All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

It's been a rough few weeks for Tottenham Hotspur as four Premier League defeats in a row have left them seven points off Aston Villa in the final Champions League spot.

Ange Postecoglou's team looks entirely different from the one that went ten games unbeaten at the start of the campaign. Still, considering it's the Australian's first season in charge, it would be unfair to chastise him too much.

Moreover, with the summer transfer window just around the corner, he'll have another opportunity to further shape the team into one he wants to manage, and based on recent reports, he could soon have an upgrade on the injury-prone Richarlison.

Tottenham transfer news

According to a report from German publication BILD (via TEAMtalk), Tottenham Hotspur are positioning themselves to hijack Liverpool's pursuit of Egypt international Omar Marmoush this summer.

The report has revealed that the Eintracht Frankfurt striker has caught the attention of both the Lilywhites and Merseysiders following his successful season in Germany's top flight, and as such, his side are preparing for his departure in the coming months.

While this is great news for the North Londoners, it won't be a cheap signing to complete, with the report claiming that Frankfurt won't authorise the sale unless offers of around €50m – £43m – are made.

It would undoubtedly represent a sizeable investment in the team from Daniel Levy and Co, but with goals seriously drying up in recent weeks, it looks like it would be one worth making.

How Marmoush compares to Richarlison

Now, if Spurs were to get ahead of the Reds and sign Marmoush in the summer, the fact that his primary and most effective, position in the team is as the central number nine would certainly threaten Richarlison's standing in the side, but how do the pair stack up against one another?

Well, from a straightforward goals and assists perspective, it's the Frankfurt ace who comes out ahead with 16 goals and six assists in 39 games, meaning he averages a goal involvement every 1.7 games.

In comparison, the former Everton star has scored 12 goals and provided four assists in 31 games so far this term, averaging a goal involvement every 1.9 games for Postecoglou's Lilywhites.

Appearances

39

31

Goals

16

12

Assists

6

4

Goal Involvements per Match

0.56

0.51

Unfortunately for the Brazilian, while putting up a bit more of a fight, he falls even further behind his potential replacement when comparing their underlying numbers.

The positives are that he produces a higher non-penalty expected goal and assists figure, scores more non-penalty goals, provides more assists, and takes more shots per 90, but in all other relevant metrics, he comes out a clear second-best.

Non-Penalty Expected Goals + Assists

0.57

0.70

Non-Penalty Goals

0.51

0.62

Assists

0.19

0.21

Shots

2.96

3.47

Shots on Target %

42.4%

41.8%

Passing Accuracy

71.7%

68.1%

Shot-Creating Action

3.08

2.05

Goal-Creating Action

0.54

0.30

Progressive Passes

2.31

2.29

Progressive Passes Received

6.61

6.39

Progressive Carries

3.08

1.57

Successful Take-Ons

1.32

0.60

Dispossessed

2.00

2.41

Ball Recoveries

3.22

2.53

For example, the Egyptian produces more progressive passes and carries, maintains a better passing accuracy, produces more shot and goal-creating actions, completes significantly more take-ons, is dispossessed less often, makes more ball recoveries, and a higher percentage of his shots are on target, all per 90.

Another crucial factor to consider is the players' injury records. While the Spurs forward has missed 31 games through injury in the last three seasons, the "tireless" Marmoush, as described by Eintracht boss Dino Toppmoller, has missed just 11 games in the same time, suggesting he'd be a far more reliable option over the course of a campaign.

Ultimately, Richarlison is a talented striker who could continue to be useful for Tottenham, but with a better injury record, a more productive season behind him, and underlying numbers that show the level of his all-round game, Levy should sign Marmoush as an upgrade in the summer.

Spurs plotting move for £45m "powerhouse" who'd send Bissouma packing

This Premier League star would prove a massive upgrade on Tottenham’s midfield.

ByAngus Sinclair May 4, 2024

Celtic ensured that they will be lifting the Scottish Premiership title for a third year in a row with a thumping 5-0 win over Kilmarnock on Wednesday night.

The Scottish giants fought off competition from their closest rivals to win the division and, after their final league game of the campaign on Saturday, they will then have the SFA Cup final to focus on.

Following the end of the 2023/24 campaign, Brendan Rodgers and his team will turn their attention to the upcoming summer transfer window and how they can make changes to the squad to improve their performance next term.

The Hoops were knocked out of the League Cup and the Champions League during the first half of the season and may want to fare better than an early exit from Europe next time around.

It will be interesting to see who Celtic decide to go ahead and pursue to bolster their squad in the summer. One player they must push to sign if possible is a forward from the English Championship.

Celtic's interest in Championship star

Earlier this year, it was reported by Football Insider that the Hoops are interested in a possible swoop to sign Blackburn Rovers attacker Sammie Szmodics.

They are not the only team in the running to land his signature, though, as the outlet claimed that Premier League side Brentford are also set to be in the mix to sign the Republic of Ireland international ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

Football Insider went on to reveal that other teams from the bottom half of the Premier League could also join Celtic and the Bees in the pursuit of the former Colchester star, which suggests that there could be a big battle for his services.

However, the same source then provided an update at the start of April that made it seem unlikely that the Scottish giants will be able to get a deal over the line, as the English teams are said to have the advantage over them given what they can offer as a fee and wages.

That second report did, though, claim that Blackburn may not be able to keep hold of the attacking midfielder amid strong interest from elsewhere, which suggests that there may be an opening to exploit this summer.

Should the Irish sensation become available as an option for the Hoops to bring in, Rodgers could finally reignite Luis Palma by snapping him up ahead of next season.

Luis Palma's inconsistent season

The Bhoys reportedly splashed out a fee of £3.5m to sign the Honduras international from Greek side Aris FC during last summer's transfer window.

He started the season in fantastic form at the top end of the pitch, with a return of five goals and nine assists in 16 appearances in the Premiership in 2023.

14 direct goal involvements in 16 matches in the league shows that the attacker was contributing on a regular basis as both a scorer and a creator for Rodgers.

The exciting winger hit the ground running in Glasgow and looked set to be a terrific signing for the Northern Irish manager. However, there is a stark contrast between his form over the last five months and the first half of the season.

Since the turn of the year, Palma has only produced two goals and one assist in 14 appearances in all competitions for the Scottish giants.

11 of those games came in the Premiership and he chipped in with one goal and zero assists for the side in that time.

This shows that his form has dropped off a cliff during the second half of the campaign and Celtic must find a way for him to hit his best levels again next season.

Appearances

27

Starts

17

Goals

6

Assists

9

Big chances created

13

Key passes per game

2.4

As you can see in the table above, Palma is a creative talent who has the quality to provide his teammates with high-quality opportunities in front of goal.

Therefore, Rodgers could, potentially, finally reignite the forward, after months of poor form, by signing a player – Szmodics – who could make the most of his creativity on the flank.

How Sammie Szmodics could reignite Luis Palma

Firstly, it is worth noting that Celtic's first-choice centre-forward for the majority of this season has underperformed in front of goal, given the quality of chances that have been created for them.

Kyogo Furuhashi has scored 13 goals from 17.49 xG in the Scottish Premiership, which is an underperformance of 4.49 – the highest of any player in the Hoops squad.

The 29-year-old attacker, who has averaged one goal every 187 minutes, has missed a staggering 23 'big chances' in the final third, to go along with his 13 goals in 33 matches.

This means that the forward was not able to make the most of Palma's creativity, which is illustrated by the winger's nine assists from 13 'big chances' created.

Szmodics, who journalist Josh Bunting claimed is "dangerous", rattled in an astonishing 27 goals from 21.41 xG for Blackburn in the Championship this season, which is an overperformance of 5.69.

The 28-year-old star scored a staggering 33 goals in all competitions for the English outfit, with six goals in three FA Cup matches alongside his 27 league strikes.

He only missed 17 'big chances' in 44 Championship appearances for Blackburn and ranked within the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the division for non-penalty goals per 90 (0.62).

These statistics suggest that Szmodics would be a far better option than Kyogo in the final third, due to his sensational finishing quality.

The Ireland international is a clinical and prolific forward who has proven that he has the ability to find the back of the net at an exceptional rate.

Alongside O'Riley: 9/10 star just helped secure the title for Celtic

The Hoops star justified his selection with a terrific performance at the top end of the pitch.

ByDan Emery May 16, 2024

Therefore, Rodgers could reignite Palma by bringing Szmodics into the club to provide the winger with a lethal attacker, who can make the most of the 'big chances' that he has proven he can create consistently.

It is now down to the club to battle it out to win the race for the Blackburn star ahead of rival interest from English sides in order to bolster his attack with a terrific new signing.

Despite amassing 90 points in the regular Championship season, Daniel Farke's Leeds United still managed to slip up at the last hurdle in the second-tier play-off final.

Losing 1-0 to Southampton will sting for a number of weeks now, with the Whites having to pick themselves up off the floor quickly in order to mount a more successful promotion charge next campaign, instead of ultimately falling short again.

A number of players will now exit the building for more luxurious pastures instead of settling for the Championship, however, with the likes of Crysencio Summerville and Wilfried Gnonto already being tipped for major moves away.

Yet, that doesn't mean Leeds have to be significantly weaker sticking it out in the second tier next season, with incomings also potentially on the horizon.

Leeds could still try for ambitious transfer

Football Insider have revealed this week that Kalvin Phillips will almost certainly be a goner from Manchester City this summer, with a 'significant' fee needed to part ways according to TEAMTalk.

As a result, Leeds could find it very difficult to re-sign their former star owing to their failure to jump back up to the Premier League.

That's the case even with the unhappy Man City man allegedly 'desperate' for a return to the home comforts of Elland Road previously, with the wantaway midfielder even present at Wembley this weekend to cheer on his beloved hometown Whites.

It sounds as if will be a tall order to get a deal over the line regardless of this obvious connection to Farke's side though, but one that isn't entirely dead in the water just yet.

How Phillips compares to Glen Kamara

Farke might view Phillips as an upgrade on a lacklustre Glen Kamara who was quiet at Wembley against Southampton, with the Finnish holding midfielder winning zero duels against Russell Martin's Saints, knowing what the 28-year-old is capable of in the Championship as was previously seen under Marcelo Bielsa.

Games played

37

Goals scored

2

Assists

2

Big chances created

6

Accurate passes per game

44.9

Tackles per game

2.6

Total duels won per game

6.4

Stats by Sofascore

Leeds lacked the grit Phillips used to provide in spades for Bielsa's men in the showpiece final, seen in the table above, with his potential addition to the side ahead of the next season perhaps acting as the necessary kick the Whites need to take the division by storm after coming up short this campaign.

The Whites would have to keep their fingers crossed that Phillips could get back to his old best donning his familiar Leeds strip, considering his hefty price tag, having once been labelled as a "monster" by former Crystal Palace player Yannick Bolasie.

Accumulating 14 goals and 13 assists for the Whites from 234 appearances before an ill-fated move to Man City materialised, Phillips would still want to take either Kamara or Ilia Gruev's spot off of them on his return even with his stock dramatically falling at the Etihad.

With Gruev standing out towards the latter stages of the season, which culminated in his ingenious free-kick finding the back of the net in the play-off semi-final second leg against Norwich City, Kamara's fixed spot could now be on shaky ground if a reunion does happen.

It's not as if Farke was afraid to drop the former Rangers man before the playoffs got underway, only starting him once in the final four clashes of the regular season, and so the Bulgarian could potentially have a new holding midfield partner in Phillips to make do with next campaign.

There will be many twists and turns in this transfer saga, with Man City wanting to recoup a lot of the £45m they forked out on Phillips two years ago, but the 28-year-old could turn down many a higher-up suitor to try and feel comfortable again back in West Yorkshire.

Leeds star who dropped a 2/10 at Wembley just cost them promotion

Leeds United felt play-off heartbreak again as Southampton returned to the Premier League at their expense.

ByKelan Sarson May 26, 2024

Jurgen Klopp's long tenure at Anfield came to an end on Sunday when Liverpool came out on top with a comfortable 2-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Premier League.

First half goals from Jarrell Quansah and Alexis Mac Allister were enough to secure all three points for the Reds on Merseyside, as they finished third in the division.

The attention will, possibly after a period of looking back on Klopp's success and legacy on Merseyside, to incoming boss Arne Slot and what he will do with the club moving forward.

With the summer transfer window now fast approaching, the Dutch head coach may already have thoughts on how he would like to shape the squad ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

Darwin Nunez axed, £180m trio sign: Arne Slot's dream XI at Liverpool

Things could be looking rather different at Anfield come August.

ByAngus Sinclair May 9, 2024

One player who he must get rid of, either from the club or as a regular starter, is midfielder Wataru Endo, after he let Jurgen Klopp down one last time with a poor display in the middle of the park.

Wataru Endo's poor performance against Wolves

The Japan international lined up in midfield alongside Mac Allister and Harvey Elliott but left a lot to be desired with his work out of possession throughout the contest, ultimately handed a distinctly average 6/10 rating by Liverpool World.

Whilst Liverpool ultimately won the match against the ten-men of Wolves, who had Nelson Semedo sent off at 0-0 after 28 minutes, Endo was still found wanting on the physical side of the game.

Minutes played

90

Ground duels won

7/18

Aerial duels won

0/0

Tackles won

4

Fouls committed

3

Dribbled past

6

As you can see in the table above, the defensive midfielder lost a whopping 11 of his 18 duels against Gary O'Neil's side, which shows that opposition players found it far too easy to get the better of him.

Endo, who also created just 0.04 xA for his teammates, was dribbled past a staggering six times. For context, no player was dribbled past more than 2.2 times per game in the division this season, which speaks to how poor the midfielder was on Sunday.

Why Arne Slot must move on from Wataru Endo

Slot must now make the former Stuttgart star a rotation or back-up player, or find a way to cash in on him this summer, as he should not be a regular starter for the Reds next term.

Signed from the Bundesliga last year, the 31-year-old enforcer has struggled with the physicality of the Premier League at times this season for the Reds.

Endo ended the top-flight campaign with a duel success rate of 44% and a ground duel success rate of just 42%, which shows that opponents got the better of him more often than not.

The experienced battler, who did not register a single assist in the division, was almost dribbled past as many times per game (1.4) as he completed tackles per game (1.7), which illustrates how flaky he was in the middle of the park for Liverpool.

Manchester City's Rodri won 59% of his duels and Arsenal's Declan Rice won 52% of his battles, whilst both players were dribbled past less than once per match on average, and this shows the level of physicality that is required from a player at the base of a title-contending midfield.

Doubters to believers: A tribute to Liverpool's Jurgen Klopp

Anfield will say goodbye to its esteemed manager after nine years of every emotion imaginable.

ByAngus Sinclair May 19, 2024

Therefore, Slot should look to get rid of Endo from the starting XI next season and potentially look to recruit a stronger defensive midfielder to anchor the side.

An FA Cup triumph helped to end the season on a positive note, but in reality, it was a poor campaign for Manchester United.

Erik ten Hag's side finished eighth in the Premier League, with a goal difference of negative one and 14 losses under their belt.

There have been plenty of poor performers for the Red Devils over the last ten months, but one player whose stock has plummeted the furthest is Casemiro, and based on recent reports, he could soon be replaced.

Manchester United transfer news

According to a recent report from the Spanish newspaper Sport, Manchester United are now clear to pursue Barcelona star Frenkie De Jong, as they are now the only club still keen on signing him this summer.

This turn of events is undoubtedly good news for the three-time European Champions, but a lack of rival suitors does not mean this will be a cheap deal to complete, as the cash-strapped Catalans are said to still value the Dutchman at around £85m.

That said, with how quickly Casemiro has deteriorated this season, it might be a deal worth doing, even at that price.

How De Jong stacks up with Casemiro

Now, it should be remembered that just last season, Casemiro was even called the signing of the season by former United ace Gary Neville, which makes his recent dropoff all the more surprising and alarming.

Neville's co-pundit, Jamie Carragher, has been particularly scathing of the Brazilian, telling the Covering Liverpool podcast that his "legs have gone" back in October, before telling the midfielder to "call it a day" live on Sky Sports following his performance against Crystal Palace last month.

So, with the former Real Madrid star going from hero to zero in no time at all, how does De Jong stack up with him?

Is it as comfortable a win for the Dutchman as popular opinion would have us believe? Well, when it comes to their underlying numbers, the simple answer is yes.

Non-penalty Expected Goals + Assists

0.16

0.20

Progressive Passes

9.23

5.09

Progressive Carries

3.79

0.55

Progressive Passes Received

2.09

1.64

Passing Accuracy

92.1%

81.8%

Shot-Creating Actions

3.30

1.86

Goal-Creating Actions

0.50

0.18

Tackles

2.36

3.77

Interceptions

0.77

0.77

Clearances

1.54

3.23

Successful Take-Ons

0.71

0.41

Ball Recoveries

6.43

6.05

For example, the "phenomenal" 27-year-old, as described by talent scout Jacek Kulig, comes out ahead in progressive passes, progressive carries, progressive passes received, passing accuracy, shot and goal-creating actions, successful take-ons and ball recoveries, all per 90.

In his defence, the United star edges it for non-penalty expected goals, assists, tackles, and clearances per 90.

However, there is no reason why the former Ajax star couldn't match the Brazilian's defensive numbers if he was asked to play deeper, especially as he already makes the same number of interceptions, is five years his junior, and already makes more ball recoveries, which is arguably more important for a ball-dominant side.

Ultimately, when looking at his underlying numbers compared to Casemiro's, it's hard to disagree with data analyst Ben Mattinson's assertion that De Jong would be a "serious level raiser" at Old Trafford.

Fabrizio Romano drops Man Utd exit concern regarding £240,000-a-week star

Paul Scholes loves him as a player.

ByHenry Jackson Jun 3, 2024

Therefore, even with the high price, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Co simply must sign the Dutch midfielder this summer.

Glasgow Rangers are at the start of what could be a summer filled with plenty of transfer activity under Philippe Clement.

Jefte and Oscar Cortes have already signed on for next season as Clement is adamant there won't be a repeat of last term, where the Light Blues blew their chance to win a stunning treble with some below-par displays over the final few weeks.

The philosophy appears to be signing players who have yet to hit their peak, gaining vital experience in Scotland, which could see the Gers make millions in the transfer window further down the line.

It isn’t just unknown markets that Clement is targeting players from, however, as there seems to be plenty of progress on a potential deal closer to home…

Rangers edge closer to signing Scottish midfield talent

Connor Barron is a player who has a huge future in the professional game. In January, Clement discussed a few potential transfers, but remained coy on Barron with regard to making a move for the youngster.

Back then, he had six months left on his deal and could have either signed a pre-contract agreement with the Light Blues or joined for a small fee that month. Nothing materialised in the end, however.

Fast-forward until now, and it appears as though Rangers could be edging closer to bringing him to Glasgow.

According to the Daily Record, Barron looks set to make a decision on his future next week, as there are offers on the table from clubs in England, Italy and Rangers.

Hellas Verona and Bologna are the two Serie A sides keen, while several English Championship sides have shown interest, including Wayne Rooney’s Plymouth Argyle, as the midfielder is clearly in high demand.

Clement will be desperate to add to his homegrown contingent, especially after losing Ryan Jack and could potentially lose Scott Wright this summer.

The Belgian will be doing everything he can to lure Barron to Rangers in the coming weeks and with European football plus the chance to win trophies as major incentives, this could be a deciding factor in his decision.

Jack found himself in a similar situation seven years ago before enjoying a productive (if injury prone) spell in Glasgow and Barron could be the ideal replacement for the Scottish international.

Ryan Jack’s Rangers statistics

The 2023/24 season summed up Jack’s fortunes over the previous few years; solid when given a chance in the starting XI, but far too injury prone to maintain any level of consistency.

This was a real shame as Jack, in his prime, was an excellent midfielder, capable of controlling the game, defending well along with chipping in with the odd goal or two.

Season

Games

Goals

2023/24

22

2

2022/23

36

2

2021/22

22

1

2020/21

24

2

2019/20

39

5

2018/19

46

4

2017/18

21

0

The former Aberdeen talent made just 22 appearances last term, of which only 12 were in the starting XI as injuries derailed his campaign.

Overall, the Scot made a total of 210 appearances for the Ibrox side between 2017 and 2024, scoring 16 goals during that time. Who can forget the opener in the Scottish Cup final against Hearts in 2022? Or the sublime effort against Kilmarnock during the unbeaten Premiership winning season in 2020/21? Goals which will be remembered fondly.

Clement is clearly showing no signs of sentiment, as not offering Jack an extended deal is the correct move for both parties, especially if the manager wishes to add some younger, fresher legs to the first team squad.

Barron has boundless energy which could be ideal in the heart of the Rangers midfield next season.

Connor Barron’s 2023/24 season in numbers

The 21-year-old was a key member of the Dons squad last term, making 42 appearances across all competitions, adding four goal contributions in the process.

While he was a regular in the Premiership, it was his displays in European competition which may have caught Clement’s eye last season.

The Dons secured a place in the group stages of the Europa Conference League and Barron was one of their few shining lights. Indeed, among his teammates, the youngster ranked fifth for accurate passes per game (18.8), second for key passes per game (1.2), second for accurate long balls per game (2.5) and third for tackles per game (2.2), showcasing his talents across a multitude of metrics.

This could be a big plus for Rangers, especially with the club now a regular in Europe, and it has been a long time since they have had a Scot in the centre of their midfield controlling games on the continent.

Analyst John Walker was quick to sing his praises when profiling the player back in January amid the links to Rangers. He hailed Barron as being someone who could “play in right spaces” along with describing the player as a “tough tackler” and “relentless”, again, characteristics that several of the first team squad lacked last season.

The move really is a no-brainer, especially considering how well his profile would fit into the current squad and because of the vision that Clement has for the Light Blues going forward.

Barron looks set to have a wonderful career in the game and joining Rangers would allow him to build up his reputation even more, giving the 50-year-old a licence to potentially cash in several years down the line for a substantial profit.

Having won 13 caps for the Scotland U21 side, it surely won't be long before Steve Clarke brings him into the senior setup, especially if a few members of the team retire after the 2024 European Championship.

The Dons sensation could add some extra bite into the heart of the midfield if he made the move to Rangers, replacing Jack seamlessly.

Rangers lining up swoop for "relentless" star who'd help Cantwell flourish

The Light Blues are reportedly keen on a deal to sign the young midfielder this summer.

ByDan Emery Jun 13, 2024

The best thing is, he won't be expecting mammoth wages either, which could allow the manager to utilise funds on other areas of the squad which need improvement.

The next few weeks should provide more clarity when it comes to where Barron’s future lies, but a move to Glasgow is perhaps the best option for him if he wishes to continue his wonderful development.

Considering Aston Villa were languishing in the Championship only five years ago, it's a pretty staggering feat to be mustering the troops ahead of a campaign in the Champions League next season.

The ambition on display at Villa Park over the past several years has been nothing short of brilliant, with Unai Emery the architect of the success. Villa are currently weaving around Premier League profit and sustainability (PSR) restrictions but doing so with the steady hand of a craftsman simply tackling a minor blemish in a grand scheme.

Signings are being readied, details being discussed, targets being scrutinised. One thing that the Villans still need to address, however, is the pressing need to provide Ollie Watkins with some supplementary firepower up front, especially with Jhon Duran hoping to complete a transfer to Chelsea.

Villa lining up new striker

According to Sky Sports Germany's Florian Plettenberg, Aston Villa have joined Chelsea in the race to sign Hoffenheim's Maximilian Beier, showing "concrete interest" after gathering information over the past several days.

The 21-year-old forward has a release clause of €30m (£25m) that is active for the current transfer window, and Hoffenheim may not be willing to talk business in the years to come.

Given that the unerring transfer specialist David Ornstein has confirmed that the Midlands club is free to bolster the squad after circumventing PSR issues, this is certainly one to keep an eye on.

Imagine Max Beier at Villa Park

Watkins stands proud as one of the Premier League's finest forwards, scoring 19 goals and adding 13 assists in the division last time, earning the Playmaker of the Year award to showcase his multi-talented style.

1.

Ollie Watkins

13

2.

Cole Palmer

11

3.

Kevin de Bruyne

10

3.

Morgan Gibbs-White

10

3.

Anthony Gordon

10

Emery's tactical principles at Villa have seen the squad maintain a high line and create overloads in the centre of the park, enabling them to overpower and subdue opponents who hold the ball, overturning possession and shifting the gears to advance into the final third.

Beier would excel in such a system, having scored 16 goals from 29 starting appearances in the Bundesliga last term, praised for his "exceptional" shooting ability by journalist Antonio Mango and ranked among the top 14% of forwards across Europe this past year for non-penalty goals scored per 90, as per FBref.

This stands as a testament to his integration after spending several years cutting his teeth on loan in the German Bundesliga 2. Speaking of the 21-year-old's traits, Germany icon Miroslav Klose said: "He runs an incredible amount, works for the team and rewards himself with goals. I'm sure Julian Nagelsmann has him on his radar."

Like Watkins, the Germany international is by no means reliant on his shooting skills, even described as "much more than just a goalscorer" by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

His swift-transitioning pace would allow him to surge forward and capitalise on the counter, supplied from behind by that overloaded central circle that has reclaimed Villa possession and, through sharp organisation, crafted a pattern from which to play into Beier, driving on goal.

This, moreover, would work a treat alongside Watkins, whose creative flair would provide Beier with a non-stop flow of playmaking support, with the Three Lions star benefitting from his partner's electric movements.

Emery must secure Beier's signature this summer. There may not be a better option on the market right now, and the club is free to move after overcoming PSR struggles.

Aston Villa hit the jackpot on young star whose value has soared 3,000%

Unai Emery looks set to sell a teenager for a staggering profit…

ByRoss Kilvington Jun 25, 2024

It may not feel international escapades are dominating the footballing stratosphere at present but clubs are working night and day to identify and secure signings ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

Tottenham Hotspur, despite having a slow start to the window, have been doing exactly that, with technical director Johan Lange re-signing Timo Werner on loan for the forthcoming year, with a buy option included.

Moreover, Spurs have moved to close in on talented Leeds United star Archie Gray after the 18-year-old's £35m transfer to Brentford fell through. The Athletic's David Ornstein has confirmed that discussions are underway and all parties are optimistic that a move will be completed.

Gray is not the only midfielder being fought for, however, with another report suggesting that Daniel Levy could be ramping up the gas in the market…

Spurs transfer news

Chelsea are close to sealing the signing of Keirnan Dewsbury-Hall from Leicester City, landing the midfielder for a fee of £30m.

According to The Times, Tottenham might have received a major boost in their long-time pursuit of Conor Gallagher following the aforementioned deal, with Enzo Maresca's side bloating their midfield with Dewsbury-Hall's arrival.

Gallagher has just one year remaining on his deal at Stamford Bridge and could be sold to avoid them losing him for nothing if terms cannot be agreed upon this summer. Tottenham are reluctant to meet Chelsea's £50m valuation but recent events suggest an agreement could be around the corner.

Why Spurs should now sign Conor Gallagher

Tottenham were impressive last season… in parts. There's no question that Ange Postecoglou will demand further improvements from his team, though, and bringing in a player such as Gallagher could make all the difference.

Matches played

37

Matches started

37

Goals

5

Assists

7

Pass completion

92%

Touches per game

70.4

Key passes per game

1.4

Ball recoveries per game

6.0

Tackles per game

2.3

Dribbles per game

1.0 (68%)

Duels won per game

5.7 (50%)

As the table shows you above, Gallagher was immense last term, calling upon his all-action skill set to make a marked impact in Chelsea's first team. Mauricio Pochettino called the 25-year-old "priceless", but that notion appears to have left with the Argentine, for Dewsbury-Hall is headed toward west London with haste.

It looks like Yves Bissouma will retain his No. 6 spot at Spurs but Gallagher – and Gray – could aid him, though the Chelsea man's finest football is found when he plays with unfettered freedom, allowed to roam and strut his stuff across the park.

He would serve as the conduit between the engine room and those plying their trade further forward. He would enhance James Maddison, stabilising the ground from which the playmaker can launch balls forward; he would provide energy and lift the tempo to provide Heung-min Son with the security to dart up the pitch and unleash shots on goal, or pick out peers with stunning passing bred from inborn effective movements.

But most of all, Gallagher could be the key to unlocking fellow Lilywhites transfer target Eberechi Eze, who, according to talkSPORT, is seriously being considered down N17.

With a £60m release clause, the nimble England star would be a brilliant addition to Postecoglou's squad, ranking among the top 13% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Premier League last season for goals scored and shot-creating actions, and the top 8% for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref.

Eze's silky, sharp and stylish approach would offer something new at Tottenham, with his elite ball-carrying ability and ever-improving shooting skills marking him as a special talent capable of lifting the roof at the club. He's also positional fluid, with his ability on the left perhaps coming in handy if Son is called upon up front again.

Attacking midfield

17

8

2

Left winger

9

3

4

Right winger

1

0

0

Gallagher covered so much ground for Chelsea in the Premier League last season and his unceasing energy levels would be perfect for Eze, allowing him to roam forward and take on defenders with the knowledge that one of the division's most robust forces protects him from the centre.

Moreover, the £50k-per-week west Londonder would also provide the Eagles phenom with a constant flow of creative support. In turn, Eze would showcase his dynamism and tenacity by chipping in across all areas for Tottenham – he averaged 5.0 ball recoveries, 1.3 tackles and won 6.1 duels per top-flight fixture last season, as per Sofascore.

With Postecoglou seeking to implement an aggressive, front-footed, and fluent style, such signings could make all the difference. Both excel in their trade but possess a melange of skills to free them from being pigeonholed into any one category. Instead, they would charge the Spurs squad and fling it into the upper echelon of the Premier League hall.

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The summer transfer window is officially open for business and Celtic's recruitment team will be hard at work to make additions to the squad over the coming weeks.

Brendan Rodgers lifted two trophies in his first season back at Parkhead, securing the Scottish Premiership title and the SFA Cup, and will be looking to kick on and win more silverware next term.

Bringing in new players can help a team to improve in one position but it can also help other players to thrive if they have the right qualities to elevate their new teammates.

With that in mind, Rodgers could reignite Luis Palma on the left wing by signing a striker who has the quality to make the most of the forward's high level of chance creation.

Luis Palma's creative quality for Celtic

The Premiership champions snapped the Honduras international up from Aris last summer and he enjoyed a fantastic first half of the season.

He racked up an eye-catching tally of five goals and nine assists in 16 outings in the Scottish top-flight before the turn of the year, as the exciting forward showcased his ability to make a big impact in the final third.

Palma then followed that up with two goals and zero assists in 12 appearances in the division, which shows that there was a drop-off in production this year.

Appearances

28

Starts

18

Goals

7

Big chances created

14

Chances created

67

Assists

9

As you can see in the table above, though, his lack of assists may have been a product of his teammates' wasteful finishing in the final third, as he only earned nine assists from 14 'big chances' created.

The striker Celtic could sign to reignite Luis Palma

Rodgers could now reignite Palma by securing a deal to sign reported transfer target Theo Bair from Motherwell to bolster the club's attacking options.

The Canada international has the potential to be a lethal partner for the Honduran magician based on his form in the Premiership during the 2023/24 campaign.

Bair, who manager Stuart Kettlewell claimed has "exciting" development still to go through, plundered 15 goals in the division last season, and only missed 11 'big chances'.

The 24-year-old ace, who earned a spot in the PFA Scotland Team of the Year, was clinical in front of goal and rarely passed up an opportunity to find the back of the net.

Appearances

38

38

Goals

15

14

Big chances missed

11

24

Conversion rate

21%

14%

Aerial duel success rate

41%

26%

Whereas, as you can see in the table above, Kyogo missed a staggering 24 'big chances' in the Premiership and scored fewer goals than the Motherwell star.

These statistics suggest that the 15-goal marksman would be far more likely to make the most of the high-quality 'big chances' that Palma has the ability to consistently create, based on their respective form last season.

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Therefore, Rodgers could reignite the former Super League wizard by signing a centre-forward with the finishing nous to ensure that his creativity does not go to waste.

Glasgow Rangers know that the clock is now ticking at Ibrox as they have less than a month to prepare for their first game of the Scottish Premiership season.

Rangers travel away from Glasgow in the opening match of the 2024/25 campaign and may want to make further signings to bolster their squad before that meeting.

Head of recruitment Nils Koppen and Philippe Clement have already worked to bring in seven new recruits to add further quality and depth to the manager's options.

Liam Kelly, Mohammed Diomande, Jefte, Connor Barron, Clinton Nsiala, and Hamza Igamane have all signed for the Light Blues on permanent deals, whilst Oscar Cortes has been snapped up on loan.

Meanwhile, John Lundstram, Ryan Jack, Jon McLaughlin, Kemar Roofe, and Borna Barisic all departed as free agents at the end of May, making room for signings to come in.

Hearts

(A)

Motherwell

(H)

Ross County

(H)

Celtic

(A)

Dundee United

(A)

Igamane was the most recent addition for the Scottish giants and it will be intriguing to find out where Clement plans to use the versatile star in his side.

Where Hamza Igamane could thrive for Rangers

The 21-year-old attacker has been snapped up on a permanent deal from FAR Rabat in his home country of Morocco, and this is his first adventure in Europe.

It may take him time to adapt to Scottish football and to playing in a new country and, therefore, there should not be huge expectations of him in the immediate future.

Igamane predominantly played as a centre-forward for FAR Rabat but throwing him in as the team's go-to number nine as a 21-year-old who is moving to Europe for the first time, could be a big gamble, particularly when he was not prolific for his previous club.

The Morocco U23 international scored 16 goals in 58 appearances in all competitions and seven goals in 20 league games during the 2023/24 campaign.

This does not suggest that he has the goalscoring prowess to come in and immediately lead the line as a reliable scorer for Clement in the Premiership.

However, Igamane has also been utilised as a right winger in his career and his statistics from the Botola Pro league last term suggest that he has the attributes to thrive in that role for the Gers.

Appearances

20

Starts

16

Goals

7

Dribbles completed per game

1.9

Dribble success rate

64%

Fouled per game

1.1

As you can see in the table above, the 21-year-old ace, who registered six assists, was a dynamic forward for FAR Rabat with his fantastic ability to beat opposition players or draw fouls with his dribbling skills.

Meanwhile, no Rangers player managed more than Ridvan Yilmaz's 1.3 completed dribbles per game in the Premiership last season, which illustrates how impressive Igamane's dribbling was for his previous team.

His dribbling skills, alongside his ability to chip in as a scorer and a creator of goals, suggest that he could be an excellent right winger for the Gers as the new signing could drive down the flank to make things happen in the final third.

Who could play behind him as a dream partner at right-back? Amid speculation around James Tavernier's future at Ibrox, the Gers have been linked with a new full-back.

Rangers' interest in Nigerian speedster

Earlier this month, it was reported that Rangers are one of three teams interested in a deal to sign Fenerbahce dynamo Bright Osayi-Samuel this summer.

Premier League sides Southampton, who have just been promoted from the Championship, and Wolverhampton Wanderers are also keen on the Nigeria international.

At the end of June, Alan Nixon claimed on his Patreon, via RangersNews, that the Turkish giants are prepared to allow him to return to England for the right price this summer, which could extend to Scotland if the Gers decide to swoop in for him.

However, the reporter did not reveal exactly how much the Super Lig side are looking for in order to part ways with the former Queens Park Rangers star.

Osayi-Samuel could be a much-needed signing if Tavernier moves on from Ibrox. The Scottish Sun recently reported that Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah are keeping tabs on the right-back and that he could be one of the players sold this summer.

Why Rangers should sign Bright Osayi-Samuel

The Gers should swoop to sign the Fenerbahce star ahead of the 2024/25 campaign as he could come in as a dream partner for Igamane down the right flank.

Osayi-Samuel has proven himself to be a strong defender who can also progress play through his surging runs down the wing and reliable passing during his time in Turkey.

During the 2023/24 Super Lig season, the 26-year-old full-back won 58% of his duels and made 2.5 tackles and interceptions per game across 23 appearances, which shows that he can win the majority of his physical battles to break up opposition attacks.

The £21k-per-week star, who was once hailed for his "blistering" pace by former boss Mark Warburton, also completed 87% of his attempted passes, and 85% of his passes during the previous league campaign, which speaks to his reliability in possession.

Pass accuracy (85%)

Top 12%

Progressive passes (3.88)

Top 37%

Progressive carries (3.15)

Top 17%

Successful take-ons (1.94)

Top 11%

Passes into the final third (0.97)

Top 45%

Progressive carrying distance (110.13 yards)

Top 31%

As you can see in the table above, Osayi-Samuel has previously proven, in Europe, that he can consistently progress play through his passing and carrying.

This means that he can constantly get the ball forward from right-back and this could help Igamane to thrive as he would not need to drop deep to get involved in games.

Osayi-Samuel could use his qualities to feed the winger the ball in dangerous positions to allow the 21-year-old star to have plenty of chances to showcase his dribbling ability in the final third, with the aim of making things happen in the final third.

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Therefore, Igamane and the Nigerian ace could end up being a dream pairing down the right flank if that is the route Clement decides to go down next season.