There’s never a quiet day in the Newcastle United recruitment department is there?
It was reported on Tuesday morning that Alexander Isak has no intention of playing for the Magpies again, even if the transfer window closes and he has not been sold.
This is certainly a saga that will seemingly rumble on and on, possibly even beyond the 1 September transfer deadline.
In the meantime, with or without Isak, Eddie Howe is looking to bolster his squad ahead of a return to the Champions League, so could a “quality” talent soon move to the North East?
Newcastle's busy transfer activity
So far, Anthony Elanga and Aaron Ramsdale are Newcastle’s only two additions, but a fair few more could soon follow.
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Indeed, an enquiry has been made for Porto’s Samu Aghehowa, while it has also been claimed that the Magpies are set to make a bid for Brentford’s wantaway marksman, Yoane Wissa.
Meantime, could Newcastle snap up a bargain by bringing in a young talent reminiscent of Hatem Ben Arfa?
Hatem Ben Arfa
Well, John Percy of the Telegraph reports that Newcastle are set to accelerate their interest in signing Bilal El Khannouss from Leicester City.
They add that the Moroccan international’s contract contains a release clause, following the Foxes’ relegation to the EFL Championship, with the Magpies willing to pay up to £30m to secure his signature.
El Khannouss did complete 90 minutes during Leicester’s league opener against Sheffield Wednesday on Sunday, but is seemingly set for a return to the Premier League, with Leeds and Tottenham also interested, so could he end up on Tyneside?
Why Bilal El Khannouss should excite Newcastle supporters
Fair to say, Leicester City endured a miserable campaign last time round, winning just six Premier League matches all season, failing to score in nine consecutive home games, losing all of them, between 22 December and Easter Sunday, a new unwanted top division record.
However, amid all the dross, El Khannouss did manage to impress, scoring three goals during his debut season in England, most notably bagging the winner at Tottenham in January.
As a result, analyst Ben Mattinson has described him as “one of the best prospects in the world”, while scout Antonio Mango has lauded him as a “genius”.
The 21-year-old’s composure on the ball and exceptional dribbling ability rank among his key strengths, having notably averaged 1.1 successful dribbles per game in the top-flight last season, as per Sofascore. That certainly sounds like former Newcastle favourite Ben Afra, doesn’t it?
During his time on Tyneside, between 2010 and 2014, the French international became renowned for his skill, dribbling prowess and attacking flair, all of which was encapsulated by this astonishing solo strike against Bolton at St James’ Park in April 2012.
So, let’s analyse El Khannouss’ statistics and Leicester last season to underline the comparison.
Goals
2
5th
Assists
3
3rd
Expected assists
4.6
1st
Shots
30
4th
Big chances created
8
1st
Progressive carries
73
2nd
Progressive passes
128
1st
Key passes
42
1st
Passes into the box
31
1st
Shot-creating actions
78
1st
Successful take-ons
34
2nd
Touches in the attacking 3rd
445
1st
Average SofaScore rating
6.91
3rd
As the table documents, in a generally dismal Leicester City side, El Khannouss was without a doubt the primary creative force, ranked first when it came to expected assists, big chances created, key passes, progressive passes and many, many other attacking metrics.
He has a similar talismanic quality that Ben Arfa possessed during the majority of his time at Newcastle, taking on the attacking burden and often making things happen all by himself.
Thus, in a significantly better side, El Khannouss could become a star of the Premier League, and the Magpies could provide him with the platform to do that.
He'd replicate Isak: Newcastle make enquiry to sign "complete" £80m striker
With Alexander Isak still hoping to force a move to Liverpool, could Newcastle target a “complete” striker valued at £80m who’d replicate the Swede?
Chelsea must watch on from afar as a highly-rated former starlet aims to make a name for himself at Premier League rivals Liverpool, and those within Stamford Bridge were left ‘shocked’ after his departure.
The Blues’ penchant for attracting world football’s most dazzling young talents has been a key theme of their business in recent years.
Cole Palmer
7.33
Moises Caicedo
7.02
Enzo Fernández
6.95
Nicolas Jackson
6.88
Noni Madueke
6.82
via WhoScored
Ever since Todd Boehly/Clearlake Capital’s takeover in 2022, Chelsea have broken records for the number of youngsters in their squad, with OptaJoe revealing Enzo Maresca fielded the youngest ever starting eleven in Premier League history last season.
Despite some calls for Chelsea to sign players with more experience, this theme is unlikely to change any time soon. This window alone, Maresca has seen Dario Essugo, Estevão Willian, Mamadou Sarr, Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens, Kendry Páez and Jorrel Hato join the club, with the oldest of them being only 22.
Chelsea are also in talks to sign both Xavi Simons and Alejandro Garnacho, according to Sky Sports, while Football Transfers reported earlier this week that Maresca could sign another ‘exciting youngster’ too if one becomes available before the deadline.
Alejandro Garnarcho for Manchester United.
BlueCo’s youth obsession is no accident – it’s their masterplan.
Chelsea have poured over £1 billion into signing the world’s brightest upcoming stars – stacking their future with talent before it hits peak value.
On the pitch, it means building a squad that can evolve together. The club’s average age will continue to be one of the lowest in Europe – with Maresca’s system set to potentially thrive on energy and development.
He’s now got a group hungry to prove themselves, not fading stars on bloated wages.
However, Chelsea’s desire to grow a roster rich with world football’s most promising starlets doesn’t mean everyone will be along for the ride.
Chelsea annoyed after losing Rio Ngumoha to Liverpool
Last summer, promising teenager Rio Ngumoha swapped west London for Anfield, and Chelsea were reminded of that fact when the 16-year-old scored a brilliant solo goal in the first of a double-header against Athletic Bilbao earlier this week.
The winger became Liverpool’s second-youngest ever senior debutant against Accrington Stanley in the FA Cup last term, and many are wondering whether Arne Slot is planning a first-team role for him after an excellent pre-season.
According to journalist Graeme Bailey, speaking to TBR Football, Chelsea have maintained a frustration after losing Nguhoma to Liverpool, and were left shocked by his move up north.
“Chelsea know how good Ngumoha is. They were annoyed to lose him. It was a real frustration for them to see him walk away,” said Bailey.
“They know losing players is part and parcel of the academy system now – you just have to make sure you have more wins than losses.
“However – within football – Ngumoha was a name that everyone knew about. He had offers from everywhere, but Chelsea were shocked that he left.
“Now he is impressing at Liverpool, it is fair to say that Chelsea’s annoyance is not going away – but to see him become a success is not a shock to anyone at Stamford Bridge.”
The London-born attacking gem is certainly one to watch, with John Terry once calling him a “top player” and tipping Nguhoma for stardom.
Manchester United have been one of the absolute biggest clubs in the world now for over 30 years, largely thanks to their Premier League dominance under Sir Alex Ferguson. They are massive and boast arguably the largest overall fanbase in football.
That, of course, means there are quite a few famous names amongst the fans. We thought we’d pick out some of them – but this is far from an exhaustive list. Also worth mentioning that we’ve gone for actual fans here, not just famous people who wore a shirt once.
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ByCharlie Smith May 8, 2025 Justin Timberlake
We’ll start with an unusual one here – but we’re going back some way for the proof. Justin Timberlake publicly outed himself as a United fan back in 2007, largely thanks to former striker/midfielder Alan Smith.
"I'm a Red! I'm mates with Smithy so he' ..Read more at:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2148088.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst "I'm a Red! I'm mates with Smithy so he' ..Read more at:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2148088.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst "I'm a Red! I'm mates with Smithy so he' ..Read more at:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2148088.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst "I'm a Red! I'm mates with Smithy so he' ..Read more at:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2148088.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst"I'm a Red! I'm mates with Smithy so he' ..Read more at:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2148088.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst"I'm a Red! I'm mates with Smithy so he' ..Read more at:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2148088.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst"I'm a Red! I'm mates with Smithy so he' ..Read more at:http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/articleshow/2148088.cms?utm_source=contentofinterest&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=cppst
“I’m a Red!,” he said back then. “I’m mates with Smithy so he’s my favourite player but [Cristiano] Ronaldo isn’t bad either. I really like [Wayne] Rooney too.
“Smithy hooked me up with some tickets, so I went to watch the home game against West Ham.”
We won’t go as far as to say he’s a die-hard fan but there’s certainly a link there!
Eamonn Holmes
Sticking with celebrity glamour, TV presenter Eamonn Holmes is a long-time fan of United. In fact, he even started the eulogies at the funeral of United legend and fellow Northern Irishman George Best.
Holmes has been very openly a massive fan for decades now, from wanting to name his son after Sir Alex Ferguson, to just this month criticising the new third kit.
The presenter actually featured alongside Ferguson on “Who Wants To Be A Millionaire?” back in 2004. He’s the only person on this list to have done that.
Rory McIlroy
Rory McIlroy is another who has worn his United support proudly on his sleeve for some time now. The golfer even found the nerve to out himself as a fan in front of a Liverpool crowd back in 2014. It wasn’t received well.
But after winning the Open that year, McIlroy was invited to parade the Grey Jug around Old Trafford. It was an invitation he quickly accepted.
Just this week, too, McIlroy moved to offer support to under-fire defender Harry Maguire.
“Absolutely [I feel sorry for him],” he told Sky Sports.
“I am sure Harry wakes up every morning, goes to work and tries his best just like we all do and when your life and career are laid bare like that and everyone sees everything… you could make 20 great passes in a game and the one pass that doesn’t go quite right is the one that everyone is going to concentrate on.”
Luke Littler
Darts sensation Luke Littler has helped transform the sport in recent years, but away from the oche, Littler is a die-hard Man Utd supporter.
After bursting onto the scene, Littler was left starstruck after receiving a message from Red Devils icon David Beckham. He won the World Championship in 2025 and even took the trophy to Old Trafford.
Olly Murs
Olly Murs is a loud United fan – he has a box at Old Trafford and recently gave a tour of the stadium for the club’s official website.
He can frequently be seen talking about the club over the years, too, and explained exactly why going to see the club means so much to him in an interview with the Guardian last year.
“Taking my dad to Manchester United matches. He’s a massive fan, but couldn’t take us when we were kids. It’s far from Essex; we couldn’t afford it. When I got into this industry, one of my first purchases was a box at Old Trafford. Being able to take him means a lot.”
A passionate fan of United, then – it’s what you love to see.
Conor McGregor
MMA star Conor McGregor.
Conor McGregor’s support for Man Utd really came into the public consciousness last year when there was talk he would front a bid to buy the club. Now, it quickly became evident that he lacked the funds to make that happen.
Still, McGregor certainly wasn’t just after the publicity. He’s talked about his support for the club before, including a lengthy interview with the official club site back in 2021.
“I was attracted to the success and winning mentality of the club and people surrounded by United. Irish legends like Denis Irwin and Roy Keane were dedicated to their craft and had that winning mentality.
“Roy Keane was one of the best midfielders European football has ever seen. Opponents would be mentally beaten before they’d even stepped on to the pitch to face him.”
It’s a good read and rare that you see this much talk about the club from a ‘celebrity’ fan. McGregor does also have allegiances with Celtic, we should say, but there’s no doubt that he has plenty of support for United.
Dave
Multi-award-winning rapper Dave is a big United fan – you only need listen to his music to find that out. His 2021 release “We’re All Alone in This Together” featured several shout-outs to the club.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Anthony Martial both got name-dropped. Even youngster Amad Diallo was mentioned in a track. Then if you go a touch further back, you’ll find Dave Tweeting like a typical fan back in 2019, primarily with Paul Pogba propaganda.
Angry Ginge
One of the most famous British YouTubers and Twitch streamers around today, Man Utd is part of Angry Ginge’s personality.
Known for his ‘Yanited’ outbursts, Angry Ginge, real name Morgan Burtwistle, is also a season ticket holder at Old Trafford. He even played at the stadium for Soccer Aid 2025, coming up against Carlos Tevez.
Richard Ashcroft
Sticking with the musician theme, Richard Ashcroft has been a United fan since childhood. He’s another to give an interview with the official club site where he explained how he got on board with United.
“I come from such a hybrid area. Skelmersdale, built near to where I was brought up, was a new town for Liverpool. So there was a real mixture of football supporters at school. There were United fans, and Liverpool and Everton fans whose families had moved from Liverpool to Skelmersdale.
“But essentially it was an old friend of mine. There was a family who lived across the road who used to go to watch United. They took me to my first match when I was about 10 or 11.”
The Verve frontman then talked about that first trip to Old Trafford – something that’s clearly stuck with him through it all.
“It is that cliche moment of seeing the stadium and the green of the pitch for the first time. When I first started going to Old Trafford it was when Ron Atkinson was the manager, and we would always be ‘nearly there’ in the league, but with amazing crowds.
“Everyone packed into the Stretford End – those were the days!”
Brian O’Driscoll
Rugby icon Brian O’Driscoll is another huge Red Devils supporter, with the Irishman admitting he went against the majority of Liverpool fans in Dublin growing up to follow Man Utd.
His first idol at Old Trafford was Mark Hughes, and he revealed his favourite ever goal was Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s winner against Bayern Munich in the Champions League final in 1999.
Usain Bolt
Usain Bolt has never hidden his allegiance to Man United, going all the way back to his heyday of 2012. The fastest man in history was a guest of honour at Old Trafford in Alex Ferguson’s final season, in fact.
Then, of course, there was that spell where Bolt attempted to break into top-level football, publicly admitting that while he had trials with Borussia Dortmund, his real dream was to play for United.
"One of my biggest dreams is to sign for Manchester United. If Dortmund say I'm good enough, I'll crack on and train hard."I've spoken to Alex Ferguson and I told him he needs to put in a good word. He told me if I get fit and ready, he will see what he can do."
Tyson Fury
It’s pretty unusual to get this far through a list like this without finding a proper local fan but here’s one. Tyson Fury is from Greater Manchester and has been vocal about his support, particularly over the last few years.
But he’s clearly a fan who does know his stuff. Fury even went against the grain and predicted that United would potentially be a better side without Cristiano Ronaldo last year – months before Erik ten Hag moved the player on.
“When you have a superstar like Ronaldo, everybody relies on him to score goals and if he wasn’t there they’d be scoring the goals themselves, like they did the season before last.
“I’m not saying he’s a bad asset, he’s a great asset, but sometimes with a star player, he carries the team and the young people are overshadowed by it all, they don’t get their chance to shine because ‘the great Ronaldo’ is on the pitch.”
You’ll frequently find Fury’s support on social media, too, be it celebrating the EFL Cup or welcoming Mason Mount to the club.
Stormzy
Stormzy went viral last season after appearing on Sky Sports’ coverage during a United game where he admitted to being starstruck by the occasion. After all, here was a lifetime fan of the club, at Old Trafford, getting to talk about the team on Monday Night Football.
But how did Stormzy actually become a fan? He explained in an interview with Soccer AM a few years ago that it was simply a case of a stars aligning.
“I always get stick.
“There’s probably even people watching now saying ‘hear his accent what’s he doing supporting United?’ But that’s just how the stars aligned for me.
“When I was younger I didn’t have a big brother or like a dad who supported United so it all kinda came from me.
“Cockney Red what can you do?”
Stormzy also took part in Paul Pogba’s announcement video for the club back in 2016 but infamously spoiled the signing by posting the video too early. We can hardly blame him for being excited, mind.
Newcastle United’s summer transfer window is kicking into life, all right, with Eddie Howe determined to package a squad with enough quality to challenge across the Premier League and Champions League campaigns.
Last season was one of staggering success for the Magpies, who deservedly beat Liverpool at Wembley in March to lift the Carabao Cup, so ending 70 years adrift from that matchless trophy-winning feeling.
Newcastle United managerEddieHoweapplauds fans after the match
On the last day of the top-flight term, the Toon also secured their place in next year’s elite European tournament after finishing fifth in the league.
However, Newcastle’s 2024 summer window still lingers in the minds of all affiliated. It’s something of a miracle that Howe led his troops to glory in spite of the market setbacks.
The new campaign is a little over a month away, and United are planning to make a series of signings despite their slow start to the window.
That slow start has started to gather some pace, in fairness, but more is needed if Howe’s to piece together Newcastle’s dream squad for the 2025/26 season.
The goalkeepers James Trafford becomes the new No. 1
Newcastle have maintained a vested interest in Burnley shot-stopper James Trafford for a while now, and though Howe has been bruised by a number of setbacks in the market, this one looks like it will glide through to the finish line in a potential £30m deal.
Hailed as a “world-class keeper” by Clarets boss Scott Parker, the Englishman will jockey for a regular starting berth with Nick Pope, who has been a staple of the Howe era but missed ten Premier League matches last year due to injury.
Newcastle, for sure, aren’t strapped for options between the sticks. Martin Dubravka, Odysseas Vlachodimos, John Ruddy and Mark Gillespie all form a bloated chunk of the St. James’ Park first-team squad.
Profit and Sustainability technicalities have played heavily into the unique situation, but there’s no question that Trafford would sit atop the pile if signed this summer.
Full list of goalkeepers: James Trafford, Nick Pope, Martin Dubravka, Odysseas Vlachodimos, John Ruddy, Mark Gillespie
The defence Howe finally lands a new centre-back
Amid the long list of rejections this summer is likely to be Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who was the subject of four failed bids from the Tynesiders in 2024 and has entered Newcastle’s sights once more this year.
But Liverpool appear to hold the lead in the race, and Newcastle have thus swivelled their attention to Atalanta’s Giorgio Scalvini, who, aged 22, is valued in excess of £50m.
Atalanta defender Giorgio Scalvini
The dynamic defender will complete a backline already replete with depth and quality. A fully-fit Sven Botman could provide the right-footer with a formidable partner, while Fabian Schar and Dan Burn offer high-level competition that will be vital across a multi-front campaign.
And Howe’s diligence and planning over the past few years has also limited the attention required on the flanks. Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall make for one of the most exciting young partnerships in the game, while Matt Targett and Kieran Trippier bring leadership to the fold.
Full list of centre-backs: Fabian Schar, Giorgio Scalvini, Jamal Lascelles, Sven Botman, Dan Burn
Full list of right-backs: Tino Livramento, Kieran Trippier, Emil Krafth
Full list of left-backs: Lewis Hall, Matt Targett
The midfield Magpie midfielders remain the essence of Howe's system
Newcastle’s defence is in pretty good nick, but not so much as the midfield, which has been pieced together masterfully over the past few years. When Sandro Tonali gelled with Bruno Guimaraes after last winter’s blip, United reached new levels, establishing the form that would lead to silver-tinted glory.
Ipswich Town captain Sam Morsy has certainly sung their praises, saying of the midfield: “One of the best in the league. Probably just behind Liverpool’s or maybe even on par with Liverpool’s. They’ve got a blend of everything and incredible players. I think they’ve got some of the best players in the world in that position.”
Tonali’s redefinition as a number six promoted the ball-playing focus of Howe’s game and allowed Guimaraes to operate in a more advanced, fluid role. Joelinton’s undying energy was magnified but Sean Longstaff, who has been linked with a summer sale could exit to please PSR. Leeds United have already tabled an offer.
In his stead, Newcastle have been named suitors for Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher, with the England international valued at £50m. His completeness and athleticism would be the perfect counterpoint to a midfield already rich with contrasting quality.
Newcastle would likely look to whittle down Atletico’s asking price, but it’s an exciting time for the Toon, who already are so strong in the centre, with Joe Willock and the young Lewis Miley looking to play their part too.
Full list of central midfielders: Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, Conor Gallagher, Joe Willock, Lewis Miley
The forwards Sweeping changes built around Alexander Isak
Alexander Isak remains Newcastle’s talisman, and PIF’s £200m price tag for the Sweden star should keep him at St. James’ Park for at least one more year.
He does need competition though, since Callum Wilson has packed up and left at the end of his contract. There have been a few blows in that regard so far, but Brentford’s Yoane Wissa has recently been lined up. The sticking point, of course, is that the Bees want £50m.
And despite signing Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest in a £55m deal, more is needed, to be sure. Anthony Gordon and Harvey Barnes hold down the fort pretty well on the left flank, but Newcastle are still interested in signing another name to enrich the ranks.
And that would be Manchester City’s Jack Grealish, who is set to leave the Etihad Stadium this summer. His £40m price tag might put the Magpies off, for this would take their spending over £200m after having bagged Elanga already.
Instead, a loan move looks like it could be the order of the day, one which would provide creative relief and allow a deal for someone like Wissa to be pursued too.
Centre-forward
86
34
8
Left winger
28
6
4
Right winger
7
4
0
Attacking midfield
3
1
0
The recent rumours surrounding Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike make for compelling reading, but it’s just hard to envisage a world where Newcastle win the race for the £85m-rated centre-forward while keeping Isak on the books too.
And Isak is staying. Thus, a more pragmatic, but still impressive, deal for a Premier League-proven and positionally dynamic player in Wissa could prove the order of the day for Newcastle as they look to polish off this remarkable squad of Magpies.
Full list of right wingers: Anthony Elanga, Jacob Murphy
Full list of left wingers: Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes, Jack Grealish
Full list of strikers: Alexander Isak, Yoane Wissa, William Osula
Elanga's new Gibbs-White: Newcastle leading race for £40m "magician"
Newcastle are hoping to make more signings after landing Anthony Elanga.
Sheffield United are making progress in their hunt for new signings and Ruben Selles is now advancing for his latest target, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Failing to claim promotion to the Premier League will have carried a sting in the tale for the Blades, though inevitable departures can often pave the way for fresh hunger ahead of the new campaign.
With Ruben Selles now in the door and facing up to that task, Don Goodman has had his say on Vinicius Souza’s Sheffield United departure as he prepares for an imminent move to Wolfsburg, claiming that he is surprised there wasn’t Premier League interest in the midfielder.
He stated: “The biggest surprise for me, should Vini Souza depart Sheffield United this summer, is that a Premier League club hasn’t taken a chance on him, and I say that with the greatest respect to Wolfsburg.”
He added: “it was up to the players who had almost let themselves down in the Premier League to wipe the slate down and go again, and he certainly was one of those who did that. When he wasn’t in the team, they missed him (when he was), he was outstanding.”
Nevertheless, Sheffield United are active on the transfer front and could look to bring in Tyler Bindon, who has previously worked with Selles while on loan at Reading last campaign.
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Tottenham Hotspur pair Ashley Phillips and Alfie Devine could yet end up at Bramall Lane, indicatting that the club are searching far and wide for reinforcements ahead of the new campaign.
Now, Selles and company have their eye on a central defender from the continent who could add some much-needed solidity at the Yorkshire outfit.
Sheffield United hold "concrete interest" in Etienne Kinkoue
According to Fabrizio Romano on social media platform X, Sheffield United hold ‘concrete interest’ in Le Havre defender Etienne Kinkoue, who is set to leave his current employers this summer, with his deal at the Ligue 1 side set to expire in 2026.
Valued at around £4.3 million, Burnley and FC Köln are also said to be in pursuit and the 23-year-old wants to take his next career step elsewhere.
Standing at 6ft 5in, Kinkoue made 28 appearances across all competitions last campaign and helped his side to remain in the top-flight, though he could now be set for a new challenge away from the comfort of his homeland.
Sheffield United have been in the market for central defenders this summer and Kinkoue is clearly someone who would fit the bill ahead of another tilt at promotion.
It might not even be July, but Arsenal feel like they’re falling behind in the transfer window.
Manchester City have already signed a handful of incredible players, including Rayan Cherki and Tijjani Reijnders, Manchester United have picked up Matheus Cunha, and Chelsea got Liam Delap through the door at the start of the month.
However, the most significant transfer to be completed by a rival, and the most worrying for the Gunners’ Premier League prospects next season, has been Liverpool’s acquisition of Florian Wirtz.
The German international has been the talk of the window so far, and it looks like he could be a superstar for the Reds.
How Wirtz compares to Premier League stars
With the level of excitement that has followed Wirtz to Liverpool and the enormous £116.5m fee it took to get him out of Bayer Leverkusen, there is an expectation from fans and rivals alike that the German will hit the ground running next season.
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With that in mind, how do his numbers from this season stack up against some of the more prominent attacking midfielders in the league?
Well, given the amount of money he has cost the Reds, it should come as no surprise that none of the Premier League’s top attacking midfielders were more productive than the 22-year-old across all competitions last year.
Wirtz
45
16
15
0.68
Odegaard
45
6
12
0.40
Palmer
48
15
12
0.56
Fernandes
57
19
19
0.66
De Bruyne
40
6
8
0.35
Rogers
54
14
15
0.53
Gibbs-White
38
7
10
0.44
Szoboszlai
49
8
9
0.34
Eze
43
14
11
0.58
Maddison
45
12
11
0.51
In his 45 appearances, the former Leverkusen gem produced 31 goal involvements, which comes out to an average of 0.68 per game, and the only player to get close to that was Bruno Fernandes, whose 38 goal involvements in 57 appearances came out to an average of 0.66 per game.
Bringing it back to Arsenal, the sad reality is that the team’s captain and previously mercurial Martin Odegaard didn’t get anywhere near to being as productive as the man of the moment.
In fact, the Gunners’ Norwegian leader was only able to score six goals and provide 12 assists in 45 appearances this season, which comes out to a rather underwhelming average of 0.40 goal involvements per game.
In short, the North Londoners’ midfield maestro appears to be no match for the effectiveness of Liverpool’s new superstar.
Still, it’s not all doom and gloom, as Mikel Arteta has his own monster talent at the Emirates, someone worth millions more than Wirtz.
The Arsenal star worth millions more than Wirtz
While Arsenal are blessed with an abundance of talent, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that there are not many players worth more than the monstrous fee Wirtz has cost Liverpool.
However, one of those players who is worth more is, of course, the simply sensational Bukayo Saka.
According to the CIES Football Observatory, the Hale End icon is worth up to €157.3m, which converts to about £135m, or £18.5 more than the Liverpool star’s price tag.
Now, there will undoubtedly be some out there who look at such a price and rubbish it, but if we look at how the pair stacked up against one another this season, it might be easier to see where the CIES were coming from.
For example, despite missing over three months of action, the “world-class” winger, as dubbed by Rio Ferdinand, was able to score 12 goals and provide 14 assists in just 37 appearances, which comes out to an average of 0.70 goal involvements per game – 0.02 better than the German.
Moreover, when we look under the hood at their respective underlying numbers, the 23-year-old international once again comes out looking better.
For example, he produces a higher non-penalty expected goals plus assists figure while also playing more key passes and making more tackles, which only helps to demonstrate the way in which he takes responsibility for all areas of the game.
Non-Penalty Expected G+As
0.71
0.50
Non-Penalty G+As
0.78
0.77
Progressive Passes
3.65
6.74
Progressive Carries
5.00
5.02
Shots
3.44
2.83
Shots on Target
1.15
1.34
Passing Accuracy
75.5%
78.3%
Key Passes
3.02
2.18
Shot-Creating Actions
6.09
5.66
Goal-Creating Actions
1.20
0.99
Tackles
1.51
1.23
Ultimately, it’s this ability to have an outsized impact on the attacking side of the game while still putting in the dirty work while still being relatively young that makes Saka so valuable, and if he continues on his current trajectory, we aren’t sure Wirtz’s valuation will ever catch up.
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An “interesting” Everton player is now said to be very close to leaving the club in the summer transfer window, according to a fresh claim.
Everton eyeing Premier League attacker and others
Blues supporters will be desperately hoping to see new signings arrive on Merseyside this summer, as David Moyes looks to take the team forward and make them a top-half Premier League side again.
Newcastle United striker Callum Wilson has been linked with a move to Everton, with the veteran a proven top-flight attacker who could add much-needed firepower in the final third. A tally of 88 goals in 239 Premier League appearances highlights the Englishman’s pedigree.
Newcastle striker Callum Wilson
The Blues are also believed to have entered the race to sign Timothy Weah, with the USA international currently plying his trade at Juventus. He scored five goals in Serie A last season, only starting 18 out of 38 league matches, so a fresh challenge may appeal to him.
Elsewhere, Corinthians striker Yuri Alberto appears to be a leading start to add to Moyes’ attack, with one report claiming that they are battling Wolves for his signature, with the latter tabling an offer for his services. Now, an Everton exit rumour has emerged, with one player not expected to be at the club at the start of next season.
"Interesting" Everton ace close to leaving
According to Africa Foot [via Sport Witness], Youssef Chermiti is now “very close” to leaving Everton this summer, heading to Championship side Stoke City.
The 21-year-old is reportedly likely to move there on a season-long loan deal, hopefully picking up some important experience before the Blues make a decision over his future at the end of next term.
Everton's Youssef Chermiti
This feels like a shrewd decision for all parties, with the report saying ‘sources believe Chermiti is not in Moyes’ plans for Everton next season’, so he needs to enjoy regular football elsewhere. He is under contract until the summer of 2027, so there is no rush to sell him permanently yet.
The Portuguese has struggled to make an impression in a Blues shirt, failing to register a single goal or assist in 24 appearances, but he was lauded as a “very interesting” player by football talent scout Jacek Kulig in the past.
Hopefully, Chermiti will flourish out on loan at Stoke, with the Championship a massive test of any players’ credentials, then giving Moyes a headache when he returns to Everton next summer.
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He will have to do a lot in 2025/26 to show the Scot that he is worth persevering with long into the future, though, and it will be interesting to see how he fares over the next 12 months or so.
Manchester United’s business in the transfer market has left a lot to be desired over recent years, with many of their additions failing to make the grade in the Premier League.
Rasmus Hojlund is arguably the biggest example in the current squad, costing £72m from Atalanta back in the summer of 2023, but has struggled to make the desired impact.
The Dane has only scored four times in the league throughout 2024/25, leading to rumours over his long-term future at Old Trafford, with a return to Serie A on the cards this summer.
Rasmus Hojlund for Man Utd.
It’s crucial that the hierarchy back Ruben Amorim in the market over the coming months, but more importantly is that they hand him the right players to operate in his 3-4-2-1 system.
Matheus Cunha has been the first addition, but if the club are to have any chance of rising up the table next campaign, added reinforcements are needed to help the Brazilian within the final third.
The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer
A striker has been the priority of United so far this summer, especially after missing out on number one target Liam Delap to fellow Premier League outfit Chelsea.
Since his move to Stamford Bridge, the likes of Victor Osimhen, Dušan Vlahović and Jean-Philippe Mateta have all been touted with a move to join the Red Devils.
Crystal Palace's Jean-PhilippeMatetacelebrates after the match
However, other forwards have also been on their radar, with Lyon winger Malick Fofana the latest player linked with a move to Old Trafford, according to French outlet L’Equipe.
Their report states that Jason Wilcox is considering making a bid for the Belgian youngster, who registered 16 combined goals and assists across all competitions – costing in the region of £38m.
It also claims that Chelsea are firmly in the race for his signature, with Amorim’s side once again facing the prospect of a transfer battle with Enzo Maresca’s side for a player’s signature.
Why United’s £38m target could be Amorim’s next Amad
Despite Hojlund’s failures within the final third this campaign, other players around him have managed to star, including Ivorian forward Amad Diallo.
The 22-year-old was seen as an outcast under former boss Erik ten Hag, but was handed the platform to impress after Amorim’s arrival in late November last year.
He’s since taken his career to the next level at Old Trafford, registering 19 combined goals and assists across all competitions in 2024/25, with his £36m transfer fee now looking somewhat of a bargain.
Amad even scored a hat-trick in the comeback win over Southampton and bagged the winner in the Manchester Derby at the Etihad, a feat that made him an instant hero among the fanbase.
Such a deal needs to be replicated going forward, with new target Fofana providing just that should he make a move to Manchester in the coming months.
Lyon's Malick Fofana
He possesses a similar skillset, with both being nimble left-footed forwards who can operate off either wing, potentially operating in a wing-back role in Amorim’s system if needed.
When comparing his stats to those of Amad from the recent campaign, he’s managed to outperform him in numerous key areas, highlighting how much of an impressive addition he would be.
Games played
29
26
Goals & assists
9
14
Shot-on-target accuracy
48%
36%
Progressive carries
6.3
5.1
Carries into final third
3.2
2.5
Take-on success
47%
46%
Crosses completed
4
1.9
Fouls won
2.1
1.3
Fofana, who’s been labelled “special” by journalist Zach Lowy, may have registered fewer combined goals and assists, but has notched a higher shot-on-target rate, demonstrating his clinical ability in the final third.
He’s also managed to complete more progressive carries and more carries into the final third per 90, handing the side an added threat given his desire to get forward with the ball at his feet.
The Belgian’s trickery has made him a constant nuisance to opposition defenders, completing 47% of his attempted take-ons and winning more fouls per 90.
£38m in today’s market is a solid price for a 20-year-old star who could improve massively in the years ahead under Amorim’s guidance, offering the side a new star in attacking areas.
If he can replicate Amad’s success in the Premier League in the near future, it would be another bargain and an addition that could take the club back towards their former glory.
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A positive update has now emerged regarding Newcastle United’s efforts to sign a “special” player in the summer transfer window.
Howe in charge of transfers at Newcastle
There has been a big change at St James’ Park since the end of the season, following the departure of Paul Mitchell as sporting director, with the 43-year-old releasing a statement upon his exit.
“I’d like to thank everyone at Newcastle United for their support over the last year. I’m leaving at a time that is right for me and the club, particularly with Darren Eales – someone who I have worked so closely with in my career – moving on soon. The club is in great hands on and off the pitch, and is in a fantastic position to continue building.”
Paul Mitchell at Newcastle United.
It means that Eddie Howe now has far more control of Newcastle’s summer transfer business, amid rumours that the pair didn’t get along, not least last summer when both were reportedly dissatisfied with a lack of business.
It will be interesting to see if Howe flourishes with even more responsibility, bringing in the right players who can suit his style of play, and a new centre-back will surely be a priority. Now, a new report has emerged regarding a potential signing in that area of the pitch.
Newcastle planning approach for "special" defender
According to a new report from Caught Offside, Newcastle are planning an approach for Juventus centre-back Federico Gatti this summer, with the Italian valued at £29m.
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The 26-year-old’s future in Turin is described as “uncertain” and he also likes the idea of moving to the Premier League, acting as a boost for the Magpies.
Federico Gatti for Juventus
As mentioned, Newcastle must strengthen their defence this summer, considering several of their current options are in their 30s, and Gatti stands out as a strong choice for them.
The Italy international has enjoyed an interesting journey, emerging as a late bloomer rather than standing out at academy level, with Eurofoot describing his career as being on a “special” path.
Gatti enjoyed an impressive 2024/25 season with Juve, including completing 95.2% of his passes in Serie A, highlighting the quality he has in possession, and he is at a perfect age to come straight in as a key man for Newcastle.
Appearances
30
Starts
26
Minutes played
2196
Pass completion rate
95.2%
Clearances per game
2.5
Aerial duel wins per game
1.2
Tackles per game
0.9
Goals
1
Assists
0
It may not be easy for the Magpies to get him, amid competition from the likes of Tottenham, West Ham, Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest, but they can guarantee him Champions League football, which could prove vital.
Already seemingly closing in on Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz, Liverpool have now reportedly opened talks to sign another Bundesliga star and one that would instantly solve their striker problem.
Frimpong travels to complete Liverpool move
With Trent Alexander-Arnold on his way to join Real Madrid as a free agent this summer, Liverpool have acted swiftly and are reportedly closing in on signing Jeremie Frimpong. The flying fullback has already travelled to complete his move to Anfield in what looks set to be the first of a number of fresh faces making their way to the home of the Premier League champions in the coming months.
Whilst Alexander-Arnold’s goodbye tears are still drying, the Reds have acted in rapid fashion to find his replacement. But they’re not done there. Reports have also revealed that Liverpool are in pole position to sign Frimpong’s Leverkusen teammate, Florian Wirtz.
It initially looked set to be a battle between Manchester City and Bayern Munich for the German’s signature, only for Liverpool’s call to push Wirtz towards rejecting other interested parties. Now, with their first offer submitted, it could just be a matter of time before those at Anfield land one of the earliest and likely one of the biggest deals of the summer transfer window.
Leverkusen sporting director Simon Rolfes has also confirmed Liverpool’s interest, recently telling reporters: “It’s currently an open subject with Florian. There is concrete interest from Liverpool, but there’s no more to say right now. Florian is our player.”
The Bundesliga seems to be where it’s at for Liverpool this summer too, amid rumours that they’re already lining up a move to sign what could be their third player of the summer from Germany’s top division.
Liverpool open talks to sign £84m Hugo Ekitike
According to Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg, Liverpool are also in talks to sign Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer and are serious contenders to sign the Frenchman alongside rivals Chelsea.
Hugo Ekitike for Frankfurt.
Michael Edwards and Arne Slot are fans of the forward but, like Wirtz, the deal won’t come cheap with Frankfurt looking to receive around €100m (£84m) to sell their star.
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Liverpool’s interest should come as little surprise. Slot, despite securing the Premier League title at the first time of asking, lacked a natural No.9 all season, with Luiz Diaz often asked to play the role amid Darwin Nunez’s continued struggles. Now, with the latter likely to depart, the Reds could make their move to sign a replacement that analyst Sam McGuire dubbed a “shot monster”.
After ending the season with 22 goals to his name for Frankfurt, all signs are pointing towards a top European move for Ekitike this summer and a deserved one at that.