All posts by z3u9t.icu

Everton’s mini-unbeaten run continues, albeit not quite in the way they would’ve hoped.

On Saturday, David Moyes’ men were held to a goalless draw by Aston Villa at Hill Dickinson Stadium, neither team ever looking particularly likely to make the breakthrough.

Nevertheless, this means the Toffees are still yet to lose or even concede a goal at their new home at Bramley-Moore Dock, beating both Brighton in the Premier League and Mansfield in the EFL Cup on Merseyside so far.

The 3-2 victory over Wolves at Molineux a fortnight ago underlined the array of exciting attacking midfielders and wingers at Moyes’ disposal, but this team could’ve been even more frightening, had they not sold a “phenomenal” centre-forward.

Jack Grealish's impact at Everton

Jack Grealish did not take long to rediscover his best form after joining Everton on loan from Manchester City.

Having bagged a pair of assists during the victories over Brighton and Wolves, the England international leads the way in the division in that regard, albeit at this early stage.

Nevertheless, as recognition, he was named Premier League player of the month for the very first time in August, with Patrick Boyland of the Athletic describing his impact as ‘instantaneous’, labelling him a ‘symbol of hope’ for ‘success-starved supporters’.

However, he would be even more scintillating if he was able to feed top-quality strikers.

Beto scored against both Mansfield and Wolves last month, but Thierno Barry is yet to get off the mark since arriving from Villarreal for £27m, having bagged 11 La Liga goals during his solitary season with the Yellow Submarine.

Thus, the Frenchman could certainly come good, while Beto has proven what he can do, scoring seven Premier League goals after Moyes’ re-appointment in January, but just how much would Grealish have enjoyed playing with a forgotten Everton forward?

Everton's forgotten centre-forward

Back in the summer of 2019, Everton signed a striker by the name of Moise Kean for around £25m from Juventus but, suffice to say, he did not leave much of a lasting impression at Goodison.

The striker scored just four goals in 39 appearances for the Toffees, on target in the Premier League against Newcastle and Bournemouth, while also netting during EFL Cup victories over Salford and Fleetwood.

Thus, he spent the 2020/21 campaign on loan at Paris Saint-Germain, actually scoring 17 times for les Rouge-et-Bleu, before returning to Everton the following August, fittingly marking his final game for the club by being sent off against Huddersfield.

Where Are They Now

Your star player or biggest flop has left the club but what are they doing in the present day? This article is part of Football FanCast’s Where Are They Now series.

Soon after, he rejoined Juventus on a two-year loan deal, with la Vecchia Signora paying around £28m to eventually make the move permanent.

Nevertheless, across two spells in Turin, Kean scored a mere 22 goals in 123 appearances for the Bianconeri, only really bursting to life after moving to Fiorentina for around £15.5m last summer.

During his debut campaign at Stadio Artemio Franchi, Kean scored 25 times across all competitions, 19 of which came in Serie A, making him the division’s second-highest scorer, behind only Capocannoniere winner Mateo Retegui.

As a result, Inter legend Christian Vieri labelled his form “phenomenal”, reflected by the fact that Football Transfers believe his current market value to be around £48m, by some distance the highest it has ever been, more than three times more than what Fiorentina paid to recruit him and more than the £28m the same source values Grealish at.

The table below underlines Kean’s exponential increase in terms of scoring output.

2016/17

Juventus

1

2017/18

Juventus

4

2018/19

Juventus

7

2019/20

Everton

2

2020/21

Everton & PSG

19

2021/22

Juventus

6

2022/23

Juventus

8

2023/24

Juventus

Zero

2024/25

Fiorentina

25

As the table documents, it is quite the turnaround for Kean, having scored no goals in one season before bagging 25 in the next, having only ever managed more than eight in a campaign once beforehand.

His form has caught the eye of both recent Italy managers, first Luciano Spalletti and subsequently the newly-appointed Gennaro Gattuso.

Before the start of this year, Kean had scored just one international goal since September 2021.

Now though, he has bagged five in 2025 already, notching a brace against Germany in the Nations League quarter-finals at Westfalenstadion in March, before netting three times during the most-recent break, scoring a towering header when Estonia visited Bergamo, before a brace during Monday’s bonkers 5-4 victory over Israel at Nagyerdei Stadion.

So, while no one at Everton could’ve forecast how good Kean would become, he is proof that development and progress are not linear, but just imagine the Blues had a striker capable of scoring 25 goals a season, and how good he would be in tandem with Grealish.

Just as bad as Beto: Moyes must now drop Everton's 6/10 "passenger"

Everton will rue missed chances as they played out a goalless draw against Aston Villa in the Premier League.

ByAngus Sinclair Sep 13, 2025

Leeds United might well look back on this summer’s transfer window with plenty of regrets come the end of the long and hard Premier League season.

Indeed, no deadline day signings ended up being sealed by the Whites, with the forward areas – in particular – crying out for some fresh blood, considering Daniel Farke’s men have only netted once in league action so far, from three contests.

It wasn’t through a lack of trying, arguably, as Leeds did look set to bring in Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Facundo Buonanotte to Elland Road as the days grew ever closer to the chaos of deadline day.

However, at the final hour, the Argentine playmaker chose Chelsea instead as his next onward destination on loan, leaving Leeds with the bitter feeling of what could have been if the South American had entered the building to save the day.

What Buonanotte would have offered Leeds

Unfortunately, the glitz and glamour of lining up for Enzo Maresca’s men swayed the 20-year-old creator to move to West London over West Yorkshire.

He already has an early bump to contend with, though, as he has been shockingly left out of the Italian’s Champions League squad, just a matter of days after penning a loan move.

Still, there will be plenty of opportunities presumably handed to him in the bread and butter of Premier League action, after a loan stint last season out to Leicester City saw him dazzle top-flight defences regularly, despite the Foxes succumbing to relegation.

From 35 appearances at the King Power Stadium, the up-and-coming 20-year-old would pick up an impressive six goals and three assists, with a further seven goal contributions also coming his way back at Brighton, before finding his first-team minutes had dried up.

Leeds would have loved to welcome Buonanotte in on a short-term basis, with plenty more goals and assists registered by the entertaining South American at Elland Road, potentially helping Farke and Co beat the drop.

Instead, the goal-shy Whites will have to make do with Brenden Aaronson as one of their only recognisable number ten options, with the arrival of the two-time Argentina international also allowing them to explore more formations, away from the combative 4-3-3 preferred by Farke currently.

Frustratingly, this selection dilemma could actually be solved right now if Leeds hadn’t discarded a Buonanotte-style ace for just £1m two years ago.

Leeds' original Buonanotte

Farke has gone about making his side far more militant in the midfield ranks, with faces such as Ilia Gruev and Sean Longstaff not the most creative presences imaginable.

This is where Mateusz Bogusz could have come to the rescue, with the Polish midfielder very much a forgotten relic of Leeds’ recent past.

Before going on to make a name for himself as an attacking menace at both LAFC and Cruz Azul, Bogusz was a rising star tipped for greatness in West Yorkshire, having once been dubbed as a “very talented” player by his ex-U23s coach at Leeds in Carlos Corberan.

While he was showered with praise behind the scenes, the now 24-year-old would never go on to make the grade at a senior level, with three unmemorable men’s games passing him by, before he was offloaded for a bargain £880k to the MLS.

Games played

120

Goals scored

26

Assists

26

Trophies

2x

Looking at the table above, this was an unwise decision to make with hindsight on side, with Bogusz now boasting a high 52 goal contributions post his frustrating Elland Road stay.

With an ability to fire home a fierce effort, on top of picking out a teammate with ease, the 25-year-old might well have gone on to be success in the long-term if given more chances to impress, with his “dangerous” style of play – as it was described by reporter Greg Beacham – in the here and now also making him an apt fall back option for Buonanotte’s move being dead in the water.

Instead, there’s just more regrets piling up at Leeds on what could have been, as Farke now just has to make do with what he’s got until January rolls around.

Leeds can fix winger woes by unleashing 18-year-old who's "like Grealish"

Daniel Farke could solve some of his attacking woes by unleashing his own Jack Grealish at Leeds United.

ByDan Emery Sep 4, 2025

Glasgow Rangers are in competitive action for the first time in the 2025/26 campaign as they host Panathinaikos at Ibrox in the Champions League this evening.

The Light Blues welcome the Greek side to Glasgow in the first leg of their second round qualifier, in what will be Russell Martin’s first game in charge of the club.

Supporters will be hoping to see some new faces in the Rangers team for the first time, in a competitive setting at least, with the likes of Emmanuel Fernandez, Max Aarons, Joe Rothwell, and Djeidi Gassama all hoping to feature in some capacity.

Thelo Aasgaard, who signed for the club from Luton Town on a permanent deal this summer, missed training on Monday, though, and does not appear likely to be in the squad.

The Light Blues are still in the market for further reinforcements before the end of the transfer window, as well, but one player who may not be coming to Ibrox is Motherwell’s Lennon Miller.

Rangers were reportedly exploring a deal for the Scotland international last month. However, the Daily Record claims he has his ‘heart set’ on a move abroad.

Why missing out on Lennon Miller would be a blow for Rangers

Whilst the 18-year-old talent is still a Motherwell player and has not officially signed with another club, the latest claim that he is looking to move abroad suggests that the Gers are unlikely to land his signature before the end of the current transfer window.

This is a shame for Rangers, who were exploring a potential swoop for him, because he is an exciting young talent who has proven himself in the Scottish Premiership.

The teenage central midfielder started 32 matches in the Scottish top-flight for Motherwell in the 2024/25 campaign, and caught the eye with his impressive performances in the middle of the park.

Miller produced two goals and eight assists as an attacking force from midfield for his side, but it was his work off the ball that really showcased his best qualities.

Tackle success rate

68%

Top 28%

Duels won

5.84

Top 36%

Duel success rate

53%

Top 31%

Interceptions

1.38

Top 14%

Ball recoveries

6.52

Top 10%

Blocks

0.48

Top 28%

As you can see in the table above, the Scotland international ranked very highly among his positional peers in the Premiership in a host of key defensive metrics.

Miller’s contributions in and out of possession for Motherwell led to him being named the Scottish Premiership Young Player of the Year, which further illustrates why it would be a blow for Rangers to potentially miss out on him.

Rangers lining up move for new midfielder

However, the Light Blues are now interested in signing another teenage talent who could arrive at Ibrox as Martin’s own version of Lennon Miller.

Transfer Focus

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

According to Edinburgh News reporter Barry Anderson, Rangers are lining up a move for FC Cukaricki central midfielder Andrej Bacanin this summer.

The journalist claims that both the Gers and Celtic are keen on a potential deal for the Serbia U19 international, whilst Ajax and Udinese are also chasing a move for the impressive youngster.

Anderson adds that the Serbian side want a fee of around £2.6m, but that there is a feeling that the club would be willing to accept a fee of around £2.1m.

Cukaricki sporting director Vladimir Matijašević had already confirmed that Rangers made an enquiry, but this latest report outlines how much a deal could cost the Gers if they decide to go in with an official approach for him.

Why Bacanin could be Rangers' own Miller

If Rangers secure a £2.1m deal to sign the 18-year-old talent, who is the same age as Miller, then Martin could have his own version of the Motherwell dynamo on his hands.

Of course, the Serbian youngster is not a proven Premiership performer who would be almost guaranteed to hit the ground running at Ibrox in the same way that the Scottish star would be.

However, Bacanin is another 18-year-old prospect who would arrive in Glasgow as an excellent midfield talent with the potential to be a star for the club in the future, although he may not be expected to make a huge impact in the short term.

With a return of one goal and two assists in 17 appearances in the Superliga, the Serbia youth international is unlikely to provide the goals and assists that Miller did for Motherwell last season. However, he caught the eye as a screener in front of his defence, making vital defensive contributions on a regular basis in his breakthrough campaign at senior level.

Appearances

17

Starts

10

Goals

1

Assists

2

Tackles per 90

2.3

Interceptions per 90

1.8

Aerial duels won per 90

1.3

Error led to goal

0

Penalties committed

0

As you can see in the table above, Bacanin averaged 4.1 tackles and interceptions per 90 in his first season for Cukaricki, which shows that he has the tenacity and reading of the game to constantly step in to break up attacks.

Serbian Football Scout, who is a professional scout for MLS side Colorado Rapids, hailed the teenage ace as a “true midfield controller”, and his defensive work plays a crucial role in that.

His ability to consistently win possession back for his side, through tackles and interceptions, allows him to control games by breaking up opposition attacks and creating new possessions for his own team to then create chances.

This suggests that he can offer similar qualities to Miller in terms of what he can do out of possession in the middle of the park, as they are both midfielders who can consistently stop the other team from building up play.

Perfect for Gassama: Rangers ready to step up move for "exemplary" CF

Rangers are reportedly ready to pursue a deal to sign a star who would be perfect for Djeidi Gassama.

ByDan Emery Jul 20, 2025

He may not be a like-for-like replica of the Motherwell star, as he has yet to show as much quality as a creator, but they are both teenage midfield stars who can operate as impressive defensive enforcers, which is why the £2.1m star could be Martin’s own version of Miller at Ibrox.

Manchester United have made a rapid start to the summer transfer window, something that was desperately needed given their lowly Premier League standing this season.

Ruben Amorim’s side ended the campaign in a measly 15th place, winning just 11 of their 38 matches, sitting a staggering 24 points off a place in the top five.

He’s already added attacker Matheus Cunha to his ranks, with a move for Bryan Mbeumo appearing to be moving in the right direction after submitting an improved offer for his services.

Whilst the pair are likely to cost over £120m between them, the hierarchy appear to be showing no signs of slowing down in the market as multiple other targets remain on their radar.

Multiple positions are set to be the subject of their investment, handing the manager the depth he needs if he is to be a success during his stint at Old Trafford.

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

Dusan Vlahovic is a player who’s emerged as a key contender for the striker role at United, with Juventus set to hold talks over a swap deal which would see Jadon Sancho move in the opposite direction.

Goalkeeper Emi Martinez has been another key target for the Red Devils, as the Argentine is expected to depart Aston Villa this window as they try to raise funds to satisfy the division’s PSR rules.

However, the midfield department could be about to have a new addition, with the club firmly in the race to sign Club Brugge star Ardon Jashari, according to Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg.

He claims that Amorim’s side have already been in contact with the Belgian outfit over a move for the 22-year-old who’s valued at €40m (£35m) this summer.

Plettenberg also confirmed that they face a battle with Serie A side AC Milan over a move to land his signature, with the player himself keen on a move to Italy this window.

Why United’s £35m target would be perfect for Mbeumo

As previously mentioned, United submitted an improved £60m bid for Brentford star Mbeumo, still facing stiff competition from fellow top-flight side Tottenham Hotspur for his signature.

However, even before the latest bid, the 25-year-old stated his desire to move to Old Trafford this summer, claiming that they are the only side he’s interested in joining during the off-season.

His tally of 20 league goals this season is evidence of the talent he possesses within the final third, handing Amorim a new dimension and the added threat he’s craved since taking the reins.

As a result of his success, he’s demanding a pretty penny should he move to the Theatre of Dreams, wanting a reported £250k-per-week, subsequently making him one of their highest-paid players.

If he is to succeed in any move, he will need to be provided with opportunities at the club, something which Jashari could do should he also join the Red Devils this summer.

The youngster, who’s been labelled “seriously talented” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has registered four assists this campaign, with his tally of 7.2 progressive passes per 90 within the top 9% of all players within the Belgian Pro League.

He’s also managed 7.3 passes per 90 into the final third, with 1.3 of which going into the opposition area, subsequently being able to hand Mbeumo the ammunition he needs to succeed next season.

Games played

25

Goals & assists

6

Pass accuracy

87%

Progressive passes

7.2

Passes into final third

7.3

Passes into oppostion box

1.3

Take-on success

61%

Carries into final third

2.2

Jashari’s talents with the ball are further reflected by his take-on success rate, which has seen him complete 61% of his efforts, often liking to drive forward and taking the ball into attacking areas.

Given his talents, £35m in today’s market would reflect excellent business by the Red Devils, with the prospect of the youngster linking up with the Cameroonian certainly one the supporters should get excited by.

However, given the interest in his signature from Italy, the hierarchy need to operate quickly to avoid missing out on such a talent, with Jashari having all the tools to thrive and improve further given his tender age.

Their own Osimhen: Man Utd start talks to sign one of Europe's "best STs"

Manchester United appear to be making strides in a deal to land a new striker for Ruben Amorim.

1 ByEthan Lamb Jun 25, 2025

Nottingham Forest have acted swiftly in the 2025 summer transfer market. With European football taking place at the City Ground for the first time this century, Nuno Espirito Santo is eyeing deals for Jair Cunha, Cuiabano, and Igor Jesus from Brazilian side Botafogo.

This certainly appears to be a wonderful piece of business for the club, especially given the success of South American talents such as Murillo and Danilo at the City Ground.

Santo won’t be resting on his laurels, however, especially with the chance to attract high-profile players this summer.

With that in mind, he will be keen to recruit smartly. As such, might the former Wolves boss be looking at someone who shone in the Championship last term?

Nottingham Forest eyeing Championship star

According to Football Insider, Forest are now looking to ramp up their interest in Norwich City winger Borja Sainz during the summer transfer window.

Porto and Athletic Club are also eyeing a move for the 24-year-old sensation, suggesting Santo has plenty of competition, after his performances in the Championship.

While signing players from Brazil and further afield appears to be the club’s philosophy, there is some value to be had from the second tier of English football.

Of course, success in the second tier doesn’t mean a player will explode in the Premier League. Sainz, however, does look like he could be a fine addition to most clubs in the top flight.

Might he even be an upgrade on Callum Hudson-Odoi?

Why Nottingham Forest must sign Borja Sainz

Hudson-Odoi played all but seven Premier League matches for Forest last term, scoring five goals and grabbing three assists in the process.

Solid, if unspectacular, numbers by the former Chelsea sensation. Could these be improved upon next season?

League level

Hudson-Odoi

Sainz

Goals

5

18

Assists

2

4

Big chances created

3

9

Successful dribbles per game

1.2

2.4

Key passes per game

1.5

1.2

Total duels won per game

2.8

6

Last season for Norwich, Sainz netted 19 times and registered four assists across 43 matches for the Canaries in all competitions. This works out as a goal contribution every 1.8 matches.

These sorts of numbers would give Santo a major boost on the left wing, as the aforementioned statistics suggest that he has the potential to deliver even more quality than Hudson-Odoi in the final third as both a scorer and a creator of goals.

Sainz also created nine big chances for his teammates last term, along with averaging 1.2 key passes per match and succeeding with an impressive 2.4 dribbles per game for the Canaries.

As such, he was dubbed “ruthless” by pundit Don Goodman, who also said: “You could see there was a really good player in him last season, despite scoring six goals and registering just two assists.

“He’s gone to another level this season, though.”

When compared to his positional peers in the second tier last term, Sainz ranked in the top 3% for both non-penalty goals (0.45) and successful take-ons (2.47), but he also ranked in the top 6% for total shots (2.94) per 90.

Another level indeed. Compare this to Hudson Odoi’s stats, and there is a clear difference. The Englishman fails to rank in the top 30% for any of the statistics listed above.

Of course, Sainz’s were recorded in the Championship, but if given the chance, he can sparkle in the top flight, no doubt about that.

Nottingham Forest now rivalling Chelsea to sign "complete" £25m midfielder

He’s a wanted man…

ByTom Cunningham Jun 20, 2025

Leeds United have showcased in their previous stint in the Premier League that they are capable of thriving and causing upsets – but more importantly, avoiding relegation back to the Championship.

The Whites spent three seasons in the top-flight between 2020 and 2023, registering a ninth-place finish in their first year back in such a division after a 16-year absence.

Such a spell saw striker Patrick Bamford enjoy the best run of his career, netting 17 goals in the league, subsequently earning his first call-up to the England national team.

However, it’s highly unlikely the 31-year-old will make the same impact under Daniel Farke this time around, after failing to net a single goal across all competitions in 2024/25.

The club will need added reinforcements within the final third if they are to be a success and avoid relegation and suffer an immediate return to England’s second tier.

The latest on Leeds’ hunt for a new striker

With the new season already less than two months away, it’s pivotal that Leeds identify the right players to help bolster their ranks and have the best chance of survival.

Josh Sargent is a name that has entered the mix over the last couple of days, with the American international potentially costing around £17m after his record of 15 goals in 32 appearances this season.

However, he’s not alone on their shortlist, with Fulham talisman Rodrigo Muniz also in their sights, that’s if Football Insider’s latest update is to be believed.

They claim that Farke’s side are preparing an opening offer for the Brazilian international, who registered eight goals in his 31 league appearances – only eight of which came from the start.

It also states that the 24-year-old is seen as an excellent option for the Whites this summer after his experience in the Premier League, but it’s unclear how much the Cottagers would demand for his signature.

Why Leeds’ latest target would be a better signing than Beto

In their attempts to bolster the attacking department this summer, numerous players have been mentioned as a potential option, with Everton’s Beto another player on their list.

Over the last couple of days, it was confirmed that the Whites still held a keen interest in the Guinea-Bissau talisman, who cost £30m back in the summer of 2023.

It remains unclear if David Moyes’ side would be willing to part ways with the 27-year-old forward, but Farke’s side are willing to pursue a move for his signature.

Like Muniz, he has the experience in England’s top flight that the hierarchy are looking for during the off-season, but it’s safe to say they should look past a move for the former Udinese star.

When comparing his figures from 2024/25 to those of the Fulham ace, he’s been outperformed in numerous key areas, with the Brazilian the man the hierarchy must pursue this summer.

Muniz, who’s been labelled “one of the best strikers in the Premier League” by teammate Willian Borges, has registered the same number of goals, but has managed a better minute per goal ratio – highlighting his clinical edge in attacking areas.

He’s also completed more passes and registered more passes into the final third, handing the opportunity for other attackers around him to bolster their own tallies.

Games played

31

30

Goals scored

8

8

Minutes per goal

120

191

Shot on target accuracy

49%

46%

Pass accuracy

65%

58%

Passes into the final third

1.2

0.4

Aerials won

52%

48%

Fouls drawn

2.9

1.3

The Brazilian’s dominance doesn’t end there, winning more aerial duels and drawing more fouls, offering Farke an all-round option within the final third in their attempts to secure survival.

Given their hunt for a new talisman, it’s crucial that the hierarchy land the right player to give themselves the best possible chance of retaining their top-flight status.

Big money will likely be splashed given how expensive players in the Premier League have become, with a move for Muniz needing to be the priority in the coming weeks.

The new Phillips: Leeds want to sign £15m star with "undeniable" potential

Leeds United are reportedly keen on a star who would be Daniel Farke’s own Kalvin Phillips.

ByDan Emery Jun 9, 2025

With money to spend following the departure of Jobe Bellingham to Borussia Dortmund, Sunderland have reportedly joined a hectic race to sign a Premier League rival this summer.

Sunderland commence search to replace Bellingham

Even after earning promotion to the Premier League, Bellingham’s decision was made up when Borussia Dortmund came calling in a deal that is now official. An exit that could reportedly see Sunderland bank as much as €40m (£34m) if add-on bonuses are reached in the coming years, the Black Cats have instantly turned towards the market in pursuit of a replacement.

It’s a search that won’t be easy given just how talented Bellingham is at just 19 years old, but Sunderland must make sure that their young midfielder is replaced by the time that the Premier League campaign gets underway.

On that front, names such as Tommy Doyle have recently threatened to steal the headlines. The 23-year-old is a Manchester City graduate, but completed a move to Wolverhampton Wanderers last summer.

Swapping Manchester for the Midlands hasn’t accelerated his development that many would have hoped, however, and after just three Premier League starts, Doyle could be on the move again.

Sunderland now plotting 8-figure move for hugely in-demand Asian talent

He could become a star at the Stadium of Light.

ByHenry Jackson Jun 9, 2025

Sunderland could be the ideal place to get his career back on track too. The Stadium of Light has become the breeding ground for young talent to thrive in recent years, from Manchester United’s Amad Diallo to, most recently, Bellingham. Now, Doyle desperately needs to follow a similar path if he is to finally realise his potential in the Premier League.

Of course, though, it’s not just young talent that Sunderland have set their sights on this summer. The Black Cats have also gone in search of experience and could yet welcome a Premier League rival for Regis Le Bris.

Sunderland join race to sign £5m Alex Moreno

According to reports in Spain, Sunderland have now joined the race to sign Alex Moreno from Aston Villa this summer. Those in Wearside are reportedly joined by Real Sociedad, Real Betis and fellow promoted side Burnley in a hectic battle to sign the Spanish left-back.

Available for just £5m this summer, Moreno represents an option that could quickly turn into the ultimate bargain, given how he played a part in Nottingham Forest’s unexpected Europa Conference League finish last season. Starting 11 games for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side, the 32-year-old proved that he is still more than capable of playing at this level.

Although no longer part of Unai Emery’s plans, the £35,000-a-week defender still made his mark at Aston Villa during the 2022/23 campaign, when he earned the praise of both Ian Wright and Alan Shearer following a frantic draw at West Ham United.

The pair were both left in awe of Moreno’s assist for Ollie Watkins’ goal, with Shearer saying on Match of the Day: “But what a ball in, it’s dreamland for a forward. You are saying ‘go on and get on the end of that’ and Watkins did. It was a great cross and a fantastic header.”

Wright then went on to dub Moreno’s involvement as “brilliant” in the type of quality that Sunderland fans could be enjoying next season if the Black Cats decide to make their move.

Birmingham City are preparing to build a squad that is ready to compete at the top end of the Championship in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The Blues won League One with a staggering 111 points under Chris Davies, who arrived at St. Andrew’s last summer, and are now looking to compete for promotion to the Premier League.

They are already reportedly making moves to bolster their playing squad ahead of a return to the second tier, with a League One star said to be on their radar.

Birmingham make offer to League One star

According to GIVEMESPORT, Birmingham have submitted a contract offer to Peterborough United forward Kwame Poku, whose deal with the Posh is due to expire at the end of next month.

Transfer Focus

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

The report claims that Blues director of football Craig Gardner has put the offer across to the player’s agents in a meeting on Zoom, as they aim to complete a deal for the winger amid stiff competition for his signature.

It reveals that there are up to 26 teams interested in a swoop for the 23-year-old starlet, including Celtic, Rangers, Sheffield United, and Sunderland, which shows that Birmingham will not find it easy to snap him up.

If the Blues can win the race for his services, though, then they could find an upgrade on Kieran Dowell, who returned to Rangers after his loan spell in the second half of the season.

Why Kwame Poku would be an upgrade on Kieran Dowell

The Ghana international primarily plays as a left-footed forward on the right of a front three, which is not dissimilar to the position that Dowell played during his time at St. Andrew’s – playing centrally or on the right of the attacking midfield trio.

The Rangers loanee produced an impressive haul of five goals and four assists in 19 appearances in League One, which came after he failed to deliver a single goal or assist in 12 Premiership games for the Scottish giants in the first half of the season.

Poku, however, could provide even more quality than the former Norwich City midfielder if the Blues can wrap up a deal to sign him at the end of his Peterborough contract.

The Ghana international’s performances in League One in the 2023/24 and 2024/25 campaigns suggest that he could offer more as both a scorer and a creator of goals on the right flank, cutting in on his left foot.

Appearances

37

27

Goals

11

12

Big chances missed

11

3

Big chances created

10

9

Key passes per game

1.5

1.2

Assists

7

8

As you can see in the table above, Poku scored more than twice as many goals and provided twice as many assists in just eight more appearances than Dowell in the third tier.

This suggests that the Posh star, who was described as “unplayable” by manager Darren Ferguson, could be more impactful in the Championship next season as an attacking force.

Therefore, it could make more sense for Birmingham to continue to pursue Poku, as they appear to be doing with this latest report in mind, instead of attempting to sign Dowell on a permanent deal from Rangers.

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Of course, Davies may want more depth to his attacking options and could add Dowell as a squad option out wide and as a number ten, but Poku could arrive as a clear upgrade on him on the flank.

Newcastle United will be looking to do just one thing this summer and that is making sure Alexander Isak is still part of their squad when the summer transfer window closes.

The Swede has enjoyed yet another fruitful campaign in the North East and securing Champions League football will do Eddie Howe’s prospects of keeping him – at least for another season – no harm at all.

The Magpies have a rich history of towering, magnificent centre-forwards throughout their history. From Hughie Gallacher to Jackie Milburn. Malcolm Macdonald to Alan Shearer. Every generation of Newcastle supporters has had the privilege of seeing a proper number nine lead the line for the club.

Since Shearer’s retirement, things looked bleak on that front for a few years. That was until Isak joined the Toon in the summer of 2022 for a fee in the region of £63m.

This was a club-record fee, but over the previous three seasons, the former Borussia Dortmund starlet has more than repaid the faith shown in him by Howe, that’s for sure.

Alexander Isak has been one of Newcastle’s finest signings

Bringing Isak to the club was a major statement of intent by Howe, especially as the club were looking at playing in the Champions League.

Injuries restricted him to just 27 appearances during his maiden campaign at St James’ Park, but he still managed to score ten Premier League goals while chipping in with three assists.

Last season, the Magpies made the group stages of Europe’s premier club competition. Isak may have scored a solitary goal in that campaign, but his overall tally of 25 was the most he had recorded in a single season at club level.

Not someone to be content with that output, the Swedish hitman has only gone and bettered that this season.

At the time of writing, the 25-year-old has found the back of the net 27 times in all competitions, but the striker is offering more than just goals to this Newcastle side.

Indeed, when compared to his peers in the Premier League throughout 2024/25, Isak ranks in the top 3% for successful take-on percentage (47.7%), in the top 10% for touches in the attacking penalty area (6.28) and in the top 15% for goal-creating actions (0.47) per 90.

Add in the fact that he has recorded six assists for the Toon in the league this term, and it proves just how much he has developed his game.

If Newcastle do qualify for the Champions League, Howe will be determined to reach the knockout stages. In order to do so, however, he must spend this summer in a bid to improve his squad.

Metric

2022/23

2023/24

2024/25

Goals

10

21

23

Assists

1

2

6

Shots per game

2.3

2.6

2.9

Goal conversion percentage

20%

27%

24%

Scoring frequency (minutes)

152

108

116

A lack of depth, especially in key attacking positions, is worrying. Could a move for a Bundesliga starlet change that?

Newcastle plotting move for Borussia Dortmund star

Anthony Gordon may be Howe’s main source of goals and assists from the wing, but it is evident that another top-class talent is required to take the club to the next level.

According to the Daily Mail, the Magpies have sent scouts to monitor Dortmund sensation Jamie Gittens, who has a reported release clause of £50m, as they plot a move to sign the England U21 international.

If the club fails to qualify for the Champions League next season, this fee will fall, opening the door for several clubs to make an offer.

There is no doubt that he wants to play at the top level of European competition, which means Howe will be desperate for his side to finish in the top five.

If so, signing a talent like Gittens would be a huge statement of intent. Furthermore, the young winger would also be a dream signing for Isak.

Why Newcastle must sign Jamie Gittens

Since Niko Kovac began his tenure at Dortmund, it is obvious that Gittens doesn’t quite fit in with his tactical plans.

This means he could be on the move in the summer and, if Howe has the necessary funds, it is a deal that must be a top priority for the club.

The Englishman has already played over 100 competitive matches for the German giants, scoring 17 goals and grabbing 14 assists in the process.

Like compatriots Jadon Sancho and Jude Bellingham before him, Gittens could certainly be the next massive English talent to depart Dortmund for a move abroad.

After he scored the first Champions League goal of his career in November 2022, Statman Dave hailed the winger as a “wonderkid” and it was hard to argue.

Since then, he has gone from strength to strength, using Dortmund as a potential stepping stone for a move to the Premier League.

Although his displays haven’t been as good as hoped since Kovac took charge, Gittens still ranks in the top 1% for successful take-ons (3.58) and in the top 9% for progressive carries (5.49) per 90 when compared to his peers in Europe’s top five leagues.

These statistics show that the youngster is highly effective at beating his man and taking the ball into the final third, which is why he could be a dream for Isak.

He has also created six big chances in the German top flight while averaging 0.7 key passes per game. Again, yet more evidence of why he would be an excellent signing for Isak next season, because he can create high-quality chances for the striker to put away.

The most important aspect for Howe is that Gittens still has plenty of development to do. He is by no means the finished article. Playing alongside stars such as Bruno Guimaraes and Isak will only help him take the next step in his career.

Transfer Focus

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

Gittens is a man in high demand this summer and with Dortmund looking like they are open to selling, the Magpies could face stiff competition for the Englishman when the window opens.

Finishing in the top five of the league table is therefore imperative to their hopes of landing the talented winger. If not, then the club will likely miss the boat on Gittens.

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Liverpool will have a commanding presence in the transfer window this summer and could use that leverage to pull off an audacious player-plus-cash deal to land an exciting target, according to a report.

Liverpool look to build on Premier League title triumph

After laying claim to their second title of the Premier League era, the Reds are winding down for the campaign and won’t be too frustrated at surrendering a two-goal advantage in their draw with Arsenal last weekend.

Ultimately, Arne Slot has led his side to the goal they set out to achieve at the start of the season. Now, many are beginning to wonder what happens next once their celebrations are in the memory bank.

That is still a while off yet, though Liverpool are active in their pursuit of summer reinforcements and could look to bring Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong to Anfield. The Netherlands international is someone the club are aware of as far as his situation goes, with a release clause of between £29.5 million and £33.8 million being something they are willing to exploit.

Lyon winger Malick Fofana is also being targeted by Liverpool, potentially becoming a replacement for Luiz Diaz amid the latter attracting interest from Saudi Pro League outfit.

Liverpool’s final Premier League assignments

Brighton & Hove Albion (A)

Amex Stadium

Crystal Palace (H)

Anfield

Darwin Nunez is another that could be moved on to free up funds and space for reinforcements in a period where Slot is expected to be ruthless in his decision-making to mould a squad fit to defend their crown. Realistically, Liverpool have nothing to prove to anyone, but they could potentially surpass their jointly-held record of 20 titles that they share with Manchester United next term with a repeat performance of this season’s excellence.

Making strides to equip themselves to do so, the Reds are now eyeing a swap deal that could see one of Europe’s revered attackers arrive on Merseyside.

Liverpool eye Ademola Lookman and Federico Chiesa swap deal

According to reports in Italy via Sport Witness, Liverpool would be willing to swap Federico Chiesa for Atalanta forward Ademola Lookman to bring the Nigeria international back to the Premier League. Formerly of Everton, Lookman has registered 19 goals and seven assists in 38 appearances across all competitions this season. His current employers are unlikely to make allowances relating to his £50 million+ valuation, so Chiesa could be used to whittle that number down.

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The Liverpool star could now be thrown into a potential swap arrangement after struggling to make an impact following his move from Juventus. Earning £150,000 per week, the Italy international has scored twice and registered two assists in just 13 outings, making him a prime candidate for a summer departure.

That said, it remains to be seen whether a swap would be the preferred option for both clubs or if conducting seperate deals is a more viable alternative to put through the books.