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Xavi Simons is a player who has arrived at the club with huge expectations after the Tottenham Hotspur hierarchy forked out £52m for his signature this summer.

The Dutch international is seen as a huge talent for the immediate and long-term future in North London as the Lilywhites look to reach the next level under Thomas Frank.

Their Europa League triumph last campaign no doubt aided their chances of landing the 22-year-old, who was firmly on Chelsea’s radar before his big-money transfer.

Supporters will no doubt be hoping he can help catapult the club up the Premier League table in 2025/26, after registering a measly 15th-place finish under Ange Postecoglou.

Frank has no reason to be unhappy with the board, especially after their investment during the off-season, hopefully replicating the success of one player from their local rivals.

The suffering Martin Odegaard has inflicted on Spurs

Martin Odegaard, who currently plies his trade for local rivals Arsenal, has been a player who has constantly impressed against Spurs – often causing the fanbase numerous moments of torment.

In his eight outings against the Lilywhites, the Norwegian international has been on the winning side on six separate occasions – subsequently achieving a 75% win rate.

He’s also scored twice and registered an assist, subsequently having a bearing on the result in 50% of the triumphs for Mikel Arteta’s side in the North London Derby.

There’s no denying that the supporters of Spurs will wish that they could have their own version of the star within the side, especially given the suffering he’s placed upon them in recent years.

The summer addition of Simons could certainly help Frank’s hopes of landing a top-level attacking midfielder, but it’s likely that he will need time to bed in to life in England.

However, the hierarchy may have made a mistake in allowing one other former player to depart the club, given his impressive form since moving away from the Lilywhites.

The former Spurs star who could’ve been their own Odegaard

Over recent seasons, Spurs have spent hefty sums on attacking talent to try and bolster the options in the final third – but not all of their investments have paid off.

Bryan Gil cost a fee in the region of £25m back in the summer of 2021, with real expectations that he could provide needed quality off the left-hand side, along with Heung-min Son.

However, the Spaniard only made 43 senior appearances for the Lilywhites, failing to score a single goal and subsequently returning to his homeland and rejoining his former side, Girona.

The 24-year-old wasn’t the only promising talent to join Spurs from LaLiga, with attacking midfielder Giovani Lo Celso moving in a £27m transfer back in January 2020.

Lo Celso racked up 90 appearances over a three-year spell in North London – scoring a crucial goal against Manchester City a couple of years ago, which helped the side claim one of their famous results against Pep Guardiola’s men.

Whilst he racked up 10 goals for the club, it wasn’t enough to keep him in the first-team plans of Postecoglou, resulting in the Argentine making an £8m transfer back to Real Betis in the summer of 2024.

However, since his move back to Spain, the 29-year-old has once again recaptured his best form, leading to FBref labelling him as a similar player to Arsenal star, Odegaard.

When comparing their respective stats from the 2024/25 campaign, Lo Celso massively outperformed the Gunners captain in key areas – highlighting the mistake made in allowing him to depart last summer.

The former PSG star, who’s been labelled “incredible” by journalist Noah Trister, posted a higher goal and assist rate per 90, along with a better shot on target accuracy rate – showcasing the clinical edge he possesses in front of goal.

He also registered more key passes per 90 (2.7) and more passes into the final third per 90 (5.5), subsequently having the creative nature the hierarchy were frantically searching for all summer.

Lo Celso’s dominance over Odegaard is further demonstrated by his higher tallies of crosses per 90 and take-ons completed – numbers which make him a more all-round talent when in possession and breaking the lines.

The decision to offload the 29-year-old for just £8m now appears to be one that the club will love to regret, especially given his remarkable form for Betis over the last few months.

Simons desperately needs to live up to his mammoth price tag in the near future, with the Lilywhites board potentially allowing their answer to Odegaard slip through their fingers for a minimal fee.

It's not Kudus: Spurs sensation could become their best forward since Kane

Tottenham Hotspur may have hit the jackpot on one talent who could emulate Harry Kane’s success.

By
Ethan Lamb

Sep 18, 2025

América striker Henry Martín has overcome the knee sprain that has kept him sidelined since Matchday 8 against Chivas. But while he has returned to light training, he is still not fully recovered or match-fit – and therefore will not be included in the squad for Saturday’s clash with Cruz Azul. The Águilas will look to stay near the top of the Liga MX table.

• Getty Images Sport
  

  Martin's return is getting closer

  Henry Martín has endured the toughest year of his professional career – and one of his worst semesters – having played only six matches so far: three in the Apertura 2025 and three in the Leagues Cup, without scoring a single goal.

  The América captain was seen training on the field this week, a positive sign in his recovery process. But he will still not be part of André Jardine’s squad for Saturday’s match against Cruz Azul at Estadio Olímpico Universitario.

Advertisement

• Getty Images Sport
  

  When could Martín make his comeback?

  After facing Cruz Azul, América will enter a busy week with a midweek fixture at home against Puebla next Tuesday – the tentative date for Henry’s possible return. However, the final decision will be made on Monday. If he is not yet ready, the club plans to hold him out until Friday, when the Águilas visit Mazatlán.

• AFP
  

  América’s absences for the Clásico Joven

  For the Clásico Joven, América will be without Martín, José Raúl Zúñiga, Isaías Violante and Dagoberto Espinoza, while Alejandro Zendejas remains doubtful. 

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• Getty Images Sport
  

  Who’s available for André Jardine’s squad?

  Álvaro Fidalgo, Allan Saint-Maximin and Sebastián Cáceres have all recovered after missing or being subbed off in the last match against Santos. Jonathan Dos Santos is also ready to go.

  Meanwhile, Luis Ángel Malagón, Kevin Álvarez, Israel Reyes, Ramón Juárez, Alexis Gutiérrez, and Érick Sánchez are expected to be available after returning from international duty with the Mexican national team.

Russell Martin’s first game as Rangers manager is just a month away, with a Champions League qualifier scheduled against Panathinaikos.

The Gers will take on the Greek side in a two-legged tie towards the end of July, so new owners the 49ers Enterprises don’t have long to act in the transfer market.

Many will be intrigued to see how Martin sets his Rangers side up as they look to win just their second Scottish Premiership title in 12 years in 2025/26.

£6m star returns to Ibrox: AI predicts who Rangers will sign this summer

It could be a busy few months for the 49ers.

By
Charlie Smith

Jun 14, 2025

Grok, X’s AI tool, has already predicted some Rangers signings this summer, and they have now forecasted the starting line-up at Ibrox for 25/26, with a few surprises in store.

AI predicts Rangers’ 2025/26 starting line-up

GK: Liam Kelly

Described as a ‘dependable option’, Liam Kelly has been backed to start in goal for Rangers, with Jack Butland’s future seemingly up in the air.

They say ‘Kelly’s experience makes him a solid choice’, despite the 29-year-old only making 13 appearances in all competitions last season.

RB: James Tavernier

Club captain James Tavernier is regularly linked with a Rangers exit but Grok believes he is ‘likely to stay for another season unless a significant offer arrives’.

AI adds that Tavernier ‘remains a key figure despite speculation about his exit’ and believes he could add to his 513 Gers appearances.

CB: Aaron Donnelly

Interestingly, Dundee centre-back Aaron Donnelly has been predicted to make the move to Ibrox, despite being a diehard Celtic supporter.

The 22-year-old made the move to Scotland from Nottingham Forest at the beginning of 2025 and actually scored against the Hoops in a 3-3 draw. There haven’t been concrete rumours over a transfer for Donnelly, so this would be a surprise.

CB: Robin Propper

Robin Propper has been heavily linked with a return to the Netherlands with FC Twente, however, a transfer has seemingly stalled, and he has been predicted to start under Martin.

The central defender made 43 appearances in all competitions during his first season at Ibrox and was even named as captain on one occasion.

LB: Ridvan Yilmaz

There has been a lot of talk about the future of Ridvan Yilmaz and a potential Rangers exit, however, the Turkey international is still on the books at Ibrox and has two years remaining on his contract.

Grok says that should he depart, Jefte would come in, but have backed Yilmaz to start for now.

CM: Connor Barron

After making 46 appearances in his first season as a Rangers player, Connor Barron has been backed to keep his place in the side under Martin, despite the arrival of Lyall Cameron.

A defensive midfielder, Barron is described as a ‘long-term asset and a guaranteed starter in the double pivot, aligning with the club’s youth focus’.

CM: Nicolas Raskin

Next to Barron is Nicolas Raskin, who has been linked with a big £25m exit from Rangers this summer.

It would be a big boost if the Belgium international remained in Glasgow, and his ‘tenacity and work rate make him a mainstay in midfield’ according to Grok.

RM: Nedim Bajrami

Nedim Bajrami was used mainly as an attacking midfielder or on the left during his first season at Rangers, however, he has been predicted to move over to the right in 25/26.

The Albania international is ‘expected to develop further’ and Grok adds Bajrami’s ‘versatility and creativity on the right wing add flair’.

AM: Mohamed Diomande

Another versatile midfielder, Mohamed Diomande played as a defensive, central and attacking midfielder last season.

He has been described as a ‘cornerstone of the midfield’ and is predicted to turn out in a more advanced role under Martin.

LM: Kwame Poku

The second new signing predicted to make the starting XI under Martin is Kwame Poku. Set to leave Peterborough United on a free transfer this summer, Rangers have been backed to win the race for the Ghana international.

A left-footed winger, Grok is predicting Poku to bring ‘pace and directness to the left flank’ at Ibrox.

ST: Hamza Igamane

Finishing off the side is Hamza Igamane, who like Raskin, is also becoming a man in demand. Should he stay, though, could be a guaranteed starter in the final third.

Last season’s Scottish Premiership top scorer, Cyriel Dessers, could leave Rangers this summer, meaning ‘Igamane is poised to lead the line at 22’.

Sunderland now look set to sell an “excellent” player on the cheap in the summer transfer window, following a significant new update.

Sunderland prepare for Premier League amid Bellingham uncertainty

The Black Cats are preparing for life back in the Premier League, and while focus has been on new signings, trying to persuade Jobe Bellingham to stay put has also been at the top of their list of priorities.

The 19-year-old has been weighing up his future in recent weeks, with Sunderland no doubt hoping he will decide to stay on after Regis Le Bris’ side’s memorable playoff wins over Coventry and Sheffield United.

Despite this, it has always felt as though the teenage midfielder is still more likely move on, though, with the Borussia Dortmund seen as the likely destination.

Fabrizio Romano has often reported that Sunderland won’t allow him to leave for less than his £34m release clause, but now a new update has emerged regarding his future.

Bellingham set to leave on the cheap

According to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie, Bellingham has chosen to leave Sunderland for Dortmund, exiting for nearly £10m less than the Black Cats hoped and joining for £25m instead.

It is such a shame to see Bellingham depart the Stadium of Light this summer, considering what an exciting young talent he is, but it is no great surprise at the same time. The Sunderland ace has no doubt been told by his brother about the path through Dortmund to stardom, as he looks to emulate him and become a world class player over time.

Bellingham will be remembered as a key man in the Black Cats’ unforgettable promotion campaign, though, being hailed as “excellent” by scout Jacek Kulig.

Hopefully, Sunderland can now use the funds received for Bellingham wisely, bringing in either one big-name addition or a couple of good players to bolster Le Bris’ squad.

Sunderland now looking "increasingly likely" to sign ex-PSG defender

Regis Le Bris wants to snap him up.

By
Henry Jackson

Jun 3, 2025

Black Cats supporters are unlikely to wish any ill of the Englishman, with his exit feeling rather predictable, and it’s now a case of moving on without him, ensuring his departure doesn’t affect them too badly.

Fresh from Championship promotion, Regis Le Bris could reportedly be in for a big summer at Sunderland as the Black Cats prepare to secure Premier League survival at the first time of asking.

Sunderland interested in Henderson return

Among the exciting deals that could take place at the Stadium of Light this summer is Jordan Henderson’s return. The Wearside-born midfielder has enjoyed an incredible career since leaving Sunderland as a breakout star, becoming the most successful Liverpool captain of the Premier League era by lifting the Champions League, Premier League and both domestic cups.

Now, however, after quickly quitting Saudi Arabia and enduring a mixed spell at Ajax, the England international is at a crossroads that Sunderland could solve. At 34 years old and with Sunderland back in the Premier League, there hasn’t been a more perfect time than this summer for Henderson to complete a fairytale return to his boyhood club.

Having watched Sunderland’s dramatic playoff final victory in person, Henderson has already seen the quality that Le Bris’ side possess with his own eyes. Whether he deems it enough to join up with those at the Stadium of Light remains to be seen, however.

A deal to sign the midfielder, with or without his history at the club, makes perfect sense. If Sunderland are to become the first club in six promoted sides to avoid the Premier League drop, then top flight experience will be key and Henderson offers exactly that and more.

Big O'Nien upgrade: Sunderland targeting move for "freak" £20m "monster"

Sunderland might look to upgrade on Luke O’Nien when venturing up to the Premier League.

By
Kelan Sarson

May 30, 2025

The former Liverpool captain may just be the start of the arrivals, however, with one reporter now claiming that Sunderland have “big” transfer plans this summer.

Sunderland planning for "big" summer transfer window

According to reporter Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider, Sunderland will have “big” funds available this summer as they look to overhaul Le Bris’ squad in preparation for the Premier League.

This could see a number of fresh faces arrive to potentially join Henderson in the coming months in what looks likely to be an exciting transfer window for those at the Stadium of Light, with O’Rourke adding that ‘additions with Premier League experience under their belts’ are wanted.

Alongside the midfielder, Sunderland have also been linked with the likes of Kwame Poku in recent weeks. The Peterborough attacker is a wanted man across English football, but Sunderland’s Premier League status could yet prove to be key. It must be said, however, that the jump from League One to the Premier League would certainly be substantial.

Amid all of the excitement, it is also worth noting that Sunderland could be funding their summer through the sale of Jobe Bellingham. The talented midfielder has reportedly been to visit Eintracht Frankfurt to hear their pitch about a potential move in the coming months, and whilst the visit was not for formal talks to take place, the Black Cats should certainly be concerned.

With Henderson and Poku potentially arriving, among others, and Bellingham perhaps on his way out, Sunderland will be one of the most interesting clubs to watch this summer.

In recent days reports have emerged that clubs around Europe have already been left stunned by the swift and aggressive approach Arsenal are taking to the transfer window under Andrea Berta.

For those who support the club, this should be music to their ears. The January window was a slow and laboured affair, one that ultimately ended without a single incoming. Rewind to last summer and while faces like David Raya, Mikel Merino and Riccardo Calafiori all arrived, a centre forward continued to elude them.

So, what does this summer have in store? Berta needs a striker. Mikel Arteta needs a striker. Arsenal need a striker. Not signing one would be disastrous.

Arsenal's striker shortlist this summer

Pick one of the top strikers in European football and it’s likely the Gunners will have been linked with them.

The dream signing, obviously, is Alexander Isak but if Newcastle secure Champions League football, the Swede feels even more untouchable than he already is.

So, alternatives will be required and in long-term target Benjamin Sesko, they may find their man. Reports from David Ornstein last week indicated that they have ‘done a lot of work’ on potentially signing the Slovenian.

But, Berta’s pick would appear to be another Swede in the form of Viktor Gyokeres, a man possessed in front of goal over the last two seasons.

Transfer Focus

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

Reports over the last week or so have suggested that Arsenal are locked in talks to sign the forward from Portuguese outfit Sporting CP, but fresh news now indicates a deal is moving closer to completion.

One reporter in France claims that ‘Gyokeres and Arsenal have reached full agreement’ over personal terms and that the ‘Sporting striker wants to join Arsenal’ this summer.

Exciting news indeed. So, what could he offer besides goals?

How Viktor Gyokeres compares to Alexander Isak

In the words of data analyst Spencer Mossman, Gyokeres is certainly “the best finisher in the world” at the moment.

It’s hard to dispute that claim, especially considering the remarkable form the 26-year-old has been in since trading Coventry City of England’s second-tier for the Portuguese top-flight.

In that final campaign with Coventry, the hulking centre-forward found the net on 22 occasions and once departing, he has truly exploded, scoring 43 goals in 50 outings last term and registering a jaw-dropping 53 goals in 51 outings throughout 2024/25.

It is hardly a surprise to see that he is leading the race for the European Golden Boot. He’s streets ahead of Isak for goal involvements, which rather says it all.

The Toon forward has been seriously impressive in his own right but boasts a meagre haul of 27 goals in all competitions in comparison. Impressive, of course, but this is a man who may also cost in the region of £150m. In Gyokeres, Arsenal would be getting more bang for their buck, so to speak.

Arsenal need a goalscorer, however, and there is an argument to suggest that they could be getting a more complete package here.

One thing that’s necessary to state is that Isak is playing in a better league, but even so, some of the numbers Gyokeres is registering in Iberia are simply off the charts.

While he’s scoring more than one goal per game, he’s proving to be more creative than Isak – although only just – he carries the ball more regularly and he’s more likely to win you an aerial duel. That final statistic could be key considering what Arteta has asked of the likes of Kai Havertz and Merino as his central strikers.

That said, data analyst Ben Mattinson has shared what he describes as a few “red flags”.

A heavy first touch and his inability to turn on a dime could well be turn-offs, particularly considering the explosiveness of Isak, but first and foremost, Arsenal need goals.

Gyokeres has provided that in abundance over the last few years and if his fellow Swede turns out to be off the table, he could well be Arsenal’s very own Isak anyway; a proven goalscorer set to take the Premier League by storm.

Arteta has struck gold on Arsenal star worth millions more than Gyokeres

The experienced international will have a significant role to play for Arsenal next season.

2

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

May 18, 2025

Leeds United are set for a massive summer in the transfer market as they aim to make themselves a competitive outfit in the Premier League ahead of the 2025/26 season.

Daniel Farke led the side to the Championship title this campaign after achieving a staggering total of 100 points, ending their two-year stint in England’s second division.

However, the real test starts now for the German, looking to avoid relegation from the top flight, something which he’s been unable to do with his previous attempts with Norwich City.

If he is to achieve such a feat, the board will need to back him heavily this summer, with a £100m spending spree mooted around Yorkshire over the last couple of days.

With the transfer window rapidly approaching, the board have already made plans for potential additions, with one name already emerging as a key target for the summer.

The latest on Leeds’ pursuit of James McAtee

In recent days, Manchester City star James McAtee has remerged on Leeds’ shortlist after previously being a target on loan ahead of the 2024/25 season.

The 22-year-old has impressed within Pep Guardiola’s squad this campaign, registering seven goals in his 27 appearances throughout the current campaign.

With his deal set to expire in 2026, the Whites have been touted as a potential destination for the youngster, but could face competition from the likes of Nottingham Forest and Bayer Leverkusen this summer.

A report from the Yorkshire Evening Post claims that Farke’s side have made an enquiry to sign the youngster this summer, but any deal would set the hierarchy back around £25m.

However, despite the links to the English star, the club already have a talent whose worth more than McAtee – showcasing the impressive recruitment conducted by the club in recent years.

The Leeds star who’s now worth more than McAtee

Over the last couple of seasons, Leeds have recruited well in the market, undoubtedly playing a massive role in their success they’ve endured this campaign.

Ethan Ampadu joined for just £7m from Chelsea back in the summer of 2023, now looking to be a bargain given his success in the side – registering 86 appearances in his two years at the club.

The Welsh international has even taken the captain’s armband during Farke’s reign, highlighting the impressive development he’s made at Elland Road since his switch.

He’s not the only person to exceed expectations, with winger Wilfried Gnonto thriving in Yorkshire over the last couple of years after his £3.8m transfer from FC Zurich in the summer of 2022.

The Italian has since made huge strides in the professional game, registering over 100 appearances for the club – producing numerous moments of magic in such a time period.

He’s managed to find the net on 22 occasions, including one of the goals against Plymouth Argyle on the final day – securing the club the Championship title as a result.

Such performances have seen him linked with huge moves away from the club in recent years, with Everton just one of the sides interested in his signature as of late.

Interest isn’t the only thing that has occurred as a result of his displays, with his market value taking a sharp upturn – now with millions more than the fee they paid for his signature.

Gnonto, who’s been labelled “monster” by one analyst, is now valued at £19.5m by FootballTransfers, an increase of over 410% since he moved to Yorkshire.

Such a value is higher than that of McAtee, who’s valued at just £15m – further highlighting the impressive work done behind the scenes over the last few seasons.

A deal for McAtee is certainly one that would bolster the attacking department at Elland Road, that’s if his goal tally from 2024/25 is anything to go by.

However, a repeat of a deal for Gnonto showcases that bargains are still there to be had in the current climate, with any subsequent deal banking the club a hefty profit in the years ahead.

Their answer to Hamer: 49ers lining up Leeds swoop for "special" £25m star

Leeds could land their own version of Gustavo Hamer in a move for this £25m star.

By
Dan Emery

May 12, 2025

Chelsea are “keen on signing” a defender, and there is now a possibility he will join on a free transfer, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Blues looking to upgrade in defence this summer

As we approach the summer transfer window, it is clear the Blues are looking to bring in a new defender, and they have identified a number of targets from within the Premier League, including AFC Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen.

It has been a real breakout season for Huijsen, with the Spaniard now attracting attention from a number of top clubs, and Enzo Maresca’s side are now believed to be the favourites for his signature, having submitted a seven-year contract offer.

Despite having both Reece James and Malo Gusto on the books, there have also been suggestions that Maresca could look to bring in a new right-back this summer, with Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina recently being named as a potential target.

Sky Sports: Chelsea in talks to sign £50m+ forward with "electric pace"

The Blues are now showing “concrete” interest in signing a forward, and they are prepared to double his salary.

By
Dominic Lund

Apr 27, 2025

Chelsea have clearly been impressed by a number of Premier League defenders this season, with Romano recently taking to X to reveal they are “keen on signing” Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who has been on their shortlist “for months”.

Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are also in the race for Guehi, so there could be fierce competition for his signature this summer, with Spurs well-known to have had a £70m bid knocked back previously.

Should none of the interested parties be able to tempt Palace into a sale this summer, there is a possibility the defender remains at Selhurst Park until 2026, at which point he will be able to leave the Eagles on a free transfer upon the expiration of his contract.

"Beast" Guehi could be top signing for Blues

Lauded as a “beast” by journalist Saddick Adams, the 24-year-old has once again been a key component of the Palace side this season, making 41 appearances in all competitions, while displaying his leadership abilities by taking on the role of captain.

The England international has three goals and two assists to his name in the Premier League, underlining his attacking threat, but most importantly, he has continued to impress from a defensive point of view, receiving very high praise from Jamie Redknapp.

Most recently, the Palace captain put in a solid performance to help his side to a 3-0 victory against Aston Villa, with the Eagles booking their place in the FA Cup final against Manchester City next month.

Captaining his side to an FA Cup triumph would be a fitting end to Guehi’s time at Palace, but given that he clearly has the talent to play for a top club, it would be wise to move on this summer.

Leeds United are preparing for life back in the Premier League after winning promotion from the Championship at the second time of asking under Daniel Farke.

The Whites and the 49ers Enterprises have already been linked with replacing the Leeds manager ahead of their top flight return due to concerns about his previous record with Norwich City.

In what would be a ruthless call from the Elland Road board, Leeds are also likely to be very busy in the transfer market to bolster their squad with quality on the pitch to remain a Premier League side.

Latest Leeds 2025 summer transfer targets: in pictures

1

Kalvin Phillips

Man City

Former Whites midfielder Kalvin Phillips has found life difficult after leaving Leeds for Man City in 2022. Recent loan spells at West Ham and Ipswich Town haven’t worked out for the defensive midfielder, who could now be on the search for another new club this summer.

Reports have linked Phillips with a return to Leeds, saying that he is keen on the idea of heading back to his boyhood club.

2

Manor Solomon

Tottenham

Loanee Manor Solomon has helped Leeds into the Premier League with some crucial displays during the run-in, and he is expected to become a permanent Whites player this summer.

The Israel international could cost around £15m, with claims he is set to be Leeds’ first signing of the window.

3

Sam Johnstone

Wolves

A new goalkeeper to replace Illan Meslier could be high up on the to-do list for Leeds, and Sam Johnstone of Wolves is thought to be of interest at Elland Road.

A goalkeeper with plenty of Premier League experience now after stints with West Brom, Crystal Palace and Wolves, Johnstone was actually on the books of rivals Man Utd early in his career and starred against Leeds back in 2023.

4

Julian Weigl

Borussia Monchengladbach

Farke has previously worked with midfielder Julian Weigl at Borussia Monchengladbach and recent claims have suggested that initial contact has taken place over a move to Leeds.

The Monchengladbach captain has plenty of experience in the Bundesliga and has even played in the Champions League, so he could add that extra bit of quality in midfield for the Whites.

5

Evan Ferguson

Brighton

With doubts at Leeds over Joel Piroe and Patrick Bamford in the Premier League, a new striker looks set to be signed ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with Brighton’s Evan Ferguson a target.

The Irishman has been on loan at West Ham for the second half of the 2024/25 season, and by the looks of things, Leeds could try their luck with a forward who could be the “next Harry Kane”.

6

Tomas Soucek

West Ham

Towering West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek is another Premier League player to be linked with Leeds, especially after falling out of favour under Graham Potter recently.

The Czech Republic international is wanted by Leeds and Everton with the 49ers even willing to pay him a whopping £120,000-a-week, an increase on his current Hammers deal.

7

Caoimhin Kelleher

Liverpool

Another goalkeeper who could replace Meslier at Elland Road is Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher, who could be a man in demand over the coming months.

Kelleher has impressed when called upon at Anfield and may well become number one for the first time in his career in Yorkshire.

8

Nico Elvedi

Borussia Monchengladbach

Another Borussia Monchengladbach player who Farke knows well is defender Nico Elvedi, who has been with the Bundesliga side since 2015.

Reports claimed that Leeds were preparing a £10m offer to sign the experienced Switzerland international if promotion was secured, something they can now do.

9

George Hirst

Ipswich Town

Leeds could look to raid the teams coming down from the Premier League, with recent rumours of a move for Ipswich Town forward George Hirst.

The Tractor Boys are looking to keep the attacker at Portman Road with a new deal due to interest from the Whites and fellow promoted side Burnley.

10

Aaron Ramsdale

Southampton

Another Premier League relegated target is goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who reportedly has a £25m release clause in his Southampton contract.

The Englishman has admirers from Leeds and the likes of Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest, although he could get regular game time at Elland Road.

Chelsea are believed to be prepared to fork out a significant sum for an alternative to right-back Malo Gusto this summer, with Enzo Maresca pondering his full-back options ahead of his second full season in charge.

Malo Gusto criticised as Chelsea handed right-back dilemma

Club captain Reece James recently returned from his injury hell to provide Maresca with much-needed reinforcement in the right-back area, but given his history of hamstring problems, there is no telling just how long he’ll be in contention for.

Chelsea can forget Delap by unleashing "Cobham's finest" 17-year-old star

Chelsea’s Cobham jewel could already be their answer to Liam Delap

1

By
Connor Holden

Apr 15, 2025

The Englishman, who was recently recalled to the Three Lions squad by new England boss Thomas Tuchel, has featured in nine of Chelsea’s last 12 Premier League games since returning from injury, missing one due to illness, so the signs have been positive.

Chelsea will be hopeful that the £250,000-per-week star can maintain this positive run of availability, but there is still a reliance on the out-of-form Gusto.

Gusto has attracted criticism throughout 2024/2025 for some sub-par displays, but Maresca will be cautious about dropping the former Lyon sensation in favour of being too overly reliant on James, as BlueCo tread carefully when it comes to the latter’s fitness.

The 21-year-old is still young and with plenty of room for improvement, though his return of just two assists in 33 appearances across all competitions will also be a concern for Maresca.

Chelsea need more threat from their full-backs on the overlap, and they ideally need a figurehead who can provide that injection of quality when they’re struggling to break sides down in the low-block.

Taking this into account, Barcelona right-back Jules Koundé could be a truly excellent option.

The France international, who can also play at centre-half, has the ability to kill two birds with one stone as Chelsea reportedly look to sign a centre-back this summer.

Arsenal are also very interested in Kounde, according to other reports, following the 26-year-old’s exceptional campaign under Hansi Flick at the Bernabeu. Kounde has started 28 La Liga matches this term, making 50 appearances in all competitions and bagging eight assists in the process – standing out as one of Flick’s key men.

Chelsea prepared to bid £68 million for Jules Koundé this summer

Now, according to reports out of Spain, it is believed Chelsea are ready to match Arsenal in the potential race for his signature.

Indeed, Chelsea are also prepared to make an offer of £68 million for Kounde, and Barca’s current financial troubles could tempt the Catalans into doing business. This bid would represent a significant profit for Barca, at a time when they really need it, and a figure of this magnitude could represent an “unexpected solution” to balance their books.

The west Londoners are apparently ready to outbid Arsenal for Kounde, and “already have a plan in place” to sway Kounde with a move to Stamford Bridge.

One sticking point could be the defender’s £224,000-per-week wages, though, which would place him among Maresca’s highest-earning players.