Newcastle Plot Next Move For £35m "Livewire"

Newcastle United have been strongly linked with a move for Harvey Barnes this summer and now a new update has emerged from a reliable source on the club's pursuit of the player.

What's the latest on Newcastle's interest in Harvey Barnes?

According to Italian journalist and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle are "planning" their move for the Leicester City winger.

Romano revealed on Twitter:

"Newcastle are planning to advance on Harvey Barnes deal next week. Talks are already underway but negotiations will continue in the next days to get it done.

"Barnes already accepted Newcastle as destination, deal depends on clubs and #NUFC outgoings."

How good is Harvey Barnes?

Eddie Howe will be thrilled with the rapid progress his current squad at St James' Park have made over the last 18 months and the club's long-awaited return to the Champions League next season presents a brand-new chapter and challenge for the manager.

Whilst it is likely that most of the first team will remain at the club for the upcoming campaign and opportunities will be sought to bring in Champions League experienced players, Howe will want to continue to make his mark on the team when it comes to identifying players who suit his philosophy.

The former Bournemouth boss is renowned for his eye for English talent and developing them into valuable assets, with Joe Willock the latest homegrown prodigy to thrive under Howe's guidance.

The former Arsenal ace has played an integral part in Newcastle's success since his arrival, delivering six assists, three goals and a whopping 12 big chances over his 35 league appearances last season, with only right-back Kieran Trippier tallying up more assists (7) than his young compatriot.

Newcastle midfielder Joe Willock.

As a result, Howe could now repeat his Willock masterclass by snapping up the services of Barnes this summer, another English talent who could reach his full potential on Tyneside next season.

Only Callum Wilson scored more goals (18) in all competitions last season, with Barnes hitting the back of the net 13 times for the Foxes, proving that despite Leicester's plight, the 25-year-old has been a consistent and reliable performer in the final third.

Beyond his goal-scoring escapades in the Premier League, there is definitely room for improvement in Barnes' game with the winger – hailed a "livewire" by pundit Alan Hutton – ranking in the bottom 25% of his positional peers across the top five European leagues for pass completion, shot-creating actions, progressive passes and successful take-ons, as per FBref.

This demonstrates a struggle to keep hold of the ball and play killer passes into the box, something that Howe will likely look to improve should Barnes make the move to the North East this summer and whilst it comes with the risk that the forward may not be able to prove those key attributes, his goal threat is undeniable and would likely be valuable in rotation with his position competitors.

With that being said, the signing of Barnes – who has a £35m price tag – would be a great piece of business for Newcastle if they are looking to boost their goal contributions, but his arrival at St James' will likely require patience as he develops to the playing style and quality around him in the squad.

Aston Villa could sign £50m "demon" in audacious swoop

Aston Villa are reportedly interested in Bayer Leverkusen gem Moussa Diaby, as Unai Emery and Monchi get to work this transfer window.

The Spanish duo is due to have a busy summer as they bid to get the squad up to par to compete in the Premier League and Europe next season.

Monchi could provide his second masterclass in signing Diaby, with Pau Torres set to become the first big signing of his reign.

Could Aston Villa sign Moussa Diaby?

As reported by the Daily Mail earlier this week, Villa were named as one of the clubs interested in the Bayer Leverkusen winger.

The report claimed that the Villans had joined the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle in the race for the 24-year-old.

Contracted to the German club until 2025, Leverkusen would expect an offer in the region of £50m for the Frenchman.

Where could Moussa Diaby play at Aston Villa?

Making a name for himself in Paris Saint Germain’s academy, the Paris-born gem has sparkled in Germany, cementing himself as a favourite in Leverkusen.

In 172 total appearances for the Bundesliga side, the 24-year-old has contributed to 97 goals, scoring 49 and assisting 48 from the wing, seeing him described as “electrifying” by journalist Aaron Stokes.

With the ability to play on either side of the pitch, Diaby has proved to be a constant threat from the flanks, as highlighted by his 24 goal contributions in all competitions last season.

While many know of the wide players’ talents, not many are aware of his expertise on the level of former teammate Leon Bailey, who caused havoc playing alongside the Frenchman at Leverkusen.

The once frightening duo could be an incentive for Emery to hire Diaby, with the possibility that he could uncover the Jamaican’s form prior to his move to the Premier League along with the potential addition.

moussa-diaby-leon-bailey-bayer-leverkusen

Across 119 Bundesliga appearances, Bailey contributed to 49 goals, scoring 28 and assisting 21 to highlight the threat he can pose on the flanks.

His skills have not yet been transferred to Villa Park, with him scoring just five Premier League goals in 51 appearances so far for the Villans.

Hailed as having “deadly wings” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, Leverkusen were once spoiled by the riches of Bailey and Diaby, who as highlighted by the scout contributed collectively to 51 goals in 2020/21.

Emery could reignite where the duo left off, bringing a once-threatening combination back to life in the Midlands in the bid to improve the form of their winger as well as the overall form of the club.

Averaging 1.70 successful take-ons and 4.17 progressive carries per 90 in the Bundesliga last season, Diaby could be the perfect outlet on the flank to liven up the play in the wide areas at Villa Park.

The French "demon" – as lauded by The Athletic's Alex Barker – is also a strong figure in his playmaking efforts, averaging 1.93 key passes per 90, being a prominent presence in the final third for those around him.

Monchi could deliver Emery a masterclass in giving the Spaniard a chance at re-coupling the two wingers, in the hope to re-spark the chemistry once loved in Germany.

Aston Villa: £20.6m Wilfried Gnonto Update

Aston Villa are still keen on signing Leeds United youngster Wilfried Gnonto this summer, but Everton appear to be ahead of them in the race.

What's the latest Aston Villa transfer news?

The Villans had such an enjoyable second-half of last season, excelling with Unai Emery at the helm and eventually finishing seventh in the Premier League, qualifying for the UEFA Europa Conference League in the process. It was a run of form that few saw coming, but they are now in a position where they can improve even further this summer.

Youri Tielemans and Pau Torres have already completed exciting-looking moves to Villa Park, which has the potential to make Emery's team more formidable, but it would be a big surprise if their spending stopped there.

Another player who has been linked with a summer move to the club is Gnonto, who caught the eye for Leeds last term, standing out as a rare spark in an otherwise confidence-sapping campaign for the Whites. The young Italian scored twice and got four assists in the league, and was arguably one of the few players at Elland Road who looked like providing some attacking magic during games.

Now, a new update has emerged regarding the 19-year-old's future, with Villa still in the mix to sign him, but certainly not having things their own way.

Who is signing Wilfried Gnonto?

According to Sport Mediaset [via Sport Witness], Gnonto has the option to join either Villa or Everton this summer, with an exit from Leeds expected due to their relegation to the Championship.

It is stated that the Villans will have to "exceed" the Blues' bid for the winger, however, if they want to have a chance of pipping them to his signature, which is €18m plus €6m in bonuses (£20.6m total). NSWE have made contact with the player and talks could possibly intensify in the coming days.

While Gnonto may not be a guaranteed starter for Villa next season, unlike immediate key men in Tielemans and Torres, he could still be a fantastic signing who is viewed as a long-term addition with a high ceiling.

The Leeds ace has won 12 caps for Italy, despite not yet turning 20 – Leeds coach Michael Skubala has also described him as "special" – and he did enough in a struggling team last term to show what he is capable of in wide areas, combining quick feet, blistering pace and end product that will only improve with age.

With all due respect to Everton, they could again find themselves in a relegation battle for a third year in a row, whereas Villa really do look like they are going places under Emery, making strong signings, having plenty of money to spend and looking to even push for a top-six finish in the Premier League in 2023/24.

They are the more exciting proposition, but the one potential issue is that the Merseysiders could promise him more regular football from the off, which could appeal to Gnonto at this stage in his career, rather than warming the substitutes' bench and having to accept Emery's rotation across four competitions.

Arsenal: Sky Sports Drop Exciting On Air Transfer Update

Arsenal could make another midfield signing this summer despite having spent north of £200 million, according to Sky Sports and presenter Tom White.

What's the latest Arsenal transfer news?

Manager Mikel Arteta has been well and truly backed over what has been one of the most exciting Arsenal transfer windows in recent memory.

Indeed, the Gunners first signed versatile winger Kai Havertz in a £65 million deal from Chelsea, with the club then making a record-breaking move for England international star Declan Rice.

Arsenal agreed a £105 million deal for Rice, including £5 million in add-ons, which comes as their largest ever transfer as the 24-year-old also becomes the most expensive English player in history.

"Declan is a player with fantastic ability and a proven record at both club and international levels," said Arsenal sporting director Edu after his arrival.

“Declan is a high-quality, young international player who will add great strength to our squad, fitting so well into our strategy of competing with young talented players at the centre of our club."

Netherlands defender Jurrien Timber put pen to paper on a transfer around the same period as Rice, a deal which set Arsenal back £38 million.

Edu has done very well to capture Arteta's top targets, but due to finances, the focus will now be on outgoings before bringing in more fresh faces.

That being said, Sky Sports and presenter White have been told not to rule out further additions, especially in midfield, though it will depend on who Arsenal can sell.

mikel-arteta

"We do have an update from Arsenal actually," said White on Sky.

"We’re told that the focus at Arsenal remains on departures for now. That’s following the club’s £200 million outlay on Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber.

“In terms of outgoings, Inter continue to push for a deal for the striker Folarin Balogun. One source claims they will make a formal bid in the coming days.

“But it’s not just Inter Milan who are interested in him because it’s AC Milan, Monaco and Marseille. He was brilliant in France last season and Arsenal are valuing him at £50 million.

“As for arrivals, Mikel Arteta hasn’t ruled out more signings but it will depend on departures.

“A right-sided forward is one of the positions Arsenal have wanted to strengthen for a while and we’re told not to rule out another midfielder if there is a departure.”

Who could join Arsenal?

Belgium international Romeo Lavia, who is a rumoured midfield target for the north Londoners, comes as quite the enticing option.

Having just been relegated with Southampton, there is reason to believe the 19-year-old could move on for an affordable summer fee, and he could well be worth the effort to sign.

Called a "shining star" on the south coast last season, Lavia stood out as one of Southampton's best-performing players by average match rating also (WhoScored).

Man City boss Pep Guardiola also praised Lavia for his development last season, whilst hinting many at City still rate the teenager.

“I am really impressed with what Romeo has done and is doing,” declared the City boss.

“We had, and we have, an incredible opinion about him. We thought to keep him, but maybe he would not (get) enough minutes like he has in Southampton."

Everton Eyeing Abraham 2.0 In £15m ‘Phenomenon’

Everton will need to further supplement their attacking ranks this summer to hit the ground running this season, with Sean Dyche setting his sights on Southampton striker Che Adams.

Who are Everton signing this summer?

According to multiple sources – including BBC Sport – the Toffees are closing on a deal for Sporting Lisbon striker Youssef Chermiti, aged 19, who broke into first-team contention last term.

Ashley Young has already been signed on a free transfer while Arnaut Danjuma arrives on a one-year loan transfer, but a recognised and established centre-forward would also be well-received as Everton strive to avoid another season mired in relegation troubles.

Read the latest Everton transfer news HERE…

And so, Adams – who was relegated with Saints last season – is also being considered for transfer, with Football Insider revealing the Merseyside outfit have a genuine interest in the Scotland international, with Premier League rivals Bournemouth and Wolverhampton Wanderers also in pursuit.

Should Everton sign Che Adams?

Adams penned a deal with the south coast club for £15m from Birmingham City in 2019, and has scored 31 goals and supplied 15 assists from 145 outings across all competitions.

Once quirkily likened to "the ketchup bottle phenomenon" by former manager Ralph Hasenhuttl for maintaining his hunger for goals despite a concerning goal drought, Adams is the tenacious and multi-skilled striker Everton could benefit from.

He suffered an injury-disrupted campaign as Southampton fell into the second tier, but still plundered five goals and three assists from 23 starts, as per Sofascore, forging 1.7 shots and 0.9 key passes per match.

To compare this to Dyche's attacking options last term, Maupay scored once, averaging 1.2 shots and 0.3 key passes per match, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin only scored twice as he fought his own fight against injury, though did average 1.8 shots and 0.5 key passes per outing.

AS Roma'sTammyAbrahamduring the warm up before the match.

As per FBref, Adams is interestingly considered the most comparable player to Roma striker Tammy Abraham, and given the former Chelsea ace's dynamism and variety in attacking approach, Dyche could certainly benefit from adding a similar player to the ranks.

Abraham was once described as "incredible" by former manager Frank Lampard, and has impressed during his time in Italy, scoring 36 goals and supplying 12 assists from 107 appearances, winning the Conference League in the 21/22 campaign.

The 11-cap England international averaged 1.6 shots and 0.9 key passes per game last season and as such boasts a similar profile to Adams, which would only play in Everton's favour.

There is a cautious optimism that Calvert-Lewin will play a major role in the forthcoming campaign, and has been partaking in a new summer fitness regime to build his resilience.

The 6 foot 2 focal point will be the team's main goal-grabber if he can indeed put his medical issues behind him, and Adams could prove to be the perfect partner, offering a more dynamic, multi-faceted threat.

Abrahams once claimed that Jose Mourinho's tutelage in Rome was turning him into a "monster", and perhaps Dyche can play to Adams' strengths to a similar effect.

Man United could "accelerate" transfer move for 6ft 3 exciting player

Manchester United are 'expected to accelerate' their attempts to sign young goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, according to Dharmesh Sheth.

The Japanese shot-stopper will only be signed once Dean Henderson's future is resolved, however.

Who is Zion Suzuki?

Suzuki is a 20-year-old goalkeeper who currently plies his trade for Japanese J-League side Urawa Red Diamonds.

The United States-born player has been with the club for the entirety of his senior career and has made 28 appearances for the first-team squad since his debut in March 2021. However, he has struggled for game time this season compared to previous seasons, managing just five appearances in the J-League Cup and zero appearances in the league so far this campaign.

The goalkeeper is also a fully capped Japanese international, making his national team debut in a 6-0 win against Hong Kong in 2022.

Japan goalkeeper Zion Suzuki.

Suzuki, who stands at 6'3, is thought of very highly at his club, with current coach Maciej Skorza stating in an interview: "The Reds have four very interesting goalkeepers. Among them, Shusaku [Nishikawa] and Zion [Suzuki] are of a very high level, I think Zion is taller than Shusaku, and I think he’s a young player with a lot of future potential."

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Sheth revealed that Suzuki is someone that manager Erik ten Hag is considering, and that any potential transfer deal should "accelerate" when the situation around Henderson's future is more clear: "Of course, Andre Onana will be the number one, he’s been the one that Erik ten Hag has chased the whole summer and potentially Zion Suzuki as well. So, I’d expect that to probably accelerate a little bit more once there’s a degree of certainty on Dean Henderson’s future.”

Read the latest Man United transfer news HERE…

Will Zion Suzuki join Manchester United?

It is clear to see why Manchester United are interested in Suzuki.

Reports state that he first caught the clubs eye during the U17 World Cup back in 2017, with the Red Devils now preparing an offer to bring in the Japanese goalkeeper after "witnessing his growth against the Dutch national team" where he had a strong performance in a U21 international clash. The Japanese shot-stopper has also drawn comparisons to United's new signing Andre Onana due to their similar styles of play and attributes, especially how both of them are extremely comfortable playing out from the back with their feet. Bringing in Suzuki would represent a commitment to a more traditional Erik ten Hag style of football, with both goalkeepers being involved in the build-up play in comparison to David De Gea last campaign, who was routinely criticized for his poor distribution.

andre-onana-chelsea-transfer-pochettino-gossip-inter-milan-edouard-mendy-kepa

The move may not happen, however, with reports stating that the youngster has turned down the move, as he believes he needs regular first-team football ahead of the upcoming Olympic Games if he is going to be Japan's first-choice keeper, which is not going to be available at Old Trafford. The report also states that due to Suzuki's unwillingness to make the move, the club may shift their focus on signing Fenerbahce goalkeeper Altay Bayindir to provide competition for Onana next season.

Rangers Now Plotting Move For "Sensational" 25 y/o Maestro

Rangers are now plotting a move for Queens Park Rangers midfielder Sam Field, with Michael Beale plotting to replace two first-team players with the 25 year-old, according to a report from Football Insider.

Who are Rangers signing this summer?

The Gers have seemingly done most of their summer transfer business, having significantly strengthened the spine of the team by bringing in the likes of Kieran Dowell, Leon Balogun and Jose Cifuentes, however they could still be in the market for a couple more players.

With Fashion Sakala recently leaving to join Saudi Arabian side Al-Fahya for an undisclosed fee, there could be space in the squad for a new striker, although Beale believes his squad are "healthy in numbers" in forward areas.

The Light Blues boss is in no rush to re-invest the money raised from selling Sakala by signing a forward but he could be set to make a move for a new midfielder, with Football Insider now reporting that he is interested in signing Field.

Read The Latest Rangers Transfer News HERE

Beale is said to be a big fan of the QPR midfielder, having spent time working with him during his stint at Loftus Road, and Rangers are now plotting a move to sign him, registering their interest in bringing him to Ibrox.

There may be competition for the 25-year-old's signature, however, with Premier League side Burnley also ready to test QPR's resolve to keep him, as he enters the final year of his contract with the Championship side.

With experienced duo Scott Arfield and Steven Davis departing following the expiration of their contracts this summer, Beale could be keen to add another midfielder to his ranks, and a move for the Englishman may now be on the cards.

How good is Sam Field?

The former West Bromwich Albion was one of QPR's best-performing players in the Championship last season, averaging a Sofascore match rating of 6.98, which placed him second in the squad.

Although it was a poor season for the Rs, only just managing to avoid relegation to League One, the central midfielder impressed on a personal level, particularly in a defensive sense.

Over the past year, the 5 foot 11 maestro ranks in the 98th percentile for blocks and clearances per 90, when compared to his positional peers playing at a similar level, while also placing in the 93rd percentile for interceptions, and the 92nd for aerials won.

Sam Field and Gareth Ainsworth embrace

QPR boss Gareth Ainsworth was clearly impressed by the Stourbridge-born midfielder, lauding him as "sensational" back in April, with football writer Ian McCullough previously describing him as "absolutely superb."

With Beale pointing out that he is well-stocked in attacking areas of the pitch, it could be worth re-investing the money raised from selling Sakala on a new midfielder, and the QPR star could be available for a reduced fee, with his contract expiring next summer.

Field's performances in the Championship indicate he could make a real impact for Rangers in their pursuit of the Scottish Premiership title, and he could be a quality addition to the squad.

Celtic: Rodgers Lining Up Swoop To Sign 5 ft 4 Premier League Whiz

An update has emerged on Celtic and their plans to bolster the playing squad before the end of the summer transfer window…

What's the latest Celtic transfer news?

According to the Northern Echo, Brendan Rodgers is lining up a swoop to sign Newcastle United outcast Ryan Fraser before next month's deadline.

The report claims that the Northern Irish tactician would like to bring in another wide option and has identified the Scotland international as an ideal target.

It states that the former Bournemouth man is currently training with the development squad as he is not a part of Eddie Howe's plans and that it would not take a 'significant' fee to secure his services this summer, although it remains to be seen whether the Hoops are interested in a loan or permanent deal.

How good is Ryan Fraser?

The 29-year-old attacker would be a risky signing as his form for Newcastle has been less than impressive in recent seasons but Rodgers could unearth a terrific player to partner Kyogo Furuhashi if he is able to get the Scotsman back to his best.

Fraser moved to St. James' Park from Bournemouth in 2020 and has only produced three goals and six assists in 59 competitive appearances to date. This means that he has been directly involved in a goal every 6.56 matches on average throughout his time on Tyneside.

However, the Scotland international previously displayed his outstanding creative ability in the Premier League for the Cherries before his move up north.

During the 2018/19 top-flight campaign, Fraser racked up an incredible seven goals and 14 assists in 35 starts. He created a phenomenal 28 'big chances' and made 2.4 key passes per game for his teammates as the 5 foot 4 whiz consistently unlocked opposition defences to carve out terrific opportunities for others to score.

Celtic forward Kyogo Furuhashi.

If Rodgers can get him anywhere near those levels in Scotland then he would be a dream partner for Kyogo at the top end of the pitch as the Japan international would be provided with even more chances to improve his goal output.

The 28-year-old marksman scored 27 times in 31 Scottish Premiership starts last season – 16 more than anyone else within the squad – and has managed two goals in two outings this term.

This is despite Matt O'Riley leading the way with 2.1 key passes per game and 16 'big chances' created from a central midfield position during the 2022/23 league campaign.

These statistics suggest that Fraser has the potential to be the outstanding creative presence for Celtic in the final third if a move to Scotland can revive his career, which could be the case when you consider that his current division ranks eight places higher on the UEFA club coefficient – suggesting that it would be a significant step down in quality.

The exciting wide man, who was once described as "electric" by journalist Sean McCormick, could thrive and reignite his spark out wide with a switch to Scottish football, although there is no guarantee that he will be able to and that is why this would be a gamble by the Hoops.

This could then allow Kyogo to build on his already impressive return in front of goal as Fraser's prior form for Bournemouth suggests that he has the potential to create far more 'big chances' than any of Celtic's current creators.

Liverpool Submit £26m Bid For "High-Quality" Maestro

Liverpool have submitted a bid of €30m (£26m) for Fluminense midfielder Andre, and they have now received a response from the Brazilian club, according to a report from ESPN.

What's the latest Liverpool transfer news?

The Reds have been linked with a late summer move for Manchester City's Kalvin Phillips, and The Express report Pep Guardiola has already given the green light for the midfielder to leave this summer, which means a move to Anfield could be on the cards.

However, more progress has been made in the pursuit of Ryan Gravenberch, with Liverpool already tabling a contract offer to the Bayern Munich midfielder, who they will be one of the favourites to sign if he makes it clear he wants to leave the German club.

According to Rudy Galetti, there is a quartet of targets on Jurgen Klopp's shortlist, with the journalist recently telling GiveMeSport: “Despite the surprising arrival at Liverpool of Endo, the names followed by the Reds remain substantially the same, including Gravenberch, Kone, Thuram and Amrabat."

There are a plethora of options for Liverpool as we approach the final week of the transfer window, and they have now made a bid of €30m (£26m) for Fluminense midfielder Andre, but they have seen their approach knocked back by the Brazilian club.

According to ESPN, Fluminense have no interest in selling the midfielder before the end of their season, and they would not allow the player to leave, even if the Merseyside club were to submit an increased offer.

The 22-year-old is a key player for manager Fernando Diniz, having played 40 games this season, so the club are reluctant to sanction his departure, which may put an end to the Reds' interest.

Klopp's side are not expected to make an offer for the Brazilian in 2024, and they will now run the rule over other potential candidates to strengthen their midfield.

Read The Latest Liverpool Transfer News HERE

How good is Andre?

Having emerged as a key player for Fluminense, the defensive midfielder has earned his first call-up to his national side, being capped for Brazil in a friendly against Senegal back in June.

As such, it is clear the Fluminense star is thought of in very high regard internationally, and it is no surprise that Klopp was keen on signing him, considering his exceptional passing and dribbling ability.

Fluminense midfielder Andre.

Liverpool are set to miss out on the "high-quality roaming playmaker", but they still have a number of options available, some of which are already proven at Premier League level, including Phillips, who could be a fantastic alternative to Andre.

Although he is five years older than the Brazil international, at 27, the Man City ace already has 61 Premier League appearances under his belt, which means he would be a low-risk option, particularly if he is available on loan, as has been suggested.

It is disappointing that Liverpool have seen their bid for Andre knocked back, but it would be unwise to submit a higher offer for a player unproven outside of Brazil, particularly considering Fluminense have no plans to let him leave.

Celtic: Rodgers In Talks To Sign £3.5m Jota Replacement At Parkhead

A big update has emerged on Celtic and their attempts to bolster Brendan Rodgers' playing squad before the end of the summer transfer window…

What's the latest Celtic transfer news?

According to Football Insider, the Hoops are looking to add up to five new signings to the group before the deadline passes next Friday; including a winger, a goalkeeper, a left-back, striker, and a centre-back.

The report also claims that the Scottish giants are in talks with Greek outfit Aris FC over a deal to sign Honduras international Luis Palma to improve their options out wide.

It states that the Bhoys have already submitted a £3.5m offer to secure his services and it now remains to be seen whether or not that will be enough to land their man over the coming days.

How good is Luis Palma?

Rodgers could finally replace Jota, who joined Al-Ittihad earlier this summer, by securing a deal to sign the Aris star due to his ability to offer a regular goal threat from out wide.

The 23-year-old whiz enjoyed a terrific 2022/23 campaign in the Greek top-flight and proved himself to be a reliable scoring option with 11 strikes in 20 starts.

Palma, who averaged a Sofascore rating of 7.12 over the course of the season, only missed one 'big chance' in front of goal and this shows that he was clinical when provided with opportunities to score.

Honduras international Luis Palma.

Jota, on the other hand, scored 11 goals in 26 Scottish Premiership starts and spurned four 'big chances' for Celtic last term, which suggests that the Aris magician was more efficient with his finishing in comparison to the Portuguese hotshot.

Only Kyogo Furuhashi (27) scored more league goals for the Hoops than Jota during the 2022/23 campaign and this suggests that Palma has the potential to be an outstanding goalscoring option for Rodgers alongside the Japan international if he is able to translate his form in Greece over to Scotland.

The Honduras international has also showcased his ability as a creator during the current season.

He produced one assist and four key passes during the first league game of the term earlier this month and racked up an eye-catching two goals and two assists in four Europa Conference League qualifiers.

This means that Palma has assisted three goals in five outings for Aris so far, which is one every 1.67 clashes on average.

Whereas, Jota provided 11 assists in 33 Premiership games during the 2022/23 campaign, which is an assist every three matches on average.

There is no guarantee that the 23-year-old ace will be able to maintain that level of creativity over the course of the year, however, as he only assisted four league goals last season but it does show that the potential is there for him to kick on and become a consistent creative threat to go along with his scoring ability.

Therefore, Palma, who was hailed for his “brilliant” goal contributions by agent Paulo Hernandez, could develop into being the perfect replacement for Jota as a winger who can score and assist goals at an impressive rate, which would make him a potential match-winner for Rodgers week-in-week-out.

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