottenham, meanwhile, are reportedly eyeing up a deal for another proven Premier League player who would be an even better signing than the £55m addition.
Spurs in talks to sign Premier League star
Whilst Kudus is somewhat of a gamble, given his unimpressive return in front of goal last term, Spurs are also eyeing a top-flight star who was superb last season and could come in to hit the ground running.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
According to Caught Offside, Tottenham Hotspur are willing to pay the full asking price for Bournemouth central defender Illya Zabarnyi to bolster their options at the back.
The report claims that the Lilywhites are already in talks to reach an agreement to sign the Ukraine international, and that they are prepared to pay what is required, which is said to be around £61m.
It adds that Paris Saint-Germain are also keen on the defender and have had multiple offers turned down by the Premier League side, as they have only offered up to around £52m.
Caught Offside reveals, though, that Zabarnyi favours a move to PSG and the French side are confident that they can complete a deal, which makes it a difficult one for Spurs to get over the line.
Why Spurs should sign Zabarnyi
Tottenham should continue to push to convince the centre-back to make the switch to London this summer, though, because he would be an even better signing than Kudus.
AFC Bournemouth's Illya Zabarnyi shakes hands with Everton'sMichaelKeaneafter the match
The club’s need for an extra body at the heart of the defence is obvious when you look at the time that Cristian Romero and Micky Van De Ven have missed in the last two seasons.
Premier League appearances
73
51
40
Injuries
0
4
6
Days missed through injury
0
127
210
Games missed through injury (all comps)
0
30
48
Games missed through suspension
3
3
0
As you can see in the table above, Zabarnyi has not missed a single game through injury in his two seasons in the Premier League, which suggests that he would be the reliable centre-back option Frank is currently missing.
His performances in the top-flight last season also suggest that the Ukraine international has the quality to hit the ground running as an instant star for the Lilywhites.
Pundit Jamie Redknapp claimed that Zabarnyi, who was once described as a “complete” defender by Jacek Kulig, went “under the radar” with his performances, as the defender won 63% of his duels and made zero errors that led to goals in 36 starts in the division.
The 22-year-old colossus is a reliable, error-free, and dominant central defender who rarely gets injured and always delivers on the pitch, which is exactly what Spurs need at the back.
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This is why Zabarnyi, if Spurs can get a deal done, would be an even better signing than Kudus, who is coming off a disappointing season and may not hit the ground running as an instant star, as the Bournemouth gem could do based on his form last term.
There have been moments, flashes, when Darwin Nunez has looked like the player Liverpool thought they were investing in three years ago, with the Anfield side’s then club-record capture memorably getting off the mark on debut in the Community Shield.
Who can forget the Uruguayan’s breathtaking brace as the ten-man Reds romped past Newcastle United at St James’ Park in August 2023, with Nunez briefly resembling the player who had hit 48 goals in just 85 games for former club Benfica.
Unfortunately for all concerned, such statement displays have been few and far between to date, with the chaotic nature of the profligate striker looking distinctly at odds with the cool and composed style of Arne Slot’s football.
That chasm resulted in Nunez scoring just seven times in all competitions in 2024/25, having notably been restricted to just eight Premier League starts. An exit – most likely to Serie A champions Napoli – now appears an inevitability ahead of next term.
Liverpool striker Darwin Nunez
With Luis Diaz earning admiring glances from those at Barcelona, the need for a new figure to lead the line has only been heightened. Enter, a high-profile target…
Liverpool plotting bid for high profile forward
£187m has already been spent on acquiring Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez, although with funds set to be raked in amid the potential sales of Nunez and Diaz – alongside Jarell Quansah’s £35m exit – there could still be further activity for Slot and co over the coming weeks.
The Merseysiders have notably been linked with a move for Eintracht Frankfurt starlet, Hugo Ekitike, with the 23-year-old believed to have emerged as a top target, amid his ability to feature off the left or in a central role.
That versatility is also a feature of Real Madrid star Rodrygo’s game, with reports in Spain suggesting that Liverpool are among a trio of Premier League clubs who are keen on signing the highly-rated Brazilian.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The suggestion is that, along with Manchester City and Arsenal, the Anfield side are in the mix for the 24-year-old’s signature, with the report outlining that they have already been ‘informed’ of the player’s situation.
Not only has there seemingly been contact made, but the piece also outlines that Liverpool are ready and willing to submit an offer for the former Santos starlet, with prior reports indicating that he could command a fee of around £75m.
With The Athletic noting that Rodrygo could be made available by the LaLiga giants this summer, having played a bit-part role for Xabi Alonso at the Club World Cup, now could be the perfect time for Slot to pounce.
Why Liverpool need to sign Rodrygo
Having seen Trent Alexander-Arnold join the Spanish outfit for a fee of around £10m earlier this summer, the Reds could more than get their own back by prising the unsettled Rodrygo from the Bernabeu.
Rodrygo stats
At just 24, the Brazil international offers that perfect blend of youth and experience, having already spent six seasons in Madrid, following his £38m arrival back in the summer of 2019.
Such a deal could evoke memories of the capture of a certain Fernando Torres from the Spanish capital back in 2007, with the prolific striker making the switch at the age of 23, having proven himself for Atletico Madrid.
Like Rodrygo – who has scored 68 goals in 270 games for Los Blancos – Torres was an undoubted star in LaLiga, with that first spell at Atleti seeing him reach double figures for league goals in each of his first five seasons.
Such red-hot form was more than replicated at Anfield, with ‘El Nino’ ultimately dazzling alongside Steven Gerrard and co, having terrorised defences up and down the country over the next four years.
A return of 81 goals in 142 games is certainly nothing to be sniffed at, certainly not when compared to Nunez’s return of just 40 goals in 143 games thus far, having been hailed as “among the best” in the division by then-boss Rafa Benitez.
Similar praise has been dished out by ex-Madrid coach, Carlo Ancelotti, in relation to Rodrygo, with the iconic Italian naming his young winger as one of the “best players in the world”, alongside the likes of Jude Bellingham, Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe.
2024/25
30
12
2023/24
34
15
2022/23
34
18
2021/22
33
8
2020/21
22
7
2019/20
19
2
While Rodrygo’s star has been dimmed by that trio, it is hard to deny his quality, with the fleet-footed marksman already scoring 25 times in just 65 Champions League appearances for his current side. For comparison, Torres scored 20 times in 79 career outings in Europe’s elite competition.
Although not necessarily a centre-forward by trade, the £75m man could emulate Diaz in providing a more fluid and mobile option through the middle, with Ancelotti previously suggesting in the past that number nine could be best suited to him, as his “strengths are his movement”.
Having previously seen Torres make a smooth transition to live in England, after leaving Madrid behind, hopefully Rodrygo can follow suit this summer.
He's as exciting as Wirtz: Liverpool in contact to sign a £75m "superstar"
This transfer target could be the perfect Luis Diaz replacement at Liverpool.
Glasgow Rangers have taken giant steps in the transfer market in recent days, bringing in two new signings.
Russell Martin has worked tirelessly of late to secure the signatures of both Joe Rothwell from Bournemouth and Peterborough United defender Emmanuel Fernandez.
Rothwell played under Martin during the 2023/24 campaign on loan with Southampton, scoring four times in 20 games as the club secured promotion to the Premier League.
Fernandez might not be as established a player, as the Posh struggled in League One during 2024/25, but his potential is limitless. Martin may have unearthed a gem in the 23-year-old.
With these two joining Max Aarons and Lyall Cameron as new arrivals this summer, Martin is slowly building a squad which he hopes will be capable of winning the Premiership title and progressing into the Champions League group stages.
Russell Martin watches on whilst in charge of Southampton.
More signings will be required over the next few weeks in order for the boss to achieve this and several others have been linked.
The current squad is short of wingers, however, and this must be acted upon swiftly ahead of the first competitive match against Panathinaikos in a few weeks.
Most expensive SPFL signings (timeless) Rangers Celtic
Martin won’t be able to call on the services of Vaclav Cerny, however, who returned to his parent club at the end of the season.
Vaclav Cerny’s Rangers statistics
The Czech winger joined from Wolfsburg last summer as Philippe Clement sought to strengthen his attacking options.
While the first few weeks were tough for the 27-year-old, he settled into life at Ibrox nicely and ended up scoring 18 goals and grabbing nine assists for the Light Blues across 52 matches.
In the top flight, Cerny registered 2.9 shots per game for the Gers, while averaging 2.5 key passes and succeeding with 1.4 dribbles per game against Scottish opposition.
It was in the Europa League where the winger truly showcased his class. Not only did he help the club reach the quarter-finals of the competition, but Cerny registered eight goal contributions – six goals and two assists – along the way.
Despite this success in Glasgow, a permanent move was never really in the question. Wolfsburg were looking to recoup the money that they spent on him in order to sanction a sale.
That fee? £8m. Although this was reported back in January, it looks as though the boat has sailed regarding a move to bring Cerny back to Ibrox.
Whatever happens this summer, bringing in one or two wingers on either flank should be a main priority for the manager.
Vaclav Cerny
As it stands, only Ross McCausland, Oscar Cortes and Rabbi Matondo are his wide options. One fell behind Cerny in the pecking order, one was injured for the majority of the season and Matondo spent the second half of the 2024/25 campaign out on loan.
Could Martin be eyeing up a reunion with a former player of his in the coming weeks?
Rangers search for a new winger
The Ibrox side have been linked with their fair share of wide men over the previous few weeks. Kwame Poku was the notable link, but he ended up making the move to QPR.
Elsewhere, Tyrhys Dolan and Moussa Djenepo were both linked with moves to Glasgow a few weeks ago, but nothing materialised.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
With time running out before the clash against the Greek giants, Martin now needs to find a player or two who can settle into his way of playing.
According to Sky Sports, David Brooks looked like he was set to join West Bromwich Albion, but this move is now off.
David Brooks for Bournemouth.
This has opened the door for the £50k-per-week winger to reunite with Martin in Glasgow. Of course, the Baggies target played under the Rangers boss during a spell at Southampton in the 2023/24 campaign.
He has just one year left on his current deal with the Cherries, which means the Light Blues might be on their way to securing a bargain.
If so, Brooks could be an excellent addition and hopefully ease the blow of losing Cerny.
Why Rangers must sign David Brooks
Brooks made the big time when he moved to Bournemouth in 2018. His first season saw the Welshman scored seven goals and grab five assists in the Premier League, certainly proving his class.
Indeed, Eddie Howe, his boss at the time, lauded Brooks as “sublime” after an impressive display against Brighton.
Season
Games
Goals
Assists
2024/25
33
2
2
2023/24
38
5
9
2022/23
6
0
0
2021/22
9
3
0
2020/21
39
6
7
2019/20
9
1
0
2018/19
33
7
5
2017/18
33
3
6
2016/17
4
0
2
Truth be told, he hasn’t quite hit those heights since, albeit while bravely battling back after he was diagnosed with Stage Two Hodgkin lymphoma in October 2021. Across 29 top-flight appearances last term, the winger scored twice.
Despite starting just nine times, he still averaged 0.9 shots per game, while also creating three big chances and averaging 0.7 key passes each match.
If given regular chances in the starting XI, Brooks would make for an exciting signing, no doubt about that.
Under Martin at the Saints in 2023/24, the Welsh star grabbed five assists, created eight big chances and succeeded with over 50% of his dribble attempts.
These statistics were recorded in the second tier, but it shows just how effective Brooks can be if he gets a chance.
It would take some effort to match the tally recorded by Cerny last season, but Brooks has already proven his class in the Premier League during his career.
With strengths that include key passes, through balls and holding onto the ball, the winger could dominate defenders north of the border, that’s for sure.
The only sticking point could be the fee. But as mentioned, he has a single year left on his deal, which puts the Ibrox side in a solid negotiating position.
Considering Martin has worked with the 35-cap winger before, it is a signing that makes sense for all parties. Hopefully it can be sewn up sooner rather than later.
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Even though Arsenal are blessed with an abundance of talented players, it’s not hard to pinpoint their most important: Bukayo Saka.
The Hale End icon has become a talisman for the club and a constant source of goals and assists from the right-hand side, racking up a sensational haul of 26 goal involvements in 37 games this season.
Yet, as unbelievably talented as the Englishman is, he cannot drag the Gunners to glory on his own, as even Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has an incredible supporting cast, including the likes of Diogo Jota, Luis Diaz and most crucially, this season, Cody Gakpo.
So, fans should be excited about recent reports linking Arsenal to an attacker who’s been compared to Saka and the Flying Dutchman.
Arsenal's winger search
With their attack letting them down on several occasions this season, it’s not been a surprise to see Arsenal linked with a host of talented wingers this summer, such as Karou Mitoma and Rodrygo.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The former could be available for around £80m and was able to rack up a tally of 15 goal involvements in 41 games this season, while the latter might cost as much as £77m but was even more effective, racking up a haul of 14 goals and 11 assists in 52 games.
Yet, there is another name that has entered the frame, a player who has Premier League experience and has been compared to Saka and Gakpo: Noni Madueke.
According to a recent report from the Telegraph, Arsenal are now one of several teams in the picture to sign the former Spurs academy star and Chelsea forward this summer.
The report claims that while the Blues do not want to sell the Englishman, there is a distinct possibility that he would be let go for the right price.
While that price is not mentioned in the story, reports from earlier this month claimed that a fee in the region of €60m, which is about £51m, could do the trick.
It might not be a transfer that is immediately popular with Arsenal fans, but Madueke has shown glimpses of quality in the Premier League, and the fact he’s been compared to Saka and Gakpo is undoubtedly intriguing.
How Madueke compares to Saka & Gakpo
So then, before going over some of the other reasons why Arsenal might want to sign Madueke this summer, it’s important to examine these comparisons and where they stem from.
Well, they both stem from FBref, which looks at players in similar positions in the Premier League this season before making a list of the ten most comparable for each.
According to this list, Gakpo was the seventh most similar attacking midfielder or winger to Chelsea this season, while Saka was the tenth most similar.
Non-Penalty Expected G+As
0.61
0.71
Shots
3.54
3.44
Passing Accuracy
77.4%
75.5%
Passes into the Final Third
0.71
0.78
Tackles Won
0.80
0.78
Clearances
0.49
0.42
Successful Take-On %
44.1%
45.6%
Aerial Duels Won
0.49
0.52
Now, the best way to understand how these conclusions were reached is by looking at some of the underlying numbers in which the players rank closely, and in the case of the Gunners’ talisman, that includes things like non-penalty expected goals plus assist, passing accuracy, passes into the final third, clearances, tackles won and more, all per 90.
In the case of the Eindhoven-born maestro, similar metrics include expected assists, live passes, carries, ball recoveries, goal-creating actions, and more, all per 90.
Non-Penalty Expected G+As
0.61
0.53
Passing Accuracy
77.4%
75.7%
Expected Assists
0.14
0.18
Crosses into the Penalty Area
0.35
0.37
Live Passes
29.2
28.7
Goal-Creating Actions
0.35
0.37
Carries
28.4
28.1
Ball Recoveries
3.72
3.58
However, it’s not just the comparisons to two of the best wingers in the league that should excite fans, as the “unbelievable” dynamo, as dubbed by former manager Mauricio Pochettino, has also been a relatively reliable source of goals and assists for the West Londoners.
For example, in 42 appearances this season, totalling 2513 minutes, the 23-year-old “mentality monster,” as dubbed by personal coach Saul Isaksson-Hurst, scored 11 goals and provided five assists, which comes out to a goal involvement on average every 2.62 games, or every 157.06 minutes.
In comparison, Gabriel Martinelli racked up as many goal involvements in 51 appearances, totalling 3564 minutes, which comes out to a significantly worse average of a goal involvement every 3.18 games, or every 222.75 minutes.
Ultimately, while the price might be a little high, Madueke has the raw ability to make a difference for Arsenal, and the fact he’s been compared to players like Saka and Gakpo this season suggests as much.
Therefore, if the fee can be reduced somewhat, then this looks like a transfer worth chasing.
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The Premier League confirmed its fixture calendar for the 2025/2026 season this week with Arsenal set for an intriguing opening game against Man United, and there is little doubt sporting director Andrea Berta will be aiming to secure all of Mikel Arteta’s top summer transfer targets by that date.
Regarding links to some of Europe’s most sought-after strikers, United have been equally active in the transfer market, with both sides attempting to get a prolific centre-forward through the door after disappointing seasons.
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He’d be quite the addition to Arteta’s dressing room.
ByEmilio Galantini Jun 17, 2025
Arsenal have been in talks with RB Leipzig over a deal for Benjamin Sesko for weeks, but as things stand, the Gunners are unwilling to match their demands of a transfer fee which could reach up to £85 million.
With Arsenal still yet to shake hands on a contract with the player’s representatives, plenty of work is still to be done if Berta wishes to strike a deal for the Slovenia international who’s eluded Arteta’s side since last summer.
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
Sesko rejected a proposal to join Arsenal this time last year and ex-interim sporting director Jason Ayto led a mission to tempt the 22-year-old with a move to the Emirates in January, only to be told that he wanted to see out the season with Leipzig (Ben Jacobs).
Amidst the Sesko saga, Arsenal are also trying to sign a new winger, but key target Nico Williams is now in talks to join Barcelona instead.
Arsenal planning to hijack Chelsea deal for Jamie Gittens
That is according to CaughtOffside, and given the Athletic Bilbao starlet is most likely to remain in La Liga with Barça, Arsenal are believed to be shifting their focus to Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens.
Jamie Gittens in action for Borussia Dortmund.
The “new name” target, as described by this report, is emerging as a priority signing for the north Londoners and Arteta is apparently a real admirer. They’re currently taking “concrete steps” to swoop for Gittens and holding internal talks over a move for the Englishman, who Dortmund value at around £51 million.
Arsenal are said to be “serious” about signing Gittens and could move quickly, which comes as a real concern for Chelsea and Enzo Maresca.
The west Londoners had three bids rejected for the 20-year-old before the Club World Cup transfer deadline (Florian Plettenberg), with CaughtOffside reiterating that Gittens has already reached a long-term agreement on personal terms to join Chelsea.
Chelsea are widely expected to bid again for Gittens (Fabrizio Romano), but Arsenal appear to be posing a major threat in the race, so Maresca may now have a battle on his hands.
The Dortmund sensation, called an “incredible” one-v-one forward by Nuri Şahin, bagged 12 goals and five assists in 49 total appearances last campaign – with four of his strikes coming in the Champions League.
The need for a new striker at Manchester United is there for all to see, with their lack of ability within the final third hugely evident throughout the 2024/25 campaign.
Ruben Amorim’s side only managed to find the back of the net on 44 occasions in their 38 Premier League outings, an average of just 1.15 goals per match.
Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes ended the season as the joint-top scorers, both registering eight goals, with no player in the squad registering double figures, highlighting the need for added reinforcements.
ManchesterUnited's Amad Diallocelebrates scores their second goal with Bruno Fernandes
Two centre-forward options, Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee, only managed seven league goals between them, with the former hugely touted with a move to Inter Milan this summer.
Given such form, it’s a surprise to no one to see the hierarchy prioritising a move for a player in such a department, with countless players already on their radar.
The latest on United’s hunt for new attackers this summer
Over the last couple of weeks, numerous names have been mentioned to fill the striker void at Old Trafford, but no deals have yet been agreed to bolster Amorim’s side.
The likes of Hugo Ekitiké, Moise Kean and Aleksandar Mitrovic have all been mentioned as potential summer signings for the Red Devils, but it appears that attention has been turned elsewhere.
Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen is the latest on their radar this summer, with the Napoli talisman expected to leave the Serie A outfit, according to United In Focus.
Their report claims that talks have already been held for the 26-year-old star over a move to Old Trafford, undoubtedly providing a superb option for the club after scoring 37 times on loan at Galatasaray in 2024/25.
It also states that after rejecting a move to Saudi Arabia, his priority is a switch to the Premier League, potentially seeing the Red Devils move to the front of the queue for his signature.
Why United’s latest target would be a better signing than Gyokeres
Viktor Gyokeres has been a player firmly on United’s radar over the last couple of months, unsurprisingly so given his previous stint under Amorim.
The Swede netted 54 goals in his 52 appearances across all competitions this campaign, undoubtedly being one of the hottest prospects in Europe, with Arsenal also in the race for his services.
It was reported earlier this week that the hierarchy have made contact with the 27-year-old’s representatives over a switch to the Premier League, with a £55m transfer fee mooted.
There’s no doubt that such a goalscoring record would improve the situation at the manager’s disposal, but he’s never showcased his talents in Europe’s top five leagues, posing a potential risk given his price tag.
Osimhen has managed to thrive in such a department, scoring 65 league goals in his five seasons as a first-team regular with Napoli – helping them claim the Scudetto back in 2022/23. He’s truly one of the great forwards, with European football expert Zach Lowy notably suggesting he is already “one of the best strikers of this century.”
Napoli star Victor Osimhen
When comparing their stats from the ongoing campaign, the Nigerian has managed to outperform him in numerous key areas, further backing up why he’d be a better addition.
He may have registered fewer goals to date, but has notched a higher goal per shot on target rate, highlighting his clinical edge within the final third.
Games played
30
33
Goals & assists
31
46
Shots on target
2.2
2
Goals per shot on target
0.4
0.3
Aerials won
4.3
0.6
Aerial success rate
64%
30%
Take-on success
60%
27%
He’s also won more aerials and completed more take-ons, handing Amorim an all-round option that could take United to the next level throughout 2025/26.
Whilst either of the pair would hand the club the talisman they’ve been craving in recent months, it’s pivotal that, with such big money being spent, the right man arrives in the coming months.
From the stats produced and their previous experience in Europe, it’s evident that the Nigerian would be the better choice, pushing them in the right direction to try and return to their former glory.
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Liverpool’s summer transfer window is beginning to form a coherent picture, with FSG acting quickly to tidy up the defensive flanks and get the mammoth deal for Florian Wirtz over the line.
The Bayer Leverkusen superstar gave curious Liverpool supporters a taste of his quality during Germany’s Nations League semi-final tie against Portugal this week, scoring during the 2-1 loss.
Minutes played
90′
Goals
1
Assists
0
Shots (on target)
2 (2)
Accurate passes
32/42 (76%)
Key passes
0
Dribbles
3/5
Tackles
3
Duels won
9/16
His intelligence, tenacity and movement underscored the playmaker’s ability, having been utterly fantastic during his time in Leverkusen’s squad, winning the 2023/24 Bundesliga Player of the Year after triumphing as an invincible before claiming more Man of the Match awards than any other player across this term’s Champions League campaign.
We’re a whisker away from a positive development in Liverpool’s bid to secure a marquee deal, but it might be a case of one out, one in.
While the Wirtz deal won’t have any bearing on the potential sale of Luis Diaz, the Colombian’s departure is something to consider.
The latest on Luis Diaz's future
On Thursday, Liverpool rejected an approach from Barcelona for forward Diaz, who scored 17 goals and laid on eight assists for Slot’s side this year.
The 28-year-old, who is entering the penultimate year of his contract, will only be allowed to leave if Liverpool are offered a significant sum; the Saudi Pro League have known admirers of the South American talent.
Though the thought of Diaz and Wirtz combining in a new-look Liverpool frontline is exciting, there may well be an opportunity to secure a new, younger signature.
Liverpool forward Luis Diaz
FSG’s no-sell stance is laced with the undertow of an openness, should the right offer be tabled.
Especially when talks have been held for an almighty replacement on the left flank.
Liverpool hold talks for marquee signing
According to transfer insider Ben Jacobs, Liverpool held discussions concerning Real Madrid’s Rodrygo last month, their intrigue persisting after initially drawing him up as a Mohamed Salah successor, should the Egyptian have left this summer.
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Arsenal would be Anfield’s most notable rival in the race, and though the Gunners have a vested interest, they have not yet launched an official bid for the Brazil forward.
Rodrygo, 24, has become disillusioned with life at Santiago Bernabeu, frustrated to be perceived to be in the shadow of Kylian Mbappe, Vinicius Junior and Jude Bellingham.
For their part, Real no longer consider Rodrygo untouchable, but would only cash in if their €100m (about £84m) valuation was met.
What Rodrygo would bring to Liverpool
While the jury will remain out for a little while as Xabi Alonso’s plans at Real Madrid begin to shape up, it’s difficult to imagine the Spanish tactician will remove Vini Jr. from his left-sided berth.
This could lead Rodrygo to make the eventual decision to leave Los Blancos, having featured 267 times, posting 118 goal contributions, for the club since signing from Santos for a £39.5m fee when he was just 18.
However, most of those outings have come off the right wing, whereas the right-footed forward prefers the alternate side as he feels it is here he reaches his zenith.
Right winger
29
7
4
Left winger
12
6
6
Centre-forward
8
–
–
If the 2024/25 campaign has any say on the matter, it certainly looks like this is the case, which is why Liverpool could hit the jackpot in bringing Rodrygo over as Diaz’s heir.
Especially when considering the partnership that could be forged with Wirtz, the two starring in the Champions League and driving Anfield through the domestic campaign.
Wirtz brings so much to the game, astounding in his creative output and indeed willingness to take on his man and drive the ball into the danger area himself.
The German international ranked among the top 2% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Bundesliga this season for assists, the top 6% for shot-creating actions, the top 5% for progressive passes and progressive carries, and the top 3% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref.
For a gifted and technically crisp winger in Rodrygo, this could be a brilliant way to add intensity and fluency to an already thriving Liverpool frontline. Rodrygo, indeed, is a natural-born goalscorer, with his finishing once described as being “terrifyingly good” by journalist Sam Tighe.
Though he only managed to score six goals in La Liga this season, the “special” Rodrygo, as he has been praised by Carlo Ancelotti, only missed one big chance, as per Sofascore, highlighting the underlying data that Wirtz’s prowess would only enhance at Liverpool. Wirtz, in fact, created 17 big chances and supplied 12 assists in the Bundesliga this term despite only starting 25 matches.
Whether Liverpool act on their interest and launch a big-money bid for the star remains to be seen, but there’s no question he would be an incredible addition to one of the best teams in the world.
Bayer Leverkusen's FlorianWirtzreacts
For now, we will have to wait and see whether FSG accelerate their intrigue in the superstar, but with Arsenal keen and yet to show their hand in the transfer market, it would certainly help if sporting director Richard Hughes could draw rumours over Diaz’s future to a close.
If a suitable offer does arrive, Rodrygo might just follow Wirtz through the Anfield gates, consolidating Slot’s team as a goliath of the modern European game – here to stay.
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With Europa League football at the least secured, Nottingham Forest are now reportedly evaluating a move to sign a Serie A striker when the summer transfer window swings open.
Nottingham Forest are destined for striker problem
It may seem absurd to suggest that Nottingham Forest will be in a desperate position for a striker sooner rather than later, but Chris Wood can do everything but stand in the way of age. The New Zealand star has undeniably enjoyed an excellent season and at 33 years old it defies logic that he has been one of the best in his position in the top flight. He has spearheaded Forest from relegation troubles into the top six, ageing like fine wine in the process.
Like all players, however, there will soon come a stage when Wood has to call it a day at the top level. And although evidence would suggest that day isn’t any time soon even at 33 years old, Forest would be wise to prepare for the inevitable in years to come.
Nuno Espirito Santo, more than most, will be well aware of just how difficult his star striker will be to replace whenever Nottingham Forest need to do so. Full of praise for Wood earlier this season, the manager told reporters: “We are very happy to have Chris with us.
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“He is an example for the young lads to follow because it is never too late to achieve good things in football. He is a good example to everybody and we are very happy to have him.”
Nottingham Forest considering Castellanos move
With replacing Wood in mind, those at the City Ground have seemingly turned towards Italy. According to Corriere dello Sport, as relayed by Sport Witness, Nottingham Forest are now evaluating a move to sign Taty Castellanos, who will be free to leave Lazio this summer but only if the Reds come in with a major offer.
Lazio's Valentin Castellanos celebrates
The Midlands club aren’t alone in the race for the forward’s signature either, with West Ham United and Wolverhampton Wanderers also considering moves to sign the Lazio man. Whether that sees Forest push on and secure Castellanos’ signature remains to be seen and whether he is talented enough to replace Wood is the big question.
Starts
27
34
Goals
10
20
Assists
3
3
Expected Goals
12.8
12.6
Whilst Castellanos was described as a “superb” signing by U23 scout Antonio Mango when he joined Girona in 2022, he has failed to truly kick on since then and the numbers compared to Wood do not make for pretty reading.
What should be a particular concern is the fact that the 26-year-old has underperformed his expected goals whilst only finding the back of the net 10 times in Serie A this season. Wood, meanwhile, has outperformed his expected total by almost eight goals in what has been a sensational season.