Manchester United supporters had their first chance to see Matheus Cunha in action for the club in their friendly clash with Leeds United on Saturday.

The Red Devils were held to a 0-0 draw by the Championship champions, who will be in the Premier League next season, and the Brazil international started the match.

Cunha played the opening 45 minutes of the match, as one of the two number tens behind Chido Obi Martin, before being replaced by Mason Mount at the break.

In those 45 minutes, the former Wolverhampton Wanderers man completed 92% of his attempted passes for the Red Devils, but failed to create any chances or register a shot on goal.

These games are largely about building up fitness for Ruben Amorim’s side, though, and United supporters will know that there is not too much you can read into that performance, as it was his first outing in pre-season after playing for Brazil over the summer.

The exciting forward is already a proven Premier League performer who has been there and done it with Wolves in the division, which suggests that he will be fine when the real action gets underway.

What Matheus Cunha will bring to Man Utd

Amorim will be hoping that Cunha will provide a huge threat at the top end of the pitch as both a scorer and a creator of goals, whether that is as a number ten or as a centre-forward, as he has played in both positions in his career.

Cunha produced an impressive return of 17 goals and six assists in all competitions for the Old Gold in the 2024/25 campaign, whilst he was unfortunate to only register six assists based on the quality of chances that the forward created.

The former Atletico Madrid starlet created 13 ‘big chances’ for his teammates in the Premier League, but his teammates only managed to find the back of the net six times. This suggests that wasteful finishing from his fellow forwards let him down in that respect.

Appearances

32

33

xG

9.49

8.63

Goals

12

15

Big chances created

7

13

Key passes per game

0.9

1.8

Assists

7

6

As you can see in the table above, Cunha also scored 27 goals in the Premier League in the last two seasons, which shows that he knows how to find the back of the net on his own, outperforming his xG in both campaigns.

The 26-year-old attacker, therefore, is likely to bring goals and assists to the United team next season, given that he has already proven his quality in the division and could hit the ground running without having to adapt to the league.

It remains to be seen who the club’s first-choice number nine will be, though, and the Red Devils are reportedly interested in a Premier League striker who could be lethal with Cunha.

Man Utd hold talks to sign Premier League striker

According to BBC Sport journalist Nizaar Kinsella, Chelsea centre-forward Nicolas Jackson is a potential signing that Manchester United could make before the end of the summer transfer window.

The reporter claims that the Premier League giants have “held talks” with the player’s agent about a possible transfer for the Senegal international, who is facing increased competition for his place at Stamford Bridge.

Transfer Focus

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

Chelsea have signed Liam Delap and Joao Pedro to bolster their number nine options ahead of next season, which could open the door for United to swoop in for his services.

Kinsella adds that the club will have to do “a lot” in terms of outgoings before being able to pursue a deal for Jackson, but that it is a move that could happen in the “right circumstances”.

The BBC reporter does not reveal how much Chelsea would want for the 24-year-old number nine, but it has previously been reported that the Blues value him at up to £100m.

Why Man Utd should sign Nicolas Jackson

If the Red Devils can reach an agreement with Chelsea for a fee that works for all parties, United should push to bring Jackson to Old Trafford because he could be lethal alongside Cunha.

Jackson is far from the perfect centre-forward, and that is to be expected at the age of 24, but he is a player who has scored goals at a respectable rate during his time in England.

A haul of 30 goals and 11 assists in his first two years in English football in all competitions is nothing to be sniffed at. He has shown that he can make a big impact in front of goal, but it is his consistency that needs work.

It is hardly a secret that the Senegal international is not a world-class finisher who is going to score week-in-week-out without getting regular service from creative midfielders, which is why he could be lethal alongside Cunha.

As aforementioned, the Brazil international has showcased his creative quality in the Premier League during his time with Wolves, which suggests that he has the ability to consistently create ‘big chances’ for Jackson to find the back of the net.

Appearances

35

30

xG

18.64

12.34

Goals

14

10

Minutes per goal

200

224

Big chances created

8

6

Assists

5

5

As you can see in the table above, the Chelsea striker has hit double figures for goals in both of his seasons in the top-flight, but he has also underperformed his xG both times.

This shows that Jackson, who was hailed as “unbelievable” by Peter Crouch, does have the quality to score goals on a regular basis, whilst also creating high-quality opportunities for his teammates, but he needs plenty of service to do so.

That is why he could be lethal alongside Cunha in the final third for United because the Brazilian magician has the creative quality to provide Jackson with the chances that he needs to score regularly.

Overall, whilst the Chelsea forward may not be the perfect option, given his finishing issues, he is a Premier League proven goalscorer who could come in to hit the ground running alongside Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo.

Amorim's own Rodri: Man Utd agree personal terms to sign £26m sensation

Manchester United are starting to make things happen in the summer transfer market.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 19, 2025

Arsenal could be closing in on two successive signings in the space of a few days, if all goes to plan, with another key transfer target reportedly nearing a switch to London Colney this week.

He's Cazorla 2.0: Arsenal make £100k-p/w "superstar" their new top target

The incredible international could be Arsenal’s new version of the Spanish magician.

1

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Jul 16, 2025

Sporting director Andrea Berta has made quite an impression already since he was announced as Edu Gaspar’s replacement in late March.

Berta’s deals for Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard – all of which have been formally announced – strengthen key areas of Mikel Arteta’s squad ahead of another Premier League title challenge.

Arsenal transfer spending under Arteta (via Sky Sports)	Money on new signings
19/20 – winter	£0
20/21 – summer	£81.5m
20/21 – winter	£900k
21/22 – summer	£156.8m
21/22 – winter	£1.8m
22/23 – summer	£121.5m
22/23 – winter	£59m
23/24 – summer	£208m
23/24 – winter	£0
24/25 – summer	£101.5m
24/25 – winter	£0
25/26 – summer	£75m

The experienced Kepa and Norgaard provide top-level competition for nailed-on starters in Arteta’s preferred eleven, while Zubimendi comes in to replace Jorginho after many years impressing with Real Sociedad in La Liga.

Zubimendi rejected a move to Liverpool last year, having long been linked with a move to the Premier League, but Arsenal were the side who ultimately tempted him to finally leave his boyhood club.

Noni Madueke also signed his contract as an Arsenal player today, after the north Londoners agreed a deal worth around £52 million to sign the England international from Chelsea.

As links still surround Crystal Palace playmaker Eberechi Eze, who could join Arsenal as a central playmaker to complement club captain Martin Odegaard (Ben Jacobs), Berta is far more likely to see striker Viktor Gyokeres arrive at the club next.

Arsenal are believed to be closing in on Gyokeres after weeks of talks, and Arteta is on the verge of seeing a much-needed number nine arrive. Some reports in Europe have even suggested that he’s set for a medical on Friday (Diario AS), but this is yet to gain traction among reliable media outlets close to home.

As supporters wait for further updates, The Guardian’s Ed Aarons has shared what is holding up the deal just now.

Arsenal talks for Viktor Gyokeres near conclusion

According to the reliable journalist, Arsenal’s talks for Gyokeres are nearing their conclusion – and this last round of negotiations revolves around bonuses.

They’re thought to have reached an agreement in principle to pay an initial £54.8 million, plus £8.6 million in add-ons, and the striker’s agent even waived his commission fee to help this move go through (The Athletic).

However, Aarons reports that some add-ons discussions are ongoing, which could take the final cost of the transfer to around £68 million.

In any case, it looks like this will be done sooner rather than later, and there is reason for supporters to get excited.

Gyokeres bagged 54 goals in all competitions for Sporting last term, helping them to a first domestic double in 20 years, and former Arsenal star Cesc Fàbregas believes he’d be a perfect signing for Arteta.

“He is an extraordinary striker,” said Fabregas on Amazon Prime. “He is a focused player, who pays attention to details, he is competitive, never lets his guard down, and doesn’t want to rest. He is an athlete, a player and team-mate who instils confidence in his team-mates with what he gives to the team.”

Heung-min Son’s departure from Tottenham Hotspur was confirmed on Wednesday night, closing the curtain on what has been an incredible decade at the club for the South Korean.

He joined the Lilywhites from Bayer Leverkusen back in 2015, with no supporter able to predict the successful spell enjoyed in the first team in North London.

The forward made over 450 appearances for the club, scoring 173 times, a tally that puts him fourth in the club’s all-time highest goalscoring list – joining former teammate Harry Kane in the top five.

However, it was undoubtedly the perfect time to depart the club, helping them end their 17-year wait for a trophy by claiming the Europa League title last season.

There’s no doubt he will be a huge miss, leaving a huge hole in the attacking department, which could see boss Thomas Frank delve into the transfer market in the coming days.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

Real Madrid star Rodrygo has been strongly touted with a move to join Spurs this summer, after he was made available for transfer by new boss Xabi Alonso.

It’s been reported in recent days that the Lilywhites are preparing an opening offer to land the 24-year-old, who scored 14 times for the Spanish giants last season.

However, he’s not the only Brazilian currently on their radar, with Manchester City star Savinho a player they’re considering, according to GIVEMESPORT.

Their report claims no bid has yet been made for the 21-year-old, but Frank’s side have held internal talks for the forward, who registered 14 combined goals and assists in 2024/25.

It also states the player may fall down the pecking order at the Etihad throughout the upcoming campaign, which could see the attacker, who’s valued at £61m by FootballTransfers, depart Pep Guardiola’s side.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be the perfect Son & Kulu hybrid

Despite Son’s departure from Spurs, new boss Frank will be hoping to rely upon Dejan Kulusevski within the final third this season, with the Swede able to continue his tremendous form from the 2024/25 campaign.

The 25-year-old has had injury struggles in recent times and is expected to miss the start of the new campaign, but could prove to be a vital option if the side are to rise up the table in the near future.

The Swede registered 21 combined goals and assists in his 50 outings for the club last season, subsequently offering a versatile option within the attacking areas for the Lilywhites.

He can operate off either flank or in a number 10 position, something which could prove to be useful after it was confirmed James Maddison needed surgery on his ACL injury.

Savinho could also prove to be another key option, having similar levels of adaptability, able to feature across the frontline, which could see him be a suitable replacement for the outgoing South Korean.

He’s been labelled as a similar player to both Son and Kulusevski by FBref, managing to outperform the pair in numerous key areas – showcasing why he’d be such an excellent addition this window.

Savinho, who’s been labelled “unbelievable” by current boss Guardiola, completed more passes into the opposition box per 90, along with a higher tally of key passes – showcasing the creativity he possesses in attacking areas.

How Savinho compares to Son & Kulusevski in the PL (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Savinho

Son

Kulusevski

Games played

29

30

32

Goals & assists

9

16

11

Pass accuracy

81%

78%

73%

Key passes made

2.5

2.1

2.4

Passes into the 18-yard box

2.4

2.1

1.9

Progressive carries

7.1

4.1

4.3

Shot-creating actions

5.7

5.1

4.8

Take-on success

46%

34%

32%

Carries into the 18-yard box

3.8

1.8

1.5

Crosses completed

4.3

3.3

3.3

Stats via FBref

He also notched more progressive carries per 90, with more of his dribbles with the ball going into the 18-yard box, adding another direct option to Frank’s already potent front line.

The Brazilian achieved a better take-on success rate and completed more crosses per 90, arguably being the perfect blend of the departed Son and current first-team star Kulusevski.

It’s unclear how much City would be demanding to part ways with the 21-year-old this summer, but it’s clear that he would be an excellent option for Frank in his quest for success in North London.

If he can replicate the levels produced by the aforementioned duo at the Lilywhites, he will certainly be a fan favourite and one that can add a new dimension to the club’s attacking department.

Related The next Maddison: Spurs preparing approach for "exceptional" £22m talent

Tottenham Hotspur are set to make a move for a new attacking midfielder for Thomas Frank.

Posts 1 ByEthan Lamb Aug 6, 2025

كسر هوجو إيكتيكي، نجم نادي ليفربول، صمته وتحدث عن الطرد الذي تعرض له خلال مواجهة الريدز يوم أمس الثلاثاء مع ساوثهامبتون، ضمن منافسات كأس رابطة الأندية الإنجليزية.

ليفربول نجح في التأهل إلى الدور المقبل من منافسات كأس رابطة الأندية الإنجليزية، عقب فوزه المثير على نظيره ساوثهامبتون بهدفين مقابل هدف على ملعب آنفيلد.

وكان لإيكتيكي الفضل في فوز ليفربول خلال لقاء الأمس والتأهل إلى الدور المقبل في كأس الرابطة، حيث سجل هدف الريدز الثاني في الدقائق الأخيرة من اللقاء.

أقرأ أيضًا.. إيكتيكي يدعم لاعب ليفربول بعد مباراة ساوثهامبتون

لكن إيكتيكي تم إشهار البطاقة الحمراء له، بعدما خلع اللاعب القميص محتفلًا بهدفه أمام ساوثهامبتون، حيث حصل الدولي الفرنسي على إنذار ثاني وخرج.

واعتذر إيكتيكي عن هذا التصرف عبر حسابه الرسمي في إنستجرام، حيث قال: “كنت متحمسًا للغاية الليلة لمساعدة الفريق على تحقيق فوز جديد هنا على أرضنا في أول مباراة لي في كأس كاراباو، لقد غلبتني المشاعر الليلة”.

واختتم إيكتيكي في حديثه: “أتقدم باعتذاري لجميع أفراد عائلة ليفربول. شكرًا للجماهير التي تدعمنا دائمًا ولزملائي في الفريق على تحقيق الفوز”.

وكان مدرب ليفربول ، آرني سلوت، قد أبدى غضبًا كبيرًا من تصرف إيكتيكي وطرده في لقاء الأمس، حيث وصف ما فعله اللاعب بأنه تصرف غبي.

William O’Rourke admitted being “pretty streaky” and “hot and cold” in the early part of the second innings of the first Test in Bengaluru. But having gone for 75 off his first 15 overs, he dismissed Rishabh Pant, KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja in three successive overs with the second new ball as India lost their last six wickets for just 29 runs.”Overall, for me, I’ve been pretty streaky, pretty hot and cold with the ball,” O’Rourke said at the end of the fourth day. “Pant and Sarfaraz [Khan] obviously batted very well for a long time there, but that second new ball came on and started doing a little bit for us.”So, credit to Timmy [Tim Southee] for getting that first breakthrough [of Sarfaraz] and then I was lucky enough to get a wee chop on there [from Pant] to give us a bit of momentum going through.”Related

• Eccentric, electric, entertaining – it's the Sarfaraz and Pant show

• Stats – India's comeback, collapse and Pant's dubious record

• Spells of rain and thunderstorms forecast for last day

• India flex batting muscle before collapsing to set NZ 107

Sarfaraz, in particular, handled O’Rourke well, picking him for 39 runs in 35 balls and repeatedly throwing him off his lengths with ramps and late cuts. While O’Rourke said he and the rest of the bowling unit could have been tighter with their lengths, he credited Sarfaraz for using the angles and opening up the field.”He [Sarfaraz] played me really well,” O’Rourke said. “With that angle of me sort of falling away, it sort of opens up that little dab shot. Yeah, maybe we could have been in the game a little bit, but he played it so well.”I would have liked to be a little bit tighter. Obviously, one of his strengths is that [the late cut]. So, yeah, I would have liked to be a little bit tighter, but I was missing a little bit wide, and he put me away. So credit to him.”O’Rourke has had a rousing start to his Test career. This is his fifth Test and he has already picked up 26 wickets at 18.84, which includes two five-fors. Fifteen of his 26 wickets have been in the subcontinent. He had an excellent tour of Sri Lanka last month where he picked up eight wickets in two Tests, and has continued his good run in India.William O’Rourke took three wickets in three overs to hurt India•BCCI

“I think we had a really good prep in Tauranga and down in Lincoln,” he said about his success in the subcontinent. “We had a few wickets that were a bit drier than probably what we are used to at that time of the year in New Zealand. And yeah, learning from the guys like Matt Henry, Tim Southee, who have been here before and done it before, it’s been massive for me coming here.”In the first innings here, O’Rourke picked up four wickets, including Virat Kohli’s for a duck.”It’s obviously pretty special getting someone so great, one of the greats of our game, out like that,” he said of the Kohli wicket. “You grow up watching those guys. So to come here and take that wicket, it’s probably right up there as one of the [best] wickets I’ve got.”While O’Rourke has been pleasantly surprised by the bounce he has seen on the Bengaluru surface, he is also loving bowling with the SG ball.”It has got a bit more of a pronounced seam than the Kookaburra [that New Zealand use at home], so it seems to be nice and hard to start with. It goes through nicely and big seams are always a big plus. [It’s] my first time here and [Bengaluru] probably had a little bit more bounce, a bit more pace than we expected coming over here, which suits a bowler like me. So far, I’ve really enjoyed it.”We definitely do our scouting and stuff before games. I’d say at the moment in my career, I’m more of a feel bowler. I like to back what I do, run in and do what I do. But definitely I have a look at the players beforehand, I like to know their strengths and weaknesses. But I think it normally comes back to just being me and doing what I do.”

Wicketkeeper is big beneficiary as England contract 29 players for 2024-25 season

Andrew Miller31-Oct-2024

Jamie Smith celebrates his maiden England hundred at Old Trafford•AFP/Getty Images

England have signalled their intention to place Jamie Smith at the heart of their revival across formats, handing him a lucrative two-year ECB central contract that will commit him to their plans for both next year’s Ashes tour of Australia and the 2026 T20 World Cup.Smith, 24, was one of the breakout stars of England’s home Test summer, scoring a maiden Test hundred against Sri Lanka at Old Trafford, before being named as the PCA’s Young Player of the Year at their annual end-of-season awards dinner.Though his opportunities in white-ball cricket have so far been limited by his workload, Smith showed glimpses of his potential in the recent home ODI series against Australia, and though he is due to miss the Test tour of New Zealand as he goes on paternity leave, he looks set to be a central figure in England’s plans for their white-ball tour of India in January and the subsequent Champions Trophy.Fast bowler Gus Atkinson, another impressive addition to England’s plans across formats, has also received a two-year deal (a one-year extension of his existing offer) while Joe Root, Harry Brook and Mark Wood have been retained on the second of the three-year deals that they signed in the last round of contracts for 2023-24.ESPNcricinfo Ltd

With Brendon McCullum already secured as England’s head coach across formats for the next three years, England have now tied both their red- and white-ball captains, Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler, to two-year deals. As reported last week, Stokes has agreed to extend the one-year deal that he signed last year, having then taken a punt that his value to the team would rise in the interim.Buttler’s deal, meanwhile, is a show of faith in England’s white-ball captain despite an absence from professional cricket that has now extended to five months as he recovers from a persistent calf injury. It comes on the same day that his long association with Rajasthan Royals was ended by his omission from their list of retained players for the 2025 IPL.England rejigged their contracts system in September 2023 to reflect the mounting pressure on international cricket from the T20 franchise circuit, with 18 of those initial 26 offers being multi-year deals. That policy came in for criticism, however, particularly in the wake of England’s disastrous 50-over World Cup defence, because it limited the potential to overhaul an under-performing squad. Notably, 19 of this year’s 29 deals are for one year only, including that of Jonny Bairstow, who was dropped from all three formats earlier this year, midway through his two-year deal, and seems unlikely to feature in England’s plans in the near future.Related

Jamie Smith averts England tailspin in latest show of class

Bethell called up for NZ Tests as Smith misses tour

Man arrested after burglary at home of Ben Stokes during Pakistan tour

Stokes signs new deal, but England will miss him in first Test

In addition to Smith, four other players have signed their first central contracts: Shoaib Bashir, Phil Salt, Olly Stone and Will Jacks, who was the notable omission from England’s plans last time around. Three further players have been handed development contracts, including two new additions in Jacob Bethell and Josh Hull, and John Turner, the fast bowler who could make his England debut in the Caribbean this week.Seven players have been cut from England’s list for 2024-25, including Moeen Ali, Dawid Malan and James Anderson, who have retired from international cricket, and the fast bowlers Matthew Fisher and Saqib Mahmood, who had been on development contracts after making their Test debuts in the Caribbean in 2022.The most notable absentees, however, are Ollie Robinson and Ben Foakes, the Test wicketkeeper who made way for his Surrey team-mate Smith in the summer. Both men last featured on the tour of India in February, and their hopes of a recall in the current regime would now appear to be over.”The strength and depth of talent across England Men’s red and white-ball cricket is clear in the quality of players who are centrally contracted,” Rob Key, England men’s managing director, said. “These contracts reward the players we believe will play an important role for our England Men’s teams. Both our captains, Ben Stokes and Jos Buttler, have signed two-year central contracts that showcase the commitment of all the players to prioritise playing for their country.”I want to congratulate all the players who have signed new central contracts ahead of what is set to be an exciting period for England Men’s cricket.”

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.

Aston Villa have entered pole position for their potential first major signing of the summer, ahead of both Man City and Leeds United, according to a new report.

Duran 2.0: Aston Villa in contact with “one of the best strikers in the PL”

Aston Villa have an opportunity to land their next Jhon Duran by signing this attacking menace.

ByKelan Sarson Aug 1, 2025

Unai Emery’s side have just two weeks to go before their first Premier League game of the season against Newcastle, and barring goalkeeper Marco Bizot, Villa have been one of the least active top flight clubs in terms of recruitment.

Their transfer window has been dominated by PSR concerns, financial constraints and more rumours linking key men with moves away than stars actually coming through the door.

Youri Tielemans

7.08

Morgan Rogers

6.92

Marcus Rashford

6.82

Tyrone Mings

6.81

Ollie Watkins

6.80

via WhoScored

Emery, and supporters in particular, will be hoping for a late-window surge from the club’s president of football operations, Monchi, in preparation for what is an absolutely vital 2025/2026.

Villa are paying the price for missing out on Champions League qualification, but if they fail to reinforce the squad, it is unlikely they can mount a more successful top four push next term.

NSWE have been tipped as contenders for some high-profile upgrades from now until deadline day on September 1, though, with Emery reportedly keen on a move for Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson among others.

As well as the Senegalese, Villa are believed to be top contenders to sign former Norwich City star Gabriel Sara, who’s fresh off the back of a promising debut season with Turkish champions Galatasaray.

The Brazilian hit double figures for assists in 45 appearances across all competitions, including two against Besiktas, with Sara also scoring in a 3-1 derby win over arch rivals Fenerbahçe at the beginning of 2024/2025.

Sara has built upon his fine last campaign at Norwich, where he was included in the 2024 Championship Team of the Year, attracting praise from ex-Canaries boss David Wagner.

“He is an outstanding player. Not only for us but in this division – no one has a doubt about this. It’s crystal clear,” Wagner said in February last year.

“Nobody should underestimate that he has played more or less every game from the first to the final minute, and he has put on numbers that, in terms of goals and assists, are near the top of our team.

“He works very hard.”

Now, Villa are looking to offer him a route back to England, and they appear to be serious.

Aston Villa leading race to sign Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara

According to CaughtOffside, Villa are currently the “most advanced” side for Sara, taking pole position at the expense of City, Leeds, Everton, Nottingham Forest and Wolves.

NSWE are also ready to hold talks over signing the South American, who can play both as a traditional centre-midfielder and number 10, with Sara also capable of playing out wide.

Statistically, it’s clear as day why Villa are this keen. Sara recorded a whopping 5.1 shot-creating actions per match and averaged 7.64 progressive passes, placing him in the top 10% of midfielders in Europe (Fot Mob).

His flair and versatility would be a fantastic asset for Emery, and Galatasaray will apparently do business for around £35 million. While Villa are only prepared to go as high as the £17 million mark right now, as per CaughtOffside, it is definitely worth consideration to raise their offer.

Manchester United supporters would’ve been hoping for a reunion between Ruben Amorim and Viktor Gyokeres this summer after the pair’s successful spell together at Sporting CP.

The Swede was the 40-year-old’s main talisman in their Liga Portugal triumph back in the 2023/24 campaign, scoring 43 times in his 50 appearances across all competitions.

He unsurprisingly won the division’s Golden Boot award, carrying on his tremendous goalscoring form even after the boss left the club to take the reins at Old Trafford.

The 27-year-old ended the most recent campaign with 54 goals, bettering his tally from the previous season, subsequently making him one of Europe’s most sought-after talents, with the Red Devils previously in the race.

However, after the striker completed a move to join Premier League rivals Arsenal in recent weeks, attention has subsequently turned to other talents to provide the goods in the final third.

Man Utd's hunt for a new striker this summer

Ollie Watkins has been a name constantly on United’s radar over the last couple of weeks, as Amorim desperately looks to land a new striker for his 3-4-2-1 system.

The Aston Villa forward could be available for a fee in the region of £60m this summer, leading to talks being held between the Red Devils and his agent over a potential switch to Old Trafford this window.

However, another name has been thrown into the mix in recent days, with Al Hilal talisman Aleksandar Mitrovic a player the hierarchy are monitoring, according to one Spanish outlet.

They state that Amorim’s side are preparing a potential move for the Serbian international after he posted a tally of 28 goals in 36 appearances across all competitions last season.

It also states that he could be available for as little as £26m this summer, but the Red Devils face the possibility of a battle for his signature between Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur.

Why United’s £26m target would be Amorim’s next Gyokeres

Gyokeres’ rise to stardom injects hope and faith into all strikers that one day they can flourish and reach the top-level of the game further down the line in their career.

Before his move to Portugal, the Swedish international was plying his trade for Coventry City in the Championship, finding a settled home after multiple failed loan spells.

He only moved to Sporting in a £20m transfer back in the summer of 2023, before his goalscoring spree catapulted him to being one of Europe’s deadliest strikers.

The 27-year-old operated in England’s second tier during the same year as Mitrovic, as the former Fulham man netted a staggering 43 league goals – subsequently breaking the division’s record for the most goals scored by a player in a single season.

After leaving Fulham two years ago, he’s had to move abroad to further his career and build on the success he achieved during his spell in the Championship.

He’s followed a similar trajectory to Gyokeres, now deserving of a move back to England to demonstrate he’s capable of being the leading forward for one of the biggest teams in the league.

When comparing his stats to those of Gyokeres from last season, Mitrovic managed to outperform him in numerous areas, showcasing he has the tools to thrive under Amorim, just as the Swede did.

Games played

23

33

Goals & assists

21

46

Shot on target accuracy

52%

50%

Pass accuracy

75%

73%

Duels won

51%

50%

Aerials won

2.7

1.6

Aerial success rate

56%

50%

Non-penalty xG

0.8

0.6

The Serbian, who’s been labelled a “monster” by Statman Dave, registered a higher shot-on-target accuracy rate whilst achieving a better non-penalty xG, subsequently being capable of creating better goalscoring opportunities in the final third.

He also completed more of the passes he attempted, whilst posting a better aerial success rate, a component of his game that would be crucial given United’s lack of focal points.

Whilst a move back to the Premier League would be a huge jump compared to the players he’s coming up against at present, a deal for Mitrovic would make perfect sense this window.

He would provide the boss with an immediate fix to his issues in the final third, whilst also being a bargain at £26m – having all the tools to emulate the success the new Arsenal forward endured under his guidance.

Perfect for Mbeumo: Man Utd in talks to sign "unbelievable" £60m star

Manchester United are making moves to land a new forward who would star alongside Bryan Mbeumo.

ByEthan Lamb Jul 30, 2025

Liverpool are believed to be targeting a new player who is similar in style to a recent Arsenal signing once they wrap up the signature of Hugo Ekitike, according to transfer expert Graeme Bailey.

Liverpool closing in on Ekitike

The Reds are closing in on the addition of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt, and it is seemingly a matter of time until he is confirmed as the Premier League champions’ latest signing for an initial fee of £69m.

That doesn’t mean that Liverpool are done yet, however, with Arne Slot and his players departing for their tour of Asia, ahead of one pre-season game apiece in Hong Kong and Japan, against AC Milan and Yokohama FM respectively.

While Newcastle United are remaining stubborn in their efforts to keep hold of Alexander Isak this summer, the Reds are still making it clear that they would like to sign the Swede, even though they have already broken the British transfer record for Florian Wirtz.

While attacking reinforcements are the order of the day for Liverpool currently, it looks as though their focus will move elsewhere as the window goes on, with funds available to spend and depth required in certain areas.

Liverpool want Mosquera-like signing

Speaking to The Boot Room, Bailey claimed that Liverpool will target a new centre-back this summer – one who is similar to imminent Arsenal signing Cristhian Mosquera, having shown an interest in him.

“Liverpool are not finished even with Ekitike, far from it. Even with Ekitike and Wirtz, they want more in the last third but they are happy with how things are going. Nunez and Diaz leaving will free up space, and, if as expected they both depart, expect to see another wide forward too, if not another central option.

“That aside, they are still working on a central defender – irrespective of the Konate situation. They did like (Cristhian) Mosquera before Arsenal launched their bid for him. I believe they will sign someone of similar stature to him – someone who can learn from Van Dijk and Konate.”

Bringing in a central defender is vital for Liverpool, especially following Jarell Quansah’s move to Bayer Leverkusen, and former Valencia man Mosquera would have been a strong option, having been lauded as “elite” by analyst Harvey Diamonds.

Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi arguably stands out as the best choice for Liverpool currently, amid links with him this summer, with the England international knowing the Premier League extremely well and still a relatively young player.

Guehi vs. Mosquera in league action 24/25	Guehi	Mosquera
Appearances	34	37
Starts	34	37
Minutes played	3060	3320
Clearances per game	4.6	3.3
Aerial duel wins per game	2.0	1.1
Tackles per game	1.8	1.5
Pass completion rate	84.1%	91.2%
Goals	3	1
Assists	2	0

Admittedly, he would be an expensive signing, with the Eagles demanding big money for a prized asset, but he could be an ideal alternative to Mosquera.