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Manchester United began the new year in positive fashion with a comfortable 2-0 win over League One neighbours, Wigan Athletic, in the FA Cup on Monday evening, with Erik ten Hag's men setting up a Fourth Round meeting with Newport County or Eastleigh to boost their hopes of a long run in the competition.

While that most recent triumph proved a rather smooth outing against the lower league side – as was expected – there would still have been notable frustrations for the former Ajax boss, with the Red Devils' frontline once again failing to fire.

It ultimately took a long-range effort from full-back Diogo Dalot, as well as a late Bruno Fernandes penalty, for United to get the better of Sam Tickle in the hosts' goal, with it having been yet another day in which summer signing Rasmus Hojlund simply couldn't buy a goal.

The Danish hotshot spurned numerous chances – including prodding wide with the goal gaping – to ensure his domestic tally remains at just one goal this season, while on the flanks, neither Alejandro Garnacho nor Marcus Rashford got themselves on the scoresheet.

The pair now have just eight goals between them in all competitions in 2023/24, while absent teammate Antony, for instance, remarkably remains without a goal or assist in all competitions this season – despite having featured on 21 occasions.

With every passing week, the £86m addition looks even more like a waste of money, hence why Ten Hag may be looking to replace the "frustrating" talent – as described by club legend Gary Neville – with Borussia Dortmund's Donyell Malen.

Man Utd transfer news – Donyell Malen

According to a report from Football Transfers, the Red Devils are weighing up whether to make a loan-to-buy offer for the Netherlands international this month, with discussions having already been held within Old Trafford regarding that potential swoop.

The report indicates that United could use the fact that the 24-year-old is part of the SEG agency – alongside Ten Hag, Sofyan Amrabat and Hojlund – in order to strike a deal, albeit with Dortmund said to be more likely to sanction a 'straightforward' permanent sale instead.

Man Utd in talks to sign £60m star who could send McTominay packing

The Red Devils are reportedly keen on a deal to land the central midfielder.

ByDan Emery Jan 9, 2024

As the piece also notes, this interest in the £52m-rated talent comes at a time in which Jadon Sancho could potentially be heading in the other direction back to Germany, amid reports that the Englishman is in line to return to Westfalenstadion on a short-term loan.

Signing Malen – who can feature on the flanks or through the middle – could then allow Ten Hag to instantly replace Sancho in the squad, as well as ensure the Dutchman can acquire a a replacement for the floundering Antony, who has himself been tipped for a departure of late.

Donyell Malen's style of play

A deal for the right winger would be following the recent trend of signings under the Ten Hag regime, with Malen another who has plied his trade in the Eredivisie, having previously been on the books at PSV Eindhoven.

The 5 foot 11 speedster – who was also once part of the youth set-up at both Arsenal and Ajax – scored 55 goals and contributed 24 assists in just 116 games during his time in Holland, with such form subsequently leading to a move to Germany back in 2021.

That switch has proven fruitful for the 28-cap international as he now has 41 goal involvements to his name in just 96 appearances for the Bundesliga outfit, having typically operated on the right flank, or the opposite side, of late.

Interestingly, as far as United are concerned, the wideman's style of play has previously been likened to a former Old Trafford asset, with ex-Ajax youth coach Brian Tevreden describing him as being a "bit like Alexis Sanchez" in the past.

Such a comparison may perhaps have alarm bells ringing among those of a United persuasion, with Sanchez previously enduring a miserable and costly stint in Manchester, after also arriving in a January window back in 2018.

Having been handed the club's number seven shirt and a bumper £400k-per-week deal, the Chilean ultimately lasted just 18 months before being shipped out on loan, having provided just 14 goal involvements in that time.

At his best, however, Sanchez was a real menace during his time at Malen's former club, Arsenal, after scoring 80 goals and registering 45 assists in 166 games in all competitions, having been dubbed an "exceptional footballer" by ex-Gunners boss, Arsene Wenger.

For United's sake, they will be hoping that Malen emulates the impact that the now-veteran forward had at the Emirates rather than the Theatre of Dreams, with the Red Devils no doubt keen to avoid another costly January mistake.

How Donyell Malen compares to Antony

Even if that Sanchez comparison may work against Malen with regard to his chances of thriving at United, it is not too difficult to argue that he could represent a sizeable upgrade on the aforementioned Antony on the right flank.

It is worth repeating that a player who cost €100m still hasn't delivered a goal contribution this season, with it no surprise that the mercurial Brazilian is among those that the incoming Sir Jim Ratcliffe may be seeking to move on.

While Malen himself has not been prolific, he still boasts a tally of five goals in 15 league appearances this season – a figure that only Scott McTominay can match in the Premier League for Ten Hag's side.

The £99k-per-week marksman also significantly outperformed Antony at a time when they were both plying their trade in the Eredivisie for PSV and Ajax respectively, with the current United man having moved to Amsterdam in 2020.

That 2020/21 campaign did see Antony enjoy a productive debut season at the Johan Cruyff Arena with a haul of ten goals and ten assists in all competitions, yet Malen, by contrast, registered a mammoth 27 goals and ten assists in that same season – albeit while operating more centrally.

Malen

Antony

32

32

19

9

9

8

13

10

1.2

1.1

1.6

1.3

7.28

7.22

Of course, signing players from Dortmund – or with Dutch connections – has not gone particularly well for the Red Devils of late, as the cases of Sancho and Antony can attest to, yet Malen could be the player to potentially break the mould if a deal is to be agreed this month.

At the very least, he would serve as an extra body to pep up Ten Hag's attack, although more optimistically, the Sanchez-esque dynamo could be something of a difference-maker in a lifeless United frontline.

West Ham insider Claret & Hugh have shared the "first priority" for co-chairman David Sullivan and club chiefs in January, with one "big personality" at risk of being sold.

Steidten and Sullivan's transfer plans for January

As per another reliable source in ExWHUemployee, Sullivan has entrusted technical director Tim Steidten as his right-hand man as the Gerrman's influence grows behind-the-scenes.

West Ham now tell Chelsea they want to sign their "very underrated" player

He could be ideal for Moyes.

ByEmilio Galantini Dec 19, 2023

Steidten, tasked with spearheading West Ham's transfer activity, was partly responsible for the successful signings of Mohammed Kudus, Edson Alvarez and James Ward-Prowse – who have all gone to seriously impress at the London Stadium this season.

Now, it's been reported that the former Bayer Leverkusen chief has his eyes on bringing a new striker to West Ham, in an effort to back manager David Moyes.

Steidten's "main focus" is thought to be signing a new forward (ExWHUemployee), although West Ham are believed to chasing a new defender as well (talkSPORT).

There is little cover behind the likes of Vladimir Coufal and Emerson Palmieri, while some reports suggest Nayef Aguerd could leave West Ham in the January window. The Moroccan may not be the only player to leave in the winter, though, as the club's board move to operate on sell-to-buy policy.

Kehrer could leave "first priority" for West Ham shared

That is according to C&H, who share a quote from one of their inside sources that Sullivan and co's "first priority" is player sales to make room for new additions.

“The first priority this winter is to move players out if we are to strengthen the squad," said the source.

"Slots have to be made available for the new players and we are looking at various areas.”

The report adds that West Ham defender Thilo Kehrer may well be a player to make way, with the German finding game time pretty limited this term.

Kehrer is "possibly on his way" out of West Ham, according to one of C&H's insiders, even despite Moyes hailing his "big personality" behind the scenes at one point.

"Amazingly, I already see Thilo Kehrer stepping up in the dressing room, big personality, big voice," said Moyes on Kehrer in 2022.

"I said about players taking time to adapt, and it may sound like a manager’s excuse, but I actually think he has adapted really well. He has had a couple of moments but you would have to say he has come in and played well and showed in the dressing room he has a voice and trying to help the players.”

Kehrer, signed from Paris-Saint Germain last year, was an unused substitute for 11 consecutive matches before coming on for a solitary minute against Wolves last weekend.

A 27-cap international for his native Germany, it is unclear why Moyes hasn't used the experienced and versatile defender on more occasions this season. Nevertheless, it appears West Ham could fetch a pretty helpful price tag for him to bolster their transfer kitty.

Aston Villa’s recent victories over Manchester City and Arsenal in the Premier League has propelled them from a side who could potentially break into the top six to a club who could secure a place in the top four and, with it, a Champions League berth.

Unai Emery’s side have also secured progression to the knockout stages of the Europa Conference League as they prepare to take on Bosnian outfit Zrinkjski on Thursday evening.

A point will secure the Midlands side top spot in the group and this will ensure they face a slightly weaker side in the knockout rounds, so there is plenty of incentive tomorrow evening to secure a positive result.

Emery could still make a few changes to his squad, however, with a few players requiring a rest following their exertions against City and the Gunners over the previous seven days.

Latest Aston Villa transfer news: Unai eyes £40m deal; Saudi club want star

It’s a huge summer for Aston Villa and Unai Emery as they prepare for the Champions League.

ByEmilio Galantini Jul 11, 2024

With this in mind, we at Football FanCast have predicted the Villa starting XI which will take to the field in Bosnia for their final group stage tie, with six changes to the one that started against Arsenal.

1 GK – Emiliano Martínez

The 31-year-old started the first four group stage matches of the campaign but was given a rest in place of Robin Olsen for the previous outing against Legia Warsaw.

Following consecutive clean sheets against the Champions and Mikel Arteta’s men in back-to-back 1–0 victories, Emery will stick with the ‘keeper ahead of the trip to Eastern Europe.

2 RB – Matty Cash

The defender has missed just one match all season – against City last week – and has been in wonderful form on the right side of the defence.

He has provided Emery with a solid attacking outlet from the back, scoring three goals along with chipping in with two assists, and he will be unleashed once again in the starting XI tomorrow evening.

3 CB – Ezri Konsa

The centre-back has taken full advantage of the injury to Tyrone Mings by becoming a mainstay in the Villa defence this term, only missing the away tie against AZ Alkmaar back in October.

The Englishman was a titan at the back while keeping City and Arsenal at bay and this renewed confidence is allowing him to thrive under the Spaniard, and he will keep his place for the Conference League tie.

4 CB – Clement Lenglet

Emery will likely keep Pau Torres and Diego Carlos on the bench for the tie tomorrow and this means Lenglet will be unleashed for the sixth straight European match this term.

The former Arsenal boss appears to be keeping the Frenchman specifically for the continental matches as he has yet to make an appearance off the bench in 13 Premier League matches so far during 2023/24.

5 LB – Lucas Digne

Alex Moreno returned from a long injury layoff during the previous Conference League tie against Legia Warsaw and marked his return by scoring the winner during the 2-1 victory.

Digne replaced him for the final ten minutes before subsequently starting the previous two league matches.

However, the Frenchman is suspended for the upcoming domestic clash against Brentford and this means he will start tomorrow evening, as Emery will keep Moreno fit for the league tie.

6 RM – Moussa Diaby

The £130k-per-week wizard has been benched for the previous three Premier League matches, but it is time he was given a start against the Bosnian side.

Villa’s record signing has been in decent form so far this term, scoring four goals and grabbing five assists, but there is certainly more to come from the French winger.

Hailed as “fearless on the ball” by journalist Arron Stokes prior to his move to England, Diaby will be unleashed tomorrow evening.

7 CM – Leander Dendoncker

The midfielder has played just ten times for the club this term, with three of those coming in the Conference League.

With a hectic spell to come, Emery may give the Belgian just his third start of the 2023/24 campaign, and it would allow the manager to rest players such as Boubacar Kamara and John McGinn.

8 CM – Douglas Luiz

The Brazilian has been in wonderful form this season, emerging as one of Emery’s most important players.

He has yet to miss a game either in Europe or domestically this term and has registered ten goal contributions – six goals and four assists – showcasing his attacking capabilities for the club.

Along with Digne, Luiz is suspended for the clash against the Bees on the weekend and this will mean he is deployed from the first whistle against Zrinkjski tomorrow evening.

9 LM – Nicolo Zaniolo

The on-loan Italian has not hit the ground running since his temporary switch from AS Roma in the summer as he has failed to score or register an assist in 17 appearances for the club.

Being utilised in a few different positions perhaps has not helped his cause, yet Emery will need to see more from him during the festive spell as he looks to maximise his entire squad.

The 24-year-old forward could replace McGinn for the European clash on Thursday evening as Emery will be keen to have the Scot fresh for the domestic tie on the weekend.

10 AM – Youri Tielemans

The Belgian midfielder is another player who has not quite demonstrated his true talents since arriving on a free transfer in the summer.

In Europe, however, the 26-year-old has produced one goal and one assist in his previous five matches and Emery may continue to utilise him in a more advanced role.

The former Leicester City gem was deployed as a number ten against City and Arsenal, and it worked rather well, therefore the Spaniard will continue with this system tomorrow evening.

When Birmingham City fired John Eustace from his post as manager, the Blues were flying in sixth position.

Blues co-owner Tom Brady wanted to bring a "big name" to the club and opted to hire Wayne Rooney, despite not boasting the managerial pedigree to suggest that was the right decision.

As expected, Brady's attempts to treat football like an American sport have backfired, with the former Manchester United striker overseeing four defeats from his first five Championship matches.

It's been a disastrous six weeks for Birmingham, who have gone from challenging for the play-offs to languishing in 18th position and if this terrible form continues, the club will have no other option but to pull the trigger and sack Rooney.

If he does make it to January, however, the one-time England skipper could get the opportunity to bolster his squad with new recruits and attempt to turn a difficult situation into a more positive outlook.

With this in mind, here's what a predicted XI could look like at Birmingham come the end of the January transfer window…

1 GK – Jack Butland

Following his appointment in October, Rooney instantly admitted that he was eyeing possible targets for the January transfer window, and one of those could be former goalkeeper Jack Butland, who started his career at St Andrew's.

According to the Sun [via Birmingham Mail], the 6 foot 5 Rangers shot-stopper is Rooney's first choice for the position, however, he may have to wait for him, claims the report. Butland joined the Scottish giants when he left Crystal Palace in the summer meaning he would have to push to leave for a small sum in January.

If they did manage to recapture the 30-year-old – who has been dubbed "outstanding" by ex-Gers boss Michael Beale – he would replace the veteran John Ruddy, who has conceded 22 goals in 16 appearances this term.

2 RB – Ethan Laird

Birmingham made the astute capture of Ethan Laird from Manchester United in the summer but he only got two and a half games into his Blues career before he was sidelined with a hamstring injury against Bristol City.

An explosive and attacking right back, Laird has returned to become the driving force down the right, making more successful dribbles (2.4) than any other player in the squad.

3 CB – Dion Sanderson

Captured on a permanent deal from arch-rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer, following two successful loan spells at St Andrew's, Sanderson was named the Birmingham captain this season and has led by example ever since.

If he isn't making last-ditch tackles or winning aerial duels against attackers, he's commanding his defence and setting the tone through his purposefulness in possession.

His importance to the team is underscored by the fact he's featured in every minute of the Championship so far.

4 CB – Emanuel Aiwu

When Rooney was appointed manager, Kevin Long was preferred to partner Sanderson in defence, however, the Englishman has since given Emanuel Aiwu a chance to shine.

He arrived on loan from Serie B side US Cremonese in the summer and following his debut in the defeat against Southampton, the 23-year-old has never looked back.

Despite the poor run of form, Aiwu has been a rare beam of light during a difficult period, making the second most tackles per game (3.3) and more clearances (4.0) than any other Blues player.

5 LB – Cody Drameh

The on-loan Leeds United full-back has started in all five games that Rooney has taken charge of and has impressed with his attacking impetus down the right and left flank, supplying two assists.

Drameh, who earned promotion to the Premier League with Luton Town last term, has also impressed with the defensive side of his game, ranking in the top 3% against his positional peers in the Championship this season for tackles, top 11% for blocks and top 9% for clearances, as per FBref.

Having taken his opportunity to shine once more, Rooney should try and strike a deal with Leeds to keep him at the club permanently after revealing he has no intention of signing a new contract at Elland Road.

6 CM – Krystian Bielik

The 11-cap Poland international is the destructive ball-winner in midfield and eats up ground like it's going out of fashion, recovering an impressive 7.7 balls per game, making 1.7 tackles and 1.9 interceptions – the second most in the Blues squad.

A key anchor in Rooney's ship that he hopes will sail towards the top half of the Championship table, Bielik has only missed one match this term and unsurprisingly, it was one they lost – a 3-1 defeat against Sunderland last time out.

7 CM – Gavin Kilkenny

According to Football Insider, Birmingham plotted a move for Bournemouth central midfielder Gavin Kilkenny in the summer.

The 23-year-old, who had spells on loan at Charlton and Stoke last season, is surplus to requirements at the Vitality Stadium having yet to make an appearance this term.

That said, the Blues could opt to go back in for Kilkenny – who would add an abundance of qualities alongside Bielik – to bolster their midfield.

When he played in the Championship for Bournemouth in 2021/22, he ranked in the top 2% among midfielders for pass completion (87.8%) and the top 9% for tackles (2.63).

8 RW – Koji Miyoshi

Miyoshi is a Japanese international who was captured from Royal Antwerp in the summer.

One of several quality Japanese players currently plying their trade in England, the 26-year-old has made an instant impression since arriving at the club.

The fleet-footed winger has scored three and supplied two assists this term while recording the most big chances created (4) and second most key passes per game (1.4) in the squad.

9 CAM – Juninho Bacuna

The former Huddersfield Town midfielder, who has made 15 appearances in the Championship this term, is integral to supplying the Blues with an abundance of energy and dynamism going forward but also tremendous defensive capabilities.

Despite being an attacking midfielder, the ball-winning machine ranks in the top 2% in the second tier against attacking midfielders/wingers for interceptions and the top 2% for blocks.

10 LW – Siriki Dembele

A fine capture from Bournemouth when he arrived in the summer, Dembele boasts the quality to turn a game on its head in an instant, terrorising defences with his pace and power.

The 26-year-old has demonstrated how dangerous his precise ball control can be by averaging the second-most successful dribbles (2.3) of any player in the side as well as scoring three times in 13 appearances this term.

Leeds United are marching on in their pursuit of an instant return to the Premier League after they were relegated from the top-flight earlier this year.

The Whites enjoyed and endured three seasons of football at the top table of English football before tumbling back down to the Championship at the end of the 2022/23 campaign.

In an attempt to bolster their chances of bouncing back at the first attempt, the club decided to appoint German head coach Daniel Farke over the summer – arriving with two league titles at this level under his belt from his time with Norwich City.

Leeds opted to back him in the transfer window as they allowed the impressive tactician to snap up nine new recruits to improve his playing squad.

Joe Rodon, Djed Spence, Ilia Gruev, Karl Darlow, Glen Kamara, Joel Piroe, Ethan Ampadu, Sam Byram, and Jaidon Anthony were all signed either permanently or on loan.

However, Angus Kinnear has revealed that there could be funds available to Farke for him to make further additions to the group during the January transfer window, which could take the head coach into double figures for signings this season.

With this in mind, the ex-Borussia Monchengladbach boss must reignite his interest in a deal to sign Granada forward Myrto Uzuni at the start of next year.

Leeds United transfer news – Myrto Uzuni

The Whites were named as one of a number of interested parties in the Albania international ahead of the 2023/24 campaign following his impressive displays last term.

AS reported that Leeds, Brentford, Southampton, Stade Reims, Galatasaray, and unnamed Saudi Arabian sides, were all keen, or had been keen, on the talented attacker.

He has a release clause worth €25m (£21.8m) in his current contract with the Spanish side, which was €15m (£10.5m) prior to their promotion earlier this year.

The LaLiga outfit were able to keep hold of him over the summer as they demanded his full release clause from any interested clubs, which allowed them to bat off approaches for his services.

However, it remains to be seen how much they would want for the 28-year-old forward in January as he has had a mixed start to the 2023/24 season.

Leeds are currently third in the Championship and sit eight points behind Ipswich Town and Leicester City, who occupy the two automatic promotion places.

If the Whites can overtake one of them to be in the driving seat for promotion by the time January rolls around, then they could be an attractive option for Uzuni, and any other potential targets, with the allure of a return to the Premier League possibly being a strong selling point.

Farke must attempt to convince both Granada and Uzuni to agree to the move as the Albanian wizard would thrive alongside Georgino Rutter in attack, due to the French gem's exceptional creativity.

Rutter's season in numbers

The 21-year-old centre-forward has proven himself to be a terrific Championship performer with his ability to consistently split open opposition defences both with his dribbling and passing qualities.

Rutter endured a rough first five months at Elland Road after he was thrust into the midst of a relegation battle and played under three different managers – Jesse Marsch, Javi Gracia, and Sam Allardyce – following a club-record £35.5m switch from Hoffenheim.

He was unable to hit the ground running in English football, understandably so under the circumstances, and ended the season with zero goals and one assist in 11 Premier League appearances for the club.

The drop down to the Championship and the appointment of Farke, who has deployed an attractive, possession-based, style of football, has allowed the French talent to hit his stride in Yorkshire this season.

Rutter has racked up three goals and five assists in 14 league starts for the Whites so far this season, and no Leeds player has managed more assists than him.

The former Bundesliga prospect ranks within the top 1% of his positional Championship peers this term for assists (0.36), xAG (0.47), and shot-creating actions (4.74) per 90.

However, the exciting hotshot may feel aggrieved to only have five assists to his name as he has created 15 'big chances' and accrued 6.5 xAG, which suggests that his fellow attackers have not made the most of his creativity.

Leeds must now secure a swoop to sign Uzuni in January as he has the potential to thrive alongside the forward as someone who could finish off the opportunities that Rutter creates.

The statistics that show why Myrto Uzuni could thrive with Rutter

The Albania international has had a solid start to life in the Spanish top-flight with Granada this season as he has racked up four goals and created three 'big chances' in 13 appearances so far.

However, his impressive form throughout the 2022/23 campaign in LaLiga 2 suggests that the superb winger could be a huge goalscoring threat for Leeds.

Appearances

13

Goals

Four

xG

4.01

Dribbles completed

Nine

Key passes

Seven

The 28-year-old sensation plundered an eye-catching 23 goals and five assists in 35 starts for Granada as they won promotion to LaLiga last term.

His spell in Spain has come off the back of a superb return of 36 goals and 14 assists in 67 appearances for Ferencvaros across two years in Hungary.

This means that the 5 foot 10 gem has produced 64 goals and 20 assists in 134 outings in all competitions for Ferencvaros and Granada combined since the start of the 2020/21 campaign.

Uzuni, who was once hailed as "impressive" by journalist Josh Bunting whilst representing his country, has proven himself to be a consistent scoring threat over the past few seasons, in Hungary and Spain.

This suggests that the Granada winger would thrive alongside Rutter as the French magician has the quality to provide him with a constant stream of chances in the final third.

They could, therefore, be a terrific duo at the top end of the pitch for Leeds as Uzuni could become a lethal scorer with the help of the France U21 international's creative brilliance, which is why Farke should reignite his interest in the LaLiga talent at the start of next year.

Patrice Evra, in a bold all-pink suit, met up with Neymar on the grid at the Bahrain Grand Prix on Saturday as the Formula 1 season gets underway.

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Evra interviewed by SkyBumped into Neymar on the gridPair shared a warm embraceWHAT HAPPENED?

Sky Sports presenter Martin Brundle spotted Evra on the grid before the first race of the new Formula One season and approached him for an interview. He was quickly joined, surprisingly, by Neymar, and the pair shared a hug. It won't have been difficult for the Brazil icon to notice the Manchester United legend, given that he has decided to wear an all-pink suit for the race.

AdvertisementWATCH THE CLIP(C)GettyImagesTHE BIGGER PICTURE

Evra revealed that his pink suit is "hated" by his wife, but he said that he "loves" it, and he also called Neymar, now on the books at Al-Hilal, his "brother". The pair have similarly eccentric personalities, and appear to be good friends.

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gettyWHAT NEXT?

The Bahrain F1 opens up the season, and last term's champion Max Verstappen will be out to again dominate the grid. British drivers Lewis Hamilton and George Russell will hope to have something to say about it, though.

Yet to welcome a new centre-back following Jarell Quansah’s departure, Liverpool have now reportedly been offered a fresh chance to sign a Champions League-winning defender this summer.

Latest on Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak

After officially becoming the most successful club in English football history last season, Liverpool are finally acting like a king who has just taken the throne. Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes wasted no time before getting to work, instantly welcoming Jeremie Frimpong before shocking Manchester City and Bayern Munich to win the race for Florian Wirtz in record-breaking fashion.

Since then, Milos Kerkez has also arrived alongside third-choice goalkeeper Freddie Woodman. But Liverpool are far from done. The Reds aren’t looking to relinquish their crown anytime soon, with the arrival of a new No.9 seemingly becoming the priority. And, as ever this summer, those at Anfield are in no mood to settle for anything other than top targets.

Feeling ruthless, Liverpool reportedly told Newcastle that if the door was left ajar for Alexander Isak then they will break the British transfer record for a second time to sign the Swede for £120m.

Meanwhile, if the Magpies kept the door slammed shut, then the Reds would hijack their move to sign Hugo Ekitike instead, which has proven to be the case. Fresh reports have claimed that Newcastle have dropped out of the race to sign the Frenchman, allowing the Reds to advance towards his signature.

Liverpool also make contact for "amazing" striker who scored more than Ekitike

The Reds know all about his quality.

ByTom Cunningham Jul 16, 2025

It’s an ongoing saga which will undoubtedly continue to feature plenty of twists, but even after welcoming a much-needed No.9, Liverpool could still have unfinished business this summer.

Liverpool offered chance to sign Beraldo

Away from his striker problem, Arne Slot could also do with another centre-back following Quansah’s exit and although Marc Guehi has been the name mentioned most this summer, those at Anfield have reportedly been offered a fresh alternative.

According to The Boot Room’s Graeme Bailey, Liverpool have now been offered the chance to sign Lucas Beraldo from Paris Saint-Germain this summer. The defender often found himself behind Willian Pacho in the pecking order last season and the French champions have now opened the door for his exit.

Minutes

2,011

495

Tackles Won per 90

1.39

1.45

Successful Aerial Duels per 90

2.02

1.27

Ball Recoveries per 90

5.16

3.45

Previously dubbed “superb” by scout Jacek Kulig, Beraldo would be a suitable choice to replace Quansah this summer, especially at the right price. A Champions League winner who is still just 20 years old, the PSG man would even be an upgrade on the England U21 international out of possession and in the air.

Whether Liverpool take the opportunity to sign the Brazilian remains to be seen, however. Any potential move could still depend on whether they’re able to sign Guehi this summer.

West Brom have reportedly held talks with a player with "great personality", according to a fresh transfer rumour, but numerous other clubs are also interested.

West Brom's promotion chances

The Baggies find themselves strongly in the Championship promotion picture currently, especially after their hugely important 1-0 win at home to rivals Leeds United on Friday night. That was a result that outlined their credentials, and they sit fifth in the table heading into the New Year.

Granted, there is a 12-point gap between West Brom and second-place Ipswich Town, which is clearly a big deficit to make up between now and the end of the season, but given the level of performance from Carlos Corberan's side at the moment, it could be a surprise if they weren't in the playoff positions come the end of the season.

That has to be seen as the aim, and while there is strong competition around the top of the table, the Baggies feel well-equipped for a big second half of the campaign. One thing that could aid them greatly in their quest to return to the Premier League for the first time since 2020/21 is new signings, should Corberan want to bolster his squad between now and May. A fresh transfer story suggests that a move for an exciting young player could be on the cards.

West Brom have held talks with Dexter Lembikisa

According to TEAMtalk, West Brom have held talks with Wolves over youngster Dexter Lembikisa over a move to the Hawthorns, but aren't alone in showing an interest.

"Dexter Lembikisa is attracting a host of interest after an impressive loan spell with Rotherham United, TEAMtalk can reveal.

"After starting well properly in senior football – following a smattering of appearances for Wolves’ senior side – sources have informed TEAMtalk that his club are open to the prospect of recalling the 20-year-old and sending him higher up in the Championship. West Brom, Ipswich, Middlesbrough, Blackburn and Norwich are among those who have held talks over a prospective deal."

Lembikisa may be something of an unknown to some, but he is someone who could be a shrewd addition by West Brom in the January transfer window, providing more squad depth for Corberan.

Appearances

24

Starts

21

Tackles per game

2.3

Clearances per game

1.8

Interceptions per game

0.9

The 20-year-old right-back is currently on loan at Rotherham United, where he has started 21 matches in the Championship this season, and he has been hailed by Wolves Under-18s manager Steve Davis in the past, who said of him:

"What he does is that he listens, he picks up things well and he has a great belief in himself. He’s got a great temperament, a great personality and he does what you want him to do. That’s a big skill to have as a kid, to follow instruction."

These attributes are things that Corberan could feel are beneficial for his Baggies side, and given Lembikisa's age, it would be encouraging to see them take a punt on him for the second half of the season. Whether that happens in January remains to be seen,so it could be one to watch.

Manchester United look unlikely to bring in high-profile reinforcements to improve one of their priority areas to strengthen in come January after recent developments.

Man Utd latest news – Defensive issues for Erik ten Hag

Despite Manchester United's poor form at times this campaign, there can be no doubt that significant injury disruption has taken its toll on Erik ten Hag as he aims to field a side capable of challenging for honours at the top end of the English game.

Negative Manchester United injury news has plagued the Dutchman's squad selection process over this term. Key man Lisandro Martinez could be out until the New Year due to suffering a recurrence of a metatarsal problem that ended his involvement in 2022/23, which has come as a major blow to Ten Hag and company.

Of course, France international Raphael Varane has also been a huge miss as well when unavailable for selection. The former Real Madrid defender has already suffered two separate knocks this campaign and only made his return to first-team involvement last weekend, where he appeared on the bench as an unused substitute away to Sheffield United in the Premier League.

Harry Maguire, Jonny Evans and Victor Lindelof have all taken turns as alternating starters in central defence; however, there is a wider acknowledgment that the Red Devils have given away some cheap goals over the last few months. Maguire's Manchester United future was called into question over the summer transfer window after Ten Hag stripped the 30-year-old of the captaincy at the club and allowed him to explore a possible move to West Ham United.

Creating a storm of chaos, it would be imaginable that United may look to enter the market for further defensive reinforcements in January; however, new developments suggest that their quest to bring some much-needed quality to aid their backline may have now hit a major stumbling block.

Man Utd's central defenders – who has featured this campaign? (Transfermarkt)

Player

Appearances

Goals

Raphael Varane

8

1

Lisandro Martinez

6

0

Harry Maguire

5

0

Victor Lindelof

11

0

Jonny Evans

5

0

Man Utd transfer update; Goncalo Inacio and Jean Clair-Todibo

According to an Man Utd transfer update from Football Insider reporter Pete O'Rourke, it now looks as if moves for top defensive targets Sporting CP's Goncalo Inacio and Nice's Jean Clair-Todibo are now off the table for the Red Devils due to limited resources that will leave Ten Hag unable to spend big on reinforcements in January.

The reporter states that United have abandoned huge-money moves for the pair and focus will now turn towards signing cheaper alternatives, with Club America ace Sebastian Caceres identified as a possible alternative.

Inacio or Todibo could have improved the Red Devils' solidity within their rearguard; however, they may not come cheap and the continuous unravelling of Man Utd's takeover saga at Old Trafford may need to be resolved before they can splash out on transfers. For now, Ten Hag's men will be focused on a busy run of fixtures as they look to build up ahead of steam on both domestic and European fronts.

A number of Manchester United players could be on the way out of Old Trafford over the next 12 months, and a new report has claimed one is set to depart in January.

Who could leave Man Utd?

The Red Devils moved on a number of players over the summer, whereas eight new signings were also made in a busy transfer window. However, there could be plenty of departures in 2024, with the latest on Jadon Sancho’s Man Utd future appearing to point in the direction of an exit. It has been revealed that those at Old Trafford are ready to accept an offer for the winger in the New Year, with a loan move a possibility.

Man Utd summer exits

New club

Dean Henderson

Crystal Palace

Anthony Elanga

Nottingham Forest

Fred

Fenerbahce

Alex Telles

Al Nassr

Matej Kovar

Bayer Leverkusen

Zidane Iqbal

FC Utrecht

Eric Bailly

Besiktas

Meanwhile, Anthony Martial’s future is also up in the air, with rumours suggesting he is not happy with his current role in Erik ten Hag’s side and wants to be the main man once again, which could result in a move away.

A third big earner could end up joining the attackers in potentially heading out, with GiveMeSport's Steve Bates providing a transfer update on Harry Maguire in the last 48 hours. They claimed that the defender’s agent is now actively looking for a new club.

Maguire is set to receive an extended run in Ten Hag’s side due to the ongoing injury issues, with the manager impressed with his mental strength, but the report states that the player will leave in January as he looks to protect his England career.

Harry Maguire’s Man Utd career…

Since arriving in Manchester from Leicester City back in 2019, it’s safe to say it has been an eventful period for the centre-back. In total, the 30-year-old has now made 179 appearances for Man Utd – more than any other of his previous clubs – and has scored seven times in all competitions. (Harry Maguire stats)

He was limited to just 16 Premier League appearances last season, though, but he did come in for praise from Ten Hag during the previous campaign, with the Dutchman saying:

"He was magnificent in protecting the box. He is a great player and a really good defender and we have seen how important he is for the squad.

"I am really happy for the team of course but also Harry Maguire as he came off the pitch with a clean sheet."

There has also been plenty of criticism aimed at Maguire, although England manager Gareth Southgate recently backed the defender, saying:

"But it's a joke. I've never known a player treated like he is, not by the Scottish fans but by our own commentators, pundits whatever it is. They've created something beyond anything I've ever seen. He's been an absolute stalwart in the second most successful England team in decades.

"He's been an absolutely key part of that. I've talked about the importance of our senior players, he's been crucial amongst that. Every time he goes on the field, the resilience he shows, the balls he shows is absolutely incredible. He's a top player, we are all with him and our fans were brilliant with him tonight."

When Ten Hag has all of his defensive options fit and available, though, it looks as if Maguire isn’t one of the first names on the teamsheet, reflected by the number of games he played last season, so a move away could be best for all involved.