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As the 2023/24 season draws to a close, it is time for Arsenal to knuckle down and continue to push Manchester City in their hunt for the Premier League trophy. They currently sit top of the table on 80 points, one point clear of Pep Guardiola's side, who have a game in hand and will go top with a win.

It has certainly been another good season for Mikel Arteta’s side, despite the fact they could go trophyless once again. According to Sofascore, they are the Premier League’s top scorers with 85 and have conceded the fewest goals with 28. Not only that, the Gunners have lost just one game in the league in 2024.

Should Arsenal go without a trophy again this season, it does mean that we could see a fairly large refresh of the squad in the 2024 summer transfer window. There are certainly a few players who could be on the way out, including the likes of Thomas Partey, who has been linked with a move away from the Emirates Stadium.

However, there is one other player whom the Gunners could look to move on this summer. Despite his contributions to their past two title challenges under Arteta, he is on lots of money and could well depart this summer.

The player in question here is former Manchester City left-back Oleksandr Zinchenko.

How much Arsenal could save by selling Zinchenko

The 27-year-old Ukraine international joined Arsenal from the Citizens in 2022 for £32m but could leave the Emirates Stadium in the summer with concerns over his role as the club's number 1 left-back.

According to Capology, Zinchenko is the ninth highest earner in the current Arsenal squad, currently receiving £150k-per-week. Remarkably, that is more than some of Arsenal’s biggest stars, including the imperious Gabriel who earns £100k-per-week and in-form Leandro Trossard, who earns £90k-per-week.

There are reportedly two clubs interested in signing the Ukrainian, for whom Arsenal have set a price tag of £38.4m, making them a £6.4m profit on the original deal. According to Football Transfers, Bayern Munich and Newcastle are showing interest in bringing Zinchenko to their respective clubs.

Kai Havertz

£280k

Gabriel Jesus

£265k

Declan Rice

£240k

Martin Odegaard

£240k

Thomas Partey

£200k

Bukayo Saka

£195k

William Saliba

£190k

Gabriel Martinelli

£180k

Oleksandr Zinchenko

£150k

With that in mind, it could well be the case that the Gunners look to move Zinchenko on this summer to reduce the wage bill and gain additional transfer funds, which they can then reinvest elsewhere to improve the squad.

Oleksandr Zinchenko’s season in numbers

It is fair to say that the 2023/24 season has been a disappointing one for Zinchenko, who has played far less than he likely would have wanted to. Whilst he has missed eight games through injury, the 27-year-old has still only featured 34 times in all competitions, but just 26 times in the Premier League, contributing to three goals.

Indeed, there have certainly been many options at left-back at Mikel Arteta’s disposal. Aside from Zinchenko, Poland international Jakub Kiwior has played at left back on 18 occasions this term with Takehiro Tomiyasu playing 16 times there in all competitions. There's also the thought of Jurrien Timber returning to consider too. It has certainly been good competition for places.

With that being said, Zinchenko’s best role may not even be left back. After all, he's become a defensive liability in that position with his dismal performance in the 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa being labelled as "appalling" by Gunners writer Oli Price Bates.

Instead, he has often been earmarked as a midfielder, where he often plays for Ukraine. His superb progressive passing numbers certainly suggest that is where he could slot into the Gunners’ side.

According to Fbref, Zinchenko averages 11.72 progressive passes per 90 minutes, 2.56 passes into the penalty area per 90 minutes and 7.53 passes into the final third per 90 minutes. That places him in the top 1% for the first two figures, and the top 2% for the latter number.

These certainly suggest the 27-year-old could work well in the advanced number eight role vacated by Granit Xhaka last summer. Not only that, Zinchenko could succeed if he tucked into midfield in possession when playing left-back, as he has done at times for the Gunners.

However, with that being said, the profit Arsenal could make from selling Zinchenko, and the fact he is on £150k-per-week means moving him on is a financially good decision.

Whilst he has been a good servant to the club in his two years so far, selling the 27-year-old would mean Arsenal can develop even further as a side and continue to push Manchester City for the Premier League.

Arteta could unleash Zinchenko in new role to revive his Arsenal career

Zinchenko was a big underperformer in Arsenal’s last match.

ByJoe Nuttall Apr 17, 2024

Manchester United finally put an end to their three-game winless streak on Wednesday night, as they defeated Newcastle United 3-2 at Old Trafford.

The scoring was opened just after the half-hour mark by the fantastic Kobbie Mainoo, but the visitors replied after the break through Anthony Gordon.

Amad Diallo scored the first Premier League goal of his career shortly after, and substitute Rasmus Hojlund extended the lead in the 84th minute, however, it was a cagey end to the game as Lewis Hall fired in from range with minutes to go.

Despite it being a much better team performance by the Red Devils, certain individuals stood out above the rest, with one player proving to be as undroppable as Bruno Fernandes.

Bruno Fernandes’ performance vs Newcastle

Having missed his first-ever game for United due to injury last week and also being forced to sit out against Arsenal at the weekend, the Portuguese magnifico returned to the starting lineup against the Magpies.

The United captain’s influence was instantly noticeable, leading by example off the ball and taking responsibility while in possession, as he always does.

The slight rest enabled the 29-year-old’s creativity to truly flourish while playing as a false nine throughout, producing five key passes, taking 70 touches, and having two attempts at goal.

Fernandes’ evening was topped off with his eighth Premier League assist of the season, slotting the ball into Hojlund’s feet, but there will be some concerns given he was substituted holding his hamstring.

However, although he was absolutely instrumental, the limelight was stolen by another attacker.

Amad Diallo’s stats vs Newcastle

After spending most of the season on the sidelines due to injury, Amad is finally getting his much-deserved chance to shine in the United starting lineup.

The Ivory Coast international made his first Premier League start at the weekend against Arsenal, and Ten Hag rewarded him with a place in the first eleven last night.

From the first minute until the last, the 21-year-old simply oozed class, showing attacking intent and excellent decision-making.

Manchester Evening News journalist Samuel Luckhurst handed Amad an 8/10 rating for his performance, the joint-highest score in the United side, which further highlights how impressive he was.

Goals

1

0

Assists

1

0

Key passes

2

2

Shots

4

2

Touches

43

25

Successful dribbles

2/3

1/1

Possession lost

8

7

Defensive actions

4

0

As you can see above, the “superstar,” as dubbed by football creator Liam Canning, was a dangerous outlet throughout and far more involved than Alejandro Garnacho, who struggled on the opposite flank, and even Mainoo, who had 39 touches.

It was Amad’s creativity and desire to make things happen that supplied Mainoo’s opener, and he also showcased that he’s a direct threat himself via his four shots, one of which flew past Martin Dubravka.

On top of this, the ex-Sunderland loanee showed excellent ball retention and technical class to evade the opponent’s press, completing two dribbles and losing the ball just eight times.

To complete the almost perfect performance, the left-footed magician proved that he will always guarantee 110% effort from an off-the-ball perspective, as shown by the fact he completed four defensive actions.

Overall, it’s going to be tough to displace him in the starting lineup after that performance, and as of right now, you’d fancy him to be on the field at Wembley.

Ten Hag could save Casemiro’s Man Utd career by unleashing a “diamond"

The Man United star has been described as a “leader” by Erik ten Hag.

ByTom Lever May 15, 2024

Newcastle United's heavy spending under the Saudi PIF could be about to continue in the summer, with the Magpies desperately needing to increase their squad depth ahead of next season.

The club are already looking to strengthen the centre-back department after the long-term injury suffered by Sven Botman, with the Dutchman ruled out for up to nine months after his ACL surgery.

The Magpies are said to be edging closer to completing a deal to sign Bournemouth centre-back Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer when his current deal expires with the Cherries on the 30th of June.

Injuries have left Eddie Howe's side light in multiple key areas across the pitch, with other players such as Joelinton and Nick Pope spending multiple months on the sidelines.

Alongside the backline, Howe's midfield has also been depleted due to injuries, with the club targeting one player to potentially complete the Magpies' midfield puzzle this summer.

Newcastle United eyeing £50m midfielder this summer

Although the club will have to operate in a sensible manner given their current FFP situation, they will try and improve the squad with one player in particular catching the eye.

According to The Athletic's Chris Waugh, the Magpies are admirers of Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White, with the Englishman not seen as a direct replacement for Brazilian Bruno Guimaraes should he depart St James' Park this summer.

However, the deal could cost the Saudi PIF a pretty penny, as Nuno Espirito Santo's side are expected to be wanting a bid of at least £50m to part ways with the 24-year-old.

Whilst he may be an expensive addition to the Newcastle squad, Gibbs-White would add serious quality to the midfield department, potentially playing in a box-to-box or a more advanced role behind the front three.

Waugh might claim that the former Wolves man wouldn't come in to replace Guimaraes, but he certainly wouldn't be a bad option should the 26-year-old have his release clause triggered over the off-season.

How Gibbs-White could fit in at Newcastle

With Sandro Tonali set to come back from his suspension in October, the Italian will be like a new signing for Howe's side, allowing him to sit as an anchor at the base of the Magpies' midfield, with Gibbs-White ahead of him.

The "sensational" talent, as described by former teammate Billy Sharp, has operated in a deeper role for Forest in recent weeks, partnering Danilo in the Reds' midfield.

He's still produced some excellent numbers in the Premier League this season, showcasing his versatility in a side that has struggled for the vast majority of the campaign.

Matches played

35

Goals

5

Assists

8

Passes completed

926

Successful dribbles

43

Chances created

69

Tackles

24

Duels won

186

He's been likened to former Newcastle midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum by talent scout Jacek Kulig, with the Englishman potentially able to follow in his footsteps on Tyneside.

Despite only lasting a season at St James' Park, Wijnaldum flourished during the 2015/16 campaign, scoring 11 goals and providing five assists in 40 games in all competitions, prior to departing for Liverpool on a £25m deal upon the Magpies' relegation.

The hope will be that Gibbs-White can have an equally as impressive, albeit more sustained impact at Newcastle as the Dutchman, while also filling the shoes of Guimaraes in the process, with the latter man a real attacking threat having chipped in with six goals and six assists in the league this term.

With Gibbs-White boasting 13 league goal involvements of his own, he can certainly fill that attack-minded void in Howe's side. As such, should Guimaraes depart, the club should make the Forest man their primary target to replace him.

Newcastle now among favourites to sign "exciting" new star in Gordon repeat

The midfielder is a man in-demand…

ByTom Cunningham May 2, 2024

West Ham could hand incoming manager Julen Lopetegui the perfect start to his reign by landing an impressive new addition staight away when the transfer window opens, it has been reported.

Changing of the guard at West Ham

David Moyes' long reign at West Ham came to an end with a whimper on Sunday as his side were comprehensively beaten by champions Manchester City on the final day of the Premier League season, a result which saw Pep Guardiola's side lift the Premier League title in the process.

Now, BBC have confirmed the worst kept secret at the club, that ex-Sevilla and Real Madrid boss Julen Lopetegui will be taking over from the Scot, with the deal set to be confirmed "later this week" in order to allow him to begin shaping the squad and experimenting across pre-season.

Moyes's second West Ham tenure

Games

230

Win %

45%

Points per game

1.53

Highest finish

6th

Trophies

1

Moyes will not be the only one leaving the London Stadium, with Michail Antonio having potentially played his final game for the Hammers ahead of his contract expiring this summer, while Ben Johnson is also set to leave as a free agent amid widespread interest in the versatile 24-year-old.

Veteran pair Aaron Cresswell and Angelo Ogbonna are also out of contract this summer, while decisions will have to be made on Lukas Fabianski, Danny Ings and Kurt Zouma, who will have just 12 months left to run on their contracts in east London.

There will need to be plenty of new faces at the London Stadium, and now the club may well have just identified their first.

Hammers eye up young defender

Foot Mercato credit West Ham with an interest in RB Salzburg defender Oumar Solet, who is set to be on the move this summer. Under contract with the Austrian club until next summer, he is ready to leave in search of a new challenge, with the 24-year-old on the radar of a whole host of clubs across Europe including Bayern Munich and Napoli.

West Ham already on the verge of first summer signing from Arsenal

The Hammers have wasted no time.

ByTom Cunningham May 19, 2024

He has previously been vocal in his desire to play in England, telling GOAL about his career ambitions: "To play for the best teams in the world, of course. To be an example for young players. I just want to show my skills to the whole world. Since the youngest age, I've been a fan of the Premier League, but from now on, I am really open about every top league."

Solet has drawn plenty of praise for his performances for Salzburg, with journalist Zach Lowry taking to X to dub him a "superb" defender after one particular performance against Sevilla in the Champions League.

Now, Foot Mercato reveal that the Hammers have shown "strong interest" and "intend to take advantage" of his contract situation, which could see him leave for less than perhaps his market value would usually be.

It remains to be seen whether West Ham can beat their rivals across Europe for the Frenchman, but the early signs suggest that Lopetegui's arrival could bring with it some exciting new faces at the London Stadium this summer.

It might not have ended in a trophy, but Arsenal enjoyed another brilliant season this year.

Mikel Arteta's side took the Premier League title race down to the final day and came agonizingly close to making it to the Champions League semi-finals for the first time in well over a decade.

It may not have happened this season, but it feels more like a matter of when rather than if this Arsenal team lifts a major trophy, and when they do, club captain Martin Odegaard will undoubtedly be at the heart of their triumph.

The Norwegian has more than proven himself to be a capable leader in N5, and the latest player touted for a move to the Emirates could help further unlock his attacking potential.

Arsenal transfer news

According to a recent report from journalist Ben Jacobs via GIVEMESPORT, Arsenal are still interested in Real Sociedad's star midfielder, Martin Zubimendi, and may well "try again" to sign him.

This is despite Spanish reports late last month claiming the player was unsure about leaving his home country.

Jacobs does not mention how much the deal might cost the North Londoners, but a report from journalist Graeme Bailey last month claimed the Spaniard has a €60m release clause inserted into his contract, which converts to around £51m.

It wouldn't be a cheap deal to get done, and his reservations about leaving Spain are indeed a problem, but Edu Gaspar and Co should be doing all they can to bring the player to North London, as he could help get even more out of Odegaard going forward.

How Zubimendi could unlock Odegaard

The main reason why adding Zubimendi to the team would help get more out of Odegaard is that the Spaniard is an out-and-out defensive midfielder who, alongside Declan Rice, would be able to make Arsenal's already impressive defensive record that much more remarkable.

The "extraordinary" six-capped international, as dubbed by Xavi, would start at six with the Englishman in the left-eight role, thus creating an incredibly solid wall. This would allow the Gunners' mercurial captain to focus more on influencing proceedings at the sharp end of the pitch.

The former West Ham United captain may have told the BBC that his "best position" is at the base of midfield, but he also revealed that he was "excited to get up the pitch, score goals and drive with the ball."

With 19 starts in central midfield this season, he's proven himself more than capable of playing just in front of a recognised six.

Moreover, when comparing the pair's defensive midfield-relevant underlying numbers, the Spaniard comes out slightly ahead, registering more blocks, interceptions, clearances and ball recoveries while winning more aerial duels per 90.

Tackles

1.66

2.32

Tackles Won

0.92

1.42

Blocks

1.12

1.03

Interceptions

1.25

1.23

Clearances

1.83

1.45

Ball Recoveries

5.73

4.97

Aerial Duels Won

1.49

1.09

This extra solidity behind him would allow the former Real Madrid wonderkid to focus most of his attention ahead of him, as at present, he's putting more effort into the defensive side of the game than many might realise.

This can be seen best when comparing his heat map to the heat map of Kevin De Bruyne, the main attacking midfielder in Arsenal's primary title rival.

When looking at these two maps, it's evident that the Norwegian's attacking output is at least somewhat hampered by the amount of time he spends in his own half, a problem that could be alleviated by this signing.

Ultimately, this could be a challenging transfer to get over the line, and Odegaard is always going to need to do some defensive work, but if Arteta could set up a midfield three with Zubimendi and Rice as the two defensively minded ball-winning titans in it, he might finally be able to end the club's two-decade title drought.

Arsenal can forget about Sesko by signing "incredible" £85m "powerhouse"

The prolific striker could be the perfect alternative for Mikel Arteta.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 7, 2024

Sunderland are still on the hunt for their next manager, with it feeling like an eternity since they last had a permanent boss in the dugout.

Mike Dodds was only in the Black Cats hot seat on an interim basis, and as the rumour mill continues to churn out names that could be the next permanent boss on Wearside, there seems to be no near ending available yet to bring this ongoing saga to a close.

Whoever does take over the reins from Dodds when an announcement is finally out in the open will have their work cut out, with this dud potentially one for the chopping block straight away, after offering very little for Sunderland this campaign just finished.

Patrick Roberts' season in numbers

Patrick Roberts certainly didn't set the world alight last season for Sunderland, unable to be as dangerous and as penetrative as Jack Clarke was down the wings, with lacklustre performances becoming commonplace from the former Manchester City forward.

Roberts wouldn't even score a single goal in Championship action from 32 appearances tallied up, blown out of the water by his counterpart down the left flank, as Clarke bagged a ridiculous 15 goals.

This could result in Roberts potentially being let go of this summer, with the 27-year-old only providing two assists down the wings as well, which was bettered as a total by Abdoullah Ba who finished his season with four, who could now be the preferred option down Roberts' flank for the long-term.

Plagued with recurring injuries throughout his career too, the time could be right to cut ties with the inconsistent attacker this summer, with a new Sunderland manager coming in and operating with a cut-throat approach to get rid of some frustrating duds who have, arguably, overstayed their welcome in the camp.

23/24

76

0

2

18/19

77

0

1

17/18

113

1

5

16/17

45

11

19

Sourced by Transfermarkt

With his sketchy injury track record easier to swallow when he was on top form during his Celtic days, as can be seen glancing at the table above, the powers that be at the Stadium of Light will also be put off keeping Roberts around based off his excessive wage, which sees him currently rake in nearly double Jobe Bellingham's pay packet.

Roberts' wage at Sunderland

The 27-year-old's position at Sunderland is on even more thin ice when you consider his salary currently sits at a hefty £12.5k-per-week, with other more important first-team performers from last season earning less.

Jobe Bellingham is the most striking example, earning nearly half that of the Sunderland number ten at £6.5k-per-week, despite picking up eight goal contributions last season to Roberts' meagre two, resulting in interested parties from the Premier League now circling for the 18-year-old.

Getting such a high earner off the books in Roberts could mean that the wage bill is readjusted to keep Bellingham at Sunderland for longer, with far more attractive and tantalising offers on the table presumably.

The likes of Trai Hume and Pierre Ekwah will also be clamouring for wage increases, with the duo earning just £3k-per-week each, despite playing more games than Roberts this season just gone, at 47 and 43 appearances respectively.

The next Sunderland boss could, therefore, ruffle a few feathers by ditching Roberts for good, with the 27-year-old becoming a part of the furniture over the last few seasons by amassing 97 games in total.

Yet, fresh off such a forgettable campaign, all sentimentality could be thrown out of the window as the out-of-sorts winger looks for a new club to call home.

Sunderland eyeing up "exciting" 4-3-3 manager who Dan Neil would love

The Black Cats have narrowed down their search to three possible candidates.

ByDan Emery Jun 8, 2024

Deals may not have been finalised yet but Aston Villa will sell Douglas Luiz to Juventus, collecting cash, midfielder Enzo Barrenechea and talented winger Samuel Iling-Junior in return.

The Premier League's profit and sustainability (PSR) rules have dictated the summer but the June 30 deadline looms large. Luckily, Villa's prudency has seen them successfully circumvent the possibility of breaching such rules. Now, with Champions League football lying ahead, Unai Emery's outfit can make real headway.

Aforementioned signings are augmented by the nearly-completed move for Ross Barkley, but Luiz's sale marks the loss of a true linchpin, and Emery looks eager to push ahead and sign another replacement.

Villa eyeing Douglas Luiz replacement

According to Spanish outlet AS earlier this week, Aston Villa are tussling with a number of top European clubs for Real Sociedad midfielder Brais Mendez, who has a €60m (£52m) release clause in his contract.

The Spaniard is considered a fundamental, near irreplaceable member of Imanol Alguacil's team, but if Villa endeavour to meet his buyout price, he may well find himself pulled toward the English Midlands.

Why Villa are interested in Brais Mendez

Last season, Sociedad finished sixth in La Liga and Mendez proved his level as one of the standout performers, making good on past praise from journalist Zach Lowy that he is a player of "sensational" quality.

Across 44 appearances in all competitions, he scored eight goals and added nine assists, also winning 1.3 tackles and 4.6 duels per match average in the Spanish top flight, as per Sofascore, to underscore his multi-strength skill set.

A dynamic midfielder, Mendez would emulate Luiz's impressive attacking instinct, with his goal and assist tally from last season ranking him among the top 3% of midfielders across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for goals, the top 10% for assists and the top 13% for shot-creating actions per 90, as per FBref.

This could compensate for the departure of Luiz and then some, who ranks among the top 16% of midfielders for goals, the top 22% for assists and the top 17% for shot-creating actions per 90 himself.

Attacking midfield

18

3

5

Central midfield

13

1

2

Right winger

6

3

2

Centre-forward

1

0

0

As you can see, he's not shackled to one position, instead enjoying sweeping success across a range of roles – even competent on the right flank when called upon.

But he'd principally be utilised in the centre of the park, pulled into a more industrious, but still forward-moving, role to tailor toward Emery's system.

In this sense, he truly would be a fantastic replacement for Luiz. Barkley too offers a range of versatile tools to ensure success at Villa Park but Mendez has proven himself to be a player of flair and unique ability from the middle.

A "smooth operator" – as noted by an effusive Lowy – the £36k-per-week ace is daring and deadly from behind the frontline, something that Luiz has also demonstrably succeeded in being at Aston Villa.

Moreover, given the nature of the Brazilian's (soon former) modus operandi under Emery, he averaged 1.7 tackles and 4.2 successful duels per Premier League match in 2023/24, Mendez would be a terrific heir.

Further players Mendez could replace

With Barkley joining a talented group of forward-thinking midfielders consisting of John McGinn, Jacob Ramsey and, sometimes, Morgan Rogers, it might feel a tad congested, with Luiz never really deployed further up the field, instead moving forward at an apt opportunity to wreak chaos.

Might another sale be necessary? According to The Times, Aston Villa have recently rejected a £20m offer from Tottenham Hotspur for Ramsey, with the player-plus-cash trend this summer at the centre once again, with Giovani Lo Celso offered.

Lo Celso has never nailed down a starting spot at Spurs since signing for an eventual total of £42m in 2018, despite his patent passing pedigree. He might prove to be a square peg in a round hole under Emery, simply a number and unable to perform the many-faceted jobs to the desired standard.

Ramsey, however, is not unexpendable despite Emery's desire to retain his services, with the Lions making it known that the homegrown attacking midfielder would require a fee of £40-50m to prise from Villa Park.

Mendez could prove to be an upgrade on the 23-year-old, who is talented but inconsistent and marred by setbacks, starting only eight Premier League matches last season and last completing a competitive appearance in early March due to a toe injury.

Still, Ramsey is a good player and excels when unshackled and pointed toward the opposing penalty area, using his wheels to drive forward and strike on goal or thread balls into the path of striking teammates.

Furthermore, he carries a robust and defensively aware style of play that mirrors that of Mendez, with the boyhood Villan averaging 2.0 tackles and 4.6 successful duels per game during the 2022/23 season, when he enjoyed far brighter fortunes on the injury front and posted six goals and seven assists from 31 starting appearances in the English top flight.

There's no question that Villa wish to keep Ramsey at the club but given the need to continue to appease PSR rules and the fact that Mendez could be brought in as a more complete and clinical replacement, it might be worth allowing him to leave, should the lofty price tag be met by a team like Tottenham.

Clearly, Mendez might just be the full package to fire Aston Villa toward new levels of success. With Champions League football beckoning, the Spain star would be a fitting replacement for an outgoing stalwart in Luiz, and potentially even Ramsey too.

New bid incoming: Aston Villa lining up "monster" Cash upgrade

Unai Emery is aiming to sign a talented Italian defender this summer…

ByRoss Kilvington Jun 26, 2024

Despite only being at the club for three years, Robin Van Persie holds a very special place among the Manchester United fanbase.

Alongside Wayne Rooney, the Dutchman dragged Man United to the 2012/13 Premier League title in his first season at the club.

The former Arsenal striker netted 26 goals and provided nine assists in 38 league games that campaign, a performance that’ll go down in the history books.

With the brilliance of Van Persie in mind, let’s take a look at a striker target for Sir Jim Ratcliffe who could be United’s best centre-forward since the fine Dutch finisher.

Man Utd’s search for a new centre forward

According to a report from I, Man United are keen on the idea of signing Jonathan David from Lille this summer.

It’s said that the Red Devils are ‘stepping up their search’ and that contact has been made with the Canadian's representatives.

The all-clear has already been granted for the striker to leave the Ligue 1 club, which is why United will have to battle Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, and Aston Villa for his signature.

Offers are yet to be made, but a fee of around £25m could be enough to secure his services, which looks like an absolute steal of a price.

Why David would be an excellent signing for Man United

Since leaving Gent for Lille in 2020, David has been regarded as one of the finest centre-forwards in France.

Over the years, he’s proved to be a reliable goalscorer who’s deadly in front of goal, and that was once again the case last season.

In Ligue 1, the Canadian started 30 times, playing as a sole striker in a 4-2-3-1 system, which is where he’d feature at Old Trafford.

Across these matches, the number nine scored an impressive 19 goals while also providing four assists, with only Kylian Mbappe scoring more in the entire division.

Jonathan David (Lille)

183

84

18

Rasmus Hojlund

43

16

2

Anthony Martial

317

90

47

Romelu Lukaku

96

42

12

Edinson Cavani

59

19

6

Robin Van Persie

105

58

15

As you can see from the table, David is an extremely talented striker who knows how to put the ball in the back of the net, with an impressive record of 84 goals in 183 appearances for Lille.

When compared to the recent centre forward's performance at the Red Devils, it’s quite clear that he’s a far superior finisher, and his overperformance of xG in the league last season further highlights how clinical he truly is.

However, it’s not just at his club where David thrives, as his record of 26 goals and 16 assists in 48 appearances for Canada is incredible, and his numbers will be "mind-blowing" if he continues at this rate, as per football scout Jacek Kulig.

On top of being Lille’s all-time top scorer and being an “elite finisher,” in the words of journalist Ed Aarons, David’s overall game is also rather complete.

The 24-year-old completed 1.1 key passes, 2.7 progressive passes, has has taken 31.08 touches per 90 over the last year, proving he overs more than just goals. Rasmus Hojlund, for context, only managed 1.19 progressive passes.

Overall, it’s clear that David is the definition of a goalscorer, the type of player who will always step up in crucial moments when called upon, and for that reason alone, he could become United’s best striker since Van Persie. He certainly looks more prolific than the likes of Hojlund and Lukaku.

What Man Utd's dream XI could look like after £230m spending spree

Marcus Rashford doesn’t make the best eleven.

1 ByTom Lever Jun 7, 2024

Journalist Fabrizio Romano says Manchester United are close to completing their latest new signing, as Dan Ashworth looks to kick his new era at Old Trafford off with a bang.

Man Utd transfer news

Red Devils transfer rumours have swarmed the papers since Ashworth's arrival, with Matthijs de Ligt seen as a primary target to bring in at centre-back. A new update claims that the club have given the "green light" to sign the Bayern Munich defender, following talks with Erik ten Hag.

Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee has also emerged as a genuine option for United, as they look to acquire the signature of a player who can add much-needed competition for Rasmus Hojlund moving forward. The Dutchman has shone for his current club, scoring 14 goals in 58 appearances, and he has experienced playing for a huge club in the past, playing 17 times for Bayern.

Meanwhile, the Red Devils have reportedly submitted a bid for highly-rated Tottenham teenager Mikey Moore, who is such a big young talent that he has been dubbed the "English Neymar". Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund are also believed to be in the picture, though.

In terms of an alternative to De Ligt, Barcelona centre-back Ronald Araujo has also been backed to head to Old Trafford in the current transfer window, but the former does appear to be the more likely signing currently.

Man Utd closing in on striker signing

According to Romano on X on Sunday evening, Zirkzee's move to Manchester United is now close to being completed, with everything in agreement with the striker's agent, and his club now officially informed that he has agreed to join United.

The only detail left to decide is whether Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ashworth will pay the €40m (£33.8m) release clause in full or negotiate a separate fee with Bologna.

"Manchester United and Joshua Zirkzee, almost there. Man Utd have now informed Bologna about agreement reached with Zirkzee over personal terms. All done also with JZ’s agent. Man Utd, talking to Bologna about new deal structure… or they can trigger €40m release clause."

At this point, it would be a huge surprise if Zirkzee's move to United didn't go through, considering how far talks are seemingly along. Everything appears to be in place, as Ten Hag, Ashworth and Ratcliffe seal a key piece of business for a player who appears to really want to don the famous red shirt.

The 23-year-old's aforementioned numbers for Bologna may not be those of a relentless goalscorer, but he is still a young footballer who could shine so much alongside superior footballers than the ones he is currently playing alongside.

Former AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli is under no illusions as to how good Zirkzee is as an all-round talent, too, saying of the Bologna ace earlier this year: "He’s a great player. I’ve followed him since his days at Bayern Munich and then at my Parma. A fantastic player, with physicality and quality. He has everything. He’s doing very well at Bologna."

Bruno will love him: Man Utd pushing to sign £34m star alongside Zirkzee

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is steering Old Trafford back on course.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Jul 8, 2024

To have Zirkzee and Hojlund dovetailing with one another will help take the pressure off both, also ensuring they are not overplayed by Ten Hag, and the hope is that both mature into formidable players over time, possibly even partnering one another down the middle of United's attack.

Football FanCast brings you the latest Liverpool transfer round-up.

While the Reds' last Premier League campaign didn't exactly go to plan, they did manage to secure a return to the Champions League and hand outgoing boss Jurgen Klopp a terrific send-off.

So with Arne Slot now in the Anfield hot seat, all eyes are on the transfer activity on Merseyside as the Dutchman starts to mould his Liverpool side.

Here we've listed the latest transfer rumours involving the Reds as they seek instant success under the former Feyenoord boss in 2024/25.

Latest Liverpool transfer rumours Transfers in

Andriy Lunin: With rumours swirling over the future of goalkeeper Alisson (see below), it appears that Liverpool are preparing for the worst by searching for his potential successor. That man could be Real Madrid's Andriy Lunin, who shone when asked to step up for the La Liga and European champions last season.

It is thought that while there are no direct negotiations taking place at present, Liverpool are monitoring the Ukrainian's situation amid the possibility of a goalkeeping shake-up in the coming weeks.

Joao Gomes: Liverpool have been named as admirers of Wolves midfielder Joao Gomes, though any move for the Portuguese ace may only happen further down the line, with midfield not a current priority for Arne Slot this summer.

Speaking to GiveMeSport, journalist Ben Jacobs said: "Midfield is not as high on their list of priorities as a centre-back and wide player. But, I don’t think we can entirely rule it out and Liverpool really like Joao Gomes as well, so that could be one to watch in the coming months. But for now, midfield is not the priority."

Gleison Bremer: Arne Slot's side are reportedly in a four-way battle for Juventus defender Gleison Bremer. The centre-back is not on sale in Turin, but Italian media have suggested that a bid in the region of £60m could force Juve to do business.

Joao Neves: Portuguese reports have claimed that Liverpool could steal Benfica's Joao Neves from under the noses of rivals Manchester United. He could cost a cool £85m, although if Benfica have their way and increase his release clause with a new contract, they could well be looking at a nine-figure sum.

Anthony Gordon: Despite rumours of Liverpool's interest in Gordon cooling in recent weeks, it appears the Reds have not given up on bringing the former Everton star to Anfield this summer.

Their previous move reportedly broke down over their reluctance to allow Jarell Quansah to move to Tyneside, though more recent reports earlier this week have claimed that a fresh bid is in the offing, suggesting this could yet turn into a transfer saga.

Lutsharel Geertruida: Arne Slot could make his first foray into poaching his former players by sealing a deal for Lutsharel Geertruida this summer. Reports in the past week claimed that the Dutchman has been contacted by the club ahead of a potential move, with his agents engaging in talks with Liverpool.

Leny Yoro: Liverpool remain in the hunt for the in-demand Leny Yoro, though may now have to act fast after Manchester United reportedly had a bid accepted for the teenager.

Reports had previously stated that the Reds were prepared to offer €60m (£51m), though they may now have to compete with United and the player's preferred destination – Real Madrid – in order to complete a deal.

Jeremie Frimpong: United are also set to battle Liverpool for Jeremie Frimpong, a compatriot of both bosses of the Premier League heavyweights. Last week, German media reported that Slot had personally spoken to Frimpong over a potential switch this summer, though the level of interest in the Bayer Leverkusen ace could complicate things – not to mention a relatively cheap €40m (£34m) release fee.

Adrien Rabiot: Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot looks set for a new club, having failed to sign an extension in northern Italy. Liverpool are among those interested in his services, with the Reds thought to have already made moves to bring the Frenchman to Anfield – though so have Newcastle United.

Transfers out

Alisson: The Reds' No 1 is a key target for Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Nassr, with Cristiano Ronaldo's side aiming to test Liverpool's resolve as they look to seal a deal very soon. This comes despite their interest in Manchester City's Ederson, with Alisson believed to be their preferred target.

Nat Phillips: Liverpool are holding firm on their £8m asking price for Nat Phillips, recently rejecting a bid from Turkey worth £4m. Trabzonspor wanted to bring the centre-back to the Super Lig, but with plenty of interest in the 27-year-old elsewhere, the Reds feel they can double their money.

Latest Liverpool transfers 2024/25

Arne Slot is yet to make his first signing as Liverpool boss, though the club have already started saying goodbye to players whose contracts expired this summer. In terms of first-team players, they include defender Joel Matip and Spaniard Thiago Alcantara, with the latter recently announcing his retirement.

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Calvin Ramsay (Wigan)

Loan

Joel Matip (Released)

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Thiago (Retired)

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