All posts by z3u9t.icu

After a catastrophic transfer window, Celtic have been left woefully short in attacking areas.

This summer, Nicolas Kühn and Adam Idah have been sold to Como and Swansea respectively, after scoring 21 and 20 goals last season, while Jota remains sidelined until around Christmas, due to an anterior cruciate ligament injury suffered at Tannadice in April.

Wingers Michel-Ange Balikwisha and Sebastian Tounekti have both arrived from Royal Antwerp and Hammarby while, having failed to sign a striker on deadline day, Kelechi Ịheanachọ joined as a free agent, after his contract with Sevilla had been mutually terminated.

Thus, Celtic supporters are certainly concerned about their side’s lack of attacking firepower, but they still boast a “physical beast”, signed for just £1.5m, now worth more than their number one centre-forward target.

What Kasper Dolberg would've brought to Celtic

With Idah left in limbo ahead of his move to Swansea, completing a medical in South Wales before being forced to wait, Celtic chased a replacement, with Kasper Dolberg their number one, and seemingly only, target.

They had multiple bids rejected by Anderlecht for the 27-year-old and, as it transpired, he never really wanted to move to Glasgow anyway, instead re-joining Ajax for €10m (around £8.6m), six years after departing the Johan Cruijff Arena.

The Danish international has had an up-and-down career, enduring elongated barren periods, while also showing semi-regular glimpses of brilliance.

After underwhelming spells with Nice, Sevilla and Hoffenheim, he got back to his best at Anderlecht, scoring 44 goals in 96 appearances for the Purple and Whites, including five goals to start this season, four of which came in UEFA qualifiers, netting against BK Häcken, Sheriff Tiraspol and AEK Athens.

He also remains a reliable presence for his national team, taking his tally to 12 international goals when Denmark hammered Lithuania 5-0 in Odense in June, most notably on target three times during the knockout phase when de Rød-Hvide reached the semi-finals at Euro 2020.

Global Football Rankings believes the Jupiler Pro League to be the sixth-strongest division in the world, with the Scottish Premiership down in 27th, one place below the Ecuadorian Serie A, so the fact he scored 24 goals last season suggests he would have bagged plenty of goals in Scotland, but do the Celts already boast a more valuable attacker?

Celtic's superstar attacker

The bedrock of Ange Postecoglou’s successful two seasons in charge of Celtic was his exceptional recruitment, especially in the Japanese market.

From the likes of Kyōgo Furuhashi to Reo Hatate, it’s safe to say their Japanese contingent have enjoyed a fabulous time in Paradise. Yet, there’s one who has arguably eclipsed both of them.

Indeed, the £1.5m paid to sign Daizen Maeda from Yokohama F. Marinos very much looks like a bargain now.

Last season was undoubtedly Maeda’s best since arriving in Glasgow, named PFA Scotland Players’ Player of the Year, with his former coaches labelling him a “machine” and a “physical beast”.

He scored 33 goals across all competitions, thereby joining illustrious company. As the table outlines, not since Henrik Larsson has a Celtic player scored 30+ goals in back-to-back seasons and, well, Maeda potentially wanted to prevent himself from changing that fact.

Daizen Maeda

2024/25

33

Kyōgo

2022/23

34

Dembélé

2016/17

32

Griffiths

2015/16

40

Commons

2013/14

32

Hooper

2012/13

31

McDonald

2007/08

31

Hartson

2004/05

30

Larsson

2003/04

41

Larsson

2002/03

44

Larsson

2001/02

34

Larsson

2002/03

53

Larsson

1998/99

38

The 27-year-old is currently away on international duty with Japan, coming off the bench as the Samurai Blue drew 0-0 with Mexico in Oakland on Saturday night, set to see more action against the United States in Columbus on Tuesday.

While away, he confirmed in an interview with Gekisaka that he asked to leave Celtic this summer, stating: “I had an offer and had consistently communicated to my club that I wanted to take the next step in my career. However, Celtic ultimately couldn’t secure the necessary reinforcements and told me they couldn’t let me go”.

Given all the other upheaval at Celtic this summer, as well as the lack of incoming activity, losing Maeda on top of all that would’ve been unthinkable, but it is far from ideal that he is publicly stating his disappointment at not moving on, looking to increase his importance in Hajime Moriyasu’s squad ahead of the World Cup.

Should he depart at some point, the Hoops would make a huge return on investment, given that Football Transfers estimates his value to be around £12m, just above Dolberg’s value of £11m.

For now, Maeda remains in Glasgow, and will be front and centre as the Celts target a fifth successive Premiership title, also looking to make a deep run in the Europa League, commencing the league phase against Crvena zvezda in Belgrade later this month.

Celtic flop is now outscoring Iheanacho after being sold for just £4m

With Celtic signing Kelechi Ịheanachọ as a free agent after the transfer window had closed, a former Celtic striker is now worth £24m

Sep 8, 2025

Southampton are now “interested” in signing a £400k+ defender who has been likened to Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk, Sky Sports reporter Anthony Joseph has revealed.

Still overseeing major rebuild at St. Mary's

The Saints came from behind to defeat National League side Eastleigh in their first pre-season friendly, with Adam Armstrong and Cameron Archer getting on the scoresheet, but new manager Will Still has insisted he is still very much in the process of a rebuild.

Still said: “I think there are a lot of things to learn. We’re going to have to work incredibly hard and we’re not going to walk over any opposition, you can see that it’s a team in the middle of a complete reconstruction.

“We’re restructuring the identity and style of play and after 10 to 11 days training we’ve seen a lot of positive things as well as things we have to work on.”

Southampton plot approach for £10m maestro who may jump at St. Mary's move

The Saints have set their sights on a midfielder…

ByDominic Lund Jul 1, 2025

Of course, Still’s main ambition next season will be to lead his side to promotion from the Championship, but he may have to bolster his backline if they are to achieve that goal, having shipped 86 goals in the Premier League last term.

Southampton have already made one new addition at centre-back, securing the signing of Joshua Quarshie from Hoffenheim, and they have now joined the race for another, according to an update from Joseph on X.

The Sky Sports reporter claims the Saints are now “interested” in signing Volendam centre-back Xavier Mbuyamba, and there are positive signs that a deal could be possible, with the Dutch club “keen” to cash-in on the defender this summer.

However, Watford are also interested in the centre-back, while Fabrizio Romano has revealed the likes of Gent and Rangers could also provide competition for his signature, and the transfer expert believes his price tag will be around the €500k (£434k) mark.

"Dominant" Mbuyamba could excel at St. Mary's

Earlier on in his career, the Volendam defender was often compared to Van Dijk, perhaps given that he is a “dominant” figure in defence, according to scout Jacek Kulig, who also praised him for his tackling and heading ability.

However, after coming through the youth ranks at Barcelona, before going on to sign for Chelsea, the Dutch defender’s career probably hasn’t panned out how he would’ve hoped, but there are signs he is now ready to test himself properly in England.

During his time with Volendam, the Maastricht-born ace has established himself as a key player, making 62 Eredivisie appearances across the past two seasons, and showcasing his attacking threat by scoring ten goals.

At 23-years-old, Mbuyamba still has plenty of time to fulfill his potential, and for a fee of around £434k he could be a bargain signing for Southampton this summer.

Newcastle United have only gone from strength to strength since Eddie Howe replaced Steve Bruce at the helm in November 2021, currently preparing for their second Champions League campaign in three years.

Last season, the Magpies also won the Carabao Cup, ending 70 years of desperate searching for domestic silverware. The club are riding the crest of a wave, but need to consolidate their enviable position by making impactful summer signings ahead of a crucial year.

However, there’s no denying there have been several setbacks for Howe and co to contend with since wrapping up a successful 2024/25 season.

Joao Pedro has signed for Chelsea for £60m after being locked in United’s sights. Compounding this, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo has informed his club he will only leave for Manchester United this summer, in spite of Newcastle’s interest.

While this has rocked a transfer window that fans awaited with fervour as the season wound down, a big effort is now needed to prove to the faithful that they will watch several exciting new stars plying their trade in black and white soon.

And there’s one in particular who the outfit are pushing to sign.

Premier League star wants to join Newcastle

Newcastle cashed in on Miguel Almiron in January, selling the 31-year-old winger back to Atlanta United in the MLS for around £8m.

Though Jacob Murphy has been exceptional on the right flank, it’s clear that the Toon need more depth, and that they have indeed been pushing to sign a fitting upgrade on the departed Paraguayan.

Well, Newcastle’s persistence might just pay off, in regard to Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga, that is.

According to i News, Newcastle are aiming to kickstart their window with the acquisition of the Sweden international, who is thought to want the move.

Newcastle are still in dialogue with the Tricky Trees after seeing an opening £45m offer knocked back in June.

Transfer Focus

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

Forest qualified for the Conference League after an extraordinary season, and have made it known that they will only consider offers in excess of £60m.

What Anthony Elanga would bring to Newcastle

Two years ago, Nottingham Forest signed Elanga from Manchester United in a deal worth just £15m.

Having struggled for minutes at Old Trafford, the wideman’s decision to move has been vindicated and then some, having settled into his role as a key part of an ambitious project.

Across his two seasons at the City Ground, the 23-year-old has scored 11 goals and assisted 21 more, racking up 17 goal involvements across Forest’s recent Premier League season alone, earning praise for his “special” ability from his manager Nuno Espirito Santo.

You can only imagine how effective the forward’s playmaking might be under Howe’s wing. As per FBref, Elanga finished the 2024/25 Premier League campaign ranked among the top 6% of attacking midfielders for assists and the top 3% for crosses per 90.

Paired with Anthony Gordon on the attacking flanks, Newcastle might just find themselves in with the ideal attacking duo to dynamise a frontline that is already so proven, so fluent.

Matches (starts)

38 (31)

34 (28)

Goals

6

6

Assists

11

5

Shots (on target)*

1.2 (0.6)

1.7 (0.6)

Big chances missed

6

10

Pass completion

78%

81%

Big chances created

9

6

Key passes*

1.3

1.5

Dribbles*

0.7

0.

Ball recoveries*

2.3

2.9

Tackles + interceptions*

0.7

1.1

Duels won*

3.0

4.4

Gordon and Elanga actually bring similar attacking qualities to their respective flanks, with both being positionally versatile too. Howe’s tactics are tuned toward swift transitional play, and this is something the Forest star excels at, declaring himself to be “one of the fastest players in the Premier League”.

Though his meagre dribble return across the 2024/25 campaign fails to illustrate this quality, the eye test proves that he is indeed perfect for the brand of football Howe implements on Tyneside. Gordon is a testament to that.

The England international utilises his rapidity to a similar effect, claiming on Three Lions duty last summer that he’s a “nightmare for anyone” he comes up against due to his electric movements and tenacious attitude.

Though Gordon produced a campaign that left plenty to be desired, struggling to replicate his incredible 2023/24 term, notching 26 goal contributions and winning United’s Player of the Year, he could be back to his rip-roaring best if fielded alongside a maverick like Elanga.

With all-consuming striker Alexander Isak set to stay put, The Athletic’s David Ornstein even claiming there’s “no chance” he leaves St. James’ Park this summer after Newcastle got their feet back under Europe’s elite table, this could be a strike-force to be feared, such dynamic skills and blistering speed combining with the striker’s devastating finishing ability and rounded game.

While Newcastle have been dealt several blows across the window so far, Howe still has a clear vision in mind and will raise his team’s attacking level by adding Elanga to the ranks. After all, he hoped to complete a deal for the winger last year, only to see a late-stage offer rebuffed.

In any case, United’s perseverance might just seal the deal here, giving the manager a vibrant wide duo to propel the club even further forward.

Next Ben Arfa: Newcastle set to bid £50m for "electric" Elanga alternative

As Newcastle chase Anthony Elanga, should they instead go for an “electric” winger, one who is reminiscent of former fan’s favourite Hatem Ben Arfa?

Jul 3, 2025

It’s only June, and Arsenal have already been in more than their fair share of transfer sagas.

The big one has undoubtedly focused on the potential deal for Benjamin Sesko and, by extension, Viktor Gyokeres, who looks like the backup option.

Then there was the questionable jeopardy around the deal for Martin Zubimendi and the potential hijack from Real Madrid, which has thankfully been quashed by the likes of Fabrizio Romano and Sami Mokbel.

Finally, another saga that followed the club from last season concerned Nico Williams. Although recent reports are to be believed, Arsenal might now be looking at someone who’d be a better deal than the Spaniard.

Arsenal's search for a Williams alternative

The first serious links to Williams for Arsenal emerged last summer, off the back of a brilliant season for Athletic Bilbao and then a sensational European Championships with Spain.

Transfer Focus

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

However, even though nothing came of the Gunners’ supposed interest in the talented winger, links reappeared in the winter window and again in a big way earlier this summer.

Unfortunately, the dynamic 22-year-old has understandably caught the attention of several other top sides, and based on stories from the last week or so, it looks like he’ll be making his way to Spanish champions Barcelona this summer.

While it’s never ideal to miss out on a player as exciting as Williams, it’s not all doom and gloom, as the North Londoners now appear to be interested in someone who could be a better deal than the Bilbao gem: Noni Madueke.

At least that is according to a recent report from the Independent’s Chief Football Writer, Miguel Delaney, who has revealed that Arsenal are interested in the Chelsea winger.

In fact, the report claims that the Gunners have already made contact with the Blues over a potential move for the former Spurs academy star.

However, there is a sticking point: the West Londoners want up to £50m for the 23-year-old, which is a figure Andrea Berta and Co are not interested in going near.

It could be a complicated and somewhat costly transfer, but given Madueke’s ability and potential, it’s one worth pursuing, especially as he could be a far better deal than Williams.

Why Madueke could be a better deal than Williams

Now, it should go without saying that signing either winger would help add more dynamism to Arsenal’s attack next season, but there are a few reasons why Madueke might end up proving a better deal than Williams, and the first relates to experience.

The Englishman might only be a year older than the Spaniard, but that is not the experience we are discussing here. Instead, we are talking about the former’s familiarity with the Premier League.

This is seriously important for the Gunners as they desperately need whoever they sign this summer to come in and hit the ground running next season, as fans and pundits alike have already made it crystal clear that they expect Arteta and Co to finally get over the line in the league.

The Bilbao gem might be more than comfortable in La Liga and would likely become so in England, but there’s a realistic chance that he would require some time to bed in, time which could prove costly in a closely fought title race.

Moreover, despite the excitement around the Pamplona-born dynamo, the Blues star’s output from this season actually makes for better reading.

Appearances

43

45

Minutes

2521′

3130′

Goals

11

11

Assists

5

7

Goal Involvements per Match

0.37

0.4

Minutes per Goal Involvement

157.56′

173.88′

For example, in 43 appearances, totalling 2521 minutes, the Barnet-born “mentality monster,” as dubbed by personal coach Saul Isaksson-Hurst, scored 11 goals and provided five assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.68 games, or every 157.56 minutes.

In contrast, the 28-capped Spaniard scored as many goals and provided seven assists in 45 appearances, totalling 3130 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.5 games, but more crucially, one every 173.88 minutes.

Yet, if even that is not enough to convince you, then perhaps the fact the Chelsea gem has the better underlying numbers might.

Yes, according to FBref, the “unbelievable” dynamo, as dubbed by former manager Mauricio Pochettino, comes out on top in the majority of relevant metrics, such as non-penalty expected goals plus assists, shots and shots on target, progressive carries and more, all per 90.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.61

0.35

Progressive Passes

3.05

3.11

Progressive Carries

6.81

5.32

Shots

3.54

2.43

Shots on Target

1.33

0.86

Passing Accuracy

77.4%

70.5%

Key Passes

1.42

1.80

Shot-Creating Actions

3.50

5.05

Tackles

1.11

1.26

Interceptions

0.44

0.32

Clearances

0.49

0.41

Successful Take-On %

44.1%

36.4%

Carries into the Penalty Area

4.12

2.61

On top of being a creative outlet through his carrying and passing abilities, the former PSV gem also comes out ahead for some defensive statistics, proving that he’s not just a flair player but someone who will come back and help out his full-back when needed.

Ultimately, Williams is an undeniable talent and perhaps someone easier to envision becoming a superstar.

Nonetheless, from output to the numbers under the hood, Madueke has him beat, and considering his familiarity with English football and the Premier League, he might just represent a better deal for Arsenal this summer.

He's more exciting than Zubimendi: Arsenal looking to sign £70m "superstar"

Arsenal could make an even more exciting signing than Martin Zubimendi.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 24, 2025

Chelsea are reportedly on the verge of signing a free agent for manager Enzo Maresca, with the player leaving his club this summer and now readily available for hire.

Chelsea continue transfer plans after Club World Cup deadline

The Blues couldn’t get some high-profile deals signed and sealed in time before the pre-Club World Cup deadline, which passed on Tuesday at 7pm, but they could still add new players to the tournament’s squad thanks to a unique registration window open from June 27 to July 3.

"World-class" ace wants to leave Chelsea, many clubs now phoning his agent

The Blues also want to sell.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 13, 2025

This does exclude winger Jamie Gittens, though, due to the fact he’ll be registered as a Borussia Dortmund player for the Club World Cup.

Cole Palmer

7.33

Moises Caicedo

7.02

Enzo Fernández

6.95

Nicolas Jackson

6.88

Noni Madueke

6.82

via WhoScored

However, regardless of not being able to participate for Chelsea at the tournament in any aspect, if they do eventually strike a deal, club director Sebastien Kehl confirmed in an interview this week that Chelsea will hold transfer talks for the 20-year-old again.

“We spoke on the phone, in the end we did not agree, because we have different ideas about the current value of the player,” he said to Tage Spiegel.

“Jamie definitely makes our team better. We are glad that he is there. We are in a good exchange and see how things are shaping in the future.

“Of course, at some point, if you take a player with it, you also have to sell. I assume that his market value will not fall. We will see to what extent we can keep it until the end of the tournament. There will be talks again.”

Alongside Gittens, Chelsea are believed to be prioritising new attacking additions right now, which includes a new winger, versatile attacking midfielder and another new striker after Liam Delap (Simon Phillips).

They could also add to their large crop of promising youngsters, following deals for Geovany Quenda, Dario Essugo and 19-year-old defender Mamadou Sarr from sister club Strasbourg in the last six months.

Chelsea close to finalising deal for ex-PNE defender Kian Best

According to a report from EFL Analysis, Chelsea want to sign former Preston North End left-back Kian Best on a free transfer.

The teenage defender was a “shock” departure from Deepdale this summer and is free to talk to clubs, which has piqued interest from Stamford Bridge officials who are now looking to bring Best to Cobham.

It is believed Chelsea are “close to finalising” a deal for Best after opening talks, with Maresca’s side pushing to make it happen. The England Under-19 international could then go out on loan to sister club Strasbourg to further his development.

Despite interest from Liverpool, Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United, Best is on the verge of a move to Chelsea instead, and he’s been called “different class” by the manager who gave him his senior debut in 2023.

“His intelligence, passing range and quality on the ball is different class,” said former PNE boss Ryan Lowe.

“I think you only have to look at my record, I won’t hesitate to put them in regardless of how old they are. He’s definitely deserved a place in the team so far.”

With rumours continuing to arrive regarding Jobe Bellingham’s future, Sunderland have reportedly set their sights on signing a Manchester City gem who could replace their midfield star this summer.

Borussia Dortmund reach Bellingham agreement

Despite earning promotion to the Premier League, it looks as though Bellingham is set to follow the same path as his older brother Jude by swapping English football for Borussia Dortmund this summer.

Chasing their second Bellingham after their first proved to be a great success, the German giants have reportedly agreed personal terms on a five-year contract with the Sunderland star.

Whilst personal terms are agreed, Dortmund must still match Sunderland’s valuation if they are to sign Bellingham this summer. The Black Cats are reportedly set to demand that Bellingham’s €40m (£34m) release clause is matched this summer if they are to bid farewell to one of their best young players.

Losing such a talent at just 19 years old would be an undeniable blow for all involved at the Stadium of Light, but with £34m to spend, they could build Regis Le Bris a squad capable of securing Premier League survival at the first time of asking.

To that end, rumours have suggested that the Black Cats could also be in for a busy summer. With a permanent deal to sign Enzo Le Fee already sealed, Sunderland may reportedly welcome Chris Mepham back to the club in a similar deal.

Meanwhile, if forced to find a replacement for Bellingham in the coming months, those in Wearside could yet reportedly turn towards a young Manchester City talent.

Sunderland eyeing Charlie Gray

According to Alan Nixon on his Patreon, Sunderland are now eyeing a summer swoop to sign Charlie Gray from Manchester City if Bellingham completes a move to Borussia Dortmund.

The 19-year-old midfielder is yet to receive a first-team opportunity from Pep Guardiola, but has certainly left many impressed at youth level.

Although the Manchester City gem is an unproven talent, this Sunderland side has had young players who are vying to prove themselves at the foundation of their success for a couple of years now and Gray could become the latest to do exactly that.

Replacing Bellingham won’t be easy for whoever is tasked with doing so, but there’s every reason why Gray has been at the heart of Manchester City’s impressive academy in recent years.

Sunderland now want to sign £2m star who "surprised" Klopp ahead of Leeds

The three promoted sides are all keen.

ByCharlie Smith Jun 6, 2025

The Citizens have birthed players such as Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Jamie Gittens and Jadon Sancho over the last decade and the list could go on.

European football is littered with their graduates and one could now be on his way to Sunderland. At 19 years old, Gray could be one to watch.

Arsenal face the prospect of losing a “big player” for Mikel Arteta in the next few weeks, as it is believed he’s now keen to leave the Emirates, and one club has already made an “official move”.

Arsenal players on the way out this summer

A good portion of Gunners squad members are already poised to end their time at N5, including some pretty considerable names.

£359k-per-week striker would join Arsenal "immediately", Berta wants him

He’s apparently very keen.

ByEmilio Galantini May 24, 2025

Brazilian Serie A side Flamengo, who’ve agreed to sign Jorginho from Arsenal, are now set to formally land the Italy international before their Club World Cup campaign begins on June 17, with Arteta’s side green-lighting his earlier-than-anticipated exit (Fabrizio Romano).

Left-back Kieran Tierney is also set to re-join Celtic after shaking hands on a pre-contract with the Scottish champions, as was confirmed all the way back in February. The left-back scored in his last ever game for Arsenal against Southampton on Sunday, after getting the starting nod from Arteta, with Tierney signing off on his north London career in style.

Some reports in Italy claim that left-back Nuno Tavares is on his way to Lazio on a permanent deal, with the Serie A side paying around £4 million for him after an impressive debut season at the club overall – even taking into account the Portuguese’s injury problems over the second half of 24/25.

Albert Sambi Lokonga is also very likely to leave again this summer after spending this season on loan at Sevilla, and there are still questions surrounding the future of star midfielder Thomas Partey.

The Ghanaian recently entered talks with Arsenal over a new deal, indicating his willingness to stay, but it is far from a guarantee, with some sources believing that the £200,000-per-week midfielder would have to take a pay-cut (ESPN).

Arteta, for his part, is very keen on the 31-year-old extending his stay, after what has arguably been his finest season at Arsenal since joining from Atlético Madrid in 2020.

“Yeah, in regards to Thomas, consistency-wise, it’s been his best season,” said Arteta when quizzed about Partey’s future.

“I think the way he’s played, performed, his availability has been exceptional, and he’s a really important player for us.”

Thomas Partey keen to leave Arsenal as Besiktas hold talks

Now, as per Turkish news website Fanatik, the midfield general is actually becoming more tempted by the exit door.

They report that Partey is eager to leave Arsenal and start the next chapter of his career, and Besiktas are the first club to make an “official move” for him. The Süper Lig giants apparently held “positive” talks with Partey’s main representative, and he is top of Besiktas’ list of targets.

Depending on terms, the far east of Europe could be a tempting landing spot, and this isn’t the first time that clubs from Turkey have been linked with a move for Partey, as he reportedly attracted interest from the Turks and Saudi Arabia last year.

Called a “big player” by Arteta, Partey has proved that time and time again throughout this term with some exceptional midfield displays, and his injury problems have now also become a thing of the past.

Losing such an experienced and proven member of the Arsenal squad would undoubtedly come as a blow, especially on a free, so it is unlikely that Andrea Berta will give up easily when it comes to tempting him with an extension.

It was an interminable weight for that trophy-winning feeling, if you’re one of a Tottenham Hotspur persuasion, but Ange Postecoglou’s side wiped the slate clean when defeating Manchester United in the Europa League final earlier in May.

Currently, it’s all a little uncertain. Postecoglou’s manager is in an imperilled position, with Daniel Levy’s judgement soon to become clear on that front.

Who could dispute Tottenham’s woes on Premier League soil, with so much going wrong for Ange’s 17th-placed side? It’s clear that action must be taken over the next few months to ensure success on the continent doesn’t turn out to be a mere flash in the pan.

Sergio Reguilon, Fraser Forster and Alfie Whiteman will all leave imminently, when their contracts expire, and Timo Werner’s two-year loan spell in London is over.

There’s much to consider. Let’s have a look at the major states of play.

The latest on Spurs' transfer targets

With European hero Cristian Romero being linked with a move to Atletico Madrid, Tottenham may need to sign a centre-back this summer.

The windfall from qualifying for the Champions League is huge, and Tottenham are in a good position to strengthen. If Romero stays, focus will be pinned on midfield and the wide forward positions.

Balancing out the club’s attacking quality is important, especially as Heung-min Son, 32, is expected to play fewer minutes across the 2025/25 campaign.

Furthermore, Dejan Kulusevski is currently sidelined after undergoing surgery on his right patella, and will be out for several months at the least. This, of course, means the Sweden star’s pre-season preparations will be disrupted.

Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze would be a brilliant signing, with rumours of a bid being prepared, but he has a £68m release clause inserted in his contract, and Levy may well want to turn his attention to another England international to help the Lilywhites make gains over the coming years.

Spurs discuss statement signing

According to GIVEMESPORT, Tottenham chairman Levy has held an internal meeting as the club draw up concrete plans for the looming market.

Eze and Manchester City star Jack Grealish have both been discussed, though Grealish might be the more feasible option from a financial standpoint.

Though the £300k-per-week Citizen would represent a tough deal to complete, Levy is committed to capitalising on the jubilation of winning a trophy down N17, and the 29-year-old, valued at an affordable £43m, might just fit the bill.

What Jack Grealish would bring to Spurs

Grealish might have been ostracised by Pep Guardiola as he prepares to bow out from life at the Etihad Stadium, but he’s still one of the most talented Englishmen in the game, hailed by pundit Rio Ferdinand for being “almost unplayable” when on his A-game.

Moving to Tottenham might just give him a new lease of life. Grealish joined Man City from Aston Villa for a British-record £100m fee in August 2021 after a talismanic career with his boyhood club, since going on to win the treble and much more under Pep Guardiola’s wing.

Across 157 matches, Grealish has scored 17 goals and supplied 23 assists, though he only started seven matches in the Premier League this term and surely needs to leave Manchester.

Tottenham need some more attacking impetus in midfield. Kulusevski has been the standout this season, posting ten goals and 11 assists from 50 matches. The 25-year-old has been praised by The Athletic for being ‘the linchpin of Postecoglou’s team.’

But Grealish could enhance the fluency, promote ball-carrying and -playing principles that the club’s Australian coach relies upon.

As per FBref, the English star ranks among the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers this season for pass completion and progressive carries, the top 12% for progressive passes and the top 8% for shot-creating actions per 90.

Such metrics have drawn him against Kulusevski as one of the Tottenham man’s most statistically similar players, suggesting he could dovetail right into the Londoners’ system.

There’s no denying, though, that Grealish has lost some of the original silk from his Villa days, when he was described as a “magician” by former Three Lions star Ashley Cole. Looking at his metrics from his final Premier League campaign in the Midlands against Kulusevski’s from this season, you see that Postecoglou could sign himself a new ‘linchpin’ to add depth and dynamism to the ranks.

Matches (starts)

26 (24)

32 (27)

Goals

6

7

Assists

10

4

Touches*

60.8

44.5

Accurate passes*

31.9 (83%)

20.0 (81%)

Big chances created

14

9

Key passes*

3.2

2.1

Dribbles*

2.5

1.2

Tackles + interceptions*

1.7

1.8

Duels won*

8.9

4.1

Whether we will ever again see this one-time version of Grealish, who was indeed unplayable at times as he bamboozled defenders and picked out teammates with stylish, pinpoint passes, remains to be seen, but there’s no question Ange employs a freer, more expansive style than Guardiola, who revolutionised the way possession-based football is conducted but perhaps limits players like Grealish, pidgeonholing them into set roles.

Postecoglou could almost let Grealish run autonomously, take the leash off. Given that he likes to play between central attacking midfield and in a role on the left flank, there’s a good chance he’d be a fantastic stylistic fit too, easing Son’s burden as rumours of Richarlison’s summer sale persist.

There would, of course, be an element of risk to this transfer, and Levy would not facilitate a move without reducing Grealish’s staggering £300k-per-week salary, but it could be a somewhat shrewd deal for a player who has fallen from their perch as one of the country’s finest.

But he could yet bounce back, joining a Tottenham project that perhaps is only just getting going.

Left for £0: Spurs' "waste of money" is now outscoring Delap & Nkunku

One former Tottenham Hotspur player has taken his career to new heights after leaving the club.

ByEthan Lamb May 31, 2025

Birmingham City haven’t always enjoyed Championship life in recent memory, with the Blues last finishing inside the top half of the notoriously difficult division way back in 2016.

Since then, it’s always been a drab finish served up by Birmingham in the lower reaches of the EFL’s elite league, with their ongoing downward trajectory seeing a painful relegation finally occur at the end of the 2023/24 season.

Now, however, the sleeping giants seem to be back on the rise after clinching the League One title with ease, with the Tom Wagner-backed Blues ready to spend big again this summer to try and take the second tier by storm.

How Birmingham could sign their answer to Vardy

With Phil Neumann’s signature already wrapped up from Hannover 96 improving Birmingham at the back, the newly promoted side’s focus could now switch to enhancing their already potent attack.

Peterborough United sensation Kwame Poku has been linked with a move on a free transfer, which would more than boost the ambitious Championship club in this department, having registered 21 goal involvements this season.

Transfer Focus

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

However, there’s one statement signing in the offing that could really take Chris Davies’ men to the next level.

Amazingly, reports at the back end of last month suggested that Davies and Co may well attempt to lure former striker Che Adams back to St. Andrew’s this summer, with the former Blues centre-forward currently enjoying life out in Italy with Serie A titans Torino.

But, the allure of coming back to the Championship and being the club’s top dog could be very tempting for the goal-hungry 28-year-old.

How Adams can be Birmingham's own Vardy

If a statement reunion does get over the line, Birmingham might be about to win their very own version of Leicester City legend Jamie Vardy.

Why? Well, in the words of the Daily Mail’s Mark Wilson, ‘Adams is Scotland’s answer to Jamie Vardy’, having traded non-league football for Premier League riches, like his former Fleetwood Town counterpart.

Obviously, Adams hasn't quite reached the dizzy heights of Vardy's glory days yet, with the Foxes legend managing to lift a Premier League title across the course of his 199-goal spell at the King Power Stadium.

But, in a similar fashion to the 26-time England international, the 28-year-old Adams has never looked back since being given his first opportunities to impress in the EFL.

Indeed, the former Ilkeston youngster first settled into life as a goalscoring menace in the Championship and beyond on the books of the Blues.

Premier League

144 goals

25 goals

Championship

38 goals

49 goals

League One

0 goals

11 goals

FA Cup

7 goals

3 goals

EFL Cup

8 goals

11 goals

Sourced by Transfermarkt

The table above really reinforces how much of a clinical finisher the Scotland international has been over the years, up and down the relentless divisions, with Adams amazingly boasting more career goals in the Championship than Vardy, even if he has had struggles in the Premier League.

Therefore, bringing the Torino attacker back to Birmingham next season could work wonders for Davies’ men, especially as they aim to consolidate themselves as a second-tier outfit again.

Much like Vardy too, it seems as if Adams is gradually just getting the better the more his varied career chugs along, with the 28-year-old actually firing home ten goals for Torino this season so far, which is one more strike than Vardy’s own total leading the line for Leicester.

Moreover, the last time he was regularly performing at Birmingham’s level, the “fantastic” striker – as he has been previously lauded by ex-boss Ralph Hassenhuttl – managed to fire home a blistering tally of 15 league strikes for Southampton.

Therefore, Davies will be hopeful that Adams can just pick up from where he last left off if he does seal a return.

Birmingham would really show they mean business back in the Championship by winning Adams’ signature, with second-tier defences no doubt scared stiff by the prospect of the 28-year-old causing chaos again.

Birmingham can make Stansfield better by signing "outstanding" EFL star

Birmingham City would look immediately more confident in attack in the Championship if they signed this outstanding forward.

ByKelan Sarson May 14, 2025

Arsenal are now willing to spend big to win the race for a “world-class” striker, who manager Mikel Arteta is a fan of, according to a report.

Season-defining PSG clash on the horizon for Arsenal

The Gunners have fallen short in their pursuit of the Premier League title, and there is now a growing possibility that they won’t even finish in second place, after suffering a 2-1 defeat at home against AFC Bournemouth on Saturday afternoon.

However, Mikel Arteta’s side still have an outside chance of having a season for the history books, should they be able to overturn the one-goal deficit and beat Paris Saint-Germain to progress to the Champions League final on Wednesday night.

It will be a tall order for the north Londoners, however, and there is a feeling that a new striker may be required if they are to have a more successful 2025-26 campaign, having identified a number of potential targets.

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Real Madrid are interested in the Arsenal defender.

2 ByTom Cunningham May 4, 2025

One player on the shortlist is Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, with Arteta’s side believed to be very keen on the Serbian, and there has now been a new update on their transfer pursuit.

According to a report from Spain, Arsenal are now willing to make a significant bid to win the race for Vlahovic, who could be allowed to leave Juventus for a fee of around €50m – €60m (£43m – £51m) this summer, a fee the Gunners can ‘easily afford’.

Arteta is a fan of the striker, with the Spaniard of the belief he could have the quality to help his side compete for major honours, and the fact that Juventus are open to a sale means it may not be too difficult to get a deal done.

The Serie A side are set to listen to offers for the forward, who currently earns a whopping £364k-per-week, which indicates wage demands could be a potential stumbling block.

Why "world-class" Vlahovic may not be the answer

It is clear that Arsenal are planning to bring in an out-and-out striker this summer, and there are some signs that Vlahovic could be a quality addition, having been lauded as “world-class” by journalist Siavoush Fallahi, courtesy of his performances in Italy.

However, the Belgrade-born striker hasn’t exactly set the world alight this season, netting just nine goals in 26 Serie A outings, failing to score in his last six matches.

Competition

Appearances

Goals

Assists

Serie A

26

9

4

Champions League

9

4

1

Italian Cup

2

1

0

While an asking price of £51m is reasonable, the fact the 25-year-old’s wage demands could be high is another issue, and Arsenal may be better off making a move for a striker who has been in much better form this season.

Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres is an interesting option, having scored a remarkable 52 goals in 49 games this term, although there may be concern about the fact he is unproven in a major league, so there is no easy solution to Arsenal’s striker search.