All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Manchester United have now made contact with an “unbeatable” goalkeeper as a possible replacement for Andre Onana, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Man Utd chasing defensive reinforcements

United supporters are highly anticipating the Red Devils prioritising strengthening their forward line this summer, given the lack of goals scored throughout this 2024/25 campaign. However, while Ruben Amorim wants to improve his attacking options, he is also in the market to strengthen his defence, given Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans are on course to leave when their contracts expire.

Man Utd now readying £68m bid to beat Liverpool in race for Barcelona star

Man Utd are now preparing an offer to sign a player who is also wanted by arch-rivals Liverpool.

ByBrett Worthington May 6, 2025

It’s already been reported that United have held talks over signing centre-back Jonathan Tah on a free transfer. The German international is set to become a free agent as his contract at Bayer Leverkusen expires, and the Red Devils are now interested in a deal. However, they are not alone, as European heavyweights Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Barcelona are also circling with interest.

Tah is not the only defender under consideration, as a report from Spain has stated that United are ready to go all out and sign Ronald Araujo from Barcelona. The defender is a key player for the Spanish giants, but the Premier League giants hope an offer worth £68 million will be enough to tempt Barca into selling, as Araujo is considered a player who can help transform their defence.

Man Utd make contact to sign £17m ace as replacement for Onana

As well as looking to strengthen his centre-back options, Amorim could also be in the market for a new goalkeeper, and according to Fabrizio Romano, Man Utd have Torino’s Vanja Milinkovic-Savic on their goalkeeper shortlist.

Romano states that initial contacts between United and the player’s camp have taken place. The transfer expert also goes on to state that United are now waiting to hear how much Torino would want for their shot-stopper, but it’s been previously reported that he has a release clause worth £17 million from the end of July.

The 28-year-old, who has been hailed as “unbeatable” for his record of saving penalties, has a history at Old Trafford, as he joined the club back in 2014 before leaving in 2016 to move to Poland. The goalkeeper didn’t play a game for United but did represent their academy side.

Apps

155

Goals conceded

158

Clean sheets

52

Milikovic-Savic’s potential arrival at Old Trafford would likely see him replace Onana, as he is currently first choice for Torino, where he has kept 10 clean sheets in 34 Serie A games this season.

Meanwhile, for Onana, this season has been a struggle, with performances dipping from good to bad, and that inconsistent form is a reason why Amorim may be looking for a new number one. The Cameroon international, on £120,000-a-week, is still under contract until 2028, but United may look to cash in this summer, as there has been a mention of teams from the Saudi Pro League interested in a potential deal for Onana.

Liverpool have yet to officially lift the 2024/25 Premier League trophy but already sporting director Richard Hughes is looking at ways to improve Arne Slot’s side.

There’s no question that the Merseysiders have put on a season-long clinic, deserving, runaway winners. However, it’s also true that the likes of Arsenal and dethroned Manchester City will be frustrated with their respective top-flight campaigns and will be determined to come back stronger next year.

However, FSG and Anfield’s senior figures will be sure to take comfort in the manner of their triumph: winning the Premier League after bringing only Federico Chiesa into the first team – and he’s yet to even start a league fixture.

The mastery behind Slot’s genius has been in his soft and significant tactical tweaks to Jurgen Klopp’s system, also shaping existing squad players into superstars.

Ryan Gravenberch is the standout star, going from drifting prospect to the “exceptional” midfield player for the Reds, so says The Athletic’s James Pearce, but he’s not the only one.

Cody Gakpo has also been a revelation in his own right.

Cody Gakpo's season in numbers

Gakpo’s goal against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday, expertly taken to make it 3-1 and put Liverpool within an inch of sealing the title, was his 17th of the season.

What’s telling is that that goal saw him beat last year’s 16-goal haul, and in over 600 fewer minutes at that.

Klopp utilised Gakpo’s dynamic talents in his own way, throwing him around the park like an erratic darts player across a board. This may well have proved fundamental development for the Netherlands international, but there’s no question he’s gone up a gear in a more structured role for his new coach on the attacking left flank.

Pundits Joe Cole and Peter Crouch agreed earlier in the term that the 25-year-old has “gone up a level,” and it’s exciting to think that Gakpo can ascend higher still.

Gakpo’s success this season owes largely to Slot’s tactical acumen, but there’s more still to come. The likes of Gakpo and Luis Diaz are bound to find more stable results with a high-class goalscorer in the centre.

However, Liverpool could also find another way to elevate Gakpo’s game even further, preparing to bid for one of the most talented young playmakers in the business.

Slot driving exciting Liverpool deal

As per Football Insider, Liverpool are interested in signing RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons this summer, with the Dutch playmaker emerging as one of FSG’s top targets.

Aged 21, Simons is one of the most exciting young talents in the world and would cost the Anfield side £60m, should they wish to advance their interest into something more solid. Manchester United are also sniffing around.

However, with Slot personally driving the deal for yet another Dutchman to join Gakpo, Gravenberch and co, it’s one to keep an eye on for sure.

Imagine Gakpo & Xavi Simons

Should Trent Alexander-Arnold leave Liverpool as expected when his contract expires this summer, Liverpool will lose one of their primary (if not the primary) creative sources.

Simons could prove to be the new playmaking hub, reorienting Liverpool’s creativity from the right channel and into the centre. Given that Simons has already forged something of a “symbiotic partnership” with his international peer, in the mind of journalist Bence Bocsak, it might prove to bear dividends.

The duo played together during their time at PSV Eindhoven, during the 2022/23 season, before Gakpo earned himself a £35m transfer to Anfield after his performances for his nation at the 2022 Qatar World Cup.

Ranking among the top 12% of attacking midfielders and wingers cross Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for passes attempted, the top 13% for progressive passes, the top 20% for shot-creating actions and the top 6% for ball recoveries made per 90, as per FBref, Simons could certainly add some panache from the middle, bearing the athletic energy to cover for Dominik Szoboszlai too.

Looking at his statistics in the Bundesliga this season, you get a closer look at why Simons is such hot property, prolific, creative and combative in a way which would work a treat in Slot’s squad.

Matches (starts)

21 (21)

Goals

9

Assists

5

Pass completion

84%

Big chances created

10

Key passes*

2.2

Dribbles*

1.3

Ball recoveries*

5.1

Tackles + interceptions*

1.5

Duels won*

4.4

While Liverpool will need to sign a striker to complete the set, a player such as Simons would go a long way toward cementing a peerless level of attacking fluency at Liverpool, connecting the dots together and allowing Gakpo to continue his rise as one of the Premier League’s finest wingers.

Gakpo already ranks among the top 6% of positional peers across Europe for non-penalty goals scored (0.52) per 90, also ranking outside the top 20% for shots taken, which effectively means he’s making the most out of the chances that fall his way.

With a playmaker like Simons, who has been dubbed a “game-changer” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, one he has already formed a prosperous on-field relationship with, taking a seat as the central creative force in Slot’s Liverpool project, there’s no telling how high Gakpo could reach.

Or Simons, for that matter. Having made his name known over the past several years, it’s easy to forget that the diminutive Dutch player is still so young. Given the direction Liverpool are going and the success Slot has already had with elevating his countrymen to new levels, this could be one to keep an eye on as the market looms large.

Worth as much as Huijsen: Liverpool struck gold on "special" £4m signing

Liverpool could sell this young star for a significant profit this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 30, 2025

Liverpool are now ahead of Manchester City in the race to sign a defender, and they now know £40 million will be enough to get the deal completed, according to a recent report.

Liverpool receive Huijsen boost after Van Dijk contract news

Last week Liverpool fans were delighted to see and hear the news that captain and defensive talisman Virgil van Dijk had signed a new contract at Anfield, continuing his stay at the club until 2027. The Dutchman is going to continue being at the heart of Arne Slot’s defence, but it appears as though the Liverpool boss is still looking to find his perfect partner or successor.

He's better than Huijsen: Liverpool want "one of the best CBs in the PL"

Liverpool could be about to forget a move for Dean Huijsen with a deal for another Premier League star.

1 ByEthan Lamb Apr 24, 2025

The Reds are among the teams keeping a close eye on Dean Huijsen from AFC Bournemouth. The Spain international has been a standout performer for the Cherries this season, and that has put him on the radar of several big teams from England and abroad. It’s also been claimed that Chelsea have held talks with Huijsen over a possible move to Stamford Bridge.

Liverpool remain in the race and received a welcome boost this week, as it’s been reported that Real Madrid may pull out of the race to sign Huijsen; that is because they are not sure if they want to sign a defender this summer, leaving the door open for Liverpool, who know Huijsen has a £50 million release clause in his contract.

Liverpool lead Man City in race to sign Premier League defender

Huijsen is not the only defender on the Reds’ transfer list, as according to Give Me Sport’s Ben Jacobs, Liverpool are leading the way when it comes to signing Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth this summer.

The report states that Kerkez, who has been with the Cherries since July 2023, is expected to leave Bournemouth this summer, as while he doesn’t have a release clause in his contract, they will allow him to leave should they receive offers worth £40 million.

This report goes on to add that Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City have all kept an eye on Kerkez, but none have entered into fresh talks over a transfer. City in particular “appreciate” him, but a deal there is unlikely and a move to become Andy Robertson’s successor looks more probable.

The Scotland international still has another 12 months left on his contract at Anfield, but given he is 31 and making more mistakes with each passing season, Slot is looking to the future and sees Kerkez as a player who could be his long-term successor.

Kerkez

Robertson

Apps

33

30

Goals

2

0

Progressive carries

89

57

Progressive passes

141

163

Progressive runs

161

90

Tackles (Won)

49 (26)

38 (22)

Interceptions

38

20

Clearances

100

50

Blocks

33

9

Kerkez has impressed a lot in this campaign, assisting six goals as well as grabbing two himself in 33 games, as the Cherries continue their pursuit of finishing in a European position.

The 21-year-old has started every game he’s been available for in the league this season, so were he to arrive at Liverpool, he would likely want to start immediately and relegate Robertson to a supporting role.

Arsenal are now preparing a bid for a midfielder who has “enormous potential”, and they believe he would be a perfect fit for Mikel Arteta’s system, according to a report.

Gunners pursuing a midfielder

Arteta will undoubtedly be very pleased with Declan Rice’s performances recently, with the Englishman scoring two remarkable free-kicks to put the Gunners in a very strong position to reach the semi-final of the Champions League.

However, the manager is keen to strengthen his midfield even further this summer, with the Spaniard and new sporting director Andrea Berta looking to bring in a partner for Rice, and Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi remains one of the key targets.

The north Londoners are set to trigger Zubimendi’s £51m release clause, having already reached an agreement on personal terms, but there is set to be stiff competition for the midfielder’s signature, with Real Madrid also keen.

Arsenal now among favourites to sign £39m forward after Sane blow

The Gunners are switching to a different option.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 13, 2025

The Real Sociedad maestro is not the only La Liga midfielder on the shortlist, however, with a new report from Spain revealing Arsenal are now leading the race for Valencia’s Javi Guerra, who has emerged as a key player for the Spanish side this season.

Guerra’s performances have attracted the attention of some of Europe’s top clubs, but the Gunners are currently in the driving seat, and they are now preparing to make a considerable offer for his services.

Having closely followed the maestro’s performances, the north Londoners are convinced he would be a perfect fit for Arteta’s system, but it could be tricky to get a deal over the line.

Valencia are reluctant to sanction the midfielder’s departure, given his emergence as an important player, but there is an awareness it will be difficult to keep hold of him, amid widespread interest in his signature.

"Explosive" Guerra could has "enormous potential"

The youngster has established himself as a key player for Valencia this season, making 30 appearances in La Liga, during which time he has picked up two goals and three assists, and there are signs he could get even better.

Valencia director Miguel Angel Corona clearly believes the central midfielder is a future star, saying: “We are fully aware that we have a player with enormous potential for the future and the ability to perform at a good level now.”

Freelance scout Ben Mattinson has also given an overview of the Valencia star’s abilities, while praising him for a solid display against Celta Vigo earlier this season.

Guerra could be an excellent addition for Arsenal in midfield, so it is exciting news they could soon formalise their interest by making a huge bid.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta believes that a high-earning Man United player would fit right into his first team at the Emirates, according to a report, with sporting director Andrea Berta and co now planning to open transfer talks.

Berta considering deal for Saka alternative at Arsenal

While Berta’s “top priority” is agreeing a contract extension with star winger Bukayo Saka, as per Fabrizio Romano, it has also been reported that the 53-year-old is considering the possibility of bringing in an alternative to the Englishman this summer.

Berta has Arsenal in "pole position" to sign cut-price Brazil international

The transfer chief’s influence is tipped to play a vital role.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 3, 2025

Saka was a sore miss during his lengthy lay-off due to a hamstring injury, with the £195,000-per-week star finally returning to action this week in Arsenal’s 2-1 win over Fulham – scoring their second and playing a crucial role as Arteta’s side grabbed all three points.

Everton (away)

April 5th

Brentford (home)

April 12th

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

TBD

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

His absence seriously debilitated Arteta, who watched on from the sidelines as Liverpool eventually seized a huge gap at the top of the Premier League table, with Arne Slot’s side now looking certain to win this year’s domestic crown.

According to GiveMeSport, Berta is pondering the transfer of a Saka stand-in who can provide a real quality and an attacking threat when the 23-year-old is unavailable – as Arsenal look to avoid being left short again in another title challenge next term.

We’ve already seen Arsenal repeatedly linked with a move for Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams this week, who’s capable of playing both on the left and right, while some reports believe Berta could land versatile Wolves forward Matheus Cunha.

New targets are likely to emerge before the first summer transfer window on June 1st, and a very surprising name has now come to light.

Mikel Arteta "determined" to sign Antony for Arsenal

According to reports in Spain, £200,000-per-week Man United outcast Antony is now being considered by Berta.

The Brazilian has seriously come into his own since departing Old Trafford on a loan deal to Real Betis, notching four goals and four assists in 12 appearances, including some big performances in Europe which helped the La Liga side to a Conference League quarter-final place.

Antony’s rejuvenated form has caught the eye of Arsenal’s head coach specifically, who is said to be a big admirer of the former Ajax sensation not wanted by Ruben Amorim.

Indeed, it is believed Arteta is “determined” to sign Antony for Arsenal, and sees the 25-year-old as perfect for his system. In response, Berta and Arsenal intend to open swift negotiations and want to secure his signature “as soon as possible”.

Arsenal are also prepared to submit a significant bid for Antony and better any offer made by Betis to keep him permanently. United, meanwhile, think the next window will be a golden opportunity to cut their losses on the forward.

Nottingham Forest have endured a superb upturn in form under Sean Dyche over the last few weeks after the manager took the reins from Ange Postecoglou.

The Englishman has reinstalled a defensive solidity back into the first-team squad, as seen by the club’s recent upturn in form in the Premier League.

His side have only lost twice in his eight games in the role, with his Red managing to keep four clean sheets in the process – including one against Liverpool at Anfield.

The Reds may have lost 2-0 to Brighton and Hove Albion over the weekend, but it’s merely a bump in the road, especially considering the excellent results since his arrival.

However, with the January transfer window rapidly approaching, numerous players have already appeared on their radar to try and bolster the ranks for the remainder of the campaign.

Forest’s hunt for new additions in the January window

In recent weeks, a whole host of players have been touted with a move to join Forest, but Brighton’s Jack Hinshelwood stands out as one of the most consistent players touted with a transfer.

It was reported that Dyche’s side saw the 20-year-old as their primary target for the winter window, but it was unclear about how much a deal would set Evangelos Marinakis back.

However, it seems as though the youngster won’t be departing the AMEX this window, with Fabian Hurzeler’s men not entertaining any offers for his signature.

He’s not the only player currently being considered by the Reds at present, with Inter Milan star Stefan de Vrij another player currently being considered by the club at present.

According to Football Insider, Dyche’s side are keen on a move to land the Dutch international, with the player having just six months left on his deal at the San Siro.

They also state that the board are in the market for added defensive reinforcements in the winter window, which could make the 33-year-old the perfect target.

Why Forest’s latest target would be Milenkovic 2.0

Signing centre-backs from Serie A hasn’t been alien to Forest over recent seasons, with Nikola Milenkovic joining the club from Fiorentina in the summer of 2024.

The Serbian international joined for just £12m, with such a deal being one of the best deals in the club’s history – as seen by his immediate impact in the Premier League last campaign.

He featured in all but one game last campaign, even scoring five times and registering two assists – showcasing his impressive ability at both ends of the pitch.

The 28-year-old managed to win the club’s Player of the Season award in 2024/25, helping the Reds secure European football for the first time in 30 years.

This campaign, he’s still managed to be a key component in the side’s backline, featuring in every minute of the league season and offering the defensive solidity needed in Dyche’s system.

He’s often partnered Murillo at the heart of the defence, but Morato covered his compatriot against the Seagulls at the weekend – even producing a huge mistake which contributed to the defeat.

Such a scenario has no doubt led to rumours over a move for De Vrij in the coming months, which could see a repeat of the deal that saw Milenkovic move to the East Midlands.

The Dutchman, who earns £118k-per-week, has only made two appearances so far this campaign, but he has produced some remarkable stats which could see him thrive in the Premier League.

De Vrij, who’s been dubbed “sensational” by journalist Nima Roodsari, has completed 94% of the passes he’s completed, whilst also completing 100% of the dribbles he’s attempted.

Games played

2

Minutes played

180

Pass accuracy

94%

Dribble success

100%

Tackles made

2

Duels won

5.5

Aerials won

3.5

Aerial success

60%

Such numbers reflect the centre-back’s talent with the ball at his feet – something which is extremely important within the current philosophy at the City Ground.

Without the ball, he’s been just as impressive in Italy’s top division, as seen by his tally of two tackles and 5.5 duels won per 90 for Cristian Chivu’s Inter Milan squad.

Other numbers, such as 3.5 aerials won per 90, subsequently achieving a success rate of 60%, showcase his dominance out of possession – matching Milenkovic’s talents in the Premier League in recent years.

It’s unclear how much a deal for the Dutchman would cost in the upcoming window, but he certainly could offer an experienced and immediate option at the back.

Should he reach the levels produced by Milenkovic in Nottingham, there’s no reason why De Vrij could make himself a fan-favourite in the hunt for European success come the end of the campaign.

Perfect for Anderson: Nottingham Forest make £21m PL star their top target

Nottingham Forest have their eyes on another Premier League star ahead of the January transfer window.

ByEthan Lamb Nov 27, 2025

For a long time, one of Arsenal’s most significant problems was finding a proper backup for Bukayo Saka.

The Hale End icon is undoubtedly Mikel Arteta’s best player, and his time on the sidelines last season showed just how much the team were in desperate need of someone who could cover and compete with him on the right.

Fortunately, the North Londoners signed Noni Madueke in the summer, and while his arrival wasn’t met with universal excitement, his performances over the first five Premier League games suggested he may well be the player the club have needed for so long.

Therefore, supporters should be excited about recent reports linking Arsenal to an international ace who has been compared to both Saka and Madueke.

Arsenal target Saka & Madueke hybrid

It’s not even December, but Arsenal are already being linked with a host of exciting players across Europe and beyond.

Transfer Focus

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

For example, Levante’s Etta Eyong, who has already racked up nine goal involvements, has been touted for a move to the Emirates, as has Nottingham Forest’s incredible Elliot Anderson.

However, as talented as they are, neither of them could be described as being a hybrid of Saka and Madueke, unlike Karim Adeyemi.

Yes, according to a recent report from TEAMtalk, Arsenal are one of a few top sides interested in signing the Borussia Dortmund star.

More than that, the report has revealed that while the German international’s representatives have spoken to Manchester United, he would favour a move to the Gunners.

A potential price is not mentioned in the story, but other reports from Germany claim that Dortmund value their attacker at around £70m.

It could be a complicated and costly deal to get over the line, but given Adeyemi’s ability and potential, one worth pursuing, especially as he’s been compared to both Saka and Madueke.

How Adeyemi compares to Saka & Madueke

Even though it feels like it has been around for some time now, Adeyemi is still just 23 years old.

The Munich-born “monster,” as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, has been a key player for Dortmund for a few years, ending last season with an excellent tally of 12 goals and 11 assists in just 41 appearances.

He appears on track to match that tally this year as well, as in 14 appearances, totalling just 817 minutes, he has already racked up six goal involvements.

However, while his output is seriously impressive, the comparisons to Saka and Madueke primarily come from elsewhere, from FBref.

They have compared him to every attacking midfielder and winger across Europe’s top five leagues and have determined that the Hale Enders is the second most similar, and the former Chelsea star is the fourth.

You can gain a better understanding of how these comparisons were made by examining the underlying numbers in which the German dynamo has ranked closely to the two internationals.

In the case of the Gunners’ talisman, these metrics include expected goals plus assists, progressive passes, shot-creating actions, shots on target, and more, all per 90.

Expected Goals + Assists

0.57

0.58

Progressive Passes

2.14

2.24

Shots on Target

0.89

0.93

Passing Accuracy

71.4%

72.4%

Shot-Creating Actions

4.47

4.23

Fouls Drawn

2.68

2.50

Then, for the former Blues star, the underlying numbers include metrics such as goal-creating actions, expected assists, and most interestingly, carries, also all per 90.

In other words, the former RB Salzburg gem seems to possess some of the creativity and goal threat of the North Londoners’ number seven, as well as the carrying ability of their summer signing, which helps explain why Mattinson called him a “serious transitional threat.”

Expected Assists

0.29

0.24

Goal-Creating Actions

0.54

0.59

Carries

28.2

25.9

Successful Take-On %

43.3%

41.2%

Ball Recoveries

2.86

2.94

Ultimately, it would be a costly and challenging transfer to get over the line, but given Adeyemi’s skillset, positional versatility and output, it is one Arsenal should pursue.

Trossard upgrade: Arsenal plot £65m move for "best winger in the country"

Arsenal could sign a big-money winger in bad news for Leandro Trossard.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 18, 2025

Glasgow Rangers made it four wins from four matches in the Scottish Premiership on Saturday when they beat Livingston 2-1 at Ibrox, thanks to goals from Emmanuel Fernandez and Mohamed Diomande.

Danny Rohl, who has now won all of his league games in charge of the club so far, was not entirely pleased with his team’s performance in the narrow win against Livi, though, as evidenced by his post-game comments below.

The former Sheffield Wednesday head coach wants to see improvement from his players in the weeks and months to come, as the Light Blues look to ensure that they can make something successful out of this campaign.

Rangers are already nine points adrift of first place in the Premiership, per Sofascore, but they are still in the Europa League and have the SFA Cup to play for in the second half of the season.

As Rohl said after Saturday’s game, the Light Blues simply need to improve their performances if they want to be in contention to win things by the business end of the season.

That means that individuals need to step up and become reliable performers, as too many of them have been inconsistent at best. One of those inconsistent players has been summer signing Djeidi Gassama.

Why Rangers should be concerned by Djeidi Gassama's form

After a return of four goals in six Champions League qualifiers, per Transfermarkt, the French forward looked like he was a steal of a signing at £2.2m from Sheffield Wednesday.

He was a shining light in those European matches during Russell Martin’s dismal tenure, and even added a goal in the league phase of the Europa League against Sturm Graz in a 2-1 defeat in the manager’s penultimate game in charge.

Unfortunately, though, Gassama has been unable to deliver consistent quality at the top end of the pitch in his time in the Premiership so far, with one goal and one assist in 12 appearances in the division, per Sofascore.

After his stunning start to life at Ibrox in the early European games, there may have been some hope that he could kick on to become the club’s new Ryan Kent, who produced 33 goals and 56 assists in 218 outings for the Light Blues, per Transfermarkt.

Appearances

12

Starts

11

Goals

1

Minutes per goal

972

Conversion rate

4%

Big chances created

0

Key passes per game

0.8

Assists

1

As you can see in the table above, Gassama has not provided a Kent-esque presence on the left flank for the Scottish giants in the Premiership this season, with two goal contributions in 12 matches.

His inconsistency, as evidenced by his contrasting form domestically and in Europe, should be a concern for Rangers, given that he is starting almost every league game yet failing to deliver quality on a consistent basis.

This is why Rohl may need to look at alternative options in the left wing position in the coming weeks, as the Gers may need a new starter in that role if Gassama is unable to add more consistency to his domestic displays.

Chalkboard

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

The Daily Record recently noted that Wales international Rabbi Matondo has returned to training after a lengthy injury lay-off that had seen him unavailable for the entirety of Martin’s tenure, and speculated that he could be in for a chance under Rohl.

Why Rangers should give Rabbi Matondo a chance to shine

It would be completely understandable if any Rangers supporters were not too enthused by the prospect of the Welsh forward returning to the team to get another chance, given that he has played zero minutes this season and spent the second half of last season on loan at Hannover.

However, if he is now back in training and is fit and available for selection, the German head coach should provide him with a chance to shine, because it has been his availability rather than his ability that has been an issue throughout his career in Scotland.

Per Transfermarkt, Matondo missed 20 games in his first season at Ibrox through injury, then 19 in his second, and 23 for Rangers and Hannover combined in the 2024/25 campaign, which shows that he simply has not been available enough in recent years.

When fit, though, the former Manchester City youngster has shown that he has the quality to be a difference-maker on the left flank, with eight goals and 11 assists in 64 appearances, per Transfermarkt, for Rangers.

Matondo, who was once lauded as “electrifying” by former manager Ryan Giggs, has averaged a goal or an assist for the Gers every 139 minutes on average, per Transfermarkt, which is an incredibly impressive return.

Appearances

218

24

67

Minutes

17,732

1,823

2,641

Goals

33

6

8

Minutes per goal

537

303

330

Assists

56

2

11

Minutes per assist

317

911

240

Minutes per goal contribution

199

228

139

As you can see in the table above, Gassama and Kent have both failed to deliver goals and assists as frequently as the Wales international in their respective Rangers careers.

One area in which Gassama particularly struggles is the creative side of the game, as evidenced by his return of an assist every 911 minutes, whilst Matondo has assisted goals even more regularly than Kent did.

This does not mean that the Welsh whiz will automatically become a star if he stays fit and plays week-in-week-out for Rohl, because he has not played a single minute this season and could need time to settle back in to playing competitive football.

However, his statistics for Rangers throughout his career suggest that he has the potential to be Rohl’s own version of Kent as a lightning-quick winger who can provide a threat as both a scorer and a creator of goals, which is something Gassama has failed to do so far.

Fewer touches than Butland: Rohl must bin "missing" Rangers flop after Livi

Rangers did claim another league win over Livingston on Saturday, but one player went “missing” at Ibrox, registering fewer touches than Jack Butland.

ByBen Gray Nov 23, 2025

Despite some negative noise regarding attacking regressions, Tottenham Hotspur have made headway under Thomas Frank’s management, fifth in the Premier League and in a promising position in the Champions League group stage.

But Spurs could certainly do with a bit more fluency and impetus when on the charge, and such creases must be ironed out over the coming months to make this a season to remember.

It was always going to be difficult, selling Harry Kane to Bayern Munich in 2023, and Ange Postecoglou deserves credit for establishing an attractive, entertaining playing style (when things were going his way).

But it’s true that some members of the squad aren’t quite pulling their weight. That said, Tottenham do have some top talents who have the capacity to secure the club’s place at Europe’s elite table and lead Frank toward trophy-winning success.

Mohammed Kudus being chief among them.

Kudus' start to life at Spurs

There was an air of controversy about Kudus’ summer transfer to Tottenham. After all, the Ghanaian winger had plied his trade down the road at West Ham United for the past couple of years, and the sale has left the Irons fanbase feeling hot under the collar.

But West Ham’s loss is Tottenham’s gain, with the 25-year-old having registered five assists in the Premier League this season, more than any other player.

His pace and potency have seen him add a dimension to Frank’s outfit that Tottenham simply didn’t boast last term, and in this, he is offering shades of Kane, taking on the responsibility of leading the club forward, bringing a unique flavour to the table.

Kudus is indeed emerging as Tottenham’s new principal source of attacking inspiration, but there’s actually another member of Frank’s squad who’s looking somewhat Kane-esque.

Spurs' new version of Kane

We’re not talking about one of the Tottenham forwards here. Instead, it’s Micky van de Ven whose growth into a talismanic role down N17 is leaving him in line to take Kane’s leadership berth, belatedly.

The 24-year-old has been a revelation since joining from Wolfsburg for around £43m in 2023, with injuries his biggest weakness. So strong and fast and commanding, with journalist Sonny Snelling even labelling him as “world-class”.

It was the 6 foot 4 star’s injury that derailed the Ange hype train a few years ago, sending that project into a spin. Then, last season, hamstring injuries reigned supreme over the defender’s hopes of availability. He started only 12 Premier League fixtures all season, eight of which came across Spurs’ first nine fixtures of the campaign.

While Cristian Romero is Tottenham’s captain, Van de Ven is the perfect counterpoint and every bit as impressive. It’s perhaps important to remember that, like Kane, Van de Ven is not the skipper, with the Three Lions striker behind Hugo Lloris in that regard.

Of course, Kane and Micky van de Ven are hardly similar players. They are so different across physical and tactical bases as to be diametrically opposed.

But Van de Ven offers so much more than his central defensive role demands, and in this, he shares a likeness with Kane, whose range of passing and ability to drop deep and influence make him a very unique number nine, and with 23 goals from 17 games for Bayern this season, he’s still rather good at his primary job.

Tottenham have struggled to replace Kane since selling him to Bayern, but that’s more because of the 32-year-old’s remarkable, unique qualities. When he left, the Lilywhites didn’t only lose their record goalscorer, but their shrewdest playmaker and source of inspiration across so many years.

But his pace. Such speed. It’s astonishing, in many ways, and hard to define. In the Premier League this season, furthermore, Van de Ven has completed 92% of his passes and come out on top in 63% of his ground duels, as per Sofascore.

Micky van de Ven

Tottenham

37.38

Kyle Walker

Man City

37.31

Jackson Tchatchoua

Wolves

37.30

Micky van de Ven

Tottenham

37.23

Micky van de Ven

Tottenham

37.12

It tells much of the Dutchman’s athleticism that he is first, fourth, and fifth on the all-time speed rankings (beginning 2020/21), and is a further illustration of the above-and-beyond approach he brings to his centre-half role.

As per FBref, he also ranks among the top 1% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for goals scored per 90, emphasising an attacking threat that has been on full show this season, six goals from 16 matches in all competitions.

This is a top-class player, and one whose special skills will inevitably see a wave of interest in his signature before long, Europe’s heavyweights squabbling over his signature.

It is perhaps a given that Van de Ven will eventually move on. The lure of Real Madrid and Barcelona, outfits bound to have earmarked the Netherlands international among a list of loose long-term targets, may ultimately prove too much for him to ignore.

This could see him shape into the next version of Kane in more ways than one. But, whatever happens down the line, Van de Ven is a unique player who Tottenham must keep a grip on for as long as they can, for he will spearhead the Frank era toward a surface only scratched when Postecoglou defied the odds and lifted the Europa League title last season, Van de Ven playing that final and thriving.

Spurs have signed a "hidden gem" who's a bigger talent than Troy Parrott

Tottenham need to do more in the final third under Thomas Frank’s management.

ByAngus Sinclair Nov 17, 2025

Fabrizio Romano has now shared an update on Endrick’s future at Real Madrid, with West Ham’s striker search taking a significant twist.

Endrick is gearing up to leave Real on loan in January, and Nuno Espírito Santo’s side have been touted as one of the fierce contenders for his signature.

The 19-year-old, still widely regarded as one of Brazil’s brightest young prospects, hasn’t exactly had a smooth ride since joining the La Liga giants.

With first-team opportunities limited at the Bernabeu as a result of fitness issues and competition for places in Xabi Alonso’s side, a loan move appears to be the next logical step for his development.

West Ham have reportedly held talks about bringing Endrick on loan, already positioning themselves well in the race for his signature ahead of January.

Other clubs are also interested, like Sevilla, Real Sociedad and Brentford, according to some reports, but West Ham’s reported early discussions could give them an edge.

This comes as Nuno allegedly urges David Sullivan, Karren Brady and the Hammers hierarchy to sign a new defender, midfielder and forward (GiveMeSport), but with funds tight, temporary deals could be a key theme of their winter window.

Endrick is poised to be one of Europe’s finest talents available on loan in January, leaving little wonder why West Ham are very keen to secure his signature.

While the teenager has struggled for game time under Alonso, Endrick did score five Copa del Rey goals to fire Los Blancos to the final of the competition last season, before they eventually lost to Barcelona.

Sunderland 3-0 West Ham

West Ham 1-5 Chelsea

Nottingham Forest 0-3 West Ham

West Ham 0-3 Tottenham

West Ham 1-2 Crystal Palace

Everton 1-1 West Ham

Arsenal 2-0 West Ham

West Ham 0-2 Brentford

Leeds 2-1 West Ham

The former Palmeiras sensation would be an excellent signing for West Ham, and one who’d inject much-needed flair and enthusiasm to their forward line.

The prospect of a Premier League move could also tempt Endrick, as it would do with any other player on the continent, but according to Romano, West Ham now face growing competition for his services.

Fabrizio Romano shares Endrick update as West Ham striker search takes twist

Taking to X, the reliable transfer journalist now claims that Ligue 1 giants Lyon have opened talks to sign Endrick on loan — which could seriously impact West Ham’s chances of a deal.

Endrick is believed to be intrigued by the possibility of a move to France, as Paulo Fonseca’s side already make their intentions known with an “official approach” just over two months before the January window opens.

Commenting further, Romano also says that while Endrick is still waiting to assess all of his options, potentially including West Ham, the attacker is pretty keen on Lyon as an option.

If a move for Endrick eventually becomes out of West Ham’s reach, it is worth noting that they’ve also held rumoured discussions about signing his Real teammate, Gonzalo Garcia.

The Spaniard, who finished last summer’s Club World Cup as the competition’s joint-top scorer, has also struggled to establish himself as a starter for Alonso this season and could be a great alternative to Endrick.

There are other options for West Ham as well, but it is absolutely imperative that the club back Nuno with a new centre-forward, especially considering Niclas Fullkrug’s injury woes and their lack of decent options.

West Ham already working on deal to sign £40 million striker in January.