All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

As Manchester United get set to take on Chelsea in the penultimate game of their miserable Premier League season on Friday night, one man who won’t be involved in proceedings is Old Trafford exile, Jadon Sancho.

The 25-year-old loanee – who is ineligible to feature for the Blues against his parent club – is set to head into a summer of uncertainty at Stamford Bridge, with it yet to be seen whether the west London side will secure his services on a permanent basis.

With talk in recent months indicating that Enzo Maresca’s side could actually pay a £5m fee in order to send him back to Manchester, despite agreeing to a £20m-£25m obligation to buy last summer, the Red Devils face the very real prospect of being lumped with the £195k-per-week winger once again.

In truth, even with a change in the dugout following Ruben Amorim’s arrival, the England international should have no future back at the Theatre of Dreams, having proven a simply wasted venture following his £73m arrival in 2021.

Perhaps hampered by a long, drawn-out saga that began in 2020, the former Borussia Dortmund man has been unable to replicate his Bundesliga heroics, having chalked up just 18 goals and assists in 83 games for United to date.

Antony

96

12

5

17

Anthony Elanga

55

4

4

8

Amad

61

13

11

24

Jadon Sancho

83

12

6

18

Alejandro Garnacho

146

26

22

48

Dan James

74

9

9

18

Angel Di Maria

34

4

12

16

Henrikh Mkhitaryan

63

13

11

24

Memphis Depay

53

7

6

13

Alongside the likes of Marcus Rashford and Antony, Sancho is a player who INEOS need to cash in on this summer. What they must not do, however, is sign a talent of a similar ilk…

Man Utd's search for a forward

Whether it pays off or not remains to be seen, although it is encouraging to see that United are looking to target current Premier League stars this summer, ensuring there should be less of a need for adaptation next season.

Transfer Focus

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

Indeed, both Matheus Cunha and Liam Delap appear to be at the top of the shopping list, while recent reports have also indicated that Amorim and co are interested in Bournemouth’s £60m-rated sensation, Antoine Semenyo.

With the Red Devils intent on strengthening the 40-year-old’s attacking options, Sky Sports have since revealed that United are also keeping tabs on Nottingham Forest’s Callum Hudson-Odoi.

As per reporter Dharmesh Sheth, the Englishman currently has just a year left on his contract at the City Ground, with talks currently “ongoing” with the Champions League hopefuls regarding an extension.

Reading between the lines, INEOS appear ready to pounce should those negotiations hit a stumbling block, with Forest perhaps willing to cash in, considering that they signed the ex-Chelsea man for a fee of just £3m back in 2023.

Alongside former United academy graduate, Anthony Elanga, Hudson-Odoi has no doubt flourished for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side – but is he what Amorim really needs?

Why Man Utd could be targeting another Sancho

The journey of a young footballer is rarely a smooth one, as Sancho, in particular, has come to learn.

Plucked from Manchester City by Dortmund on a £10m deal in 2017, the wing wizard went on to sparkle in German football over the next four years, with his total record for the Bundesliga side – when factoring last season’s loan spell back at the club – standing at 120 goals and assists in 158 games.

For all that talent and potential, it just hasn’t worked out since then, with Sancho now a forgotten man in Manchester, having also provided only eight goal involvements in the league this season for the Blues. His last Three Lions outing came as far back as October 2021.

It has been a similar story for Hudson-Odoi too, with the one-time wonderkid touted for big things after making his senior international debut at the age of just 18, having also been the subject of a £70m offer from Bayern Munich in 2020.

Injuries and limited game followed back at Chelsea, however, while he was also shipped off to Bayer Leverkusen for an unsuccessful loan in 2022/23, which yielded just one goal and one assist.

After recording 16 goals and 22 assists in 126 games for the west Londoners, the decision was made to cash in on the fleet-footed winger two years ago, while on the international scene, he has been unable to build on his three caps – all of which came in 2019.

To his credit, the man once described as a “monster of a talent” by journalist Nizaar Kinsella has found his feet at Forest, with 13 goals and six assists in 68 games in all competitions, including the winner against Manchester City earlier this year.

Non-penalty goals

0.21

0.16

Assists

0.08

0.21

Shot-creating actions

3.93

3.59

Pass completion

82.2%

82.5%

Progressive passes

2.76

4.65

Progressive carries

5.31

5.28

Successful take-ons

1.51

2.38

Touches in penalty box

3.01

6.39

Progressive passes received

7.78

11.68

That said, like Sancho, he hasn’t exactly pulled up any trees – if you’ll pardon the pun – in Nottingham, having matched his compatriot’s record of only eight goal contributions in the top-flight this term.

Interestingly too, the two widemen – both of whom can play on either flank – are noted as statistically similar players among those in their position in the division, as per FBref, with United at risk of landing another mercurial and inconsistent talent.

Perhaps, for a bargain fee, Hudson-Odoi could prove worth the gamble, although having witnessed Sancho struggle so greatly in recent years, targeting a player of similar quality and ability may well need to be avoided.

Forget Obi: Amorim can finally axe Hojlund for Man Utd's homegrown Gyokeres

Man Utd could have another academy sensation up their sleeve…

1 ByRobbie Walls May 14, 2025

An “incredible” defender would now be “keen on a move to Liverpool” this summer, according to reliable reporter David Ornstein.

Reds planning summer of heavy spending

The Reds have been quiet in recent transfer windows, with Arne Slot making very few changes to the squad he inherited from Jürgen Klopp, but there could be a summer of heavy spending on the horizon.

Widespread reports have suggested FSG are willing to back Slot in the upcoming window, with the manager looking to upgrade his squad in a number of areas, including left-back, and AFC Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez is in line to potentially replace Andy Robertson.

A new striker is also of interest to Slot, with a bid now being prepared for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, while the Merseysiders are also in the race for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, who could be allowed to leave for around £65m this summer.

Liverpool could sign dream Trent successor who's 'one of the best in the PL'

Alexander-Arnold’s decision has left Liverpool in search of a new right-back.

ByAngus Sinclair May 6, 2025

Slot would’ve been hoping he didn’t have to bring in a new right-back this summer, but with Trent Alexander-Arnold now announcing his intention to depart at the end of his contract, the manager will be tasked with finding a replacement.

It was recently revealed that Liverpool are planning to submit an offer for Bayer Leverkusen Jeremie Frimpong, and there has now been a positive update on their pursuit of the right-back from Ornstein.

In a massive boost for sporting director Richard Hughes in his quest to replace Alexander-Arnold, the reporter said: “He has a €35m (£29.8m) release clause, something in the region of that, as I understand it. I also believe that he would be keen on a move to Liverpool, if they decide to go down that route. They will have other options as well, but Frimpong has been mentioned in a number of reports so far.”

Frimpong could be "incredible" Trent replacement

Trent has caught the eye going forward throughout his time with Liverpool, picking up three goals and seven assists in the Premier League this season, meaning Slot may feel it is necessary to bring in a replacement with similar qualities.

As such, the Bayer Leverkusen defender could be the perfect replacement for the England international, given that he also excels on the front foot, picking up four goals and six assists in the Bundesliga this term.

Not only that, but the 24-year-old is an impressive dribbler of the ball, ranking in the top 2% for progressive carries per 90 over the past year, while also placing highly on some other key attacking metrics, when compared to other full-backs.

Statistic

Average per 90

Progressive carries

4.24 (98th percentile)

Assists

0.22 (88th percentile)

Shots total

1.46 (95th percentile)

Having also been lauded as “incredible” by fellow speedster Kyle Walker, Frimpong could be a fantastic signing for Liverpool this summer, so it is exciting news that he would be open to a move to Anfield, and that a deal could be possible for around £30m.

Arsenal have communicated to the board of Real Madrid that they’re about to seal the deal for a “world-class” player, according to an intriguing report.

Arsenal's summer transfer plans ramp up amid Champions League campaign

On the field, Mikel Arteta has one clear focus after missing out on the Premier League crown to Liverpool – winning Arsenal their first ever Champions League title.

Arteta sold Arsenal gem for just £4m, now he's outscoring Isak & Sesko

The incredible poacher would have been useful for Arsenal this season.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Apr 28, 2025

The Gunners face Ligue 1 champions PSG over two historic European semi-final legs which could define their campaign, and Luis Enrique’s side come as a very tough obstacle they must overcome.

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Southampton (away)

May 25th

Arsenal will take encouragement from Aston Villa’s entertaining win against them in the last round at Villa Park, which proved they’re not unbeatable, with OGC Nice also ending the club’s unbeaten streak in the French top flight by clinching a surprise 3-1 win at the Parc des Princes last Friday.

The north Londoners already boast a victory against PSG this term, with Arsenal beating them 2-0 at the Emirates in October, so it is clear that Arteta’s side are in with a real chance of reaching their first Champions League final since 2006.

“I think prepare as well as you possibly can,” said Arteta on Arsenal’s excitement to face PSG over the two legs. “Make sure that your energy is balanced. Make sure that you’re understanding what you have to do. It’s time to express yourself out there and enjoy being a footballer and playing in one of the best stages that you can play in world football.”

New sporting director Andrea Berta, meanwhile, is working to prepare for his first summer transfer window in his new role.

Reports suggest Arsenal are looking to strengthen Arteta’s squad across the board, and could spend as much as £300 million doing so (GiveMeSport). One of their key transfer plans for the summer is signing a star new central midfield player, despite Arsenal recently opening talks with Thomas Partey over a contract extension.

Arsenal tell Real Madrid they've "practically finalised" Zubimendi deal

According to Cadena SER, Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi, who’s been targeted for a pre-summer deal since January (The Mail), is very nearly through the door.

Multiple reports last week, including from both David Ornstein and Marca reporter Juan Castro, indicated that there is real belief at Arsenal that they’re on the verge of sealing a deal for Zubimendi, with Cadena making another interesting claim.

The outlet shares news of Arsenal informing Real Madrid’s board that their signing of Zubmendi is “practically finalised”, with the Whites told that they may have to look elsewhere in pursuit of a new midfielder.

Premier League sides are apparently threatening to scupper their summer plans, with Chelsea also viewed as Real’s main competitors for Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, while it is believed Los Blancos may not have the financial firepower to compete with England’s elite.

It seems as if Zubimendi’s £51 million release clause will be triggered by Arsenal, and a wide array of media sources, including Cadena, suggest the Spain international will be Berta’s first major signing as director.

The “world-class” technician, as he was called by Kieran Tierney, has also been described as the “perfect” midfielder for Arsenal (Fabrizio Romano).

Whilst their search for a new manager is one that will steal the biggest headlines this summer, Rangers have also now reportedly set their sights on signing a Premier League contract rebel.

Rangers still searching for Clement replacement

After a disastrous campaign in the Scottish Premiership, the Gers and incoming new owners 49ers Enterprises must get things right this summer. The last thing they need is to be back to square one this time next year if their first managerial appointment goes wrong. It’s not a job which lacks potential suitors though, handing Rangers several opportunities.

Not just McCausland: £3.4m flop must never start for Rangers again

Rangers will need to move a few players on this summer to raise funds.

ByRoss Kilvington Apr 14, 2025

Whilst names such as Rafa Benitez and Jose Mourinho have been mentioned as of late, however, it’s Sean Dyche who Rangers legend Ally McCoist believes can turn things around at Ibrox.

In a chat with Football FanCast, the former striker said: “Sean Dyche would be an interesting one for me. His teams have always been very very competitive but particularly his Everton side, it’s always a struggle and a fight. I’d like to see him in a team that are expected to win every week. I think he would enjoy that as much as anything, I really do.

“So, it’s a well-sought after job and there will be no shortage of people going for it. Mourinho was obviously there recently and he is somebody who certainly a lot of Rangers fans would take to and appreciate but I just think the most important thing is they’ve gotta get it right.”

Meanwhile, as that search continues, those at Ibrox have also kept one eye on an all-important summer transfer window. Again, it’s one that the 49ers must get right and, again, several targets are already reportedly emerging – including a young Premier League contract rebel who could arrive at a bargain price.

Rangers chasing Derry deal

According to Pete O’Rourke of Football Insider, Rangers are now chasing a bargain deal to sign Jesse Derry after the 17-year-old rejected the chance to sign a professional contract at Crystal Palace.

Sparking interest from around Europe, Derry is reportedly open to a move abroad and could yet get the chance to complete a move to Ibrox or to their Old Firm rivals Celtic this summer. Whilst clubs will have to pay a compensation fee, the price of that deal should be far cheaper than it would have been had the winger penned a professional deal at Selhurst Park.

Given his goalscoring exploits at youth level this season too, there’s no doubt that the Eagles will be losing a rising star. Derry has scored as many as nine goals in eight U18 Premier League games this season and may only continue that record if he joins Rangers.

Financially speaking, meanwhile, welcoming a player who’s on the rise rather than a more established name would also make perfect sense for Rangers. Developing future stars before selling them on for profit is something that would bring the Gers success on and off the pitch.

West Ham managed a point against Bournemouth, having gone 1-0 down in the first half. Graham Potter’s side came out fighting in the second half, scoring in the 61st and 68th minute to take a 2-1 lead at the London Stadium.

However, Evanilson did manage to salvage a point for the Cherries, netting his second of the game to make it 2-2 in the 79th minute, with the points being shared.

Despite having more of the ball with 56% possession, West Ham only generated 0.65 xG in the match, creating one “big chance” and taking nine shots. In comparison, Andoni Iraola’s side generated 2.15 xG in the game, creating two “big chances” and taking 11 shots.

The second-half performance was much stronger by the Hammers, having seven of their nine shots in that second half, and it was the goalscorers, Niclas Füllkrug and Jarrod Bowen, who spurred the comeback.

Bowen's performance vs Bournemouth

Bowen scored the second goal, putting West Ham 2-1 up in the match. Whilst he started the game as a centre-forward, having a license to roam into both channels, Fullkrug’s introduction saw Bowen move to his natural right side, where he really began to come into his own.

The 28-year-old Hammers captain managed 52 touches in the game, taking four shots (only one on target) and completing two of his four dribble attempts. Bowen also won seven of his 15 ground duels in the game, working hard for his side, winning two tackles and making two interceptions.

Bowen’s goal was his ninth of the season, also providing seven assists in his 2,539 minutes played. But today’s game made one thing apparent, and it feels like West Ham could have one man who is even more undroppable than their captain at this point in time.

Why James Ward-Prowse is undroppable

James Ward-Prowse was recalled from his loan at the end of the January transfer window, having made just 10 appearances for Nottingham Forest. West Ham stated his return would offer “experience, depth and quality” to Potter’s side.

Minutes

90

Touches

73

Assists

1

Accurate Passes

53/60

Key Passes

2

Long Balls

5/8

Successful Dribbles

1/1

Ground Duels Won

2/3

Tackles

1

But his performance against Bournemouth proved exactly why he is more than extra depth and experience, as the midfielder controlled proceedings in the middle of the park, provided the assist for Fullkrug’s equaliser, and protected the Hammers back line, winning two of his three ground duels.

In recent weeks, Potter has shown faith in Ward-Prowse, quickly making him a regular starter in his side, giving the team a more progressive passer in the midfield, someone who can keep things ticking, but also a set-piece specialist, which can be an invaluable tool in the modern era of Premier League football.

Whilst Bowen is the club captain and top goalscorer, Ward-Prowse has shown his importance to the side, making them less predictable in their build-up, offering slightly more mobility in midfield (whilst it isn’t his biggest strength) and, of course, adding that set-piece threat.

Therefore, the former Southampton man should keep his place in the side and be considered undroppable by the manager heading into the final matches of the season.

Liverpool are set for a busy summer transfer window, with the upper and lower thirds believed to be the priority areas for Arne Slot and the Reds’ sporting director Richard Hughes.

Issues in the goalscoring department recently have amplified the noise from fans looking for a new centre-forward, someone prolific who can ease Mohamed Salah’s talismanic burden – should the Egyptian be plying his trade on Merseyside next year, of course.

However, the rear end of the field is just as important, with Virgil van Dijk’s contract also nearing its end. Regardless of whether the all-inspiring captain stays on for the next few years, a new face is needed.

Liverpool lining up new defender

In a report that the Spanish media are labelling a ‘bombshell’, Liverpool have set their sights on Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo this summer, in the event that Van Dijk departs.

As per the report, negotiations over the signing of the towering centre-back are set to ‘intensify’ in the coming weeks.

Transfer Focus

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

Valued at around €60m (£50m) by the La Liga table-toppers, Araujo has been one of the standout defenders in Spain since joining from Uruguayan side Boston Rivers in 2018, growing in strength and stature each season.

Aged 26, Araujo’s prime years should lie ahead of him, and if Van Dijk is to leave Liverpool this summer, this may be the perfect signing.

The perfect Van Dijk heir

Dubbed “one of the best defenders in the world” by one-time Barcelona great Carlos Puyol, Araujo has been a pillar of strength at the back for Barcelona over the past several years, having accumulated 164 senior appearances in total, notably lifting the La Liga title and Copa del Rey titles once each.

Described as an “athletic monster” and a “cheat code” by BBC Sport analyst Raj Chohan, the 6 foot 2 Araujo’s combination of power and pace suggest that he’s got what it takes to succeed Van Dijk.

Though Araujo missed the first half of the season due to injury, he’s returned to action since the new year with a fluid and convincing feel that underlines his quality as one of La Liga’s standout defenders, maybe even Europe’s.

Fearsome and athletic, he matches up very well indeed against Van Dijk, widely considered to be one of the best defenders of his generation.

Goals scored

0.04

0.17

Assists

0.02

0.25

Shot-creating actions

1.15

1.34

Touches

87.93

87.16

Pass completion

92%

92%

Progressive passes

5.09

3.09

Progressive carries

0.50

0.25

Tackles + interceptions

2.18

2.51

Clearances

4.03

3.76

Aerials won

2.76

3.26

Moreover, Araujo has won 62% of his duels in La Liga this season, whereas Van Dijk has won 68% in England’s top flight (both sets of data courtesy of Sofascore).

Though Araujo has faced fitness issues in the past, Liverpool’s impressive injury record under Slot’s wing suggests Anfield could be a hothouse from which Araujo could foster his high-level skills and step up to a new degree of quality.

Liverpool’s star centre-back adds a dimension from attacking set-pieces too, and that’s something Araujo could further emulate. The Uruguay international’s injury problems have limited him to just 14 appearances across all competitions this term, but he’s still managed to chip in with two goals and assists apiece.

Ultimately, Van Dijk’s greatness transcends his defensive role, and it would be futile to expect his replacement to provide the same level of quality.

However, were Slot to get his paws on Araujo’s combative quality, there’s every chance that Liverpool will continue to challenge for the most illustrious honours next year.

His La Blaugrana boss, Hansi Flick, has also described him as a “leader” and “one of the best in the world,” after all.

He's better than Frimpong: Liverpool working on deal to sign "complete" RB

Liverpool are already working on a deal to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold this summer.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 2, 2025

Manchester United have now opened talks to sign an “incredible” star, who’s scored a whopping 147 career goals, and they are looking to get a deal done at the start of next year.

Man Utd looking to bring in another leader

In the wake of the 4-1 victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday night, Ruben Amorim praised Lisandro Martinez for his leadership capabilities, while also adding: “Mason Mount is always the same thing, training, talking, dealing with people around Carrington. That is not easy. So he is a very, very good player.”

However, the perceived lack of leaders in the squad has been criticised for quite some time, with Roy Keane calling into question whether Bruno Fernandes is a suitable captain after the 1-1 draw against Chelsea last season.

Following the emphatic win at Molineux, the Red Devils are up to sixth in the Premier League table, but they clearly aren’t the finished article just yet, having lost at home to 10-man Everton and drawn with a struggling West Ham United side in recent weeks.

If Man United are to start competing for the top honours once again, they may need to bring in players who are experienced at the top level, and they have now opened talks over a deal for Sergio Ramos, who is a free agent, following his departure from Monterrey.

That is according to a report from Spain, which states negotiations are in the early stages, with United expressing the ‘strongest’ interest in securing the former Real Madrid man’s signature, and they are looking to bring him in at the start of next year.

Several other unnamed clubs are in the race for the Spaniard’s signature, with his future set to be resolved in the next few weeks.

Amorim's priority target: Man Utd step up interest in "special" Madrid star

Man United are now in the race for a “special” player

ByDominic Lund 3 days ago "Incredible" Ramos knows what it takes to win

With Keane previously making it clear he is not entirely convinced by Fernandes as a captain, Man United could perhaps do with bringing in an experienced leader, who knows what it takes to win.

The 39-year-old certainly fits the bill in that regard, having become the first player to captain a team to three straight Champions League triumphs during his time with Real Madrid.

Mesut Özil has also made it clear just how highly he rates his former teammate, saying: “Sergio Ramos is the best defender I’ve ever played with. And the one with the most character. At that time I was still very young, but I already had a very strong mentality. It was incredible. It was clear that sooner or later he would lead Real Madrid to UCL glory.”

Not only is the 180-time Spain international a top-quality defender, but he also poses a threat at the other end of the pitch, having amassed a whopping 147 career goals for club and country.

That said, Ramos is now 39-years-old, and hasn’t played in Europe since a spell with Sevilla in the 2023-24 campaign, so there may be some doubts over whether he is still capable of making an impact at a club like Man United.

Any supporters of Glasgow Rangers and Scotland will have enjoyed their Tuesday night after former Gers academy prospect Kenny McLean scored in a 4-2 win over Denmark to qualify for the World Cup.

Whilst McLean scored from the half-way line, Scott McTominay stole the headlines with an outstanding overhead kick early on in the match, which put Scotland 1-0 up.

The attacking midfielder has now scored 14 goals for Scotland, with this strike against Denmark arguably the best of the lot, and his rise to prominence for his country is a story that the Gers could learn from.

What Rangers can learn from Scott McTominay's Scotland heroics

Per Transfermarkt, McTominay started more games as a defensive midfielder (134) than in any other position during his time with Manchester United, and scored 29 goals in 255 matches.

The Premier League giants sold him to Napoli for a fee of £25.7m in the summer of 2024, and a change in his role by the Italian side unearthed his true potential, as the majority of his starts with the Serie A champions, per Transfermarkt, have been as a central or attacking midfielder.

McTominay has not started a single game as a defensive midfielder for Napoli, per Transfermarkt, and has scored 17 goals in 50 matches for the club as a result of their decision to unleash him further up the pitch.

Rangers can learn from his rise to stardom in Naples because it is proof that a player can sometimes be hampered by the position they are playing in, and that may be the case for Mohamed Diomande.

Why Rangers need to change Mohamed Diomande's position

Football FanCast recently published an article suggesting that January may be the right time to cash in on the Ivorian midfielder, because of his regression on the pitch this season.

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.

McTominay’s resurgence for club and country, though, could play a role in changing that opinion, as Diomande could revive his Ibrox career by being unleashed further up the pitch.

Former Rangers boss Philippe Clement, who recently landed a new job with Norwich, criticised the midfielder and Cyriel Dessers because they were “not brave enough” in November last year, but that tough love led to Diomande ending the season with six goals and nine assists, per Transfermarkt.

All positions

48

14

Central midfield

19 (40%)

7 (50%)

Attacking midfield

16 (33%)

1 (7%)

Defensive midfield

13 (27%)

6 (43%)

As you can see in the table above, the 24-year-old star has been asked to play in far more defensive positions than when he excelled last season under Clement and Barry Ferguson.

Diomande has no goals and no assists in 18 games, per Transfermarkt, after his 15 goal contributions in the 2024/25 campaign, which clearly shows that the change in his position has had a negative impact on his performances.

The left-footed star, who showed off his attacking quality at Parkhead in March, is capable of far more than he has shown this season, as evidenced by his form last season.

That is why Danny Rohl should look to unleash Diomande further up the pitch, in an attacking midfield role, because his attacking instincts could see him revive his Ibrox career in the same way that McTominay’s positional change sparked his career for club and country into life.

One of the SPFL's 'most influential players' now can't get a game at Rangers

Rangers have a star who was one of the most influential players in the league last season, now he can’t get a game.

ByDan Emery Nov 19, 2025

Leeds United are keen to revive their Premier League fortunes after a poor start to the season under Daniel Farke, who has now found out where he stands ahead of their trip to face Manchester City.

Leeds United and Daniel Farke caught in awkward situation

There is no point in beating around the bush. Farke has come under significant pressure recently at Elland Road, and a run of five losses in his last six matches has done little to win fans over in West Yorkshire.

On the face of it, the German is a talented coach who deploys an exciting brand of football that has won plenty of adulation, albeit the Whites have been undone too often by the fine margins of the top-flight.

Facing Manchester City is a daunting task at the best of times, not least when they managed to give a rest to key players during their Champions League exploits in midweek.

Another misstep and Farke could be in serious trouble, with former Union Berlin boss Bo Svensson and ex-Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers on Leeds’ shortlist should they decide to call time on his spell at Elland Road.

Survival is a difficult ask for any newly-promoted side, and nobody was expecting the Whites’ return to the Premier League to be straightforward. However, results are critical, and they appear to be in short supply at the moment.

Ultimately, only time will tell whether Farke gets an extended period to turn things around. As supporters hunt for clarity, a new update has now emerged regarding his future.

Daniel Farke given Leeds United sack ultimatum

According to sources from Football Insider, Leeds boss Farke has two matches to save his job at Elland Road, and the 49ers Enterprises are now ‘exploring new manager options amid growing fan discord over the performances and results under Farke’.

Carlos Corberan and Marcelo Bielsa are also mooted as options alongside Rodgers and Svensson, though whoever takes on the mantle, should the 49-year-old be relieved of his duties, will face some tough festive fixtures in the cold light of day.

Leeds United’s tough upcoming matches

Manchester City (A)

Premier League

Chelsea (H)

Premier League

Liverpool (H)

Premier League

Brentford (A)

Premier League

Crystal Palace (H)

Premier League

For now, Farke remains in post, but the fact that his club are already on the lookout for alternatives paints a bleak picture for his future unless Leeds can string together a run of meaningful results in the near future.

Leeds have a "laughable" signing who's a bigger waste of time than Perri

Leeds United fans must now be scratching their heads as to why their beloved side ever signed this dud.

ByKelan Sarson Nov 28, 2025

Truthfully, the Whites’ boss has been uncompromising in his methods and is willing to go down on his own terms rather than be forced to deviate from his tactical style.

While that is admirable in theory, it remains to be seen if he can evade doubters over the coming weeks with his job well and truly on the line.

Manchester United are looking to add to their squad in January, and Fabrizio Romano has revealed one signing the Red Devils absolutely “will” make in 2026.

Ruben Amorim will be pleased with the progress his side have made in their last batch of Premier League matches with the international break now here, given that the Red Devils have gone five games unbeaten in the top-flight.

Despite looking set for a defeat last weekend, Matthijs De Ligt’s late header against Tottenham salvaged Manchester United a draw in the capital to keep his side one point off the top four.

Intriguingly, the Red Devils now sit above Liverpool on goal difference after their heavy defeat to Manchester City on Sunday, which is a testament to their resilience despite losing three players due to injury, something Amorim was keen to point out when speaking to Match of the Day.

“It was a complicated match, especially in the end. If you look at the game the three points were there to take. I think we can be so much better to understand more what’s happening in the game,” said the United boss.

“We lacked a little bit in the final third, the quality was not perfect. We fight in every adversity. We lost Harry Maguire, Casemiro, Benjamin Sesko and we lose two goals, but we still managed to score.”

While the Slovenian appears to be the worst of the casualties, it does beg the question of where Manchester United could look to strengthen in January. With that in mind, Romano has delivered a telling update from Old Trafford.

Fabrizio Romano confirms Man Utd "will" sign midfielder

Speaking on GIVEMESPORT’s Market Madness podcast, Romano has confirmed that Manchester United will “for sure” sign a midfielder next year, noting that Atletico Madrid star Conor Gallagher and Stuttgart’s Angelo Stiller are two targets that the club could look to acquire.

Conor Gallagher in 2025/26 – all competitions

Appearances – 16

2 goals 0 assists

Angelo Stiller in 2025/26 – all competitions

Appearances – 17

1 goal 5 assists

With both midfielders excelling inside Europe’s top five leagues, it appears there could be room for movement, even if January may not be a suitable time due to the difficult nature of conducting business mid-season.

Man Utd are also eyeing a midfielder they could get a £60m discount on

Gallagher’s homegrown status would also appeal to Amorim. However, there are no certainties in football, and it appears that there is plenty of work to be done before Manchester United secure a new operator in the engine room.