Newcastle United have now reportedly made their first contact to sign Ruben Neves from Al-Hilal, as they look to find a solution for their current problems under Eddie Howe.
The Magpies were in dire form before the international break and defeat at the hands of Brentford just about summed things up. For the first time in his tenure at St James’ Park, Howe is under pressure to get things right and turn things around as soon as possible, but with Manchester City up next there’s no doubt that’s easier said than done.
The manager admitted that Newcastle’s Premier League form has “not been good” at a recent charity dinner, saying: “Our Premier League form has not been good, and our away form has not been good. [But] our home form’s been strong, been good in the Champions League and we’re still in the Carabao Cup, so it’s a mixture of things.
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“It’s been difficult to pinpoint one thing but certainly, we know we have to improve the general performances. We’re looking for more consistency – we’re looking for more goals.
“We’re looking for a big response in this moment and we’re going to need them because we have got game after game. Our schedule for the next two months is relentless, so we can’t allow any sort of negative trend to continue. It’s a really important few weeks for us.”
It’s form that has arrived off the back of a fairly chaotic summer transfer window, in which Newcastle missed out on almost every top target before turning elsewhere.
Under new sporting director Ross Wilson, that simply cannot happen in January and the Magpies have already set their sights on stars such as Elliot Anderson and Neves in a midfield rebuild as a result.
Newcastle make contact to sign Neves
As reported by Caught Offside, Newcastle have now made contact to sign Neves from Al-Hilal in 2026. The midfielder has just over six months left on his current contract and will be available for just €20m (£18m) in the January transfer window.
Whilst PIF, who hold a majority stake in Al-Hilal, could be about to lose Neves in Saudi Arabia, they could use their existing relationship with the Portuguese star to bring him to Newcastle.
Unlike Al-Hilal, however, the Magpies could struggle to meet his current wage demands. As things stand, the 28-year-old earns £15m-a-year in Saudi Arabia, which would instantly make him Newcastle’s highest-earner by around £7m. It’s simply not doable unless he brings his demands down.
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Putting those wage demands to one side, though, there’s little doubt that Neves would be an excellent signing. Dubbed “fantastic” by former manager Nuno Espirito Santo during his time at Wolves, Neves would ease Newcastle’s fears of struggling in the face of a potential Sandro Tonali exit and could even form an impressive partnership using the Italian.
Find a way past his salary demands and those in Tyneside should go all out to bring Neves back to the Premier League in 2026.
Newcastle hold strong interest in Elliot Anderson amid Thomas Tuchel comments
Tottenham are planning to sign a new centre-back this summer, with Daniel Levy and Johan Lange casting their eyes on an exciting young target who Spurs tip to become a star.
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The Spurs boss is personally keen on him.
ByEmilio Galantini
The Lilywhites are reliably believed to be looking at bolstering the centre of their defence, as reported by The Telegraph, who also state that Thomas Frank’s side could weigh up another move for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi.
Tottenham’s best-performing regulars in the Premier League – 2024/2025
Average match rating
Son Heung-min
7.00
James Maddison
6.98
Pedro Porro
6.95
Dominic Solanke
6.84
Dejan Kulusevski
6.83
via WhoScored
Spurs saw a club-record £70 million bid rejected for Guehi in January, but despite this and competition from Premier League champions Liverpool, they haven’t thrown in the towel when it comes to potentially signing the England international.
Palace are also now open to selling Guehi for a minimum £45 million with his contract expiring in less than 12 months (GiveMeSport), so this is certainly one to watch, but the 25-year-old isn’t Tottenham’s only defensive target.
Contrary to other reports, some media sources state that Tottenham are frontrunners to sign Illia Zabarnyi from Bournemouth, despite PSG’s lengthy ongoing talks to sign the Ukranian.
Zabarnyi has already agreed personal terms with PSG, but Spurs apparently remain in the race for his signature after the 22-year-old’s exceptional campaign at the heart of Andoni Iraola’s defence.
Tottenham reportedly competed to sign Zabarnyi’s former centre-back partner Dean Huijsen as well, according to Fabrizio Romano, but it was always a tall order to barge aside Real Madrid, who’ve since added the Spaniard to Xabi Alonso’s ranks.
“Tottenham Hotspur were also constantly calling as well as Bayern Munich,” said Romano to GMS about the race for Huijsen earlier this year.
“But, the German giants understood they needed to sell a centre-back like Kim Min-jae in order to proceed with a new expensive signing, and it didn’t happen. For Spurs and Newcastle, it also became impossible to compete when Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal appeared with important proposals.”
Tottenham expected to make "official move" for Giovanni Leoni
Alongside Guehi, the north Londoners could turn to Parma defender Giovanni Leoni.
Napoli's Romelu Lukaku in action with Parma's GiovanniLeoni
Levy and Lange have been linked with the 18-year-old already, but CaughtOffside now state that Tottenham are expected to make an “official move” for Leoni shortly.
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Parma won’t entertain any offers below their asking price, though, which could be up to around £35 million, and Newcastle are fellow favourites to sign the Italian teenager who’s fresh off the back of a solid debut campaign for the Serie A side.
Leoni is highly-rated at N17, though, described as a “standout young defender” in the report, and those within Spurs view him as a ‘cornerstone of their future defensive setup’.
The former Sampdoria gem, who stands at a towering 6 foot 4, made 17 top-flight appearances for Parma across 24/25 – featuring at centre-back and playing as a right-back occasionally – and he’s tipped for a very bright career.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has given an encouraging injury update prior to the Gunners’ mouth-watering Champions League tie against Bayern Munich.
Arsenal prepare for Bayern Munich amid injury doubts
Arteta’s side welcome Bayern to the Emirates Stadium on Wednesday in what promises to be a defining European encounter, with the Premier League title favourites riding high following their dominant 4-1 North London derby victory over Tottenham last weekend.
Arsenal delivered a masterclass against their bitter rivals, showcasing the attacking fluidity and defensive solidity that has characterised their strongest displays this season.
That emphatic win not only reinforced Arsenal’s credentials as top title contenders domestically, but also provided the perfect psychological boost ahead of this crucial European test.
Arsenal’s unbeaten run in all competitions since defeat to Liverpool
Arsenal 3-0 Nottingham Forest
Athletic Bilbao 0-2 Arsenal
Arsenal 1-1 Man City
Port Vale 0-2 Arsenal
Newcastle 1-2 Arsenal
Arsenal 2-0 Olympiacos
Arsenal 2-0 West Ham
Fulham 0-1 Arsenal
Arsenal 4-0 Atlético Madrid
Arsenal 1-0 Crystal Palace
Arsenal 2-0 Brighton
Burnley 0-2 Arsenal
Slavia Prague 0-3 Arsenal
Sunderland 2-2 Arsenal
Arsenal 4-1 Tottenham
Arsenal’s preparation has been complicated by several injury concerns, with captain Martin Odegaard still touch and go after failing to make the matchday squad for Spurs.
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ByEmilio Galantini
Gabriel Martinelli and Noni Madueke returned to the side on Sunday following their respective injuries with both men ready to play a part tonight, as did Riccardo Calafiori, but Odegaard, Viktor Gyokeres, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Magalhaes and Gabriel Jesus were all nowhere to be seen.
Arteta may well be forced to play Mikel Merino as a makeshift number nine once again, a challenge the Spaniard has relished throughout 2025, with this game still coming too soon for Jesus.
That being said, Arteta has some good news about the Brazil international.
Gabriel Jesus in line for 'earlier than expected' Arsenal injury return
According to Arsenal’s manager, speaking in his pre-Bayern press conference, the 28-year-old’s recovery is actually further along than expected, and he’s about to be knocking on the door.
Jesus hasn’t played a single minute since rupturing his ACL during Arsenal’s FA Cup defeat to Man United in January, so it is approaching a year since he was last able to take part.
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The former Man City star is on record stating this is the worst injury he’s ever had, and Jesus was repeatedly linked with a winter window exit following the arrival of Gyokeres in the summer.
Jesus, though, has poured cold water over the possibility of a transfer multiple times recently, even though he confirmed his intention to one day return to Palmeiras.
Arteta, meanwhile, has also said that he’s looking forward to welcoming Arsenal’s ‘unpredictable’ weapon back into the fold.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca isn’t entirely satisfied with his squad just yet, despite having sealed deals for Liam Delap, Jamie Gittens and Joao Pedro for around £140 million already, with the tactician looking to strengthen one key area.
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UEFA are watching the west Londoners like a hawk right now, amid an agreement that Chelsea need to sell players and end the summer window with a positive balance sheet (Kaveh Solhekol).
The governing body fined Chelsea nearly £27 million last week for breaching FFP rules, and this could rise to north of £50 million if they fail to comply again over the next four years (BBC).
Chelsea’s best performers in the Premier League last season
Average match rating
Cole Palmer
7.33
Moises Caicedo
7.02
Enzo Fernández
6.95
Nicolas Jackson
6.88
Noni Madueke
6.82
via WhoScored
BlueCo will therefore need to be very careful when it comes to green-lighting more signings before deadline day on September 1, but they have made some headway with regard to player sales.
Chelsea sold Kepa Arrizabalaga, Basir Humphreys and Marcus Bettinelli for a total fee of around £19 million, with Noni Madueke also about to join Arsenal in a £50 million deal and Djordje Petrovic on his way to Bournemouth for £25 million (Fabrizio Romano).
These departures, all in all, will accumulate £94 million, including their already-confirmed sales – and that’s not even counting Mathis Amougou’s permanent switch to Strasbourg.
Chelsea are also in the Club World Cup final, which has banked them £80 million worth of prize money.
It seems that Chelsea are actually doing a solid job when it comes to balancing their books, so we cannot rule out the possibility of further incomings just yet, and there are a host of other players who seem likely to be sold in the coming weeks – including Lesley Ugochukwu, João Félix, Renato Veiga, Christopher Nkunku, David Datro Fofana, Armando Broja, Axel Disasi, Raheem Sterling, Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukwuemeka.
Chelsea not out of Mike Maignan race with AC Milan star keen to join
If Chelsea can make room on their balance sheet, it is believed that AC Milan number one Mike Maignan is still firmly on their radar, coming after negotiations over a move for the Frenchman broke down earlier in the window.
AC Milan's MikeMaignanreacts
That is according to journalist Graeme Bailey, who told TBR Football that Chelsea could still sign Maignan this summer, and the 29-year-old remains keen on a switch to Stamford Bridge with Maresca wanting a new number one.
“Max Allegri has talked about Mike Maignan staying on as captain, but that has little impact on the situation as he’s yet to sign a new contract yet, meaning he has one year left on his current deal. Chelsea are keeping close tabs on the Maignan situation,” said Bailey.
“We understand that he would like to go to Chelsea. Robert Sanchez was told earlier in the summer that he can go and they offered him to West Ham as part of the Mohammed Kudus deal.
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“Enzo Maresca has made it very clear that he wants a new number one. He doesn’t like any of the current options. So yeah, we haven’t heard the end of Mike Maignan to Chelsea this summer, that’s for sure.”
Maignan has been described an “elite” goalkeeper, and it’s hard to argue with that verdict. If Chelsea wish to become genuine title contenders, they need a reliable ever-present between the sticks, and Maignan could be that man.
Given his contractual situation, Milan also won’t be able to demand too high a fee for his services – giving Chelsea a golden opportunity to add both pedigree and experience to Maresca’s backline.
Newcastle United have now reignited their interest in James Trafford, who has reportedly made his feelings clear about a potential move away from Manchester City in January.
The Magpies could certainly do with a lift in the winter window amid their current struggles. Eddie Howe’s side have won just three of their opening 11 games in the Premier League so far this season and are paying the price for a chaotic summer.
After defeat against Brentford, the international break couldn’t have been better-timed. It’s allowed record signing Nick Woltemade to find the back of the net for Germany once again and has granted Howe the time he needs to find a solution for his side’s problems.
The towering 23-year-old has been one of the few bright sparks for Newcastle since arriving in the summer, but Alan Shearer still believes he can still go up a few levels.
Speaking after Newcastle’s loss against Brentford, the Premier League’s record goalscorer said: “I’ve said before that as good as Nick Woltemade is with the ball at his feet, he is a problem for Newcastle because he’s not the quickest, and he can’t press, and he doesn’t run in behind.
“Eddie’s teams have always done that. Look at what Alexander Isak did or look at what Callum Wilson did, they all pressed and ran behind. But this guy can’t do that, and that’s a problem for Newcastle.”
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That said, it would be harsh to suggest that Woltemade is the Magpies’ biggest problem. Before anything, they must address the form of their wingers and perhaps even return for some missed targets such as Trafford from the summer.
Newcastle reignite James Trafford move
According to TeamTalk, Newcastle have now re-opened talks with Trafford via his representatives, as they a January deal with Man City.
The goalkeeper rejected the chance to join the Magpies in the summer, but has since been made to regret his decision after City signed Gianluigi Donnarumma so soon after his return to the Etihad.
Despite interest from Tottenham and West Ham, it is believed Newcastle’s ‘advanced talks’ from the summer, their pull and Saudi-backed ambition hands them an ‘edge’ in the race for his signature — making Howe’s side favourites.
He’s reportedly desperate to leave the Manchester club in an attempt to keep hold of his place in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad. Newcastle, as a result, are moving ahead of the winter window.
If the 23-year-old could turn back time, then he could be a Newcastle player right now. He returned to Man City ready to take Ederson’s place, but was simply sold a dream by Pep Guardiola and others who quickly welcomed their true replacement for the Brazilian in Donnarumma.
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Now, he arguably needs Newcastle more than they need him. With Aaron Ramsdale and Nick Pope providing them with solid options, Trafford’s arrival would be more of a luxury than a necessity at this stage.
Nonetheless, having been described as “world-class” by Burnley boss Scott Parker last season, the young shot-stopper is still undoubtedly a player full of potential in the Premier League.
Newcastle now ready to race Barcelona to sign De Bruyne-esque talent
Every passing day at St. Andrew’s seems to throw up another gigantic transfer rumour involving Birmingham City.
This time, Bright Osayi-Samuel is the main name being linked with an ambitious switch to the West Midlands. The Blues are allegedly closing in on a deal to land the ex-Fenerbahce man on a free transfer, as per journalist Mike McGrath.
The non-stop rumour mill is unlikely to grind to a halt here when it comes to dishing out notable figures who could soon call Chris Davies’ side home, with plenty of other EFL-ready stars tipped to relocate to the Blues very soon.
Latest on Birmingham's transfer search
Having spent £15m just on Jay Stansfield alone last season when plying their trade in League One, it’s not the greatest shock in the world to see Birmingham flexing their muscles once more in terms of incoming signings.
Indeed, the mega-rich Blues are reportedly close to adding both Tommy Doyle and Demarai Gray to their expanding camp, with reports even suggesting that the Birmingham-born winger could cost around £8m to obtain.
Joining the aforementioned trio through the door very shortly could also be Kieran Dowell, with an exclusive report from GIVEMESPORT stating that a proposal has been made on the end of the newly promoted side to bring their former loanee back to St. Andrew’s.
However, it’s stated that this proposal is up in the air at the moment as new Rangers boss Russell Martin continues to assess whether Dowell is part of his long-term Ibrox plans or not.
Kieran Dowell
With Ben Davies also on their agenda, according to GIVEMESPORT, it’s clear that adding in Championship experience by the bucket load is a huge priority, as Birmingham navigate the treacherous, but thrilling step back up to the second tier.
In Dowell, the Blues might well be winning themselves another adaptable and exciting presence at the level that’s very similar to Osayi-Samuel, as both potential new signings aim to help Birmingham soar to even greater heights in their fresh surroundings.
Why Dowell can be another Osayi-Samuel
Last season was a clear example for all those watching on at St. Andrew’s that the 27-year-old attacking midfielder is an accomplished performer in the EFL, as seen in his five goals and four assists from just 19 League One runouts.
Amazingly, he should only up his performance standards if he sticks it out for Birmingham’s move up to the Championship, with fans of clubs such as Norwich City, Nottingham Forest, Sheffield United, and Wigan Athletic knowing all too well what the former England U21 international is about at the intimidating level.
In total, playing for those myriad clubs in the Championship, Dowell has managed to tally up a mightily impressive 26 goals and 12 assists from 123 clashes, with Osayi-Samuel not lagging too far behind with his own hefty output.
Indeed, the soon-to-be Birmingham presence can boast his own healthy total of 23 goals and assists across 109 Championship games, with the correlations between the seasoned pair not just ending there, as seen in their similar abilities to line up for their team across various positions if needed.
Dowell’s career numbers by position
Position played
Games played
Goals scored
Assists
AM
120
31
12
RM
50
9
10
CM
25
2
1
RW
19
7
5
LM
17
2
1
SS
2
0
0
LW
1
0
0
DM
1
0
0
Sourced by Transfermarkt
Across the ex-Queens Park Rangers man’s varied career to date, he has staggeringly lined up in ten different spots on the field, with a makeshift striker role even being taken up by the Nigeria international on occasion.
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Dowell can show off the same levels of flexibility when looking at the table above, with the one-time Championship title winner more than capable of playing down the left or right wing, away from excelling as a number ten.
Rangers midfielder Kieran Dowell.
Even hailed as a “high-quality” performer by Davies last season, it does feel as if Dowell would jump at the opportunity to return to such a familiar stomping ground in the second tier, particularly after a challenging Rangers spell.
Both Dowell and Osayi-Samuel joining the Blues camp would show that the newly promoted side means business heading up a league, with another promotion not the craziest shout if everything clicks into place.
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It’s still early in the season, but Arsenal look almost unstoppable at the moment.
Mikel Arteta’s side continued their impressive form in the Champions League on Tuesday night, and now have the chance to extend their lead in the Premier League this afternoon.
However, to do so, the Gunners will have to beat an inform Sunderland side at the Stadium of Light, without Viktor Gyokeres, who scored last time out.
Fortunately, Arteta has a few ways of dealing with the Swede’s absence, and no, he doesn’t have to use Mikel Merino.
The Arsenal changes Arteta has to make
Before examining the players Arteta should bring into the team for this game, it’s worth taking a look at who is fit.
Chalkboard
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Fortunately, since Gyokeres’ injury, Arsenal have not lost anyone else to the medical room, and in even better news, Gabriel Jesus has returned to first-team training.
However, the Brazilian is unlikely to feature against Sunderland, nor are the likes of Kai Havertz, Martin Odegaard, Noni Madueke or Gabriel Martinelli, with the manager telling the press that “nobody new that can join the squad.”
Even so, there are more than enough players fit for changes to be made to the team that won in Prague on Tuesday night.
The first of which should come in defence, with Riccardo Calafiori coming back in for the impressive Piero Hincapie.
Likewise, while Christian Norgaard did a good job anchoring the midfield, Martin Zubimendi, or the Gunners’ “signing of the summer,” as one analyst described him, should come in for him.
The final midfield change should see Eberechi Eze replace Ethan Nwaneri, as the 27-year-old’s creativity and playmaking ability could be crucial in breaking down the Black Cats’ low block.
Finally, while Merino did brilliantly in scoring two goals against Slavia, this might be a game for Arteta to pick someone else to lead the line.
The Arsenal player who could replace Merino
While Arteta could go rogue and opt to start Nwaneri up top for this game, the more reasonable way to go would be to start Leandro Trossard.
Now, there are certainly arguments for keeping Merino as the striker, but equally, there are reasons why the Belgian should be given a go up top, such as his technical quality.
Even though Sunderland are in fine form, the Gunners are more than likely going to face a stubborn low block at the Stadium of Light.
Therefore, it would make more sense to have someone like the 30-year-old leading the line who has the ability to pick a lock, not just with a pass, but with some quality close control.
As good as Merino has been this year, he has never shown an ability to get past a defender with the ball at his feet.
The second reason for going with the “little magician,” as Arteta dubbed him, is that, unlike last season, he seems to have rediscovered his form.
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For example, in 13 appearances, totalling just 742 minutes, he has scored three goals and provided four assists.
Trossard’s 25/26
Appearances
13
Minutes
742
Goals
3
Assists
4
Goal Involvements per Match
0.53
Minutes per Goal Involvement
106′
All Stats via Transfermarkt
That comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.85 games, or more impressively, every 106 minutes.
Finally, since he arrived at the club, the Waterschei-born dynamo has been a clutch player, someone who can and often does pop up with the all-important goal.
Moreover, as the legendary Ian Wright put it, he’s also shown himself to be the squad’s “best finisher and most clinical finisher of chances.”
Therefore, while it sounds counterproductive, Arteta might be better off starting Trossard in Gyokeres’ place this weekend.
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Despite the addition of Florian Wirtz this summer, Liverpool have been aggressive in their efforts to improve Arne Slot’s backline.
The Reds certainly weren’t awful at the back in 2024/25, but with Trent Alexander-Arnold heading to Real Madrid, signing Jeremie Frimpong was a necessity.
At left-back, Milos Kerkez is set to arrive, replacing Andy Robertson whose best years look beyond him.
Milos Kerkez for Bournemouth
At centre-back, they may also require a replacement for French defender Ibrahima Konate. He’s wanted by Real Madrid and an exit grows more likely.
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Konate enjoyed a fabulous season for the Reds, partnering Virgil van Dijk in expert fashion.
While the Dutchman eventually signed a new contract at Anfield, he may not be joined by his partner in crime for too much longer.
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Recent reports suggest that Real Madrid are interested in prising the French defender from Liverpool but there’s further interest from clubs in Saudi and Champions League winners, PSG.
Liverpool's IbrahimaKonatecelebrates after winning the Premier League
So, with that in mind, Liverpool have been seeking alternatives. Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi has been earmarked, as too has RB Leipzig’s Castello Lukeba.
That’s according to journalist Lewis Steele who revealed on his YouTube channel that “Lukeba at Leipzig could be one to watch, it’s clear Liverpool have kept an eye on him.”
Steele added: “I’ve been told Liverpool have had scouts at many RB Leipzig games this season. He could be one as well to watch in terms of Liverpool trying to get the best young defenders on the market.”
Why Lukeba could be better than Guehi for Liverpool
While Wirtz signing for Liverpool was certainly the biggest news of the week out of Merseyside, news that the Reds could also make a move for Guehi was the second hottest topic.
Crystal Palace's MarcGuehireacts after the match
Towards the end of the week it was revealed that Richard Hughes and Co were set to launch a bid to sign the England international this summer, while reports since then note that Liverpool are now closing in on an agreement on personal terms. Whether or not he joins this summer remains to be seen.
Valued at £70m by Crystal Palace, he could be available for as little as £45m, considering he has one year left on his contract at Selhurst Park but Guehi is allegedly willing to wait a year and leave on a free transfer if he doesn’t get to move now.
Premier League proven and having captained the Eagles, there is very little risk attached to his deal. Yet, could Liverpool actually sign a player with bigger potential in Lukeba? Quite possibly.
Said to previously be among the “best U21 CBs in Europe’s top 5 leagues” and described as “one of the best defensive prospects in world football” by data analyst Ben Mattinson, the Frenchman, who is now still only 22, has a skillset that perfectly encapsulates a modern defender.
Like a Jorrel Hato, a Josko Gvardiol, Lukeba possesses the tools to be able to play as a hybrid centre-back and left-back. That level of versatility already trumps Guehi, who is more of a traditional centre-half.
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The skillset that the 22-year-old provides, however, is also incredibly exciting. He possesses excellent ball-playing ability, ranking inside the best 20% of defenders in Europe’s big leagues for progressive passes. He’s supremely comfortable with the ball at his feet, also sitting among the top 1% of centre-backs for progressive carries.
He’s truly elite in this department already, ranking as the fourth most progressive U21 centre half in Europe during 2023/24.
Lukeba vs Guehi in 2024/25 (league only)
Metric (per 90 mins)
Lukeba
Guehi
Pass completion %
85.1%
83.5%
Key passes
0.23
0.47
Passes into final 3rd
5.14
3.91
Progressive passes
4.57
3.94
Progressive carries
1.03
0.65
Successful take-ons
1.14
0.35
Tackles won
0.97
1.00
Interceptions
0.97
0.82
Aerials won
1.49
2.00
Stats via FBref.
When comparing the two defenders’ numbers, it’s clear to see just how much more progressive Lukeba is. Guehi is certainly comfortable on the ball, but the Leipzig star is next level when it comes to advancing forward with possession.
Crucially, that doesn’t come at the expense of his defensive duties either. Despite not ranking highly for aerials won, as far as tackles are concerned, there’s not that much of a difference. Lukeba even makes more interceptions per 90 minutes.
So, while Guehi might well be a proven England international with Premier League experience, Lukeba has a special profile and boasts all of the talent to become one of the finest centre-backs in Europe.
He's a dream Isak alternative: Liverpool exploring move for £160m forward
Liverpool are hoping to sign a new centre-forward to replace the outgoing Darwin Nunez.
Nottingham Forest are now in talks to offload one of Nuno’s summer signings this January, as he has failed to make the desired impact at the City Ground.
Forest looking to offload Nuno signing after Dyche arrival
Evangelos Marinakis wasted little time appointing a successor to Ange Postecoglou, with Sean Dyche recently giving his first interview since becoming manager, in a journey that has come full circle, having started at Forest as a youth player.
Dyche will be under no illusions as to the size of the task at hand, with the Tricky Trees currently in the Premier League relegation zone, having already sacked two managers, while there is also European Football to contend with.
Indeed, the 54-year-old’s first match in charge will be against FC Porto on Thursday evening, with his side still looking for their first win in the Europa League, having suffered an extremely disappointing 3-2 home defeat against FC Midtjylland last time out.
The former Everton boss has just over two months to improve results before the January transfer window opens, at which point the manager may look to reshuffle the squad he has inherited and bring in some new recruits.
According to a report from Corriere dello Sport (via Sport Witness), a departure may also be on the cards, with it being revealed that Nottingham Forest have now entered talks to sell €30m (£26m) summer signing Arnaud Kalimuendo.
Kalimuendo hasn’t hit the ground running since being signed in the summer, with the 23-year-old still yet to start a match, and his time at the City Ground may already be coming to an end, with the Tricky Trees open to a loan departure, which would include a purchase option.
A January exit could be on the cards, with AS Roma named as the team that have entered discussions with Forest, given that sporting director Frederic Massara knows the striker well from their time together at Rennes.
Immediate concern for Dyche at Nottingham Forest after Marinakis decision
It probably isn’t what the new manager wanted to hear.
ByCharlie Smith Kalimuendo must improve ahead of January
On paper, the signing of the Frenchman made perfect sense, given his goal and assist record in Ligue 1 since making a breakthrough at Lens during the 2020/21 season.
Season
Ligue 1 appearances
Goal contributions
2020/21
28
12
2021/22
32
12
2022/23
30
12
2023/24
30
14
2024/25
33
21
However, the former Rennes man has been unable to force his way into the plans of either Nuno or Postecoglou, appearing for just 65 minutes across five substitute appearances in the Premier League.
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Once described as “prolific” by scout Jacek Kulig, the centre-forward has been nothing of the sort since arriving at Forest, and he may continue to struggle to get into the team in the coming weeks, given that Dyche is well-known to be a big fan of Chris Wood.
It seems a little early to sanction Kalimuendo’s departure, as it often takes players time to adapt to life in the Premier League, but the grace period can only last so long.
Ruben Amorim declared on the Old Trafford turf, following the final day victory over Aston Villa, that the “good days are coming” for Manchester United – a statement that appeared fanciful considering the club’s 15th place Premier League finish and Europa League final heartbreak.
The Portuguese coach has talked the talk during a turbulent first six months in Manchester, but can he actually walk the walk?
What is clear is that the 40-year-old is in dire need of reinforcements if he is to make a success of it at the club, with that fact having seemingly sparked a hectic and exciting start to the window for the Red Devils.
Much to the fury of rival supporters, United have already poached Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers, with Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo looking set to follow – two moves that have heightened hope regarding those future ‘good days’.
If a drastic improvement is to be made next season and beyond, however, those deals must surely be the tip of the iceberg. This is the time to rip it up and start again, following a wretched decade of recruitment.
Manchester United co owner JimRatcliffewith technical director Jason Wilcox
With that in mind, here’s a look at how Amorim’s starting lineup could potentially look next season, if all goes to plan on the transfer front for newly crowned director of football, Jason Wilcox…
1 GK – Vanja Milinkovic-Savic
Whether Andre Onana could have done better or not to keep out Brennan Johnson’s deflected effort in Bilbao could be debated long into the night. What is evident is that United reached the showpiece in spite of the Cameroon stopper, not because of him.
Indeed, the 29-year-old – who has been touted for a departure this summer – made five errors leading to a goal in the Premier League and Europa League in total, having hardly inspired any confidence at all since his £47.2m switch from Inter in 2023.
Enter, Vanja Milinkovic-Savic. Once on the books at United as a teenager, before swiftly departing after failing to earn a work permit, the 6 foot 6 Serbian has been heavily linked with a return to Old Trafford. With just a year left on his deal at Torino, reports have suggested he could cost just €20m (£17m).
The 28-year-old conceded just 42 goals in 37 Serie A games last season, while ranking in the top 7% of goalkeepers in Europe’s top five leagues for save percentage. Sign him up.
2 RCB – Leny Yoro
After an injury-hit start to life in England, Leny Yoro truly came into his own in the final months of the season, notably scoring his first goal for the club away in Lyon.
Still only 19 and with a penchant for surging forward from deep, a player Rio Ferdinand dubbed “the best in the world” at that age could well kick on again next term as a mainstay of the backline.
3 CB – Harry Maguire
Stripped of the captaincy by Erik ten Hag in 2023, amid talk of a move to West Ham United, the subsequent redemption arc of Harry Maguire has been a joy to behold – a moment epitomised by his last-gasp winner at home to Lyon.
Described as “perfect” for a back three by Amorim, the 32-year-old – who will soon enter the last year of his contract – deserves to be a consistent figure in the backline once again.
Fitness permitting, of course.
4 LCB – Lisandro Martinez
Speaking of fitness, while Lisandro Martinez remains sidelined with an ACL injury, the World Cup winner is surely a shoo-in to start at left centre-back, having begun to come into his own in 2025, before his cruel setback.
The scorer of crucial goals away to Fulham and Liverpool, the 27-year-old is a ball-playing warrior when fit and firing.
Ayden Heaven may be the long-term solution, although Martinez surely has to start when back in contention again.
5 RWB – Amad
Amad Diallo
Is he a wing-back or a number ten? That much remains to be seen, although if the evolution of Amorim’s 3-4-3 set-up is to occur, a more attack-minded presence, like Amad, is needed in at least one of those wide berths.
The diminutive livewire ranked alongside Bruno Fernandes as the shining light of 2024/25, having ended with 21 goals and assists in all competitions.
Amad’s Man Utd record by coach
Manager
Games
Goals
Assists
Erik ten Hag
24
3
3
Ruben Amorim
27
8
8
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
8
1
1
Ruud van Nistelrooy
4
2
1
Ralf Rangnick
1
0
0
Michael Carrick
0
0
0
Total
64
14
12
Stats via Transfermarkt
Tied down to a contract until 2030, the 22-year-old could be the face of a new era in Manchester – not least with friend and teammate, Alejandro Garnacho, looking set for an exit.
6 CM – Bruno Fernandes (C)
The heart and soul of Manchester United, talismanic skipper Bruno Fernandes has shunned the Saudi riches to stay put next season, having rounded off last term by sweeping the club’s end-of-season awards. And rightly so.
While there is a curiosity over just what this team would look like without him – as well as his actual suitability for a starting berth in this system – the Portugal star simply has to remain the centrepiece of the side.
As Amorim admitted earlier this year, he is “one of the best players in the world”. You don’t find those so easily…
7 CM – Douglas Luiz
Douglas Luiz for Juventus.
The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell has noted that United are seeking an ‘athletic number eight’ this summer. Douglas Luiz – who was linked with a move last month – certainly fits the bill.
A player of proven Premier League quality – having even been hailed as “better than [Declan] Rice” in some quarters – the former Aston Villa man needs rescuing from his Juventus hell, having started just six games last term following his £42m switch last summer.
While it has not been made clear how much the Brazilian would be available for, perhaps an astute loan offer could be in order, as Wilcox and co still seek to comply with PSR restrictions.
8 LWB – Pervis Estupinan
The Red Devils did already prise Patrick Dorgu from Lecce in January, yet at just 20 years old, the Dane is far from the finished article, having notably looked ‘out of his depth’ in the 1-0 loss to Spurs – according to journalist Samuel Luckhurst.
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In Brighton’s Pervis Estupinan, United could then find a perfect upgrade in that wing-back role amid links to the 27-year-old, a player whom Fabian Hurzeler has hailed as “one of the best left-backs in the Premier League”.
The need for players of top-flight quality is evident, with the £38m-rated Seagulls defender another who fits the bill.
9 RAM – Bryan Mbeumo
Brentford's BryanMbeumolooks dejected after the match
Speaking of Premier League quality, what a signing it would be if Mbeumo does make his way to Manchester, with the Cameroon international seemingly preferring a move to Old Trafford, despite interest from Champions League sides Arsenal, Newcastle and Spurs.
Fresh off the back of scoring 20 league goals for Brentford, the 25-year-old would surely enhance Amorim’s floundering forward line, with no United player even reaching double figures for goals in the top-flight last season.
While negotiations continue over a potential fee for the versatile winger, if a deal is to be agreed, it would be yet another statement one for the INEOS regime.
10 LAM – Matheus Cunha
Wolverhampton Wanderers' MatheusCunhacelebrates after Rodrigo Gomes scores
Speaking of statements, already in the door is the aforementioned Cunha, with the Brazilian – like the man above – seemingly unperturbed by United’s lack of European football next season.
With 15 league goals of his own in 2024/25 – having scored 12 the previous campaign – the 26-year-old is another proven, albeit maverick talent who could re-energise Amorim’s attack, with echoes of a certain Eric Cantona already emerging.
Much work would need to be done to reach those heights, of course, yet this deal should hopefully prove to be another transformational one.