One of the oldest and most bitter rivalries in English football is between Chelsea and Arsenal. It is fair to say that there is no love lost between the two clubs, who hail from West London in Chelsea’s case, and North London for the Gunners.

Naturally, over the years, there have been players who have represented both clubs. One of those is currently playing at the Emirates Stadium, specifically Raheem Sterling, who is on loan from Chelsea. Perhaps the two biggest names are Ashley Cole and Cesc Fabregas, both of whom played first for the Gunners and then for the Blues.

Interestingly, the top-flight pair are battling it out to sign the same player this summer, rather than one man featuring for both, reigniting the rivalry off the pitch once more.

The player Chelsea want to sign ahead of Arsenal

There are plenty of good market opportunities this summer for players who are out of contract. One of the most prominent examples is Trent Alexander-Arnold, who will leave Liverpool on a free and is set to join Real Madrid.

Transfer Focus

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

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Well, Chelsea are set to go head to head with Arsenal to sign Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane. According to reports from Sky in Germany, the Blues are one of the clubs ‘ready for the winger’ this summer, if he doesn’t sign a new deal at the Bundesliga champions.

They seem to be ahead of the Gunners in the race, who are thought to have ‘distanced’ themselves from the move, instead targeting a younger winger.

As for Chelsea, the report suggests that ‘much depends on qualification for the Champions League’, but if they secure that, they have an excellent shot at bringing Sane to the club.

Why Sane could be another Sterling

29-year-old Sane is certainly no stranger to the Premier League. He has featured in the English top flight before as a Manchester City player, scoring 25 goals and grabbing 30 assists in 95 appearances. In total, he played three seasons and won the Premier League twice.

If he can replicate at Stamford Bridge what he did at the Etihad Stadium, Chelsea fans would surely be delighted. Sane was a chance creation machine.

Across his three full Premier League seasons at the club, he averaged 1.8 key passes per game in 2016/17, followed by 2.2 in 2017/18 and 1.9 in 2018/19, according to Sofascore.

Sane key stats at Man City in PL per season

Stat (per 90)

2016/17

2017/18

2018/19

Key passes

1.8

2.2

1.9

Big chances created

0.4

0.5

0.5

Dribbles completed

2.7

3.2

2.6

Tackles and interceptions

2.7

1.5

1.6

Goals and assists

0.5

1

1

Stats from Sofascore

Yet, as time has gone by, the winger has not quite had the same impact at Bayern as he did at City. Across all competitions for the newly crowned Bundesliga champions this term, he’s managed 13 goals and six assists in 45 games.

Whilst there has been a level of consistency in the top division of German football, with 11 goals and six assists, Sane struggled in the Champions League. In 13 appearances, the Schalke academy graduate scored once and didn’t register an assist, with his goal coming in a 9-2 thrashing over Dinamo Zagreb.

With that inconsistency creeping in, perhaps there is a worry that Sane will struggle at Chelsea just as Sterling did. There are certainly similarities between the pair, given they both played for Man City in one of the most successful sides in Premier League history.

However, for Chelsea, Sterling wasn’t really as effective. He scored 19 goals and grabbed 15 assists in 81 games for the West Londoners, and never really played a consistent role in the side, constantly floating around different positions on the pitch.

There were some highlights, however, including this strike against Luton Town last season.

Perhaps these deals are just too similar for Chelsea. With Sterling a high earner, on £325k per week at Stamford Bridge last season, and Sane on roughly the same at Bayern, £323k per week as per Capology, it would also save the Blues some money.

However, he can be a “superstar” on his day, as football scout Antonio Mango described him, and there is no doubt about his quality. Perhaps Chelsea are willing to take the bet that Sane will be able to replicate his incredible output last time he played in the Premier League.

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Posts ByRobbie Walls May 21, 2025

Chelsea’s first trophy since 2021 should hopefully give Enzo Maresca some credit in the bank and allow him the confidence to bolster his side ahead of the Champions League next season.

The Blues’ 4-1 victory over Real Betis in the Conference League final means they are the first team to win the Champions League, Europa League, UEFA Cup Winners’ Cup, and now the newest tournament on the calendar.

Given the quality of their squad, it was certainly expected, but the comeback from 1-0 down on Wednesday evening was still excellent.

This sets up the Stamford Bridge side wonderfully for the Club World Cup and the summer transfer window. It appears as though they are closing in on their first signing…

Chelsea closing in on Liam Delap

Liam Delap is one of the most in-demand centre-forwards in the Premier League due to his impressive debut season in the competition.

Although Ipswich Town suffered relegation, Delap scored 12 times across his 37 matches for the Tractor Boys. In the end, his goal involvements accounted for 39% of Ipswich’s total in the top flight.

These exploits in front of goal certainly attracted plenty of admirers, including Everton, Manchester United and Newcastle United, although the Blues appear to have won the race. Fabrizio Romano delivered the news about his impending move to London on X, revealing that an “agreement” had been struck.

For £30m, Chelsea are getting a bargain, especially if he goes on to become a major success at the club in the coming years.

Aged just 22, Delap is yet to hit his peak years as a player. His breakthrough campaign for Ipswich has given the Englishman a taste for top-flight football, no doubt about that.

While he may have netted 12 goals last season, Delap often tends to drop deep, linking up well with those behind. As such, he is excellent at driving forward with the ball, taking on the opposition defence regularly.

When compared to his positional peers in the Premier League, the former Manchester City starlet ranks in the top 10% for successful take-on percentage (46.5%) and in the top 12% for successful take-ons per 90 (1.39).

Combining this with the fact he ranks in the top 23% for carries into the final third (1.6) per 90 in the top flight, it is evident Delap does some of his best work outside the penalty area.

This all-round game would suit Maresca’s style and ensure Delap doesn’t get isolated as a lone striker.

Fending off other teams to secure Delap’s signature is a coup for Chelsea. But can Maresca go a stage further and perhaps bring in someone who might be an even bigger talent than the youngster?

Chelsea’s continued search for a striker

Viktor Gyokeres has been earmarked as a potential signing for the Blues, but Arsenal seem to be the favourites for the Swedish sensation.

Transfer Focus

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

Victor Osimhen is also on the club’s radar, but the one player who Maresca would love to bring to Stamford Bridge is Eintracht Frankfurt centre-forward, Hugo Ekitiké.

Any potential move could cost the club around €100m (£84m) this summer, although it looks like progress is being made.

As reported by French outlet Foot Mercato, that interest in the French striker appears set to be ramped up, with talks already said to be being held.

As per the report, a meeting has been scheduled to take place this week, involving Chelsea and the player’s agents, with Frankfurt having already begun work on acquiring a replacement.

Could the Blues be edging closer to signing another attacking talent?

Why Hugo Ekitike could be an instant Delap upgrade

Although the same age as Delap, the former PSG striker has been performing at a higher level for longer.

Indeed, he made his Ligue 1 debut during the 2020/21 season, going on to score 11 goals in just 28 games for Stade Reims in the French top flight.

Metric (per 90*)

Delap

Ekitike

Shots*

2.29

4

Shot-creating actions*

2.15

3.55

Goal-creating actions*

0.24

0.42

Progressive carries

61

93

Touches in the attacking penalty area

92

196

This, plus an extraordinarily high ceiling for development, saw PSG sign him in the summer of 2022. Lofty expectations in the French capital meant he netted only three goals for the club, starting a mere 14 games.

In truth, he was unable to displace the great triumvirate of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Neymar in Paris. Thus, a move to Frankfurt in the summer of 2023 provided plenty of solace.

Indeed, across his first two seasons with the Bundesliga side, Ekitike has netted 26 goals and registered 14 assists across 64 games. This works out as a goal involvement every 1.6 games.

Analyst and writer Sam McGuire hailed Ekitike as a “shot monster” and a “genuine goal threat” recently, and he has proven this season that he deserves another chance at a major European heavyweight.

Compared to his peers across Europe’s top five leagues, the young Frenchman has exuded superb statistics.

Not only does he rank in the top 6% for shot-creating actions (3.5) and touches in the attacking penalty area (6.73) per 90, he also ranks in the top 4% for progressive carries (3.04) and successful take-ons (1.9) per 90 across the previous 365 days.

Like Delap, he can also drop deeper to link with the midfield, but it is evident that he offers much more of a threat doing so than the Englishman.

Paying £84m for Ekitike could well be a big gamble for Chelsea, but given his statistics for Frankfurt recently, he has all the tools in his arsenal to shine in England.

Delap may be the homegrown talent, but the Frenchman looks as though he has the higher ceiling. That much is certain.

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A positive update has emerged regarding Leeds United completing the signing of an “extraordinary” new defender in the summer transfer window.

Leeds plotting to strengthen spine after promotion

The Whites are expected to sign an upgrade on Illan Meslier between the sticks this summer, with Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic mentioned as a possible option – Wolves stopper Sam Johnstone is seen as an alternative target.

Another goalkeeper who has been linked with a switch to Leeds is Liverpool ace Caoimhin Kelleher, with an enquiry reportedly made about his availability. With Giorgi Mamardashvili joining the Reds from Valencia, now looks like the right time for him to depart.

Indeed, 49ers Enterprises want to strengthen the team’s spine this summer, with reports suggesting Leeds will happily spend around £30m each on a new goalkeeper, centre-back, centre-midfielder and striker.

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1

By
Charlie Smith

May 8, 2025

Kalvin Phillips was once a hero at Elland Hero, arguably standing out as the best player at the club, and a return to the Whites has been rumoured recently. The 29-year-old has had a tough time of things in recent years and may feel that going back to his former club could be best for him ahead of next season.

Manor Solomon is of course a top target for Leeds, as Daniel Farke looks to sign him on a permanent basis after an impressive season on loan at the club from Tottenham. He scored 10 goals and registered 12 assists in the Championship in 2024/25.

Leeds boosted in pursuit of "extraordinary" Balerdi

According to The Sunday Mirror [via MOT Leeds News], Leeds’ pursuit of Marseille centre-back Leonardo Balerdi has received a boost ahead of the summer window.

The report backs that the Whites are set for a “major” summer of spending and the 26-year-old defender has now refused to rule out an exit at the end of the season: “I’m happy in Marseille and I’d like to bring something back here, so I have to focus to the last match. After that, I don’t know. I’d like the team to be in the Champions League, then I’ll ask myself about the future.”

Balerdi would be a fantastic signing for Leeds in the summer, boosting their defensive options significantly ahead of what promises to be a tough season back in the Premier League.

The Marseille captain has been a rock-solid presence at the heart of his team’s defence this season, making 26 appearances in Ligue 1 and averaging 2.7 clearances per game. He has also completed 94% of his passes, showing that he is strong in possession.

Manager Roberto De Zerbi has heaped praise on him: “Balerdi? I hope that the big European teams don’t realise that he exists. I say every night before going to sleep that I am happy that he is going under the radar of the big teams. He is an extraordinary player.”

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Leeds United might be about to land a bigger coup than Manor Solomon if they can snap up this midfield star.

4

By
Kelan Sarson

May 11, 2025

Balerdi is also a six-cap Argentina international, which is no mean feat considering they are World Cup winners with the likes of Cristian Romero and Lisandro Martinez in their team, and Leeds should do all they can to sign him.

This summer is massive for West Ham United if they are to right the wrongs of this season and push on under the guidance of manager Graham Potter.

The Hammers currently sit in 17th place in the Premier League, just one place above the relegation zone, and are lucky not to be in a scrap to maintain their top-flight status.

It’s certainly been a year to forget, with the 49-year-old unable to change the club’s fortunes after taking the reins from Julen Lopetegui, who was sacked after just six months in charge.

The former Chelsea boss has the summer window to try and transform the Hammers’ fortunes and push the side back up towards the European spots in 2025/26.

With the opening of the market rapidly approaching, groundwork is already being laid ahead of a huge period for the club – needing to make the right signings if they are to progress.

The latest on West Ham’s hunt for signings this summer

In the last couple of days, West Ham have entered negotiations with the representatives of left-back Junior Firpo over a potential deal this summer.

The Dominican international is currently on the books of Leeds United, but looks set to depart the Whites with his contract set to expire at the end of June.

The defender, who’s registered 14 combined goals and assists this season, isn’t the only player on their shortlist, with midfielder Morton Frendrup also on their radar, according to GIVEMESPORT.

Their report claims that the Hammers’ hierarchy have already made contact with Genoa over a deal for the 24-year-old, who could be available for £17m this summer.

It also states that he’s one of a number of options being considered for the upcoming window, but face competition from fellow Premier League outfit Brentford for his signature.

Why West Ham’s £17m target would be an upgrade on Soucek

Tomas Soucek has been a regular in the heart of the West Ham midfield this season, registering 35 appearances across all competitions, scoring on eight separate occasions.

However, despite his excellent record for the Hammers, he could be set to depart East London during the off-season, with newly-promoted Leeds just one potential destination.

It’s unclear if Potter will be wanting to cash in on the Czech international during the coming months, with his future in the capital certainly up in the air to say the least.

Should he leave, it would be a blow given his output across the field, but it would allow the manager to land an upgrade in the form of Genoa star Frendrup.

When comparing their respective figures from the current campaign, the Dane has managed to outperform Soucek in various key areas – highlighting how much of a bargain he would be at £17m.

Games played

33

32

Goals & assists

2

9

Pass accuracy

85%

73%

Progressive passes

3.1

2.7

Tackles won

3.1

1.6

Interceptions made

1.4

0.7

Blocks made

1.9

1.3

Frendrup, who’s been labelled a “midfield machine” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, has starred in possession, completing more of the passes he’s attempted along with more progressive passes – aiding other players within the final third.

He’s also dominated without the ball, winning nearly double the number of tackles per 90, along with more interceptions made – handing Potter the added quality he desires out of possession.

Since the departure of Declan Rice, the side have desperately needed the ball-winning presence in front of the back four, undoubtedly having an impact on their league standing.

Frendrup could provide just that for the Hammers, but the hierarchy will need to act quickly to avoid missing out on such a talent given the interest from elsewhere.

The £17m fee touted is a bargain in today’s market, with the Dane having all the tools to push the club back towards the European spots in the 2025/26 campaign.

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Looking to ensure that their wait for silverware is far less than the years before winning this season’s FA Cup, Crystal Palace are now reportedly intensifying talks to sign an 18-year-old prospect who is already making waves.

Crystal Palace set to celebrate FA Cup in style

After upsetting the odds to defeat Manchester City in the FA Cup final, Crystal Palace have confirmed that they will be enjoying an open-top bus parade through south London this Monday.

The Eagles released a message to the fans to reveal the celebrations that are planned, saying on the official club website: “It’s the day you’ve long been waiting for: Palace’s open-top bus parade will transport your FA Cup winning heroes, and the historic trophy itself, down the SE25 streets starting at the top of Whitehorse Lane from 12:45.

“The parade route will see the bus start at the top of Whitehorse Lane, turning into Park Road and then down Holmesdale Road; this is expected to last approximately 45 minutes. Be there to bring the noise, and celebrate with Oliver Glasner’s outstanding Eagles as they show off our legendary prize.”

For many, they will deem Palace’s victory a once-in-a-lifetime moment, but Steve Parish and the rest of those at Selhurst Park will be desperate to make sure that such celebrations become more than just a rarity. And Glasner will be a big part of that.

The job that the Austrian has completed in south London deserves immense praise, but he may just be getting started. Crystal Palace are now a Europa League club and have the chance to create more moments of history with Glasner at the helm.

With European football to offer too, Palace could beat Premier League rivals Fulham to the arrival of an impressive 18-year-old midfielder this summer.

Crystal Palace intensify talks to sign Bongeli

According to Africa Foot, as relayed by Sport Witness, Crystal Palace are now set to intensify talks to sign Faveurdi Bongeli from TP Mazembe this summer. The 18-year-old midfielder is reportedly already making waves and has attracted the interest of the Eagles alongside Fulham and German Bundesliga side Borussia Mönchengladbach.

With plenty of competition for his signature, it’s no surprise that Palace have seemingly stepped up their efforts to win the race for Bongeli’s signature. Though still a teenager, the Palace target has already been making his mark on senior football, starting three of Mazembe’s five CAF Champions League games and winning once.

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Despite that, it must be said that he still has a long way to go before he is capable of breaking into Glasner’s Palace midfield. Whether those in south London will be willing to take a chance on an unproven young player remains to be seen, in what could be a frustrating blow for Bongeli.

A player with plenty of potential, even despite his lack of experience, it will certainly be interesting to see whether Palace decide to give rivals a free run at a young star. Bongeli, meanwhile, could have the most important decision of his career to make in the coming months.

Liverpool have a “growing interest” in completing the signing of a “crazy” talent who has already held contract negotiations with Real Madrid, leaving the Spanish club trying to speed things up.

Liverpool rivlary with Madrid continues over Huijsen deal

The Reds have almost become renowned for being relatively frugal in the transfer market under owners FGS, with both Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot often tasked with working their magic with a smaller squad than some of their rivals.

This summer is reportedly going to be one of the busiest in years at Liverpool, however, with Slot set to be handed lots of funds for new signings, as they seek to replace Madrid-bound Trent Alexander-Arnold for starters, with a deal for Jeremie Frimpong nearing completion.

Reds captain Virgil van Dijk has put an element of pressure on owners FSG, saying he expects lots of money to be spent in the coming weeks and months.

The man who could have become the skipper’s successor looks to be following Alexander-Arnold to Madrid however, with the Spaniards pulling ahead in the race for Dean Huijsen. Indeed, Florentino Perez’s side have approached Bournemouth over a £50m deal and are discussing personal terms with the young defender.

Madrid are now leading the race for the Cherries star ahead of the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool, and after seemingly missing out to their European rivals again, Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes have turned their attentions further up the pitch.

Liverpool have "growing interest" in Messi-like youngster

According to a fresh report from Sport [via Sport Witness], Liverpool have a “growing interest” in River Plate midfielder Franco Mastantuono, who has a £38m release clause in his current deal.

The 17-year-old is considered one of Argentina’s brightest young talents, with Manchester United and Madrid also interested in signing him. In fact, Madrid even agreed a contract with the player last year, and while a deal didn’t go through then, they are now hurriedly speeding up their interest in fear of missing out to the Reds.

Mastantuono looks like an incredible prospect, so Liverpool should be doing all they can to beat United and Madrid to his signature in the summer window.

At just 17, the Argentine has already racked up 59 appearances for River Plate, bagging 16 goal contributions in that time (nine goals and seven assists), and analyst Ben Mattinson has called his talent “crazy”, also saying he is a “leader”.

Meanwhile, FIFA have even compared him to Lionel Messi, which is the ultimate praise: “He has a different, special aesthetic. The stretched, slender, elegant body. He receives with his foot and the game options seem to multiply. From right to left. With the inside edge or the instep. With the toe or the outside of the boot. Franco Mastantuono, the new promise -figure- of River Plate, 17 years old, has the complete repertoire.”

An attacking midfielder by trade, Mastantuono could arrive at Liverpool as a squad player to begin with, but given the heights he is reaching in his homeland, he could end up becoming a superstar at Anfield.

A “very good” attacking manager remains in the mix to be named the next boss of Rangers this summer, according to a new update.

Rangers continue search for next manager

While new signings are clearly vital for the Scottish Premiership giants before next season gets underway, making sure they bring in the perfect next manager is even more important.

A recent claim has suggested that talks have been held with former Ajax boss Francesco Farioli, with the 36-year-old leaving the Dutch side after throwing away the Eredivisie title to PSV Eindhoven in the latter weeks of the campaign.

Meanwhile, Steven Gerrard is still very much in the mix to take charge of Rangers for a second time, having famously won the title with them back in 2020/21. For that reason, a chunk of the fanbase may be happy to see the Liverpool legend return, and contact is said to have been made.

As things stand, though, Davide Ancelotti is arguably the front-runner to come in at Ibrox this summer, having left Real Madrid at the end of the season, and now possibly wanting to be a manager rather than an assistant.

"Very good" manager an option for Rangers

According to a new report from The Daily Mail, Farioli is definitely “in the running” to be Rangers’ next manager, following his departure from Ajax. Both he and Brian Priske are described as “outsiders” in the report, but it is clear the Gers have left him on their list after the reports of talks last week.

While Farioli isn’t among the favourites to take charge of Rangers, he should still be considered an interesting option for the club given his exciting resume.

Known for adopting an attack-minded 4-3-3 formation, the 36-year-old Italian has been lauded by Liverpool’s Premier League-winning manager Arne Slot.

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That is high praise from a prominent figure in the game currently, but in truth, Rangers may be wise to bring in a more experienced option, rather than taking a gamble on Farioli. Ancelotti would also be a risk for that reason, so one has to wonder if all roads lead back to Gerrard.

With Ibrahima Konate attracting interest from Real Madrid and Virgil van Dijk certainly no spring chicken anymore, it was hardly a surprise to see Liverpool throw their hat in the ring for Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen.

The young centre-back has shown himself to be one of the most exciting defenders in Europe and as such, attracted the interest of many a suitor on the continent.

Possessing a £50m release clause that could be paid in three instalments, this move felt like a no-brainer for the top clubs in Europe, yet Liverpool have now sadly missed out on his signature.

Indeed, it was announced on Saturday that Madrid had agreed a deal to bring the 20-year-old to the Bernabeu this summer.

So, who could the Reds target instead?

Liverpool could sign amazing Huijsen alternative

There appear to be several defenders on Liverpool’s radar at the moment, with Arne Slot not just keen on strengthening in the centre of defence but also at full-back.

Transfer Focus

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

Jeremie Frimpong looks poised to sign as Trent Alexander-Arnold’s replacement, while there are a few contenders to replace Andy Robertson at left-back with the likes of Milos Kerkez and Rayan Ait-Nouri two names touted.

As far as their options at centre-back are concerned, they could get over their Huijsen setback by launching a move for Ajax sensation Jorrel Hato.

That’s according to Fabrizio Romano, via GIVEMESPORT, who claims that Hato is “one of the players appreciated at Liverpool” but “let’s see also what Arsenal decide to do,” with the Gunners interested.

Liverpool may have to pay a similar price to Huijsen with Ajax reportedly valuing the 19-year-old at around £42m.

How Hato compares to Huijsen

In the words of scout Jacek Kulig, the teenager is “one of the most talented CBs of his generation in Europe.” Fine praise indeed, but what makes him so special?

Well, as data analyst Ben Mattinson notes, the Dutchman is an “exceptional athlete” who can “carry through the lines”, much in the same way Huijsen can.

They’re pretty similar profiles, but Hato comes with one additional plus point, he can play at left-back, as well as in the middle.

A left-footed player, it’s no surprise to see he’s in such high demand. Not only could he replace Robertson, but he’s a mighty fine long-term replacement for Van Dijk too.

Hato vs Huijsen in 2024/25 – league only
Stat (per 90 mins)	Hato	Huijsen
Pass success %	89%	83.5%
Key passes	0.65	0.54
Progressive passes	4.24	4.96
Progressive carries	1.37	1.55
Successful take-ons	0.25	0.08
Tackles won	1.29	1.01
Ball recoveries	4.53	3.91
Aerial duels won	1.83	2.56
Stats via FBRef.

While Huijsen trumps the young Netherlands international for progressive passing and carries, there are some key wins for Hato here.

He’s notably crisper in possession, making more take-ons and completing a higher percentage of his passes. Hato is also a natural shuttler, completing more ball recoveries per 90 minutes.

Let us not forget that this is a player who has captained Ajax too, even at his young age. It’s remarkable really that the Dutch side have placed so much faith in him.

If Liverpool are hunting for their future Van Dijk replacement, considering Hato boasts natural leadership skills, he ticks all the boxes here for Slot and Co.

He'd be their best CM since Fabinho: Liverpool plan bid for £60m "machine"

Arne Slot is looking to strengthen his Liverpool side in the transfer market this summer.

2

By
Angus Sinclair

May 18, 2025

Liverpool’s attack has been sensational throughout 2024/25, playing a huge role in Arne Slot’s success in claiming the Premier League title during his first season at the helm.

The Reds managed to notch a total of 86 goals in their 38 appearances – the most of any side in the division – with Mohamed Salah leading the way with 29 goals.

However, despite their success, there could be a change in the attacking department ahead of next season, with the club needing fresh impetus to maintain their performance levels.

The likes of Diogo Jota, Darwin Núñez and Luis Diaz could all leave Anfield this window, raising some key funds in Slot’s ambitions of landing new signings.

With the transfer window now open, numerous players have already been touted with a switch to Merseyside this summer, which could see the hierarchy massively back the manager during the off-season.

The latest on Liverpool’s hunt for new additions this summer

Since claiming the title, Liverpool have been extremely busy in the market, as seen with right-back Jeremie Frimpong, who’s already joined the club from Bayer Leverkusen.

He could be joined by the likes of Milos Kerkez, Marc Guehi and Alexander Isak, who have all also been strongly touted with a summer switch to Merseyside.

However, another name has been thrown into the mix in the form of Victor Osimhen, with the striker firmly on their radar, according to TBR’s latest update.

Their report claims that discussions have been held over a move for the Nigerian striker, who scored 37 goals in 41 appearances on loan at Galatasaray from Serie A outfit Napoli.

It also states that the Reds’ hierarchy are targeting a new striker this summer, with a big name expected, which could see the 26-year-old move to Anfield – but they would have to meet the £60m price tag on his head.

Why Osimhen would be a better signing than Wirtz

Florian Wirtz is a player who has been the subject of huge interest from Liverpool in recent weeks, with a move progressing in the right direction ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

The German, who registered 30 combined goals and assists this season, could cost the Reds a pretty penny, after already having a club-record bid of £110m rejected by Bayer Leverkusen.

It would be a huge investment from the hierarchy, showcasing how much the board have faith in the manager to make the changes he desires after his first season at the helm.

If he can carry his tally of contributions over from the Bundesliga, it would be an addition that could massively bolster their ambitions of becoming back-to-back champions in the Premier League.

However, they could be about to make a better addition than the midfielder this summer in the form of Osimhen, who would solve arguably what’s been Slot’s biggest issue.

When comparing the Nigerian’s stats with those of current strikers Jota and Nunez, he’s massively outperformed the pair, handing the side that focal point they’ve been desperately lacking.

Osimhen, who’s been labelled “world-class” by Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley, has massively outscored the duo, whilst registering a higher shot-on-target rate – offering the manager the clinical central option he’s been devoid of as of late.

Games played

30

26

30

Goals & assists

31

9

7

Shot on target accuracy

42%

25%

38%

Shots on target per game

2.2

1

1

Aerials won

3.5

1.6

1.5

Aerial success rate

60%

40%

37%

Fouls won

1.9

1.1

1.1

He’s also managed to win more of the aerial duels he’s entered this campaign, with such a talent aiding the likes of Salah in the attacking areas, which could see him improve his own tallies in the final third.

Whilst a deal for Wirtz is undoubtedly an exciting one, it’s an extra to what’s already an impressive midfield department, offering key depth alongside the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai.

However, Osimhen would undoubtedly be signed as the number one striker, looking to fill the void in a position that has arguably been a disappointing one over the last 12 months – as seen by the records of Jota and Nunez.

If the club are to have any chance of securing another league title next campaign, the signing of the Nigerian international is vital, with his skillset massively improving the goalscoring options at Slot’s disposal.

He's Coutinho 2.0: Liverpool hold talks to sign "Ballon d'Or level talent"

Florian Wirtz isn’t the only midfielder Liverpool have their eye on.

ByAngus Sinclair Jun 3, 2025

Full-backs in today’s game are a crucial position of the pitch, with modern-day managers wanting to see them effect the game in attack, while also being solid defensively.

Trent Alexander-Arnold has been one of the best right-backs the Premier League has seen, but he has now left Liverpool for Real Madrid. But where does he rank in regards to best right-backs in Premier League history?

Ranking factors Appearances Longevity Titles Goals Clean sheets What others have said about them 20 best right-backs in Premier League history: in pictures

Top 20 right-backs in Premier League history

Rank

Player

Clubs played for

1

Kyle Walker

Tottenham, Aston Villa, Man City, Burnley

2

Gary Neville

Man Utd

3

Trent Alexander-Arnold

Liverpool

4

Lee Dixon

Arsenal

5

Pablo Zabaleta

Man City, West Ham

6

Cesar Azpilicueta

Chelsea

7

Lauren

Arsenal, Portsmouth

8

Branislav Ivanovic

Chelsea, West Brom

9

Steve Finnan

Fulham, Liverpool, Portsmouth

10

Bacary Sagna

Arsenal, Man City

11

Stephen Carr

Tottenham, Newcastle, Birmingham

12

Gary Kelly

Leeds

13

Joao Cancelo

Man City

14

Kieran Trippier

Burnley, Tottenham, Newcastle

15

Paulo Ferreira

Chelsea

16

Seamus Coleman

Everton

17

Wes Brown

Man Utd, Sunderland

18

John O’Shea

Man Utd, Sunderland

19

Antonio Valencia

Wigan, Man Utd

20

Dan Petrescu

Sheffield Wednesday, Chelsea, Bradford, Southampton

20 Dan Petrescu Sheffield Wednesday, Chelsea, Bradford, Southampton

Starting the countdown is Romanian icon Dan Petrescu, who was an attacking full-back best known for his time at Chelsea.

Petrescu cost the Blues a then-club-record £2.3m from Sheffield Wednesday back in 1995, but he starred at Stamford Bridge across a five-year spell before also featuring for Bradford and Southampton in the top flight, contributing to more than 50 league goals along the way.

Dan Petrescu’s Premier League stats

Games

215

Goals

23

Assists

33

Clean sheets

42

19 Antonio Valencia Wigan, Man Utd

Starting out as a winger when he moved to England with Wigan, Antonio Valencia was slowly moved back to an attacking right-back role under Sir Alex Ferguson.

He still had that attacking output and was called a player who “has got everything” by Ferguson, with the Ecuadorian winning two league titles at Old Trafford.

Antonio Valencia’s Premier League stats

Games

325

Goals

24

Assists

46

Clean sheets

105

Titles

2

18 John O’Shea Man Utd, Sunderland

Versatile defender John O’Shea would turn out as a right-back on numerous occasions for Man Utd and was also used as a centre-back and left-back during his career.

The Irishman, called a “great professional” who “never complains” by Sir Alex Ferguson, was a reliable performer and made more than 250 Premier League appearances for the Red Devils before going on to spend seven years with Sunderland.

John O’Shea’s Premier League stats

Games

445

Goals

13

Assists

13

Clean sheets

115

Titles

5

17 Wes Brown Man Utd, Sunderland

Continuing the trend of right-backs to have played for Man Utd and Sunderland is Wes Brown, who won five Premier League titles with the Red Devils between 1997-2011.

Like O’Shea, Brown was used in a variety of defensive roles during his career and could excel at right-back. Sir Alex Ferguson, who knew his stuff, was also a big fan, calling Brown “the best natural defender in the country” back in 2009.

Wes Brown’s Premier League stats

Games

308

Goals

4

Assists

9

Clean sheets

98

Titles

5

16 Seamus Coleman Everton

Arguably the best value-for-money signing in Premier League history, Seamus Coleman has been crucial for Everton since joining from Sligo Rovers in 2009.

Costing just £60,000, the Irishman has gone on to make more than 350 league appearances for the Toffees, coming in for praise from Frank Lampard who called Coleman “amazing”.

His longevity has been brilliant, and in his prime, Coleman has also been a real threat in the final third, contributing to 46 top flight goals.

Seamus Coleman’s Premier League stats

Games

371

Goals

22

Assists

24

Clean sheets

96

15 Paulo Ferreira Chelsea

One of Jose Mourinho’s first signings at Chelsea back in 2004, Paulo Ferreira would enjoy a successful spell at Stamford Bridge, winning three Premier League titles.

The Portuguese defender sometimes went under the radar but played 29 times in the 2004/05 season which saw the Blues concede just 15 times in the league campaign.

Paulo Ferreira’s Premier League stats

Games

141

Assists

4

Clean sheets

56

Titles

3

14 Kieran Trippier Burnley, Tottenham, Newcastle

After coming through the Man City academy, Kieran Trippier made a name for himself in the Premier League with Burnley before spells with Tottenham and Newcastle.

A set-piece specialist from right-back, Trippier was dubbed as the perfect modern-day full-back by defensive icon Roberto Carlos and has scored and created numerous goals in the top flight.

Kieran Trippier’s Premier League stats

Games

210

Goals

6

Assists

38

Clean sheets

52

13 Joao Cancelo Man City

Another brilliant attacking full-back, Joao Cancelo’s stay in the Premier League was relatively short, but he made a big impact at Man City under Pep Guardiola with his eye for a pass.

He won three titles in four seasons at the Etihad and was named in the PFA Team of the Year twice, while also being dubbed one of the best right-backs in the world by Nigel de Jong.

Joao Cancelo’s Premier League stats

Games

98

Goals

5

Assists

11

Clean sheets

41

Titles

3

12 Gary Kelly Leeds

A one-club man with Leeds United, Irishman Gary Kelly was one of the best right-backs in the early years of the Premier League and made more than 300 top-flight appearances for the Whites.

Twice named in the PFA Team of the Year, Kelly was defensively sound but would also get forward when he could, averaging an assist every 10 appearances at Elland Road.

Gary Kelly’s Premier League stats

Games

325

Goals

2

Assists

31

Clean sheets

103

11 Stephen Carr Tottenham, Newcastle, Birmingham

Another old-school right-back, Stephen Carr made an appearance in 15 separate Premier League campaigns but will best be remembered for his time at Tottenham, where he was included in the PFA Team of the Year on two occasions.

Although he never got near to winning the title, Carr was extremely reliable and was a right-back who “had everything” according to Irish teammate Kenny Cunningham.

Stephen Carr’s Premier League stats

Games

377

Goals

8

Assists

17

Clean sheets

83