All posts by z3u9t.icu

Manchester United’s academy has played a key role in their success over the years, as seen by their infamous Class of 92, with such a crop of players helping the Red Devils reach new heights.

The quintet played a huge role in Sir Alex Ferguson’s success at Old Trafford, but it’s safe to say the players who have made the jump in recent times have failed to reach such levels.

Marcus Rashford may have racked up over 100 goals during his time in the first time, but his attitude has led to his demise, resulting in various loan spells away from his boyhood outfit.

He spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa, before linking up with LaLiga champions Barcelona on a season-long loan for the 2025/26 campaign.

However, he’s not the only academy star who has seen his future come into question over recent months, with another player close to the exit door in recent days.

Kobbie Mainoo’s potential exit from United this summer

After his dream 2023/24 campaign, which saw an FA Cup final goal and a late strike against rivals Liverpool – no United fan would have imagined how Kobbie Mainoo’s time at the club would transpire.

The 20-year-old only made 25 Premier League appearances last season, 19 of which were from a starting role, with Ruben Amorim favouring other options in the midfield department.

He’s only featured in 45 minutes of league action so far this campaign, leading to the player himself coming out and stating he wanted a move away from Old Trafford before the recent transfer deadline.

Any move would’ve only been a temporary switch away from the Red Devils, but the club refused to let him leave, which has resulted in the player needing to fight for his place in the starting eleven.

Despite the window closing, the youngster’s future still remains up in the air, with another former academy graduate slipping through their clutches a couple of years ago.

The £500k United star who could’ve been the dream Mainoo replacement

Despite the success of the aforementioned talents, numerous United youngsters have struggled to make their own impact on the first team – subsequently having to leave the club to make a name for themselves.

James Garner is just one example, leaving the Red Devils to join Everton back in the summer of 2022, before going on to nail his place in their starting eleven in recent seasons.

He’s racked up just shy of 88 appearances for the Toffees – scoring three times, including in the opening game at their new stadium against Brighton and Hove Albion.

The Englishman isn’t alone in that deportment, with midfielder Maxi Oyedele unable to break into the first-team, despite joining the Red Devils at the age of just eight.

He spent 11 years within the academy ranks, having multiple loan spells with the likes of Forest Green Rovers and Altrincham – but it wasn’t enough to catapult him into the senior side.

The board took the decision to permanently offload him last summer, allowing the 20-year-old to join Polish side Legia Warsaw – for a measly fee of just £500k.

Such a move allowed the midfielder, who’s been labelled “fantastic” by Bruno Fernandes, to make 24 appearances last campaign – five of which came in the Europa Conference League.

Games played

16

Minutes played

985

Pass accuracy

86%

Dribble success

69%

Tackles won

1.9

Duels won

5.9

Aerials won

1.1

Interceptions made

1.6

As a result of his impressive underlying stats, he secured a move to French side Strasbourg this summer, with the Ligue 1 outfit paying £5.2m for his signature.

If Oyedele continues his development in France, it would be no surprise to see him join Chelsea in the near future – especially given his current side are also owned by the same group as Enzo Maresca’s outfit.

The decision to sell him could prove to be a mistake in the years ahead, especially given the recent struggles at Old Trafford, which have been endured during the Amorim reign.

Given Mainoo’s current situation, he could leave the Red Devils in the years ahead – subsequently leaving a huge hole in the heart of the side and one that Oyedele could’ve filled had he remained at the club.

Amorim must axe Man Utd flop who earns more than Wharton & Baleba

Manchester United desperately need to clear some players off the wage bill in the months ahead.

1 ByEthan Lamb Sep 3, 2025

With pre-season preparations set to get underway, the start of the new Premier League campaign is now edging ever closer, ahead of the curtain raiser on 15 August.

For managers, the off-season is one of welcome respite, before the scrutiny ramps up when action gets underway again. For now, they are safe – but not for long.

Already, attention is turning to just which of those in the dugout will be facing the axe first, following in the footsteps of 2024/25’s first casualty, Erik ten Hag, at Manchester United.

On that front, the AI tool, ChatGPT, has provided the answers ahead of 2025/26…

AFC Bournemouth Andoni Iraola

Despite reportedly being in the running to replace Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham Hotspur, Andoni Iraola looks set to remain at Bournemouth – provided another suitor does not emerge over the next 12 months or so.

Two years into an exciting project on the south coast, the highly-rated Spaniard is seemingly more likely to jump than be pushed by the Cherries’ hierarchy.

ChatGPT says: Very low risk of the sack – extension more likely

Arsenal Mikel Arteta

In the words of former Arsenal man, Paul Merson, current Gunners boss Mikel Arteta has ‘until Christmas’ to improve his fortunes at the Emirates, having overseen a third successive second-place finish last time out.

That said, having only signed a new deal – ending in 2027 – back in September, the Spaniard appears to be in a strong position heading into 2025/26, not least following last season’s thrilling Champions League run.

ChatGPT says: Very low risk – secure through 2026

Aston Villa Unai Emery

A final-day defeat to Man United denied Unai Emery and Aston Villa a Champions League qualification spot, although the 53-year-old remains a beloved figure at Villa Park for having revived the club’s fortunes since replacing Steven Gerrard in October 2022.

Quarter-finalists in Europe and semi-finalists in the FA Cup in 2024/25, the Villans remain on the right track. It appears unlikely that things will soon derail.

ChatGPT says: Very low risk – secure through 2026

Brentford Keith Andrews

After a long period of stability, it’s all change for Brentford. Christian Norgaard looks to be on his way to Arsenal. Man United remain in hot pursuit of Bryan Mbeumo. Oh, and Thomas Frank has been replaced by Keith Andrews.

The former Republic of Ireland international turned set-piece coach has been boldly appointed as the Bees’ main man, with intrigue mounting over whether this bold gamble will pay off. In the view of ChatGPT, Andrews could find himself under pressure sooner rather than later.

ChatGPT says: Possible chance of the sack – late October/November 2025 if Brentford aren’t in mid-table or better

Brighton Fabian Hurzeler

The Premier League’s youngest manager, Fabian Hurzeler enjoyed a relatively smooth start to life at Brighton, albeit with the Seagulls narrowly missing out on European football – despite boasting the largest net spend on the continent.

While the German doesn’t appear to be under any immediate pressure, failure to make the most of the club’s exciting squad could see him come under scrutiny in the new year.

ChatGPT says: Low risk – could be sacked in January or February 2026 if Brighton have a shaky start

Burnley Scott Parker

So often the bridesmaid, but never the bride, Burnley boss Scott Parker has now overseen three promotions from the Championship, albeit while enduring a miserable time of things at Premier League level.

Sacked by Fulham amid their impending relegation in 2021, prior to enduring an acrimonious exit from Bournemouth a year later, the Englishman could again find himself at risk if the top-flight proves to be a step too far again for the newly-promoted Clarets.

ChatGPT says: Moderate risk – position likely to be reviewed in February-April 2026, if risk of relegation arises

Chelsea Enzo Maresca

A fine first season at Chelsea ended in Conference League glory and Champions League qualification for former Leicester City boss, Enzo Maresca, with the Italian having enhanced his reputation at Stamford Bridge thus far.

Knowing the typically ruthless nature of the Blues’ hierarchy, however, it won’t be too long before questions will begin to be asked if the team’s form falters.

ChatGPT says: Lower risk – likely to be safe until mid-2026 at least, barring a catastrophic run of form

Crystal Palace Oliver Glasner

The man to lead Crystal Palace to their first ever FA Cup triumph, Oliver Glasner is an undoubted hero at Selhurst Park, having overseen a remarkable transformation after replacing Roy Hodgson in the dugout.

While seemingly safe from the sack, barring a disastrous start the campaign, the greater issue could be whether Glasner himself opts to depart, with just a year left on his current deal.

ChatGPT says: Low risk – potential exit in June 2026, if contract extension isn’t agreed

Everton David Moyes

The man to lead Everton into a new era at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, the returning David Moyes has more than enough credit in the bank, having built on a memorable first spell by steering the Toffees to safety in routine fashion last season.

For all that positivity, however, the mood could swiftly sour if the Merseysiders don’t get off to a good start in their new home.

ChatGPT says: Risk zone of October/November 2025, if Everton have a poor opening

Fulham Marco Silva

Speaking of Everton, one-time Toffees boss Marco Silva continues to quietly go about his business at Craven Cottage, with Fulham again comfortably finishing in mid-table in 2024/25.

Previously tipped to move to Saudi Arabia, the Portuguese coach appears content to stay put in west London, with owner Tony Khan suggesting back in April that the club want Silva to stay “forever”. A sacking seemingly feels unlikely any time soon.

ChatGPT says: Very low risk – secure through 2026

Celtic are in need of a new option on the left flank ahead of the 2025/26 campaign to cover for the time that Portuguese winger Jota is going to be out for.

Brendan Rodgers’ side clinched the Scottish Premiership title in style with a 5-0 win away at Dundee United, but the left-sided forward hobbled off with a worrying injury in the first half.

It was then revealed after the game that Jota would be out for between six and nine months, setting a potential return date as late as February of next year.

The 26-year-old speedster returned to Parkhead in the January transfer window, from French side Rennes, and produced four goals and two assists in seven league starts in the Scottish top-flight before his injury.

This means that the Hoops need another option on the left wing because they are unlikely to have Jota available for a large portion of next season, hence why they are keen on Royal Antwerp’s Michel-Ange Balikwisha.

Celtic are reportedly in talks with the Belgian Pro League club in an attempt to secure a deal to sign the left winger, who is valued at £5m, this summer.

What Balikwisha could bring to Celtic

The 24-year-old forward is a right-footed left winger, like Jota, which means that he could play a similar role within Rodgers’ tactical set-up next season.

Balikwisha’s form in the Pro League, when available, over the last two seasons also suggests that he has the potential to deliver both goals and assists from the left flank at a respectable rate.

Starts

27

12

xG

6.46

2.65

Goals

7

4

Big chances created

6

7

Key passes per game

1.5

1.6

Assists

5

3

As you can see in the table above, the Belgian talent has scored 11 goals and provided eight assists in his last 39 appearances in the Pro League, which suggests that he could offer a decent threat at the top end of the pitch from a wide position.

This means that the potential is there for him to replace the goals and assists that they have lost through Jota’s injury, which is why he could be a solid signing for Celtic this summer.

However, Balikwisha’s own injury record over the years is a cause for concern because he has suffered a lot of injuries that have kept him out for significant lengths of time each season during his time with Royal Antwerp.

In the last four seasons, the 24-year-old wing wizard has missed a whopping 63 games through injury, and at least ten matches in all four campaigns, suffering eight separate injury issues in that time.

This suggests that Celtic would be gambling on his fitness by bringing him to Parkhead to replace their currently injured player, which is why it could make more sense to look in a different direction if another target becomes available.

Celtic's interest in Premier League winger

Earlier this summer, Football Insider reported that the Premiership champions were interested in a potential deal to sign Aston Villa forward Louie Barry to bolster their squad.

The outlet claimed that the Scottish giants were willing to explore either a loan or a permanent deal for the former Barcelona academy starlet this summer.

Transfer Focus

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

They looked set to miss out on a deal for the 22-year-old talent when Hull City agreed a £3.5m fee to sign him permanently, only for the transfer to fall through after the Tigers were hit with a three-window embargo.

That transfer ban for the Championship side has put Barry back out on the open market and presented teams with an opportunity to snap him up, which means that he could still be an option for Celtic.

It remains to be seen, though, whether or not the Hoops are still interested in the English sensation, or if they would be willing to go in with an offer to sign him permanently at this point in the window.

Why Celtic should sign Louie Barry

Rodgers should seriously consider a swoop to sign Barry from the Premier League outfit before the end of the summer transfer window, though, because he has the potential to be an even better winger signing than Balikwisha.

Whilst his injury history is far from spotless, the English forward has missed fewer games (34) through injury in his career than Balikwisha (63), which suggests that he may be more reliable from an availability perspective.

The 22-year-old star’s form during his time on loan with Stockport County in League Two and in League One in the last two seasons also suggests that the potential is there for him to offer even more than Balikwisha at the top end of the pitch.

Barry produced nine goals and four assists in 20 League Two games in the 2023/24 season, before plundering 15 goals and two assists in 23 League One outings in the first half of last season.

xG

0.47

Top 5%

Goals

0.75

Top 3%

Shots on target

1.80

Top 2%

xA

0.21

Top 11%

Assists

0.11

Top 47%

Successful dribbles

2.70

Top 2%

As you can see in the table above, the Villa youngster was one of the best players in the English third tier last season at scoring and creating goals from a wide position, and was unfortunate not to have more assists to show for the xA that he created.

Barry, who was hailed as “electric” by reporter Sam Byrne, scored 24 goals, assisted six goals, and created 12 ‘big chances’ in his 43 appearances on loan at Stockport, which suggests that he has even more to offer in front of goal, particularly as a scorer, than Balikwisha.

The Belgian forward, as aforementioned, has scored 11 goals in his last 39 Pro League outings, which is not as impressive as Barry’s return in England is, whilst playing in the same position.

Therefore, Celtic and Rodgers could land an even better winger than Balikwisha by signing the Villa gem, who is two years younger, less injury-prone, and has more potential to explode as a goalscorer on the left flank.

Celtic could sign their new Van Dijk in a star who once silenced Gyokeres

Celtic are interested in signing a defender who could be Virgil van Dijk 2.0 at Parkhead.

ByDan Emery Jul 10, 2025

Manchester United have been a side who have so often been known for their ability to win trophies, but that’s something that has been hard to come by in recent years.

The Red Devils have only won two trophies since 2020, none of which were the Premier League, now going over a decade without a triumph since Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure.

However, big money has been spent to try and end such a drought, but they’ve so far been unsuccessful in the quest, needing added funding throughout the summer window.

Ruben Amorim is the latest manager to try and cement himself in the club’s history, but has so far shown no signs of winning the division, achieving a win percentage of just 40%.

He appears to have been given the benefit of the doubt after taking the reins mid-season, but he will have to make a quick start next season if he is to be a success at the Theatre of Dreams.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

Bryan Mbeumo has been the main player linked with United over recent weeks, with the player himself expressing his desire to move to Old Trafford this summer.

However, after the Red Devils’ second offer of £62.5m was rejected, Brentford’s sporting director, Phil Giles, stated that the Cameroonian would be happy to stay in London if their asking price wasn’t met.

Another name has been mentioned as a potential addition this summer, with Aston Villa talisman Ollie Watkins remaining a key target, according to The Athletic’s latest update.

They claim that the Red Devils have been in contact with the fellow top-flight outfit over a move to Old Trafford after he bagged 17 goals and 14 assists across all competitions in 2024/25.

It also states that Rasmus Hojlund could be offloaded, with the English international just one player they are considering a move for to bolster their attacking department.

Why United’s latest target could be Amorim’s answer to Isak

Alexander Isak is a player who has proved to be a constant threat to countless backlines in the Premier League, as seen by his staggering goalscoring tallies.

The Swedish international has registered 62 goals in his 109 appearances for the Magpies, including back-to-back 20-goal campaigns in England’s top-flight.

As a result of his tremendous goalscoring record for Eddie Howe’s side, he’s been constantly touted with big-money moves away from St James’ Park, but a £150m price tag has been mooted.

The Red Devils themselves have been seen as a potential destination in recent days, but a move is extremely unlikely given his price tag and the club’s lack of European football.

However, they could land their own version of Isak this window with a move for Watkins, as the Villa star has been labelled as a similar player to the Swede by FBref.

When comparing the pair’s respective figures from last season, the Englishman has managed to outperform him in numerous key areas, potentially providing an excellent attacking option for Amorim’s side.

Watkins, who’s been labelled by podcaster Rohan Jivan “one of the best centre-forwards in Europe,” has registered slightly fewer goal contributions, but matched him for goals per shot on target, whilst getting more of his efforts on target – subsequently demonstrating the clinical ability he possesses.

Games played

38

34

Goals & assists

24

29

Shot on target accuracy

44%

43%

Aerials won

43%

32%

Goals per shot on target

0.4

0.4

Fouls won

1.2

0.4

Carries into oppostion box

1.4

1.4

The 29-year-old has also won more aerial battles and drawn more fouls per 90, having the ability to operate as a focal point – something which Amorim’s side have greatly lacked in recent months.

His ability to carry the ball into forward areas is also reflected by matching Isak for carries into the opposition box per 90, with Watkins evidently a more well-rounded option for the Red Devils.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the Villa talisman would cost this summer, it’s clear that he would be a cheaper alternative to Isak, but still offering the club the needed quality they crave.

If he can transfer his skillset to Old Trafford with him this summer, it would be a superb signing that would massively improve the side and make them a force to be reckoned with once again in the near future.

Gyokeres alternative: Man Utd submit bid to sign their own Kane after talks

Man United are still planning to sign a centre-forward this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 30, 2025

The 2024/25 campaign has been one to forget for Manchester United, with Ruben Amorim needing to have a huge summer to transform their fortunes next season.

His side finished in 15th position in the Premier League, a staggering 24 points off a place in the top five, whilst also losing the Europa League final to divisional rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

Such a dismal year is unacceptable given the history of the Red Devils, which could see the manager lose his job in the near future should he spend big and fail to turn the situation around.

With Matheus Cunha already through the door at Old Trafford, it’s likely that the spending is set to continue, as numerous areas of the pitch are still in desperate need of improvement.

Countless names have already been touted with a move to join the club, but it remains to be seen how many more deals are completed before September 1st.

The latest players to be linked with a move to join United

Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney is a star who’s been on the rise in the Championship over recent seasons, with United monitoring the 22-year-old with a view to making a £20m move.

He’s not alone in that aspect, with Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitiké appearing to be the subject of a bid in the coming weeks, as Jason Wilcox and Co look to strengthen the frontline.

However, attention has also been turned to a deal to sign Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, as the shot-stopper looks set to leave Unai Emery’s side, according to Doble Amarilla.

The Red Devils have already initiated contact with the 32-year-old’s representatives over a move to Old Trafford, mainly due to Villa’s need to sell players to comply with the division’s PSR.

It also states that he would like to stay in England should he depart the West Midlands outfit this window, with Amorim looking to improve the situation between the sticks.

Why Martinez would be a better signing than Mbeumo for United

Bryan Mbeumo has been a player hugely touted with a move to join United this summer, even expressing his desire to move to Old Trafford ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The Cameroonian international has massively impressed in recent months, registering 20 league goals in his 38 outings – leading to keen interest from teams across England’s top flight.

However, the Red Devils are the only side to present an offer to the Bees, but their £55m bid was swiftly rejected as the London outfit are holding out for a fee in the region of £70m.

He’s already agreed personal terms with Amorim’s side, but no deal can be completed until the hierarchy agree a fee with their fellow Premier League side for his signature.

Despite the pending move for the 25-year-old, a transfer for Martinez would be a better deal, with the Argentine international providing a huge upgrade on current number one Andre Onana, who is undoubtedly the biggest issue in Amorim’s starting XI right now.

The 29-year-old was seen as a superb signing at the time, but has registered eight errors leading to goals this campaign, ultimately costing the side in numerous key moments.

Confidence in the Cameroonian international seems to be at an all-time low, which has resulted in interest in landing the Villa shot-stopper this window.

When comparing the pair’s respective figures, the 32-year-old has massively outperformed him in numerous key areas, with any deal solving one of Amorim’s main problems in the first team squad.

Martinez, who’s been labelled “world-class” by journalist Dan Bardell, has conceded fewer goals per 90, whilst also achieving a higher save percentage, handing the side the needed defensive reinforcements.

Games played

37

34

Goals conceded

1.2

1.3

Saves made

4

3.7

Save percentage

70%

68%

Pass accuracy

78%

72%

Long pass accuracy

49%

36%

Penalty save percentage

50%

25%

Crosses claimed

1.6

0.6

He’s also completed more of the short and long passes he’s attempted, offering Amorim’s men the chance to play out from the back or even go direct if needed – something which Onana has been unable to in recent times.

The Argentine has further impressed, claiming more crosses per 90 than the former Inter Milan star, with his presence off the line able to relieve any pressure placed on the side in the defensive third.

It’s unclear how much a deal for Emery’s number one would cost this summer, but it’s evident that he would provide a huge upgrade currently at the manager’s disposal.

The foundation to any successful side is a commanding ‘keeper, with a deal for Martinez potentially ending Onana’s stint at the club and handing the club the elite-level talent they’ve lacked in such a department.

The new McTominay: Man Utd moving to sign "one of the best CMs in Serie A"

Manchester United have a player in their sights who could replicate Scott McTominay’s success.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 19, 2025

Aston Villa are now ready to hijack AFC Bournemouth’s transfer to sign an “outrageous” up and coming defender, according to a recent report.

Aston Villa identify replacement for key star

Since making the move to Villa Park, goalkeeper Emi Martinez’s career has gone from strength to strength, as he’s established himself as one of the best keepers in England and the world, given his heroics for Argentina, where he won the Golden Glove award in the 2022 World Cup.

Aston Villa join battle for "fantastic" midfielder in cut-price £8m deal

He’s a wanted man.

ByTom Cunningham Jun 8, 2025

Now at the age of 32, Martinez may feel it is the right time for him to leave Villa and move to the next stage of his career. The Argentine is still under contract until 2029, but transfer speculation is continuing to mount, as Manchester United have reportedly made an approach over a possible move this summer. Spanish giants Atletico Madrid have also been in the mix, and the Villans’ need to balance sales with incomings could create the perfect storm for his departure.

So as Martinez weighs up his future, Unai Emery and co. are looking at options to replace the 32-year-old, and OGC Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka is someone club chiefs have identified. He is believed to be Villa’s first choice to replace Martinez, but they do face competition for his signature, as Marseille are also interested in signing the shot-stopper.

Aston Villa ready to hijack Bournemouth transfer to sign £20m defender

As the Villans look to strengthen their goalkeeper department, Emery also wants a new defender, and according to The Sun, Aston Villa are ready to join the battle to sign Adrien Truffert from Rennes.

The report states that Emery is in the market for a new left-back despite having Lucas Digne and Ian Maatsen at his disposal, with the former now in his thirties and out of contract in 2026. However, Bournemouth are already chasing a deal for the defender, and it is claimed they are close to agreeing a £20 million deal with Rennes.

Villa will have to match the Cherries’ offer to stand a chance of signing the 23-year-old, but before they can do that, they will have to move a player on to abide with PSR.

Apps

191

Goals

9

Assists

23

In fact, the defender has yet to earn a senior international call-up, and his thinking may be that a move to the Premier League could open that door. Bournemouth do appear to be ahead in the race, but Villa may have a way of beating the Cherries to a deal, with Truffert represented by the same agency as current Villa defender Enzi Konsa, perhaps allowing the Villans a smoother path in negotiations.

Celtic can officially start to complete all of their business, inwards and outward, after the summer transfer window opened for business on Sunday.

The Hoops secured the Scottish Premiership title and the League Cup during the 2024/25 campaign, as they missed out on the treble by losing to Aberdeen in the final of the SFA Cup in the final game of the season.

Brendan Rodgers could look to bolster his squad during the summer transfer window in a bid to secure the treble next season, whilst also improving in the Champions League, after his side lost in the play-off round this term.

In order to improve his options, the Northern Irish head coach could repeat the blinder he played with Moussa Dembele all the way back in the summer of 2016.

Celtic could repeat their Moussa Dembele masterclass

During his first transfer window at Parkhead, Rodgers swooped to sign the French striker from English side Fulham after his contract down south expired.

Transfer Focus

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

The Hoops were able to snap him up on a ‘free transfer’, although they did have to pay £500k in compensation due to his age, and it turned out to be a blinder of a deal.

Dembele went on to plunder a staggering 51 goals in 94 matches for Celtic in all competitions before signing for Lyon in a deal worth almost £20m, which meant that the Scottish giants made a significant profit on the striker.

Celtic could, now, repeat that blinder by signing another EFL star whose contract is running down, as The Scottish Sun recently reported that Blackburn Rovers attacker Tyrhys Dolan is of interest to the club.

Norwich and Rangers are also said to be keen on the winger, who is out of contract at Ewood Park this summer, and there could be a battle for his signature.

Why Tyrhys Dolan could be Moussa Dembele 2.0

Rodgers could repeat his Dembele masterclass because Dolan would arrive for a compensation package that would be lower than the £10m Blackburn reportedly value him at, due to his contract situation.

At the age of 23, he would arrive at Parkhead as a young talent with time ahead of him to develop and improve during his time at Parkhead, just as the French attacker did.

Dolan, once hailed as “outstanding” by manager John Eustace, could be a low-risk and low-cost signing from the lower leagues in England, but with the potential to be a star for the Hoops if he adapts well.

Appearances

44

Touches per game

38.1

Goals

7

Conversion rate

14%

Big chances created

7

Key passes

44

Assists

6

As you can see in the table above, Dolan provided quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals in the Championship during the 2024/25 campaign, despite playing for a side that finished in midtable, with 14 direct goal contributions for his side.

As part of a Celtic team that have won the last four Premiership titles in succession, a team that is able to dominate matches on a regular basis, the 23-year-old star could have more opportunities to showcase his ability to score and create goals from a right-wing position.

With this in mind, Dolan could take his game, and his output in front of goal, to the next level by playing for a side that is more suited to his attacking qualities.

This means that the English dynamo could score more goals and provide more assists than the 14 he managed in the Championship by virtue of playing in a Celtic team that is constantly on the front foot and looking for the next goal.

Therefore, Rodgers could repeat his Dembele blinder by signing Dolan to come in and potentially increase his value by delivering goals and assists on a regular basis in Scotland to make him worth the £10m Blackburn currently value him at, or perhaps worth even more further down the line.

Dream XI Celtic could build: Idah axed for "sensational" CF, Tierney starts

The dream starting XI that Brendan Rodgers could build for Celtic next season.

2 ByDan Emery May 31, 2025

And, if it does not work out then Celtic will not have lost too much money on it, as they would not have with Dembele either, due to the low compensation that it would cost to get done.

In what could see them continue their early flurry of potential arrivals, Liverpool and Michael Edwards have now reportedly made preliminary contact to sign a Serie A contract rebel ahead of Barcelona.

Liverpool close in on Kerkez, Frimpong and Wirtz

After Liverpool won the Premier League in the 2019/20 campaign, they failed to take advantage of their status as champions and endured a fairly disappointing transfer window. As a result of that and, of course, a major injury crisis, Jurgen Klopp’s side struggled in the season that followed and were forced to battle all the way in the race to secure a Champions League place.

He'd be perfect for Wirtz: Liverpool in talks to sign "the next Mbappe"

Liverpool could be about to land a forward who would thrive alongside Florian Wirtz.

ByEthan Lamb May 29, 2025

Fast-forward five years, and it looks as though the Reds have learned from that harsh lesson. With Arne Slot in the hot seat these days and Michael Edwards alongside sporting director Richard Hughes behind him, those at Anfield are seemingly in the mood to keep hold of their crown this time around.

Not even a week on from the conclusion of the Premier League campaign, those at Anfield have set their sights on an impressive triple swoop. All three are fairly open secrets too, with Milos Kerkez, Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong all on Liverpool’s radar. The latter has even reportedly flown in to complete his move, whilst the champions are pushing to seal deals to sign Wirtz and Bournemouth’s Kerkez in the coming weeks.

What should frighten the rest of the Premier League are the reports indicating that Liverpool will still not be done there, with their focus now seemingly shifting towards signing a Serie A star.

Liverpool make preliminary contact to sign £52m Ederson

According to CalcioMercato, as relayed by Tutto Atalanta, Edwards and Liverpool have now made preliminary contact over a deal to sign Ederson from Atalanta this summer. The impressive Brazilian is yet to sign a new deal at the Italian club and ‘does not seem to be willing to renew his contract’.

Therefore, Ederson is set to become a free agent next summer as things stand. With that being the case, a move could certainly be possible in the coming months, with Barcelona, Newcastle and Man Utd also named with an interest in Ederson in the report.

A move for the midfielder would be another important one for Slot’s side too. As good as Ryan Gravenberch was throughout the season, there were times that he did drop off and needed a rest. That’s where a player of Ederson’s calibre could have seamlessly slotted in.

Minutes

2,881

3,160

Progressive Passes

216

181

Tackles Won

32

35

Ball Recoveries

186

193

A player who can keep up with Gravenberch out of possession whilst progressing play in similar fashion to Alexis Mac Allister, Ederson would provide Slot with the perfect added option in the middle of the park.

Dubbed “strong” by South American football expert Tim Vickery, Ederson, who has recently been valued at £52m by Atalanta, could be one to watch as he continues to stall on a new contract at Atalanta.

Fair to say, it has been a very forgettable season for West Ham United.

The Hammers are currently 15th in the table, a major downturn following three top-half finishes in four years, while they’ve enjoyed just five home wins, their lowest tally since being relegated in 2010/11.

The Irons could improve that tally in their final home match of the season on Sunday, welcoming Nottingham Forest to East London, although, having won only four of 16 Premier League matches under Graham Potter, confidence is unlikely to be sky-high.

Thus, a big summer is ahead for the Hammers and, if they’re going to start contending for European spots once again, their recent recruitment record needs to improve.

Jarrod Bowen's West Ham career

While many of West Ham’s recent big-money signings have turned out to be massive flops, the reported £22m paid to sign Jarrod Bowen from Hull City in January 2020 has proved to be an absolute bargain.

Now the club captain, he has scored 72 goals and provided 50 assists in 236 appearances for the Hammers, including the historic late winner against Fiorentina in the Europa Conference League Final, securing the club’s first trophy for 43 years.

So, let’s assess how he compares to West Ham’s other big-money signings of the London Stadium era.

Players

Fee

Appearances

Max Kilman

£40m

39

Crysencio Summerville

£25m

22

Niclas Füllkrug

£27m

18

Luis Guilherme

£25m

12

Edson Álvarez

£35m

71

James Ward-Prowse

£30m

65

Mohammed Kudus

£38m

78

Lucas Paquetá

£50m

118

Gianluca Scamacca

£30m

27

Nayef Aguerd

£30m

58

Kurt Zouma

£30m

103

Nikola Vlašić

£33m

31

Saïd Benrahma

£30m

155

Sébastien Haller

£45m

54

Pablo Fornals

£24m

203

Jarrod Bowen

£22m

236

Issa Diop

£22m

121

Felipe Anderson

£36m

73

Marko Arnautović

£20m

65

André Ayew

£20.5m

50

What the table above highlights, first and foremost, is that West Ham have spent, and arguably wasted, an absolute mountain of money since relocating to the London Stadium almost a decade ago.

A few players on that list, namely Kurt Zouma, Pablo Fornals, and Saïd Benrahma did establish themselves as stalwarts, while others have been mercurial talents without ever really getting it all together; looking at you, Mohammed Kudus, Lucas Paquetá, Felipe Anderson, and others.

That’s not to mention the complete flops, who we won’t name, and let you make up your own mind!

Nevertheless, Bowen has been, indisputably, West Ham’s best signing of the modern era, so should the Irons go shopping in the EFL Championship again, as they search for their next gem?

West Ham chasing a new centre-back

According to a recent report by Jacob Steinberg of the Guardian, West Ham are ‘continuing’ to pursue a deal to sign Burnley central defender CJ Egan-Riley.

It has been widely reported, including by L’Équipe, that the 22-year-old is close to joining Ligue 1 side Strasbourg, who are owned by Todd Boehly’s company BlueCo, and his current market value is estimated to be around £12m, according to Transfermarkt.

Nevertheless, West Ham are still very much in the running to sign the centre-back who Graeme Bailey of TBR Football describes as a “brilliant young defender”, while Andy Bayes of BBC Sport outlines that he, alongside partner Maxime Estève, has played a ‘key role’ in Burnley’s promotion.

So, let’s assess how Egan-Riley compares to West Ham’s current selection of centre-backs this season.

Appearances

43

27

39

34

Minutes

3,705

1,788

3,439

2,077

Tackles

60

41

36

33

Tackles won

42

26

23

39

Interceptions

36

23

42

50

Clearances

199

72

202

118

Blocks

39

24

56

24

Errors leading to a shot

2

3

5

1

Ball recoveries

185

70

143

70

% of aerials duels won

49.3%

48.9%

67.3%

70%

Pass completion %

86.2%

87.7%

86.5%

85.9%

Touches per 90

79

58

58

50

As the table outlines, Konstantinos Mavropanos has been West Ham’s best-performing centre-back this season, but Egan-Riley certainly compares favourably to the existing trio.

The Burnley youngster ranks first when it comes to tackles and ball recoveries, while many of his other statistics are more than comparable, while admitting he’s played the most minutes, and is operating at a lower level in the Championship, of course.

Nevertheless, the available evidence suggests he would be an excellent addition for the Hammers, if they’re able to beat Strasbourg to his services, and that is why he could be the best signing since Bowen because, at the age of 22, he could be a star for the club for many, many, years to come.

Huge upgrade on Soucek: West Ham make contact to sign "midfield machine"

West Ham could be about to kickstart the needed overhaul of the squad under Graham Potter this summer.

ByEthan Lamb May 9, 2025

Following a campaign full of moments to forget defensively, Manchester United are reportedly prioritising a summer move to sign a central defender who is now a Champions League finalist.

Man Utd's summer wishlist

At risk of sounding like a broken record given how often the Red Devils have been in this exact position in the last decade, Manchester United simply must get this summer right.

The jury is still out on Ruben Amorim, who has had the excuse that these are simply not his players in a system that requires certain profiles to thrive. But that excuse cannot be something to fall back on in the next campaign if the former Sporting Club boss is backed this summer.

If the Manchester United boss is to stand any chance of turning things around in the coming months, then a number of arrivals are needed. And that could yet include the likes of Matheus Cunha and Patrik Schick.

The former would be a particularly impressive signing following an excellent individual campaign at Wolverhampton Wanderers. Single-handedly keeping his side alive at times before Vitor Pereira arrived to turn things around, Cunha is now likely to leave the club this summer courtesy of a reported release clause worth around £63m.

Regarding Manchester United’s interest, recent reports suggest that it is the Red Devils in the driving seat for his signature in what would be a fantastic way to commence a crucial summer.

Man Utd could now be offered £135k-p/w star in exchange for Rasmus Hojlund

United could be about to be offered a new midfield signing to get their struggling striker off the books.

ByBrett Worthington May 8, 2025

Whilst Cunha would undoubtedly provide United with an attacking solution, there would still be plenty of work to do at the other end. Alas, that’s something the Red Devils seem to be well aware of, with signing one particular target now reportedly among their top priorities.

Man Utd prioritising Bisseck move

According to reports in Spain, Manchester United are now prioritising a move to sign Yann Bisseck this summer and are already considering a formal proposal to sign the central defender.

A Champions League finalist after playing his part in Inter’s stunning 7-6 aggregate victory over Barcelona in the Champions League semi-finals, Bisseck would be an excellent addition to Amorim’s backline. Among all the goals, the defender played his part across two legs in a starting role in both the away leg and then Tuesday’s San Siro thriller.

Dubbed “dominant” by analyst Ben Mattinson, Bisseck’s experience in a back three would also hand Amorim a perfect option as he looks to solve Manchester United’s defensive problems once and for all.

Whether those at Old Trafford can convince a Champions League finalist into a summer switch to a side currently struggling in the depths of the Premier League will be the big question in the coming months, however.