All posts by z3u9t.icu

Liverpool are flying this season. Arne Slot’s side have been the best side in the Premier League, sitting top of the table 15 games into his first campaign in charge at Anfield. It is fair to say that the transition from legendary manager Jurgen Klopp to new boss Slot has been seamless.

Statistically, they have been fantastic. As per Understat, Liverpool have the second-highest number of expected goals, with 33.91, slightly more than they have scored. They also have an excellent expected goals against record, with 14.63; incredibly, they are outperforming that stat, having conceded just 11 Premier League goals, the best in the league.

As well as the team is performing, however, one of their star players, Darwin Nunez is not having his best season.

Nunez’s stats in 2024/25

It has been a tough campaign so far for the Uruguayan striker. Nunez came with a huge weight of expectation on his shoulders, given the fee Liverpool paid for him. He cost an initial £64m to prise from Benfica, but it was a deal that could rise as high as £85m including add-ons.

Nunez has, in essence, underwhelmed at Anfield so far. He has played 115 games for the club, but has found the back of the net on just 32 different occasions and has 19 assists to his name, a total of 0.44 goals and assists per game.

It seemed like he was finding form last season. Nunez had 11 goals and eight assists in 36 Premier League games. However, he has been poor under Slot, with three goals and two assists in 19 games across all competitions.

There will surely be concern amongst Liverpool’s backroom staff at the form of their number nine. Their other attackers are not finding goals hard to come by; Mohamed Salah has 16 to his name, Luis Diaz has nine goals and Cody Gakpo has scored eight times.

Transfer Focus

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

With the Reds needing a better contribution from their strikers, they could well look to bring in a new centre-forward to enhance the quality of their forward line. They have been linked with a deadly striker in recent weeks.

Liverpool's search for a striker

The player in question here is Sporting centre-forward Viktor Gyokeres. According to a report from Florian Plettenberg in November, Liverpool are “currently in the race” to sign the Sweden international.

They are competing with the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea for his signature, and the striker could cost around £57m.

There is no doubt that, from a goals point of view, Gyokeres would be an upgrade on Nunez. He has been phenomenal this term, with 25 goals and four assists in just 23 games across all competitions. He has also scored over 50 goals in 2024. It has been a year of seismic proportion for the Sporting man.

Interestingly, a statistical comparison can be drawn between Gyokeres and Liverpool legend Luis Suarez, as per FBref. Now 37, the former Barcelona star plies his trade in the MLS for Inter Miami. He scored 82 goals in 133 games for the Merseysiders, and those are numbers the Sweden striker would be hoping to hit.

According to FBref, the former Liverpool talisman averaged 0.94 goals per game last season, with Sporting striker Gyokeres impressively exceeding that number, with 1.33. Not only that, he has a better expected goals tally than Suarez, with 1.09 compared to 0.63 for the Uruguayan.

It is perhaps worth mentioning Nunez’s stats in relation to those numbers, too. In 2024/25, the Reds number nine has so far averaged 0.29 goals per game and an expected goals per game of just 0.3

Gyokeres (2024/25)

Suarez (2024)

Nunez (2024/25)

1.33

0.94

0.29

1.09xG

0.63xG

0.3xG

1.56

2.21

1.01

0.5

0.43

0.29

5.77

3.56

2.31

1.01

0.94

0.29

Ultimately, signing Gyokeres would bring goals to a Liverpool side who currently lack a clinical centre forward. As the stats show, he would certainly be a massive upgrade on Nunez in front of goal.

Gyokeres can be a “game changer” for the Reds, as football statistician Statman Dave described him. The Swede could be exactly who Liverpool need to keep their excellent momentum going.

Saved by Salah: Slot must axe 5/10 Liverpool ace who had just 50% pass rate

The Liverpool man was saved by Salah’s penalty

ByJoe Nuttall Dec 11, 2024

Celtic manager Wilfried Nancy has his work cut out for him at Parkhead after a frustrating first match in charge of the club against Hearts in the Scottish Premiership on Sunday.

A 2-1 defeat to the league leaders proved that the Frenchman has plenty of issues to solve and plenty still to learn about the squad of players that he has at his disposal.

The former Columbus Crew head coach has a big group of players to work with in Glasgow, and there are a number of stars who he should give an opportunity to in the coming weeks.

The rarely-seen Celtic stars Nancy should unleash

Kelechi Iheanacho, for example, was an unused substitute against Hearts after returning from injury, and he should be given a chance to lead the line after Daizen Maeda missed two ‘big chances’, per Sofascore, on Sunday.

The Nigerian centre-forward has scored three goals in eight appearances in all competitions for the Scottish giants this season, per Sofascore, and could emerge as Nancy’s first-choice number nine.

Another rarely-seen star who could benefit from the change in shape to a 3-4-2-1 could be Dane Murray, who has started two league games this season, as he is a naturally right-sided centre-back who can provide balance when playing out from the back.

Auston Trusty played in that role on Sunday, as a left-footed player, and was slow to bring the ball forward and progress the play, as he was on his weaker side, which could open the door for Murray to come in and take that spot.

Colby Donovan was also snubbed in Nancy’s first game, playing zero minutes, but he could emerge as the manager’s own Kieran Tierney in the right wing-back position, having been set to leave in the summer window.

Wilfried Nancy is brewing the next Tierney

The 19-year-old academy graduate was “set to join Dundee on loan for the season”, per journalist Josh McCafferty, in the summer transfer window, before an injury to Alistair Johnston meant that he was needed as a first-team option at Parkhead.

First Impressions

What did pundits and fans alike think about their new star signing when they arrived? Football FanCast’s ‘First Impressions’ series has everything you need.

Donovan has gone on to play 716 minutes across 12 appearances for the first-team, per Sofascore, since the decision was made to keep him at the club, instead of sending him out on loan, and he has shown real promise.

The Scotland U21 international is looking to follow in Kieran Tierney’s footsteps in Glasgow, as the left-back came through the academy to provide a big threat down the left flank as an attacking full-back.

In his first spell with the club, as shown in the graphic above, the Scotland international provided an eye-catching 37 assists in 170 matches for the club, and Donovan has the potential to provide a similar threat in this new system.

Hyun-jun Yang started at right wing-back against Hearts. However, Nancy could move him over to the left and unleash the academy graduate on the right to provide crosses on that side.

xA

0.14

Top 28%

Assists

0.28

Top 1%

Long pass accuracy

46.2%

Top 23%

Chances created

1.12

Top 39%

Successful crosses

1.12

Top 25%

Touches in opposition’s box

2.80

Top 14%

Donovan, as shown in the statistics above, has stood out as one of the most impressive creative right-backs in the Premiership this season under Brendan Rodgers and Martin O’Neill, whilst playing as a right-back.

Playing as a wing-back under Nancy would give him even more opportunities to push forward and show off his creativity in the final third, which could improve his output as a creator and make him a Tierney-esque threat on the right-hand side.

Whilst Johnston is still to return from his injury eventually, unleashing Donovan in this new role could provide him with a chance to nail down a regular starting spot in the team to become the next academy graduate to become a star at Parkhead, like Tierney.

His emergence in the first-team this season, after being set to go out on loan in the summer, is perhaps a lesson that Celtic can learn from, as they could give more opportunities to their academy players to see if they have what it takes to play for the senior side before letting them move on, permanently or on loan.

Worse than Yang: Nancy must bin 3/10 Celtic dud who once had "the X factor"

This Celtic star who had “the X Factor” should be ruthlessly dropped from the starting line-up on Thursday.

ByDan Emery 3 days ago

The January transfer window is now officially open for business and is set to run for the next four weeks or so, giving Leeds United a chance to make changes to their squad.

Daniel Farke’s team are currently sat at the top of the Championship table, two points ahead of Sheffield United, after the first 24 matches of the campaign.

This shows that they do not need wholesale changes to the playing group, as they are already on course to achieve their ultimate goal of promotion, but that does not mean that they will not do anything.

They are three points ahead of Burnley in third place, ahead of today’s clash with Blackburn Rovers at Ewood Park, and this means that they could easily end up in the play-off places if their standards drop.

Therefore, Farke may want to add one or two players to his arsenal to ensure that competition for places remains high in the second half of the season.

That does appear to be the case because Leeds have already been linked with an interest in bringing in a new central defender to bolster the manager’s options.

Leeds eyeing up Bundesliga titan

According to GIVEMESPORT, the West Yorkshire outfit are considering a bid to sign Borussia Monchengladbach centre-back Nico Elvedi in the January transfer window.

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 Farke is keen to reunite with the defender, whom he worked with during his time as manager of Monchengladbach in the 2022/23 campaign, ahead of the second half of the season.

It states that there is a belief within the club, however, that the Switzerland international will not want to join a Championship team and that they may have to wait until the summer transfer window to secure a deal for his services.

GIVEMESPORT adds that Borussia Monchengladbach are willing to allow the 28-year-old star to leave if an offer of £10m is placed on the table, and it remains to be seen whether or not the Whites are prepared to offer that kind of money to snap him up.

The report reveals that Elvedi plays in one of the three positions that Leeds are interested in recruiting for this month, as they are also in the market to sign a left-back and an attacking midfielder.

Farke does, of course, already have a player starting regularly in the Swiss star’s position. Joe Rodon joined permanently from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer and has been a regular starter at the heart of the defence in the right-sided centre-back role next to Pascal Struijk.

Joe Rodon's performances this season

The Wales international joined the club on a long-term contract in the summer after he spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan at Elland Road, helping the team to reach the play-off final.

Rodon played 43 times in the regular season for Leeds last term and provided a dominant presence in the backline, winning 69% of his ground duels and 67% of his aerial battles throughout the season.

The 27-year-old was a consistent performer for the Whites and ended the campaign with zero errors that led to shots, goals, or penalties for the opposition, which illustrates how impressive and almost faultless his defensive work was for the club.

Appearances

43

24

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.3

1.5

Clearances per game

4.5

3.9

Ground duel success rate

69%

60%

Aerial duel success rate

67%

54%

Error led to shot/goal

0

2

Penalties committed

0

1

As you can see in the table above, however, he has allowed his standards to drop since joining Leeds on a permanent basis, as pretty much all of his defensive numbers have fallen off.

He has already made two errors that have directly led to shots or goals for the opposition and given away one penalty, in the 1-1 draw with Norwich City at Carrow Road, after not giving any away last season, and has not been as dominant in his duels on the deck and in the air.

This suggests that Leeds could benefit from bringing in another centre-back to seriously compete with Rodon for a starting spot in the

team, as it could motivate the Welsh ace to get back to his best form from the 2023/24 campaign.

Why Leeds should sign Nico Elvedi

The Whites should push to convince Elvedi to make the move to the Championship before the end of the January transfer window, despite the feeling that he may wait until the summer for Premier League offers, because he could come in as a big upgrade on Rodon.

His form in the Bundesliga for Borussia Monchengladbach since the start of last season shows that the Swiss star is a defender who can perform consistently well in a major European league, which suggests that he would thrive as a star in the Championship – a second tier in England.

Firstly, Elvedi has already played under Farke before and knows the system and tactics. He is suited to playing in a ball-dominant team that wants to progress the ball out from the back, as the centre-back ranks within the top 10% of his positional peers in the Men’s Big 5 Leagues and European competitions over the last 365 days for progressive carries (1.24) per 90.

This shows that he is comfortable at bringing the ball out from defence to start attacks, but it is his defensive work that shows the £10m-rated star could come in as a big upgrade on Rodon.

Appearances

9

24

Tackles + interceptions per game

2.4

1.5

Error led to shot/goal

0

2

Ground duel success rate

76%

60%

Aerial duel success rate

55%

54%

Clearances per game

5.2

3.9

As you can see in the table above, Elvedi has significantly outperformed Rodon as an out-and-out defender this season, winning a higher percentage of his duels, making more defensive interventions per match, and making fewer clear errors.

Elvedi, who was once hailed as having “incredible composure” by former sporting director Max Eberl, also won 65% of his duels across 30 appearances in the Bundesliga during the 2023/24 campaign, which shows that he has been consistent in his defensive dominance over the last 18 months.

Leeds could, therefore, bring in a big upgrade on Rodon and create real competition for the right-sided centre-back position by securing a £10m deal for the Switzerland international, whose form this season suggests that he could improve Farke’s defence.

Leeds could land bigger talent than McAtee in move for "game-changing" star

Leeds United could find a better alternative to James McAtee by signing this star.

ByDan Emery Dec 31, 2024

Todd Boehly has certainly backed up his ambitions since taking over Chelsea in May 2022, signing players left, right and centre for the first-team and academy teams.

The American has dropped over £1.2bn on new additions in his near three-year spell in West London, providing Enzo Maresca with all the ammunition needed to be a success in the Premier League.

Undoubtedly, such erratic dealings have seen former managers struggle, but the Italian has walked into life at Stamford Bridge with ease, ultimately creating a settled side for league and cup.

Such a layout won’t favour every player, with numerous having to settle for either minutes off the bench or, at worst, struggling to gain any first-team action at all given the huge number of players currently on the books.

One player has fallen into such a category, with the Blues star almost certain for a move away from the Bridge this month, leading to interest from one European outfit.

Chelsea star wanted by Bundesliga giants

According to Sky Germany journalist Patrick Berger, Chelsea midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka is a target for Bundesliga side Borussia Dortmund this month, with a potential loan with an option to buy mooted.

The 21-year-old joined the Blues from Aston Villa back in 2022 for a reported £20m, but his time in the capital has been limited to say the least, finding himself on the fringes of the first team squad as a result.

He’s only featured for a combined 131 minutes in all competitions during 2024/25, starting just one game in the Europa Conference League – with Chukwuemeka pushing for a move come the end of January.

Berger claimed that Dortmund boss Nuri Şahin is a “big fan” of the Englishman, following in the footsteps of Ian Maatsen, who joined the German side on loan this time last year.

However, should the £100k-per-week earner move permanently to Signal Iduna Park, it may be a huge mistake on the part of Maresca to allow him to leave, potentially replicating the mistake made in allowing a former talent to depart and move to Germany.

Why Chukwuemeka could be a De Bruyne repeat for Chelsea

Attacking midfielder Kevin De Bruyne joined Chelsea way back in January 2012 for a reported £6.7m, before re-joining Belgian side Genk on loan for the remainder of the season.

He would subsequently spend the following campaign on loan at German outfit Werder Bremen, impressing during his temporary stint, registering ten goals and nine assists in just 34 appearances.

Such form catapulted him into the Blues first-team, but after just nine appearances in the first half of the 2013/14 season, he joined Wolfsburg on a permanent basis for around £16.7m – banking a £10m deal profit, but a decade on, the deal looks to be a huge mistake.

De Bruyne starred with increased game time, notching 20 goals and 35 assists – ultimately leading to a £54m transfer back to England to join Manchester City in 2015 – a move that has since allowed him to become one of Europe’s leading playmakers.

2015/16

41

16

13

2016/17

49

7

20

2017/18

52

12

21

2018/19

32

6

10

2019/20

48

16

22

2020/21

40

10

18

2021/22

45

19

14

2022/23

49

10

28

2023/24

26

6

17

2024/25

18

2

3

Total:

400

104

166

The now 33-year-old has since scored over 100 times and registered over 150 assists under Pep Guardiola at the Etihad, helping the Citizens win five consecutive Premier League titles – something that could have happened to the Blues had they kept hold of the Belgian.

Fast-forward over a decade, Chelsea are faced with a similar prospect in the form of Chukwuemeka who, like De Bruyne, may well be heading to Germany after restricted game time at the Bridge.

The 21-year-old, who’s previously been dubbed a “superstar” talent by scout Jacek Kulig, has never really been given a lengthy run in the side, especially under Maresca, to prove what he’s capable of.

Undoubtedly, given his tender age, he’s in serious need of regular match action to reach the potential he arrived with upon his move, possibly making a loan deal a better option than a permanent one.

Should it be a permanent transfer, Dortmund would be getting themselves yet another top English prospect – potentially following in the footsteps of Jadon Sancho and Jude Bellingham – with Chelsea’s loss undoubtedly their gain.

Dream Nkunku replacement: Chelsea make enquiry to sign £80m PL star

Maresca can finally axe Nkunku by acquiring a well-suited “maverick” for his Chelsea side

ByConnor Holden Jan 12, 2025

Manchester United star Diogo Dalot has revealed his thoughts on ‘The United Strand’, who has vowed not to cut his hair until Ruben Amorim’s side win five games in a row.

Man Utd make it two wins on the bounce with victory at Anfield

After nearly one year in charge, Amorim has finally managed to win two Premier League games on the bounce, with his side pulling off a shock 2-1 victory against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, courtesy of a late Harry Maguire header.

Having been critical of the United boss at times this season, Jamie Carragher was full of praise for the 40-year-old after the match, claiming he got his tactics “absolutely spot on”.

There is still a long way to go, but supporter Frank Ilett, who has become known as ‘The United Strand’ will have renewed confidence the Red Devils can make it five wins on the spin, having pledged not to have a haircut until Amorim’s side do so.

The story has made waves to such an extent that Dalot was even asked for his thoughts after the victory against Liverpool, and the full-back made it clear he believes five wins on the spin could be possible, sending a short message of hope to the fan.

He continued: But we have to go game by game. Obviously, we know this is a very difficult league, we have tough games.

“And, of course, we have to go after that consistency that we have lacked because we have already shown in the past that we can compete against any team in the world.

“We get to the big games, we get to have good performances. Now it’s trying to make it happen every game.”

£62m Man Utd star looks like their best player "since Fergie retired"

Manchester United might just have turned a corner under Ruben Amorim’s wing.

2 ByAngus Sinclair Oct 20, 2025 Victory at Anfield could kickstart the Amorim era

Although Liverpool have not been in the best of form, winning at Anfield is no mean feat, with United failing to do so in nine years, and INEOS will be hoping that the result can kickstart the Amorim era.

Five wins on the bounce may be a tall order, but it is definitely possible when you look at the fixture list, given that United have won every home game so far this season, while Nottingham Forest are in the relegation zone, and Aston Villa won at Tottenham Hotspur last time out.

Man United’s upcoming fixtures

Date

Brighton & Hove Albion (h)

October 25th

Nottingham Forest (a)

November 1st

Tottenham Hotspur (a)

November 8th

Either way, things are finally starting to look up for Man United, with Amorim’s side now just two points off the top four.

Chelsea have made contact over signing a very highly-rated striker, who’s drawn comparisons with Galatasaray star Victor Osimhen, coming after Enzo Maresca’s side failed with a late summer move for the Nigerian.

Chelsea draw up striker shortlist after botched Victor Osimhen deal

During the latter phase of the summer transfer window, Chelsea held late talks over signing Osimhen from Napoli, but the move couldn’t come to fruition.

Agents tell Chelsea they can sign "underrated" 16-goal striker for £25m

He’s been in the form of his life this season.

ByEmilio Galantini Dec 19, 2024

Chelsea were directly Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli for his services, but neither team could come to terms on both a fee and terms for Osimhen, who later settled for a season-long loan move to Super Lig champions Galatasaray.

Appearances

25

Goals

15

Assists

3

Shots Per 90

3.86

Key Passes Per 90

1.05

Successful Take-Ons Per 90

0.73

The African superstar’s deal with Galatasaray is rumoured to include a break-clause, meaning certain interested sides, including Chelsea, can elect to activate it and make a swoop for Osimhen in January.

According to reliable journalist Simon Phillips, the 25-year-old remains on Chelsea’s striker shortlist for 2025, alongside the likes of Liam Delap, Viktor Gyokeres and Victor Boniface, but it is unclear whether they’re keen on bringing him in for January.

Nicolas Jackson is leading the line superbly right now, and Chelsea are currently the Premier League’s top goalscorers, with both Christopher Nkunku and Cole Palmer already hitting double figures across all competitions.

That being said, if Chelsea were to move for him in the summer, there is every reason to believe Osimhen would be keen on a switch to Stamford Bridge.

“I know what Victor wanted,” said ex-Chelsea midfielder John Obi-Mikel on Osimhen’s eagerness to join Chelsea earlier this year.

“Both sides really played their part in terms of getting the deal done, and I commend Chelsea for that, because I can see their ambition of where they want to take this club now, and also on Victor’s side, how much he really wanted to come to the club.”

The desire to join Chelsea is clearly there, but BlueCo may not even elect to go back in his direction next year. There are many different options on the table for Maresca’s side, and one of them is RB Leipzig starlet Benjamin Sesko.

Chelsea make contact over signing RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Sesko

Chelsea had an offer rejected to sign Sesko mid-way through the summer window, alongside both Man United and Arsenal (Fabrizio Romano), with the Slovenia international choosing to remain and sign a new contract with Leipzig.

Sesko’s fresh contract is rumoured to include a new release clause set at around £63 million, and he apparently has a gentlemen’s agreement that he can leave Leipzig in either 2025 or 2026.

The prospect of an exit for the 21-year-old is very much alive, with journalist Rudy Galetti now sharing an update on his future, which involves Chelsea.

Indeed, writing for TEAMtalk, he says that Chelsea have made contact over signing Sesko from Leipzig, as they hold talks with the agents and intermediaries of numerous striker targets who they believe could reinforce their attacking options.

“Benjamin Šeško is among the game’s top young talents and has enormous potential to become a top player,” said interim Man United recruitment director Christopher Vivell, formerly of Leipzig.

“He has all the qualities to do that. He’s extremely quick, has a great jump on him and is strong in the air. Benjamin is a real goalscorer, who despite his 1.95m (6’4″) is mobile and technically strong. His abilities make him a special player with a special profile.”

Interestingly, Football Transfers have also called Sesko a “similar” striker to Osimhen.

The last few seasons have been nothing short of a roller coaster for Arsenal.

Mikel Arteta has dragged his side from fighting for Champions League qualification to battling for the Premier League title.

However, this season has seen the North Londoners take a slight step back, and instead of playing the high-octane football they did in their first title-challenging campaign, they’ve played slightly more pragmatic football.

Interestingly, most fans would probably agree that most of the changes made to the XI that played that year have been upgrades, like David Raya for Aaron Ramsdale and Riccardo Calafiori or Myles Lewis-Skelly for Oleksandr Zinchenko, but there is one player from that team many would argue has not been replaced adequately, Granit Xhaka.

Fortunately, recent reports have linked the club with a player who’s previously won comparisons to the Swiss international.

Arsenal target the new Xhaka

According to a recent report from Football Transfers, Arsenal are interested in Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Larsson.

The report has revealed that the Gunners have already made ‘several enquiries into the availability’ of the midfield gem, who joined the Eagles for around €9m – £8.6m – in May 2023.

However, if the North Londoners were under the impression that they’d be able to sign the Swede for anything close to that, they’d be mistaken, as per the report, the Bundesliga club currently value the 20-year-old at a whopping €80m, which is about £68m, although it is unclear whether they’d accept a slightly lower offer if presented with one.

It could be a costly and rather complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Larsson’s ability and potential, it is worth pursuing, especially as he’s already won comparisons to Xhaka.

How Larsson compares to Xhaka

So, before looking into some of the other reasons Arsenal might want to sign Larsson this year, let’s examine this comparison to Xhaka and where it has come from.

In this instance, it has stemmed from respected analyst Ben Mattinson, who, when looking into the young Swede, made the bold claim that he was, in fact, “similar to Xhaka” among other high-profile midfielders, including Jude Bellingham and İlkay Gündoğan.

However, while the latter two are utterly sensational players, we are more interested in the former Malmö prospect’s similarities to the former Gunners’ ace, similarities which make him such an appealing transfer today.

Appearances

61

63

Goals

3

6

Assists

4

3

Goal Involvements per Match

0.11

0.14

Well, according to Mattinson, the 20-year-old has several strengths, which the Swiss legend demonstrated during his final campaign with Arsenal, such as the way he “receives the ball from deep and turns casually past pressing attackers,” which was one of the reasons the Gunners’ left-hand side was so dangerous in 22/23.

On top of that, he is also “very composed on the ball” and “press resistant,” which, for all of his outbursts off the ball, was very much true of the former Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder.

However, perhaps the most significant similarity is that the Frankfurt ace is “a top ball-carrier,” and that, like the Bayer Leverkusen star did in North London, he can “ping long passes out to the wings.”

With all that said, another reason that Arteta and Co might want to bring the Svarte-born gem to the Emirates this year is that, with Thomas Partey and Jorginho looking increasingly likely to leave come the end of the season, the team will need fresh blood in the middle of the park, and based on the similarities Mattinson claims he shared with Xhaka he could prove to be an excellent investment for the long term.

Ultimately, midfield might not be the most pressing concern for Arsenal at the moment, but securing the services of Larsson this month or in the summer could be a brilliant decision and one that pays off in a big way a few years down the line.

Arsenal hold January talks with £51m striker as elite club open to selling

They need an alternative to Kai Havertz.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Jan 21, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur are now battling their Premier League rivals for the signature of an “excellent” new goalkeeper, according to a report.

Tottenham in need of a goalkeeper

Ever since Guglielmo Vicario was ruled out for the foreseeable future with a fractured ankle, there have been question marks over Fraser Forster, particularly in light of his most recent performance against Wolverhampton Wanderers. The Englishman received scathing criticism for his performance, which played a part in Spurs’ winless run being extended to three games.

When Vicario first picked up his injury, Ange Postecoglou made it clear that signing a new goalkeeper in the January transfer window would not be an option, saying: “We will NOT sign a new goalkeeper in January. We trust Fraser Forster”.

Tottenham’s upcoming Premier League fixtures

Date

Newcastle United (h)

January 4th

Arsenal (a)

January 15th

Everton (a)

January 19th

Leicester City (h)

January 26th

Brentford (a)

February 2nd

However, Forster’s recent performances may have caused Postecoglou to change his stance, and Tottenham are now being linked with moves for a number of goalkeepers. Burnley’s James Trafford has been considered as a potential option, although that could prove to be a costly operation, with the Championship side set to demand a fee of around £30m for his services.

As such, the Lilywhites have now started looking at other options, and a report from The Sun has revealed that Sunderland’s Anthony Patterson is now an option. Spurs are now battling Premier League rivals Wolves for Patterson, so there is set to be competition for his signature, but Forster’s poor performances could force Postecoglou’s hand.

However, much like Trafford, the Sunderland keeper would not come cheap, as he signed a new long-term deal at the Stadium of Light last September.

Tottenham now eyeing January move to sign £20m defender ahead of Barcelona

Spurs are in need of defensive reinforcements, but face a fight to land one.

ByBen Browning Dec 29, 2024 Injury crisis at N17 forcing January activity

Tottenham find themselves in an injury crisis at the moment, with a number of first-team players out injured, and Vicario’s absence has hit them particularly hard, with Forster failing to hit the heights expected of him in recent weeks.

As such, it would make sense if Postecoglou wants to bring in a new back-up goalkeeper this winter, particularly considering Forster is now 36-years-old.

Patterson could be a real upgrade for Spurs, having been lauded by Sunderland teammate Simon Moore, who said: “I’ve followed him for a while even before I came here and he’s class, he pulls off some unbelievable saves.

“He’s underrated with the ball at his feet as well, calm and composed. His handling is excellent, he can without a shadow of a doubt play at the top.”

However, it may be difficult for Tottenham to get a deal done this January, as Sunderland are unlikely to sanction their first-choice goalkeeper’s departure for a reasonable price while they are in a promotion race.

Instead, it may be wise for Postecoglou to hold out for Vicario’s return, considering his recovery is going well, and persist with Forster for a little while longer.

Chelsea chiefs have held “fresh” negotiations over signing a marquee centre-forward this week, following a personal request from manager Enzo Maresca.

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The Premier League top four chasers have suffered a slight dip in form lately, winning just one of their last five top flight matches, and their latest defeat at the hands of Man City was swiftly followed by a behind-closed-doors meeting.

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That is according to reliable journalist Simon Phillips, via his Substack, who also claimed that Maresca reiterated his desire to bring in a new striker during these internal talks with the Stamford Bridge hierarchy.

The tactician also apparently shared how he’s still minus a particular profile of midfielder, which has led to Chelsea’s reliably reported interest in Man United starlet Kobbie Mainoo throughout January, but Maresca is also believed to be keen on players with more experience.

West Ham (home)

February 3rd

Brighton (away)

February 14th

Aston Villa (away)

February 22nd

Southampton (home)

February 25th

Leicester City (home)

March 9th

Chelsea’s decision to activate their recall clause and bring back Trevoh Chalobah solves their centre-back issue, and the Englishman may even act as a possible replacement for Axel Disasi, who is being seriously targeted by Aston Villa amid reports of agreed personal terms.

However, Maresca is still allegedly in the market for both a striker and engine room technician. Interestingly, as per Phillips, Villa’s serious interest in both Disasi and summer signing João Félix could re-open the door for Chelsea to swoop for Jhon Duran.

Chelsea hold fresh talks over signing Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran

It is believed that Chelsea sense an opportunity to reignite a move for the Colombian, and Disasi would be used as a sweetener in any deal, as the Blues attempt to make Villa relax their reported £85 million price tag.

After being given encouragement in the form of Unai Emery targeting Maresca’s outcasts, Phillips writes that Chelsea have held “fresh talks” over signing Duran this week, and they’ve also approached the player’s agents to gauge whether he’d be keen on swapping the Midlands for London.

“Chelsea are sensing a deal for Jhon Duran potentially being back on the cards,” wrote Phillips.

“They have asked about him in recent conversations with Villa for Axel Disasi and Felix. Disasi would be sent on loan as a ‘sweetener’ to any Duran deal, although he could still end up going there anyway because the player has expressed his desire to go out and play this window.

“Villa told Chelsea a high price tag for Duran when they enquired again last week, but fresh talks have happened again this week. Chelsea feel that if Villa were open to offers that came in for Duran last week (from West Ham), then they would be up for a discussion, especially if they want Felix and Disasi. On the player side, I have no idea if he would accept a move to Chelsea, but we have been speaking to his agents again this week to see if it is possible.”

The 21-year-old has bagged 12 goals in 29 appearances throughout 2024/2025, mainly as a very impactful substitute behind Ollie Watkins, and he could be an excellent alternative to Nicolas Jackson.

Chelsea’s dire need for a new first-choice goalkeeper became even more apparent at the weekend when Robert Sanchez made yet another howler against Manchester City.

In an attempt to collect a long pass to Erling Haaland from City ‘keeper Ederson, the Spaniard found himself in no man’s land, allowing Haaland to turn and lob the ball over him into an empty net.

The error was his fifth leading directly to a goal this season – the joint-highest total in the Premier League.

Speaking after the City game, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca insisted that despite Sanchez’s propensity for errors, he trusts the 27-year-old between the sticks.

“We trust Robert for sure,” Maresca said. “He is completely aware he is making mistakes in this moment. We trust Robert. We have one entire week and we will see the reaction for the next game.

“Robert, for sure, is completely aware he has to do better,” he added. “He knows perfectly. In this moment it is like this. The good thing is he is the first one knowing, aware that he has to do better.”

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Interestingly, before the game, Maresca said that while he does trust Sanchez, he may not need to for too much longer.

Asked whether Sanchez can be Chelsea’s No 1 for many years to come, Maresca said: “For this season? No doubt. But then in the future, we don’t know. It is not only about Robert. It is not even about me, you know? I’m focused on this moment, this season.”

So come the end of the season, who could Chelsea bring in to replace Sanchez? Here, we’ve outlined seven possible replacements for the Spaniard.

1 Gregor Kobel Borussia Dortmund

Gregor Kobel has been one of German football’s standout goalkeepers since joining Borussia Dortmund in 2021, keeping 46 clean sheets in 142 games for BVB, including 7 in 27 Bundesliga matches last season.

Though he’s struggled a little more this term, it seems to be more a reflection of Dortmund’s poor form as a team – leading to the sacking of Nuri Sahin – than his individual performances.

Kobel’s impressive stats and lack of errors last season make him an ideal candidate for Chelsea. His experience in European competitions would also be a significant asset.

2 Djordje Petrovic Strasbourg (on loan from Chelsea)

Djordje Petrovic was Chelsea’s first-choice ‘keeper for much of last season under Mauricio Pochettino, but was deemed surplus to requirements when Maresca took over in the summer.

Now on loan with sister club Strasbourg, it would be easy for Chelsea to bring him back into the fold if they so desire, and it would certainly be a quick fix to a problem position.

The 25-year-old has impressed in Ligue 1 and was recently described as “world-class” by Strasbourg head coach Liam Rosenior.

“We have seen huge progress from Petro,” Rosenior said of the Serb. “He is a world-class goalkeeper. We see it every day and it is still paying off today.”

3 Diogo Costa Porto

Diogo Costa has been one of the steadiest hands in Europe over the past few years, keeping 77 clean sheets in 181 games for Porto, including 11 in 19 league games this season.

However, it was his remarkable performance at last summer’s European Championship that truly captured global attention. In Portugal’s last-16 clash against Slovenia, Costa made history by saving all three of the opposition’s penalties in the shootout – a feat never before accomplished in the tournament’s 66-year history.

Following that heroic display, Chelsea reportedly approached Costa during the summer transfer window, but the 25-year-old ultimately stayed at Porto. In late 2024, CaughtOffside reported that the Blues remained interested in Costa, but that Porto are expected to demand a hefty £59 million fee for their star goalkeeper.

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ByCharlie Smith Oct 8, 2025 4 Mads Hermansen Leicester City

According to reports, Maresca wanted to sign Leicester City shot-stopper Mads Hermansen in the summer, but instead ended up signing Filip Jorgensen from Villarreal.

Hermansen was the Italian’s first-choice ‘keeper during his promotion-winning season at the King Power Stadium, keeping 13 clean sheets in 44 games.

Maresca is understood to be an admirer of the Dane’s ability to play out from the back, which is something Sanchez has struggled to do this term.

TeamTALK reported in November that Leicester would want £35m for their current No 1.

5 Kepa Arrizabalaga Bournemouth (on loan from Chelsea)

Kepa Arrizabalaga remains on Chelsea’s books, but the world’s most expensive goalkeeper is currently on loan at Bournemouth, where he’s played a key role for Andoni Iraola’s side this term.

The Spaniard has started 16 of the Cherries’ 23 Premier League games this season, keeping five clean sheets and saving 76.3% of the shots he’s faced (as per FBref) – which is the second-best record in the division, ironically level with Sanchez.

Though a return to Stamford Bridge for Kepa (which he supposedly wants) would make sense on paper, his record in west London makes for poor reading.

In his second season with Chelsea in 2019/20, the former Athletic Bilbao star recorded the worst save percentage of any goalkeeper in the Premier League, stopping just 54.5% of the shots he faced.

If Chelsea can get the Bournemouth version of Kepa back, great. If they get their old version back, less so.

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2 ByStephan Georgiou Aug 23, 2024 6 Filip Jorgensen Chelsea

Signed by Chelsea from Villarreal in the summer, Filip Jorgensen has yet to make a significant impact in the Premier League, but has shown promise in cup competitions, keeping five clean sheets in 11 games.

He also boasts a mightily impressive save percentage, having stopped 80% of the shots he’s faced in the Premier League, while he’s saved 83.9% in the Conference League, as per FBref.

At just 22 years old, Jorgensen could offer a long-term solution for Chelsea in goal, and clearly has the potential to grow into a top-tier goalkeeper.

However, to do that, Maresca needs to give him more of a chance in the league rather than stick with Sanchez despite his continuous errors. Doing so will no doubt be frustrating the youngster and potentially putting a dent in his confidence.

7 Caoimhin Kelleher Liverpool

Earlier this year, Liverpool’s Caiomhin Kelleher expressed his desire to leave Anfield, stating he wants to “go and be a number one and play week in, week out”.

Though he’s impressed when called upon, the 26-year-old has never been able to displace Alisson as Liverpool’s regular No 1. In August, the Reds also completed the £30 million signing of Valencia ‘keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who will move to Merseyside next year.

Kelleher has kept seven clean sheets in 14 games for Liverpool this season and looks at home at a top Premier League side.