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

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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).

Leeds United are back in pole position in the intense automatic promotion tussle unfolding in the Championship, with a 1-0 win over Middlesbrough on Tuesday night sending them straight back to the top of the unpredictable division.

However, nothing is set in stone just yet, with Daniel Farke’s Whites in an equally promising position last campaign, only for playoff final misery to greet them at the hands of Southampton.

This promotion near-miss had the potential to completely break the West Yorkshire outfit – considering the amount of notable sales that were later signed off on – with the likes of Georginio Rutter and many more heartbreakingly swapping the second tier for luxurious Premier League pastures.

How Leeds' record sales are now performing

Leeds did hold onto Rutter for longer than they would have anticipated, with the enigmatic 22-year-old not actually leaving Elland Road for good until the middle of August last year.

Still, even with all that time to prepare for the exciting Frenchman’s departure, his eventual £40m exit to Brighton and Hove Albion would prove to be a difficult pill to swallow.

After all, Leeds have never really replaced Rutter’s firepower in the number ten position back at Elland Road, with the Seagulls number 14 now up to an impressive eight goals and five assists this season, whilst Farke persists with the likes of Brenden Aaronson.

At least Farke has full-throttle wingers such as Manor Solomon and Largie Ramazani to call upon to make the £25m sale of Crysencio Summerville less painful, with the Dutchman experiencing an up-and-down spell at West Ham United to date.

Summerville has only picked up a meagre one goal and two assists from 22 appearances this season at the Hammers, with injury difficulties getting the better of him this year so far.

Whilst both Rutter and Summerville have blown hot and cold, there is one former Leeds man who has transformed into one of the world’s best away from West Yorkshire, leading to some bold valuations appearing above his head.

The "special" Leeds ace now worth £100m

It won’t come as the greatest shock to see this ex-Whites favourite excelling so much far away from England, considering he is their record sale at a hefty £55m when Victor Orta signed off on his exit to Spain.

As has been seen in the unfortunate tale of Kalvin Phillips, sometimes a more opulent environment can work against you, but Raphinha is now regarded as one of the shining stars in world football at Hansi Flick’s treble-chasing Barcelona.

In Europe’s elite competition alone this season, the spellbinding Brazilian has managed to match Lionel Messi’s ridiculous Barca numbers, with Raphinha now up to a staggering 19 goals and assists from just 11 outings.

Moreover, the constantly captivating 28-year-old has a ridiculous 50 goals and assists in total from 45 overall appearances, with the Barca superstar more than living up to Marcelo Bielsa’s claims now that he was “special” when playing out of his skin week in week out at Leeds.

24/25

Barcelona

45

28

22

23/24

Barcelona

37

10

13

22/23

Barcelona

50

10

10

21/22

Leeds

36

11

3

20/21

Leeds

31

6

9

His consistent excellence at the Camp Nou has even led to bids worth around €100m (£86m) reportedly being made, with these insane numbers tallied up also leading to lofty FBref comparisons being drawn to well-known names across Europe.

Those include the likes of Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer, who are worth around the £128m and £111m mark respectively, according to Transfermarkt.

Flick and Co will just be savouring the brilliance of Raphinha for as long as they can, whilst his ex-employers find themselves far more removed from the grandeur of European football fighting it out to return to the Premier League.

Perhaps, the Whites may be ruing Orta’s failure to rake in an even bigger transfer fee…

Leeds have an "unplayable" star but he's in danger of being Costa 2.0

Leeds will be hoping he can turn up in the Premier League

ByJoe Nuttall Apr 10, 2025

Chelsea have now joined the race to sign an “unbelievable” defender, alongside two of their Premier League rivals, according to a report.

Blues looking to bolster defensive options

As we approach the summer transfer window, it is becoming clear the Blues will look to bolster their defensive options, with AFC Bournemouth centre-back Dean Huijsen of particular interest, having recently made contact over a deal for the 19-year-old.

However, with Real Madrid also interested in Huijsen, it could be tricky to win the race for the teenager, meaning the west Londoners may have to move on to other targets, with versatile Barcelona defender Jules Kounde thought to be among them.

Kounde could also be brought in to play at right-back, with Enzo Maresca also keen to strengthen in the full-back area this summer, despite already being relatively well-stocked in that position.

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Dan Emery

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Reece James and Malo Gusto are already on the books at Stamford Bridge, although Maresca’s side are arguably a little weaker on the opposite side of the defence, given that Marc Cucurella is one of the only options at left-back.

According to a report from Spain, Chelsea are seeking a solid alternative to Cucurella, and they have now joined the race for AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez, who is also a target for Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City.

A huge transfer battle could be on the cards this summer, with Hernandez’s contract set to expire in 2026, which means AC Milan could look to cash-in this summer, although they may not hold out for a huge fee.

The “unbelievable” Frenchman’s valuation is around £30m, which seems like a reasonable figure for the left-back, given that he has proven himself in the Serie A over the course of a number of seasons.

"Unbelievable" Hernandez could be Cucurella upgrade

Cucurella has been impressive on the front foot at times this season, having picked up four goals and two assists in the Premier League, but there are signs Hernandez could be capable of providing even more of an attacking threat for the Blues.

The 27-year-old has amassed 34 goals and 45 assists in 256 appearances for Milan, while also ranking highly across some key attacking metrics over the past year, when compared to his positional peers.

Statistic	Average per 90
Non-penalty goals	0.10 (80th percentile)
Shot-creating actions	3.83 (98th percentile)
Progressive carries	3.34 (92nd percentile)

Freelance scout Ben Mattinson is a big fan of the France international, describing him as “probably the best” attacking left-back in the world, while members of the media have stated the defender has “incredible speed”.

Hernandez could be a fantastic signing for Chelsea, and the Blues shouldn’t pass up the opportunity to sign him for the bargain fee of just £30m.

Everton have improved since David Moyes replaced Sean Dyche at the helm, but recent results have underscored the need for new attacking quality.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin is expected to leave as a free agent at the end of the season, while Jack Harrison, Jesper Lindstrom and Armando Broja’s loan deals all conclude in two months.

However, while The Friedkin Group are going to sign forwards of various shapes and sizes, Moyes is also keen to strengthen his midfield, already focusing on a specific profile.

The target in question has plied under the Scotsman’s leadership for several years, and could prove an astute piece of business.

Everton transfer news

Despite the transfer window not yet open for business, the Toffees have already started putting plans into motion with the likes of Monaco’s striking sensation, Mika Biereth, linked with a move to Goodison Park.

Also on their radar is Liverpool’s Ben Doak, yet on this occasion, it looks as though Moyes is targeting experience.

Transfer Focus

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

Indeed, as per Football Insider, Moyes is targeting a reunion with West Ham United’s Tomas Soucek, having fielded the 30-year-old 207 times during his time at the Irons helm, more than any other player.

Though newly-promoted Leeds United are also chasing a deal for Soucek, who is valued at £10m, it’s understood that Everton have the lead in the race given the Czech international’s relationship with Moyes.

Why Tomas Soucek would be perfect for Everton

Soucek has been at West Ham for half a decade, signing on an initial loan from Slavia Prague in January 2020 before completing a £19m deal that summer.

The 6 foot 3 ace would bring physicality to the Everton midfield and might prove to be the perfect replacement for Amadou Onana, who was sold to Aston Villa for £50m last summer.

Described as a “midfield powerhouse” by journalist Antonio Mango, Onana’s presence has been missed on Merseyside, but Soucek could bring his own take on the role next year, working hard in the duel while making darting runs into the danger area to complement the frontline.

Matches (starts)

31 (26)

22 (17)

Goals

8

3

Assists

1

0

Touches*

37.6

40.2

Pass completion

75%

89%

Key passes*

0.5

0.3

Dribble success

55%

79%

Ball recoveries*

1.7

2.9

Tackles + interceptions*

1.9

3.2

Duels (won)*

5.2 (54%)

4.8 (60%)

As you can see, Onana might be more rounded than Soucek, but the latter man has a killer instinct in the final third, which scant few Toffees players have showcased with regularity this year.

West Ham have only created 50 big chances in the Premier League this season, with just the relegated trio making fewer. This actually shines a positive light on Soucek, whose skill at finding space and striking true has seen him score eight times.

It’s no surprise he’s been called a “machine” by former West Ham correspondent Tom Clark, adding intensity and initiative to his fold.

In fact, the £90k-per-week talent ranks among the top 2% of central midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for non-penalty goals scored and the top 1% for aerial duels won per 90, as per FBref, further illustrating his combativeness and indeed goalscoring strength.

Everton fans have tasted first-hand the midfielder’s goalscoring ability and must now forge ahead to make a shrewd signing which might just pay dividends, adding an Onana-esque presence at Bramley Moore.

Soucek may not be the fluid ball player that Graham Potter wants at the heart of his West Ham system, but Moyes enforces a different type of brand, one which the veteran midfielder would dovetail right into if Everton make their move in the coming months.

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Everton have lost back-to-back matches in the Premier League.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 28, 2025

Leeds United are preparing for life back in the Premier League after winning promotion from the Championship at the second time of asking under Daniel Farke.

The Whites and the 49ers Enterprises have already been linked with replacing the Leeds manager ahead of their top flight return due to concerns about his previous record with Norwich City.

In what would be a ruthless call from the Elland Road board, Leeds are also likely to be very busy in the transfer market to bolster their squad with quality on the pitch to remain a Premier League side.

Latest Leeds 2025 summer transfer targets: in pictures

Leeds summer transfer targets 2025

Player

Age

Club

Kalvin Phillips

29

Man City

Manor Solomon

25

Tottenham

Sam Johnstone

32

Wolves

Julian Weigl

29

Borussia Monchengladbach

Evan Ferguson

20

Brighton

Tomas Soucek

30

West Ham

Caoimhin Kelleher

26

Liverpool

Nico Elvedi

28

Borussia Monchengladbach

George Hirst

26

Ipswich Town

Aaron Ramsdale

26

Southampton

Nicolas Raskin

24

Rangers

Hidemasa Morita

29

Sporting CP

Abdoulaye Doucoure

32

Everton

Angus Gunn

29

Norwich City

Tammy Abraham

27

AS Roma

James Trafford

22

Burnley

Djordje Petrovic

25

Chelsea

Modibo Sagnan

26

Montpellier

Zaidu Sanusi

27

FC Porto

Dembo Saidykhan

21

Vancouver Whitecaps

1 Kalvin Phillips Man City

Former Whites midfielder Kalvin Phillips has found life difficult after leaving Leeds for Man City in 2022. Recent loan spells at West Ham and Ipswich Town haven’t worked out for the defensive midfielder, who could now be on the search for another new club this summer.

Reports have linked Phillips with a return to Leeds, saying that he is keen on the idea of heading back to his boyhood club.

Kalvin Phillips stats at Leeds

Appearances

234

Goals

14

Assists

13

Yellow cards

54

Red cards

4

Minutes played

18,257

2 Manor Solomon Tottenham

Loanee Manor Solomon has helped Leeds into the Premier League with some crucial displays during the run-in, and he is expected to become a permanent Whites player this summer.

The Israel international could cost around £15m, with claims he is set to be Leeds’ first signing of the window.

3 Sam Johnstone Wolves

A new goalkeeper to replace Illan Meslier could be high up on the to-do list for Leeds, and Sam Johnstone of Wolves is thought to be of interest at Elland Road.

A goalkeeper with plenty of Premier League experience now after stints with West Brom, Crystal Palace and Wolves, Johnstone was actually on the books of rivals Man Utd early in his career and starred against Leeds back in 2023.

4 Julian Weigl Borussia Monchengladbach

Farke has previously worked with midfielder Julian Weigl at Borussia Monchengladbach and recent claims have suggested that initial contact has taken place over a move to Leeds.

The Monchengladbach captain has plenty of experience in the Bundesliga and has even played in the Champions League, so he could add that extra bit of quality in midfield for the Whites.

5 Evan Ferguson Brighton

With doubts at Leeds over Joel Piroe and Patrick Bamford in the Premier League, a new striker looks set to be signed ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, with Brighton’s Evan Ferguson a target.

The Irishman has been on loan at West Ham for the second half of the 2024/25 season, and by the looks of things, Leeds could try their luck with a forward who could be the “next Harry Kane”.

6 Tomas Soucek West Ham

Towering West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek is another Premier League player to be linked with Leeds, especially after falling out of favour under Graham Potter recently.

The Czech Republic international is wanted by Leeds and Everton with the 49ers even willing to pay him a whopping £120,000-a-week, an increase on his current Hammers deal.

Tomas Soucek: Major titles won

Trophy

Years won

Europa Conference League

2023

Czech First League

2017, 2019, 2020

Czech Cup

2018, 2019

7 Caoimhin Kelleher Liverpool

Another goalkeeper who could replace Meslier at Elland Road is Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher, who could be a man in demand over the coming months.

Kelleher has impressed when called upon at Anfield and may well become number one for the first time in his career in Yorkshire.

Caoimhin Kelleher: Major titles won

Trophy

Years won

Premier League

2020, 2025

Champions League

2019

FA Cup

2022

EFL Cup

2022, 2024

UEFA Super Cup

2019

8 Nico Elvedi Borussia Monchengladbach

Another Borussia Monchengladbach player who Farke knows well is defender Nico Elvedi, who has been with the Bundesliga side since 2015.

Reports claimed that Leeds were preparing a £10m offer to sign the experienced Switzerland international if promotion was secured, something they can now do.

9 George Hirst Ipswich Town

Leeds could look to raid the teams coming down from the Premier League, with recent rumours of a move for Ipswich Town forward George Hirst.

The Tractor Boys are looking to keep the attacker at Portman Road with a new deal due to interest from the Whites and fellow promoted side Burnley.

10 Aaron Ramsdale Southampton

Another Premier League relegated target is goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who reportedly has a £25m release clause in his Southampton contract.

The Englishman has admirers from Leeds and the likes of Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest, although he could get regular game time at Elland Road.

Despite the injury issues at Arsenal this season, Mikel Arteta has done a tremendous job, leading the side to second in the Premier League and a Champions League semi-final.

Such problems have allowed numerous players to stake their claim as a first-team regular, many of whom have grabbed their opportunity with both hands.

Left-back Myles Lewis-Skelly has emerged out of the academy setup in recent months and nailed down the position as his own despite his tender age.

The 18-year-old has made 31 appearances across all competitions since his debut back in September, going from strength to strength under the guidance of the Spaniard.

He’s been joined in the side by one player who’s managed to star, albeit in a role that he’s never previously featured in during his time in North London.

Mikel Merino’s role as a centre-forward at Arsenal

Central midfielder Mikel Merino joined Arsenal back in the summer from Real Sociedad, looking to cement his place at the heart of the side alongside Declan Rice.

Whilst he started the season in his natural position, the injury crisis at the top end of the pitch saw the Spaniard shift to a centre-forward position – a decision that has worked wonders in recent weeks.

He came off the bench against Leicester City at 0-0, scoring twice in the closing stages, securing the win for Arteta’s men, leading to his regular inclusion as the focal point.

The 28-year-old has since registered four goals and three assists in such a role, with three of his seven efforts coming over the two legs of the Champions League quarter-final with Real Madrid.

Given such a successful transition for Merino, it would be a risk to change the player featuring up front, but Arteta could do just that by utilising another player out of position.

The Arsenal star who could repeat Arteta’s Merino trick

The decisions made by Arteta over the last couple of months have been complete masterstrokes, leading to the success they’ve endured on the pitch.

With such issues plaguing the side in recent times, many would expect the side to limp over the finish line, but they have exceeded all expectations – having the opportunity to end the season by claiming their first European title.

Whilst Merino has done a sensational job at the top end, the boss could repeat such a trick by utilising Ethan Nwaneri as the central striker to balance the workload.

The 18-year-old has enjoyed his own breakthrough this season, notching eight goals in his 32 appearances across all competitions – starring alongside Lewis-Skelly at the Emirates.

Whilst the teenager is primarily a wide player, he has all the tools to star in a central position, potentially taking his career to another level in such a role.

Nwaneri, who’s been labelled “superb” by Jeorge Bird, has registered 2.3 shots per 90 in the Premier League this season, having the skillset to thrive in the final third.

He’s also completed 3.6 dribbles per 90, at a completion rate of 65%, able to drive at the opposition backline when dropping deep, allowing Bukayo Saka to run in behind.

Games played

22

Goals & assists

5

Pass accuracy

89%

Shots taken

2.3

Successful dribbles

3.6

Dribble success rate

65%

Duels won

5.8

Despite his small frame, he’s managed to win 5.8 duels per 90 this season, subsequently being able to put himself about and make the defender’s job even tougher than it would’ve been by Merino.

Whilst the Spaniard has done an impressive job in the role, the return of Saka has undoubtedly restricted the first-team minutes for Nwaneri, with Arteta needing an alternative to further his development.

A switch to a central position could work for the side, offering another dimension to their attack in their quest for European glory in the next couple of months.

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ByEthan Lamb Apr 17, 2025

Liverpool are now preparing an offer for an “outstanding” £77m striker, who is being targeted by a whole host of Europe’s top clubs, according to a report.

Reds stepping up pursuit of new striker

Darwin Nunez hasn’t been at the races this season, with the Uruguayan picking up just seven goals in all competitions, which is way below the number expected of a £85m player, so it is little wonder that the Reds are now stepping up their pursuit of a striker.

Atalanta’s Mateo Retegui is one option the Merseysiders have in mind, given the Italian’s stellar goal return this season, while they have started work on the signing of West Ham United’s Jarrod Bowen, who could be an alternative to Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak.

Last week, it was revealed that RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko is also on the shortlist, with Arne Slot’s side said to be keen on a move for the forward, with Nunez looking increasingly likely to exit Anfield at the end of the season.

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There has since been a new update on Liverpool’s pursuit of Sesko, with a report from Caught Offside revealing they are now preparing a bid for the forward, but there could be fierce competition for his signature.

Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United are also planning to make offers for the Slovenian, while Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain headline the interest from abroad, and a deal is now expected to be on the expensive side.

Leipzig are said to have set an asking price of €80m – €90m (£68m – £77m), in light of the widespread interest in the 21-year-old’s signature, although the interested parties have reservations about shelling out a fee in that ballpark.

"Outstanding" Sesko could be "better than Haaland"

Scout/writer Jacek Kulig has praised the starlet in the past, describing him as “outstanding”, while his teammates also hold him in very high regard, having stated he is a better player than Manchester City’s Erling Haaland.

Speaking in May last year, Sesko told the Gegenpress podcast: “My teammates at the club tell me that Haaland and I are very similar, especially in terms of speed. Most of them even tell me that I’m better than him.”

Much like the Man City star, the Slovenia international is an imposing figure, standing at 6 foot 5, and he has been very impressive in front of goal for Leipzig this season, picking up 13 goals and five assists in 31 Bundesliga outings.

With Nunez falling way short of expectations this season, Slot definitely needs to bring in a replacement this summer, and Sesko produced a stunning goal last weekend that even the most optimistic of Reds fans could envision Nunez toe-poking straight into the fans behind the goal.

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.

Chelsea already have one foot in the Europa Conference League final after a convincing 4-1 victory over Swedish outfit Djurgarden away from home last night.

Goals from Jadon Sancho, Noni Madueke and a double from substitute Nicolas Jackson secured the victory for the Blues, handing them a three-goal lead ahead of next week’s return leg.

Youngster Isak Alemayehu Mulugeta registered a late consolation goal for the hosts, with Enzo Maresca’s side having the advantage after a dominant showing.

The Italian could claim his first title come the end of the season with the Conference League, potentially coming up against Real Betis or Fiorentina in the final should they reach it.

Numerous players managed to impress during the victory in Sweden, potentially handing the manager a selection headache ahead of the second leg next Thursday at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea’s star performers against Djurgarden

Enzo Fernández started the game at the heart of the Chelsea midfield, once again performing to the high standards he’s set for himself, registering two assists within the first 45 minutes.

The Argentine completed 88% of the passes he attempted, three of which were into the final third, aiding Sancho and Madueke – subsequently allowing them to find the back of the net.

He wasn’t the only first-team player to star throughout the triumph, as centre-back Tosin impressed at the heart of the defence, registering a staggering 111 touches and two tackles won – the most of any player.

The 27-year-old also managed to complete 102 passes and 100% of the dribbles he attempted, having a huge impact with and without the ball at his feet against the Allsvenskan opposition.

The Europa Conference League has been a superb competition for various Blues players to stake their claim to Maresca, with multiple other players doing just that in the win last night.

The Chelsea star who’s rapidly becoming a bigger star than George

Academy graduate Tyrique George has integrated into a first-team player at Chelsea this season, taking full advantage of the opportunities that have been handed his way.

After scoring against Fulham in the Premier League nearly two weeks ago, the 19-year-old was handed a start at the top end of the pitch in the semi-final, but was unable to produce his best display.

George featured for 88 minutes of the contest, only managing 30 touches and 13 passes, unable to make a huge impact on proceedings despite the four-goal showing.

He only managed two efforts on goal, neither of which were on target, unable to take full advantage of the opportunity handed to him by Maresca to start in the final third.

However, the same can’t be said for right-back Josh Acheampong, who had an evening to remember, certainly giving the manager something to think about going forward.

The 18-year-old was handed just his sixth start of 2025, but produced a showing way beyond his tender years, playing a vital role in their victory last night.

He registered a total of 109 touches, completing 86 passes at a completion rate of 98% – thriving with the ball at his feet, looking composed despite coming under constant pressure.

Minutes played

90

Touches

109

Passes completed

86/88 (98%)

Duels won

5

Fouls won

3

Tackles won

1

Dribbles completed

1

The teenager also managed to win five duels – the most of any player on the pitch – along with three fouls won, often being a nuisance to the Swedish opposition.

As a result of his showing, Acheampong was handed a 7/10 match rating by Goal’s Richie Mills, showcasing how impressive he was during the win away from home.

After such a showing, Maresca now has a huge decision to make over his future between now and the end of the season, with the teenager more than deserving of a consistent run in the side.

There’s no denying that George ultimately failed to take his chance, with more hype needing to be directed towards Acheampong, who could save the Blues millions in the years ahead.

He's way better than Delap: Chelsea line up move for "phenomenal" striker

Chelsea have added yet another target to this shopping list for a new striker this summer.

ByEthan Lamb May 1, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur are being handed a boost in the chase for a key transfer target also wanted by Man City, with the player said to be considering a move to north London behind-the-scenes.

Tottenham face Nottingham Forest after Europa League triumph

Under-fire Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou was given some rare breathing room after his side put in a dogged display to overcome Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt in the second leg of their Europa League quarter-final on Thursday.

Tottenham: Thierry Henry-like striker facing exit with Spurs ready to bid

The Lilywhites want to take full advantage.

By
Emilio Galantini

Apr 19, 2025

A penalty by Dominic Solanke was eventually enough to send the Lilywhites into their first Europa League semi-final since 1984, with Tottenham showcasing the much-needed mature defensive qualities which they’ve lacked all campaign.

Tottenham’s next five Premier League fixtures	Date
Nottingham Forest (home)	April 21st
Liverpool (away)	April 27th
West Ham (away)	May 3rd
Crystal Palace (home)	May 10th
Aston Villa (away)	May 18th

Postecoglou’s future remains in the balance, but the Australian could still make good on his promise of always winning silverware during his second season in charge.

A tough test in Bodo/Glimt awaits Tottenham in the semis, and despite their minnow status, they cannot be taken lightly – having just knocked out Serie A giants Lazio.

“From our perspective, we’ve had a difficult season and I think there’s some reasoning behind that. It was pretty evident that when we’ve got our strongest team out there, a lot of things we’ve suffered with this year I’m sure we wouldn’t have,” said Postecoglou on Tottenham’s chances of winning the Europa League.

“The spine of our team, at times we’ve been missing Vicario, Romero, Van de Ven, Bentancur, Solanke, all of them we’ve been missing at different times this year.

“We’ve got the whole group. It’s not just them, it’s the whole group together. We know that we can be a team that’s pretty compelling against anybody. We’re in the final four now, so we’ve given ourselves a chance.”

Before their all-important battle against the Norwegians, which could make or break their season, Spurs have two tough Premier League tests in Nottingham Forest and champions elect Liverpool.

Postecoglou will be looking to maintain the positive mood around N17 after their quarter-final triumph, and hopefully not add more top flight defeats to their record after already losing 17 this term.

Hugo Larsson now considering move to Tottenham this summer

Summer transfer targets will also be keeping a keen eye on Tottenham’s end to the season, and one of them is believed to be Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Larsson.

The versatile Sweden midfielder is a mainstay for Dino Toppmoller’s side, racking up 40 appearances in all competitions, and he’s done enough to earn himself a £50 million price tag and interest from Man City (Pete O’Rourke).

However, according to GiveMeSport, the 20-year-old is also a wanted man at Spurs. As per their sources, Larsson is privately considering a move to Tottenham, so he’s fully aware of their interest, and it is claimed that Postecoglou’s side are now “increasingly confident” they can tempt him to N17 as a result.

Predominantly a defensive midfielder, the Scandinavian starlet has already drawn comparisons with Rodri, and Football Analyst Ben Mattinson believes Larsson is “one of the most exciting talents” to come out of Sweden in recent years.

However, Chelsea are also believed to be in race for Larsson, so there is plenty of competition.