All posts by z3u9t.icu

Not much can often be taken away from pre-season friendlies, but Sunderland’s winless streak continued this summer against Hull City last time out.

The Tigers hosting the pre-season affair would come away from the contest as slim 2-1 victors, with Simon Adingra’s opener for the Black Cats not enough to sway the tie in their favour.

The alarm bells aren’t being sounded just yet, however, as it’s to be expected that Regis Le Bris’ troops will look somewhat disjointed, especially as the barrage of new signings through the door attempt to become more and more used to each other on the pitch.

More fresh buys will soon be chucked into the mix, as well, as Sunderland’s flash summer spending shows no sign of stopping.

Sunderland consider deal for £26m star

Reports are now even suggesting that the Premier League newcomers are closing in on an Anthony Patterson replacement in goal.

Indeed, NEC Nijmegen goalkeeper Robin Roefs is set to leave the Netherlands behind for pastures new on Wearside, following in the footsteps of Granit Xhaka, who has finally sealed a switch from Bayer Leverkusen to Le Bris and Co. after tonnes of rampant speculation.

Sunderland could soon make it a hat-trick of exciting purchases by landing Galatasaray star Barış Alper Yılmaz, with a development by Turkish outlet Sabah Spor via X revealing that the Black Cats have made contact regarding a move, having been knocking on the Super Lig outfit’s door over a potential £26m deal.

Gabriel Sara is also allegedly on the Premier League side’s radar from the Turkish giants, but if Sunderland were to press on and snap up Yilmaz’s signature, they might well be about to pick up their next version of Amad Diallo, as another direct and entertaining attacker, like the Ivorian, calls the Stadium of Light home.

Why Yilmaz can be Sunderland's next Amad

Of course, Sunderland would be able to win Yilmaz outright, with Amad slipping through their fingers, unfortunately, after a breakneck loan stint at the club.

In total for the Black Cats, during the 2022/23 season, the now Manchester United first-teamer would collect a sublime 14 goals and four assists from 42 appearances, as his short-term heroics nearly saw promotion to the Premier League become a reality.

Often, the goals put away by Amad during his loan spell on Wearside were audacious, with Yilmaz also prone to an eye-catching strike himself, if this link-up play above with the aforementioned Sara is anything to go by, alongside the skilful effort being hammered home.

Last season in Super Lig action, the Galatasaray number 53 would chip in with similar numbers to Amad’s Sunderland stay down the Ivorian’s trusty right flank, with 12 goals and three assists registered just in the league, as well as showing off his class in the Europa League with a further goal and two assists tallied up.

Shots

3.70

2.34

Shot-creating actions

4.86

4.61

Progressive passes

2.43

2.81

Progressive carries

5.09

5.44

Successful take-ons

1.50

1.98

Touches in attacking penalty area

6.71

6.16

Progressive passes received

14.11

10.31

This blistering form in Turkey means he’s on the same pedestal as Amad in the here and now, too, with more shots and shot-creating actions managed by Yilmaz over the last year, when weighed up next to his Red Devils counterpart.

Moreover, it’s clear from the table above that both players get a buzz out of being gung-ho attackers, with progressive carries a particular standout aspect of both of their enthusiastic games.

His impressive skillset when marauding forward has even seen Turkish journalist Uğur Karakullukçu label the 25-year-old as an “animal”, alongside being donned as a “very special” talent ready for the Premier League by ex-coach Selçuk İnan.

There is a risk involved, considering £26m is a lot to fork out on an attacker not used to the Premier League. But, Sunderland’s gamble on Amad once upon a time paid off tremendously, with the hope that this deal is similarly golden in helping the Black Cats comfortably avoid relegation.

Finally replace Jobe: Sunderland make contact over "incredible" £26m star

Sunderland could be about to replace Jobe Bellingham by signing this entertaining £26m ace.

ByKelan Sarson Jul 30, 2025

Newcastle United have been locked in purgatory this summer, with the feel-good factor of last term melting away with the hopes of signing so many top targets.

Last season’s Carabao Cup champions have added Anthony Elanga to their ranks for a £55m fee, solving one of Eddie Howe’s biggest problems, but the list of failed efforts for new first-team players is long, and Alexander Isak is now a wantaway striker too.

Though Newcastle are struggling to identify and lure in a new number nine, The Athletic’s David Ornstein has made it clear that “there’s a very good chance” Isak leaves the club this month.

Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson is the latest man to be linked with a move to the Newcastle centre-forward seat, but that’s not the only area of concern as Howe prepares for the looming campaign.

Newcastle lining up new targets

The only thing for it is to get back up from the wayside. Manchester United have won the race for Benjamin Sesko, the RB Leipzig striker favouring the Red Devils and that deal is progressing to the closing stages.

With Isak still anticipated to be leaving St. James’ Park, Newcastle have turned to other targets, but they also need to sign a defender this summer, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi at the top of Howe’s shopping list once again.

The Chronicle’s Lee Ryder has revealed that claims of an official approach are wide of the mark, but that the Toon’s interest is genuine as they push for a new centre-back.

With Liverpool also interested in signing the £40m-rated defender, Newcastle will be wary of falling flat in yet another Premier League transfer tussle.

And that’s why an alternative option has been earmarked.

Newcastle eyeing Guehi alternative

Well, according to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Newcastle have reached a verbal agreement with Malick Thiaw of AC Milan, though wrestling him away from the Serie A side will prove a tough test indeed.

Thiaw is one of Italian football’s most talented defenders, and the Rossoneri know it. Sky Germany have also made it known that the German, 23, has already been at the centre of a rejected €30m (£26m) bid from the Magpies.

Previous reports suggest that Milan are holding out for a deal in the region of £30m.

Why Malick Thiaw would be perfect for Newcastle

Over the past few seasons, Sven Botman has gone from being one of the best centre-backs in the Premier League to a luckless player whose fitness woes have restricted his playing time.

Heading back into the Champions League, defensive depth is essential, and Thiaw would be perfect on that front. The 23-year-old has completed 85 appearances since leaving boyhood club Schalke two years ago, winning the Supercoppa Italiana last term.

Given the ostensible figures involved, Thiaw might actually prove to be a better signing for Newcastle than Sesko would be. He’s certainly not the finished product, but then neither is the 22-year-old Sesko, whose signature comes attached to a jaw-dropping £74m fee despite only scoring 13 goals across 33 Bundesliga matches last season.

Though it is important that Newcastle sign a striker, is there any tangible evidence that Sesko would prove an auspicious signing for a Tyneside outfit in need of instant results, especially if Isak leaves?

One factor to note is that Thiaw has suffered his share of injury problems over the past few years, though not to the detriment of his progress.

24/25

36

2

7

23/24

85

2

16

21/22

32

3

6

20/21

13

1

3

Considered to have the capacity to be a “monster in the air” by journalist Martino Puccio, the German has the sinewy physicality to succeed as a high-class Premier League defender.

Indeed, he won 64% of his aerial battles in Serie A last season, emphasising that point. Guehi, curiously, won only 54% of his aerial duels in the previous Premier League edition.

Moreover, he ranked among the top 6% of centre-halves across Europe’s top five leagues last season for pass completion and the top 14% for progressive passes per 90, as per FBref, with his crisp and enterprising passing game drawing Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate as his most statistically comparable player.

Talking of Liverpool: AC Milan played out a pre-season friendly against Arne Slot’s Reds toward the end of July, and Thiaw produced a stunning performance, winning all six of his duels and making five tackles, as per Sofascore.

Now we know that this current iteration of the defender – who Milan so desperately want to keep – has made considerable progress to establish himself as one of his outfit’s most talented and proven players against the highest calibre of opponent that English football has to offer.

What of Sesko? Man United previously spent £72m on signing a similarly young and talented striker in Rasmus Hojlund, after all.

All this is not to say that Newcastle don’t need a centre-forward. Newcastle absolutely need a centre-forward. But they need the right striker, and splurging £74m on Sesko would come laced with all the perils.

Transfer Focus

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

Shrewdly spending around £30m on Thiaw, however, to complete Howe’s line ahead of a multi-front campaign? Now that’s good business, and the Newcastle that we’ve come to know over the past several years.

He’s an Isak upgrade: Newcastle chasing “one of the best 9s in the world”

Newcastle’s bid for a centre-forward could be set to take another twist…

2 ByJoe Nuttall Aug 7, 2025

Crystal Palace now hold a strong interest in signing a “talented” goal-scoring defender, and they could be set to battle a fellow UEFA Conference League club for his signature, according to a report.

Palace demoted to Conference League after unsuccessful appeal

It should be a time of celebration for Palace, having recently won the Community Shield for the first time, but UEFA’s recent verdict has certainly dampened the mood somewhat, and a strong statement has been issued in response.

“It appears that certain clubs, organisations and individuals have a unique privilege and power.

“This growing and unhealthy influence has shattered the hopes and dreams of Crystal Palace supporters, and does not bode well for aspirational teams all over Europe competing to progress when rules and sanctions are unevenly applied in the most flagrant way.”

Crystal Palace may sign "extraordinary" £30m+ UCL player in Eze swap deal

The Eagles have now set their sights on a Champions League player.

ByDominic Lund Aug 13, 2025

Not only is being denied the right to compete in the Europa League a blow for the supporters, who would have been dreaming about trips to some of Europe’s biggest clubs, but it could also have an impact on the Eagles’ summer transfer plans.

Playing in the more prestigious Europa League is a more attractive proposition for potential new signings, and Oliver Glasner’s side may need to bring in a few new arrivals before the end of the month, given the doubts over Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi’s futures.

Should Eze and their captain move on, it will be vital for Crystal Palace to bring in a new attacking midfielder and centre-back, but they are also keen to bolster their options at right-back.

That is according to a report from Italy, which states Crystal Palace now hold strong interest in signing Cagliari defender Nadir Zortea, but there may be competition for his signature, with Fiorentina also keen.

Should the Italian club successfully navigate their Conference League play-off match, they could be one of the Eagles’ opponents next season, and they are also set to do battle over the signature of Zortea, with a deal potentially set to amount to at least €10m (£9m).

"Talented" Zortea could be solid Munoz alternative

Daniel Munoz was a vital player for Glasner last season, with the right-back proving himself as a real threat on the front foot by picking up four goals and six assists in the Premier League.

As Palace are set to embark on a European campaign, they will need to strengthen their squad depth, and they may want to bring in a new right-back in a similar mould to Munoz, with the Cagliari defender fitting the bill.

Much like the 29-year-old, Zortea is impressive going forward, and displayed a keen eye for goal in the Serie A last season, finding the back of the net six times in 35 outings.

Having also been lauded as “talented” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, the Italian could be the ideal option to come in and provide competition for Munoz’s starting spot.

After announcing the arrival of Mateus Fernandes, West Ham United are reportedly readying an offer to sign an attacking reinforcement who Graham Potter loves.

Fernandes "excited" by West Ham move

Following a disastrous start to the season, West Ham have welcomed a much-needed reinforcement in Fernandes. The midfielder has officially arrived from Southampton in a deal worth around £42m with add-ons and will now be looking to make his mark on Potter’s side as soon as possible.

Speaking for the first time since putting pen to paper, Fernandes told West Ham’s official website: “I’m very happy to be here. I’m very excited to play for West Ham. I think it’s a big step for me.

“It’s a big Club, a massive Club. The project, the stadium, the city, everything. I want to try to play football, enjoy football, not just run and try to score, but try to play good football. I think the most important thing is to try to give everything every day.”

After welcoming the midfield star, West Ham are not done there. Reports are also indicating that they’re on course to sign Soungoutou Magassa from AS Monaco to continue their late spending.

It should come as no surprise that those at the London Stadium are attempting a late spending spree. The Hammers have endured a nightmare start to the season, losing three from three, and are suddenly among the favourites to face the drop.

Potter will hope that recent additions finally turn his tenure around and he avoids yet another London sacking. What’s more, any pressure to turn things around will only increase if West Ham move for a winger that he reportedly loves before the transfer window slams shut.

West Ham readying Wimmer offer

As reported by BILD and relayed by Sport Witness, West Ham are now readying an offer to sign Patrick Wimmer from Wolfsburg this week. Potter is reportedly a fan of the winger and he has been dreaming of a Premier League move for some time.

Fernandes upgrade: West Ham to submit bid for another big-money midfielder

The experienced international would be an excellent signing for Graham Potter and West Ham.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Aug 29, 2025

Whether Wimmer is the answer to their problems or a repeat of recent transfer flops such as Crysencio Summerville and Niclas Fullkrug is the big question. One look at the numbers should spark concern for West Ham.

Minutes

1.770

786

Goals

3

1

Assists

4

1

Key Passes

24

17

Former Manchester City goalkeeper Stefan Ortega reiterated that Wimmer still has work to do, but also had plenty of praise for his former Arminia Bielefeld teammate, telling reporters: “There’s something crazy and care-free about him; he’s got a youthful folly. If he sticks at it and works on getting some of the basics right, then he’ll be even more valuable.”

There’s no doubt that signing the 24-year-old would be a risk and at this stage, West Ham simply can’t afford to get things wrong in the transfer market.

Manchester United have conducted some excellent business in the transfer market this summer – addressing the problems that have plagued the side in recent times.

Ruben Amorim has had his first off-season to get his feet under the table, allowing him to make the changes he’s desired since taking the reins in November last year.

He’s made a beeline to the attacking department this window, a decision which is understandable given the measly tally of 44 Premier League goals in their 38 outings throughout 2024/25.

Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have all been added to the Red Devils ranks, with the trio having the opportunity to nail down their starting roles in the side for years to come.

However, one area of the pitch is in desperate need of added investment before the window closes, with numerous players already in their hierarchy’s sights.

Man Utd’s hunt for a new midfielder this summer

Over the last couple of days, Stuttgart star Angelo Stiller has emerged on United’s shortlist, potentially taking the next step in his career after making 32 appearances in the Bundesliga last season.

Despite the interest in the German’s signature, reports of a move to Old Trafford for the 24-year-old appear to be wide of the mark – with other alternatives subsequently being drawn up.

One player the Red Devils have made a move for before the transfer deadline is Chelsea star Andrey Santos, according to GIVEMESPORT’s latest update.

They claim that Amorim’s side have requested information over a deal for the Brazilian, potentially handing him added game time for his development in the Premier League.

The report also states that talks have been ongoing due to the potential departure of Alejandro Garnacho, which could hand the Red Devils a boost in their pursuit of the midfielder.

Why United’s latest target would be perfect for Bruno

Given the additions of Cunha and Mbeumo to the number ten role, captain Bruno Fernandes will likely have to operate in a deeper role throughout the 2025/26 campaign.

The 30-year-old featured in such a role in the opening day defeat to Arsenal, but still managed to produce numerous impressive figures within attacking areas.

He registered five chances created at Old Trafford – the most of any player on the pitch – showcasing the talent he possesses when driving through the lines in Amorim’s side.

Bruno’s tally of 37 combined goals and assists last campaign proves he’ll be crucial in any success in the coming season – needing a free role to replicate such numbers this time around.

However, 30-year-old, who’s the club’s captain, may struggle to replicate such numbers in his new role, ultimately having to sacrifice his own numbers to allow the team to progress.

However, if he is to do such a thing, he will need a deep-lying option alongside at the heart of the side – something which Santos could offer should he join the side this summer.

The 21-year-old spent last season on loan at French side Strasbourg, a stint that gave him needed game time to continue his progression in Europe’s top five leagues.

His underlying stats showcase the ball-winning talents he possesses, able to partner Bruno in the middle of the park, which could allow the duo to star alongside one another.

Santos, who’s been dubbed a “monster” by analyst Ben Mattinson, ranked in the 94th percentile for tackles made (3.4), achieving a success rate of 59% – able to sit in a deeper role and regain possession for the Red Devils.

However, upon winning the ball, it’s crucial that any new addition is also able to thrive in possession to help the side impress in transition – something which the Chelsea talent demonstrated in 2024/25.

Games played

32

Goals & assists

13

Pass accuracy

88%

Progressive passes

4.7

Passes into final third

1.3

Tackles made

3.5

Interceptions made

1.1

Blocks made

1.5

Aerials won

1.2

% of tackles won

59%

He completed 88% of the passes he attempted, with 4.4 of which being into the final third – with such numbers able to provide Bruno with the chances to build on his impressive goal contribution tallies from last season.

Despite being a more defensive-minded midfielder, Santos still managed to post 13 combined goals and assists of his own – which could add a new dimension to Amorim’s side in his quest for success.

It’s unclear if the Blues would be willing to let the youngster leave Stamford Bridge this summer, but there’s no denying that he would be a superb addition for the Red Devils.

If he does move to the Theatre of Dreams, it could allow Bruno to continue his impressive career in Manchester – with the pair able to play a huge part in any success endured in 2025/26.

He's like Baleba: "Extraordinary" £35m star now wants to sign for Man Utd

Manchester United appear to have moved on from Carlos Baleba with a move for another star.

1 ByEthan Lamb Aug 22, 2025

Sunderland are on the hunt for some late deals and have submitted an enticing proposal to land a creative operator in the engine room, according to a report.

Sunderland continue mission to recruit late arrivals

The Black Cats have made quite the impression in the transfer window and don’t look to be done yet as they aim to give themselves a fighting chance of Premier League survival.

Aside from recruitment, Regis Le Bris made it clear that his side’s home form over the coming months will be critical if they are to stay in the top-flight for the foreseeable future, urging his players to feed off the energy of a raucous support.

He stated: “They are a key pillar of our identity. Sunderland is made with this support. If we don’t use it properly then it doesn’t make sense. If our fans recognise this identity, the willingness, the togetherness – they are happier when we win and that is fair, but we know this won’t be possible every time. If we are connected with this ambition and commitment, it will be a massive strength for us.”

Of course, enticing stars to play in front of faithful supporters is half the battle, though it appears they are doing a fine job, given Bologna defender Jhon Lucumi is set to join Sunderland in the coming days.

Furthermore, Juventus star Lloyd Kelly has been linked with a surprise move to Wearside, though they will also face competition from Crystal Palace for the former Newcastle United man.

Sunderland make transfer offer for £50,000-a-week World Cup semi-finalist

The Black Cats are on fire this summer.

ByHenry Jackson Aug 29, 2025

Driving some hard bargains between now and Monday will be essential for Sunderland to maximise strength in depth, and they could now be set to complete another landmark capture if reports are to be believed.

Sunderland submit considerable Joey Veerman bid

According to De Telegraaf via Transfer Feed, Sunderland have submitted a bid worth over £26 million for PSV Eindhoven midfielder Joey Veerman and the Netherlands international could now be in line for a late move to the Stadium of Light.

In response, the Eredivisie outfit have identified Anderlecht star Mario Stroeykens as a replacement that they want to bring in urgently due to the time of the window.

Offering a creative presence in the engine room, Veerman fashioned 71 chances on league duty for his teammates last term, per Fotmob, and netted once, alongside providing 12 assists in 40 appearances.

Continuing on a similar path, he has struck once and laid on two more efforts inside three outings across 2025/26, illustrating a level of vision that would help Sunderland carve out opportunities in the top-flight.

With a deal looking somewhat likely, Veerman would add to a new-look midfield at the Stadium of Light this summer that already includes the likes of Habib Diarra and Noah Sadiki, albeit it may be intriguing to see exactly where he fits in.

Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher described one Reds player as “really poor” alongside Milos Kerkez during the 1-0 victory away to Burnley.

Liverpool leave it late to stun Burnley

Yet again, the Reds left it late to win a Premier League game on Sunday, with Mohamed Salah’s last-gasp penalty sealing a priceless win at Turf Moor.

Liverpool are yet to get going this season, in terms of performance level, but their ability to go until the very end of matches is proving to be a priceless asset to have, ensuring they top the table with maximum points.

One player who struggled at Burnley was Kerkez, who was booked for a shocking dive and then substituted in place of Andy Robertson before half-time, with Arne Slot admitting he couldn’t trust the Hungarian to avoid getting a second yellow card.

Speaking on commentary for Sky Sports, Carragher made it clear what he thought of Kerkez’s awful attempts to win a penalty, lambasting the left-back.

“I mean it was a dive, no doubt about that. I don’t think anybody in the stadium thought it wasn’t, it was so theatrical. I mean it was absolutely stupid, that. I don’t think there’s any contact there really, and he’s in a good position! I think he can hook his foot around that and get a cross in. As soon as I seen him make that run I thought he’s gonna be in a really good position on the byline.”

Carragher slams "really poor" Liverpool legend

Kerkez wasn’t the only player who felt the wrath of Carragher in the commentary box, however, with Salah also criticised for his current form, despite his match-winning penalty.

“He’s been really poor again. He just hasn’t really hit those heights of last season so far this season. It was always going to be difficult. But he doesn’t look at the races right now.”

In fairness to Carragher, he does have a valid point with Salah, even though the manner in which he buried the spot-kick was emphatic, outlining the strength of mind he possesses in big moments.

The Liverpool superstar has actually made a very disappointing start to the season, in terms of his all-round involvement in matches, and his general decision-making.

Granted, Salah is adjusting to a new system with Florian Wirtz in it, getting used to new teammates such as the German, Kerkez and Hugo Ekitiké, but the Reds need their iconic attacker to up his level in the coming weeks.

Big-money Liverpool star is now in danger of becoming Slot's new Nunez

Arne Slot will already be concerned that this expensive Liverpool attacker is turning into his next Darwin Nunez.

2 ByKelan Sarson Sep 15, 2025

At 33, it is only natural that some may begin to start writing Salah off, with his pace not what it was, but it is more likely that he is simply out of form. It should also never be forgotten that the passing of Diogo Jota could be affecting him, too, with all of Liverpool’s players still in the grieving process.

No one associated with Celtic Football Club is pleased to be in the Europa League, given their catastrophic and ignominious Champions League exit at the hands of Kairat, but now here, they’re desperate to make a good go of it.

Well, on Wednesday night, the Hoops did make a positive start to the league phase, holding Red Star Belgrade to a 1-1 draw at Stadion Rajko Mitić.

Brendan Rodgers’ side were probably the better side throughout, unlucky not to leave the Serbian capital with all three points, looking exponentially better than they did in Almaty during their last European fixture a month ago, that’s for sure.

Next Thursday, Braga will visit Parkhead, with home games against Sturm Graz, Roma and Utrecht to come thereafter, while the Celts will also travel to Midtjylland, Feyenoord and Bologna.

If Celtic are going to secure a top eight finish, and then make a deep run in the Europa League knockout stages, they’ll need the “fearless” attacker to continue to impress, as he did at the Marakana on Wednesday.

Kelechi Iheanacho scores again

When Kelechi Iheanacho signed for Celtic, there was plenty of skepticism and rightly so.

After Adam Idah had been sold to Swansea for £7m, the Hoops were left without a senior centre-forward at the time the transfer window slammed shut, only able to sign Iheanacho because Sevilla agreed to terminate his contract.

The Nigerian failed to score a single La Liga goal for los Nervionenses, having not reached double figures in a single campaign since 2020/21, but that fact looks like changing, even at this early stage.

Iheanacho marked his debut in hoops by converting a stoppage time penalty at Kilmarnock to snatch a 2-1 victory at Rugby Park.

He then opened the scoring in Belgrade on Wednesday with an excellent finish, having been introduced as a half-time substitute, a goal that Joe Hart, speaking on commentary for TNT Sports, described as “ice-cold”.

The one-time Manchester City striker was also compared to Odsonne Édouard, praised for his “clean touch” and “intelligent movement”.

Goals

1

1st

Shots on target

3

1st

Big chances missed

2

1st

Expected goals

1.02

1st

Touches

14

23rd

Average SofaScore rating

7.3

6th

By accident, more than by design, Celtic appear to have landed a top-class centre-forward, but it was another one of the Hoops’ summer recruits who particularly caught the eye in Belgrade.

'Fearless' Celtic star catching the eye

While Celtic supporters are generally furious at the board’s inactivity in the transfer market, they surely have to be pleased with the signing of Benjamin Nygren, arriving from Nordsjælland for just £1.7m back in July, which looks like an absolute bargain.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Most assumed that the Sweden international was coming in to replace Nicolas Kühn on the right wing, having played a lot of his football in Denmark out-wide, but from day one he has been part of Rodgers’ first-choice midfield trio.

In just his second appearance for the club, Nygren opened the scoring against Aberdeen at Pittodrie, before also netting twice against Livingston a week later.

On Wednesday, he really stepped up and came to the fore, given a 7/10 by the Herald, who note that he grew into the game after the interval, seeing a decent opportunity smartly saved by Matheus, before turning provider to play the ball through to Iheanacho for the night’s opener.

Earlier this year, now the most expensive player in British football history, Alexander Isak, who is Nygren’s international teammate, labelled him “fearless”, adding “it was very good to play with Benjamin… playing with a winger like that who is able to provide good crosses can only be beneficial” for a striker.

During his time at previous club Nordsjælland, Nygren scored five goals in five Conference League appearances, including a hat-trick against Fenerbahçe, and is showing that he is capable of making the step-up to an even higher level of European competition.

That was evident on Wednesday night, as he completed 100% of his attempted dribbles and provided three key passes, as per Sofascore, starring in that creative attacking berth for Rodgers’ side.

When Braga travel to Parkhead next Thursday, if Celtic are going to get their first Europa League win on the board, the Swede in midfield is likely to be central to their hopes.

Worse than Maeda: Rodgers must drop Celtic star who lost the ball 13x

Celtic endured a night of mixed fortunes away in Belgrade on Wednesday evening…

ByRobbie Walls Sep 25, 2025

After making a solid start to their first season back in the Premier League, Leeds United are reportedly ready to ramp up their January move to sign a Serie A attacker.

Leeds' 2026 transfer plans

Daniel Farke couldn’t have made his desire for attacking signings much clearer during the summer if he tried. The German watched on as Leeds tried and failed to sign the likes of Facundo Buonanotte and was forced to settle for the likes of Noah Okafor and Dominic Calvert-Lewin instead. So far, however, he has used the cards he has been dealt to form a side capable of Premier League survival.

The Whites sit 15th in the top-flight and four points above the dropzone. There’s still a long way to go – 31 games to be exact – but there’s no denying that Farke’s side have made a solid start and only suffered defeat against Tottenham Hotspur last time out thanks to two deflected efforts.

The January transfer window could also help solve Leeds’ attacking problems to make up for their summer struggles. The likes of Chris Wood have already reportedly been eyed in what would be a significant return and others could follow.

Alongside the Nottingham Forest striker, those at Elland Road have also reportedly set their sights on a Serie A attacker, who would add some much-needed creative spark.

Leeds exploring Lorenzo Pellegrini deal

According to Football Insider, Leeds are now exploring a deal to sign Lorenzo Pellegrini in January and are ready to ramp up their pursuit of AS Roma’s attacking midfielder.

The Italian has less than 12 months remaining on his current contract and will be free to negotiate a pre-contract deal with interested clubs in January – handing Leeds quite the opportunity. The Yorkshire club could wait until the summer to land a free deal for his services or tempt Roma into a cut-price deal as they look to cash in before it’s too late.

The new Phillips: Leeds star has made effortless transition to PL life

This Leeds United star has made an effortless transition to the Premier League in the same way that Kalvin Phillips did.

ByDan Emery Oct 7, 2025

Whatever they decide to do, though, Leeds will have to act quick. Given his contract situation, they’re unlikely to be the only club interested in Pellegrini’s signature.

Roma boss Gian Piero Gasperini may also be keen to keep hold of the 29-year-old after telling reporters last month: “Pellegrini strikes the ball very well and has excellent timing on his runs, but this doesn’t necessarily have to be all he does. He must play as a midfielder and create chances as he did today.”

Considering the likely interest in his signature, there’s no doubt that Leeds would be securing quite the coup by signing Pellegrini in 2026.

And so, Ruben Amorim lives to fight another day as Manchester United manager.

Depending on which reports are to be relieved, the Portuguese coach would have kept his job even if Saturday’s meeting with Sunderland had ended in defeat, although the 40-year-old has helped to quell the noise regardless, heading into the international break, following what was a vital 2-0 win at Old Trafford.

Following the limp display away at Brentford last weekend, the pressure had cranked up even further on United’s under-fire coach, with the visit of the Black Cats already looking make-or-break so soon into the new campaign.

Thankfully for Amorim’s sake, his side flew out of the traps against Regis Le Bris’ men, with Mason Mount – recalled to the starting lineup in place of Matheus Cunha – slotting home at the end of a fine sweeping move from the hosts.

A first Premier League goal for United on home soil for the Englishman was followed by Benjamin Sesko’s second in United colours, and first at the Theatre of Dreams, with the Slovenian prodding home at the end of Diogo Dalot’s long throw.

Had it not been for the efforts of Robin Roefs in the visiting net, that lead could well have been extended, with Amorim left to reflect on what was a largely – albeit not completely – positive display from his struggling side.

Senne Lammens catches the eye on United debut

Roefs may have impressed for the away side, notably keeping out Bruno Fernandes’ effort in the first half in sublime fashion, although the day’s major story was the debut showing of United’s summer signing, Senne Lammens.

Thrust into action for the first time this season, following Altay Bayindir’s latest errant showing away to the Bees, the Belgian was a calming presence in the sticks, steering the hosts to a rare clean sheet.

While there was an element of fortune as the 23-year-old avoided punishment amid a collision with Bertrand Traore after the break, he otherwise looked the part on Saturday, memorably keeping out Granit Xhaka’s fierce strike at the near post.

The sight of Lammens claiming the ball from the sky in the first half in comfortable fashion was met with audible cheers inside Old Trafford, with the United faithful willing their new man to succeed following so much turmoil in the goalkeeping department.

Tougher tests will lie ahead for the former Royal Antwerp man, yet with a clean sheet in the bag and three saves made, as per Sofascore, the young ‘keeper has begun on the right foot for the Red Devils.

And so, while Saturday marked the beginning of one United journey, one of Lammens’ new teammates should well be heading for the end of his time in Manchester.

The Man Utd star now on borrowed time under Amorim

On a day of such positives, it remains important to consider those who underwhelmed during that 2-0 victory, with Amorim still left with plenty to ponder over the next couple of weeks.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

One persistent area of concern is at wing-back, with Saturday’s outing seeing the ex-Sporting CP boss deploy Amad on the right flank, with the long-serving Dalot on the opposite side.

While the Ivorian was a constant threat throughout, having also drawn a save from Roefs in the first-half, his wing-back colleague was far less impressive off the left, even while factoring in that it is something of an unorthodox role for the right-footer.

Following his disappointing outing last week on the right flank, in which he looked ‘way off the pace’ according to journalist Katherine Walsh, the Portugal international fared little better this time around, replaced on the hour mark after failing to get involved in proceedings.

Indeed, the 26-year-old won just a solitary duel and failed to provide a single key pass, as per Sofascore, having also been particularly wasteful in possession after losing the ball on 11 occasions.

Minutes played

64

Touches

42

Pass accuracy

82%

Dribbles completed

0

Aerial duels won

0/1

Ground duels won

1/2

Possession lost

11x

Key passes

0

His tally of 42 touches, meanwhile, was even fewer than Lammens in the sticks (52) – hardly ideal considering the onus put on the wing-backs to get forward and create.

While it could be argued that he is merely fighting his way back to full fitness, having been struck down by injury during the previous international break, the full-back’s woes have become a far too familiar sight of late.

Even from the off, the one-time Porto man was caught napping, with Dalot failing to track the aforementioned Traore as he attempted to latch onto a cutback, leaving a sense of relief when the former Aston Villa forward was unable to convert.

Amorim can ill-afford such lapses of concentration at a time when his set-up appears to need to be perfect in order to flourish, with individual errors having thus far plagued his time in charge in Manchester.

After taking one problematic figure out of the firing line, in the form of Bayindir, the United boss may well now need to do the same with his compatriot, Dalot.

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