da gbg bet： Jobe Bellingham’s Sunderland future has been a talking point throughout this season, and now a new update has emerged ahead of the Championship playoff final.
Sunderland 90 minutes away from the Premier League
da pinup bet： The Black Cats are preparing for one of the biggest games in their recent history on Saturday afternoon, as they battle Sheffield United at Wembley for a place back in the Premier League.
It is a mammoth occasion for both sides, in what is considered the most valuable game in the English football calendar, and Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris has said that his players have matched his pre-season expectations of them.
“We are exactly where we wanted to be. In our first meeting in this room, I asked them what is the purpose of the season and they told me they wanted to get promoted. Here we are. We’ll have this opportunity.”
The difference between victory and defeat on Saturday cannot be downplayed, with Sunderland knowing that a return to the Premier League will not only allow them to sign better players this summer, but also give them a better chance of retaining the services of current Stadium of Light heroes, from Bellingham to Chris Rigg.
The former has been linked with a move to follow in his brother’s footsteps by joining Borussia Dortmund, and there has been a development in that story ahead of the final.
Dortmund confident after talks with Bellingham
According to Bild [via Sport Witness], Bellingham has held “fruitful” talks with Borussia Dortmund over a summer move to the European giants, who now believe they are well placed to sign him.
It is stated that several Premier League clubs are also in the race to sign the youngster, however, with champions Liverpool mentioned as potential suitors. Much will hinge on the playoff final result, with defeat for the Black Cats almost certainly meaning he will leave.
Sunderland 'sJobeBellinghamin action
If Saturday’s game isn’t big enough already, Sunderland will know that beating the Blades will give them a far greater chance of keeping Bellingham, which is a major incentive. The 19-year-old has been such an influential performer throughout the season, starting 41 Championship matches and being lauded by captain Dan Neil, who said of him back in 2023.
Related Sunderland must now unleash their new Jack Clarke in the playoff final
Regis Le Bris must find a way to start Sunderland’s new Jack Clarke at Wembley.
1
In truth, Sunderland can’t necessarily expect Bellingham to stay if they remain in the Championship next season, with the Englishman no doubt having big ambitions.
The lure of testing himself in the Premier League for the Black Cats isn’t out of the question, though, so it’s a case of them getting the job done this weekend.
da wazamba： Liverpool know they are heading into next season without Trent Alexander-Arnold amid his impending move to Real Madrid, and they could be set to lose another star player to the Spanish giants in the future, per reports.
Liverpool look to freshen up in the summer window
da 888casino： Arne Slot has done a miraculous job in the eyes of many Liverpool supporters and will be given backing by FSG to shape his squad following their Premier League title victory.
Nevertheless, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s departure to Real Madrid on a free transfer has delivered a sting in the tail, with the Dutchman now left without one of his best creative outlets from the end of this month.
Arne Slot and Virgil van Dijk for Liverpool
Virgil Van Dijk and Mohamed Salah’s contract extensions have softened the blow somewhat, but there is a clear acknowledgement that the summer window will be a decisive one as the Reds seek to claim further silverware.
With the time for transfer business fast approaching, Liverpool are expected to make a ‘serious move’ for Lyon winger Malick Fofana despite Arsenal also remaining attentive to his situation.
Dean Huijsen and Murillo are candidates for the Reds to strengthen their backline from Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest respectively, though it remains to be seen whether either will arrive at Anfield to shore it up ahead of another challenging campaign.
Related Fabrizio Romano reveals what he's heard about Liverpool signing De Bruyne
Could a shock move to Anfield materialise this summer?
Second-season syndrome isn’t an evil Liverpool want to experience. Forward planning will be needed to ensure that doesn’t happen, and contingency plans have to be identified early to avoid uncomfortable scenarios.
Nevertheless, they could now be set for another considerable blow after the news that Real Madrid are lining up another one of their most talented assets on a free transfer.
Real Madrid looking to press ahead for Ibrahima Konate
Per reports in Spain, Real Madrid want to sign Ibrahima Konate from Liverpool in 2026 should the Frenchman opt against extending his current terms at Anfield.
The report notes that he has shown no willingness to sign a new contract and that his demands have created internal ‘tension’ on Merseyside, which may pave the way for an acrimonious exit next summer.
Ibrahima Konate’s statistics in 2024/25 – all competitions
Appearances
39
Goals
2
Assists
2
Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich and Manchester City are also keeping eyes on Konate’s situation, though Real Madrid are said to be in the box seat due to their experience in landing lucrative players without having to pay a transfer fee.
Labelled “outstanding” by Virgil van Dijk, the 25-year-old has won 128 duels this season on Premier League duty, becoming a mainstay in Slot’s Premier League-conquering side alongside the aforementioned Netherlands international.
Mooted to earn £70,000 per week at Liverpool, Konate may well be in the hunt for a significant pay rise – something his current employers haven’t been able to find an agreement on as of yet.
With his future firmly up in the air, the Reds may need to sit down sooner rather than later with his entourage to thrash out a deal.
da dobrowin： Glasgow Rangers went into Sunday’s clash already at Ibrox knowing that the result was more or less immaterial as their second-placed finish has already been confirmed.
da supremo： Since their city rivals won the Scottish Premiership title at the end of last month, Rangers have known that they cannot finish as low as third and they cannot win the division, leaving the Light Blues stuck in second place with little to play for in the remaining games of the season.
The Light Blues should already be focused on what they need to do in the upcoming summer transfer window in order to turn the tide and compete for the title in the 2025/26 campaign.
A new first-team head coach will be a big part of their plans because Barry Ferguson is currently in interim charge until the end of the season, having come in to steady the ship after Philippe Clement was dismissed earlier this year.
However, the Scottish giants will also know that they will have some difficulties on their hands when it comes to dealing with interest in their stars from elsewhere.
For example, Premier League sides Aston Villa and Leeds United are reportedly lining up moves for Nicolas Raskin, who is valued at £20m by the Gers, ahead of the summer window.
Why losing Nicolas Raskin would be a big blow for Rangers
If Leeds or Villa are able to complete a deal for the former Standard Liege star, losing the Belgium international would be a big blow for Rangers and the next manager to walk through the doors at Ibrox.
Raskin recently won the Player of the Year and the Players’ Player of the Year at the club’s awards night, which speaks to how highly the supporters and his own teammates value his performances this season.
The central midfielder has combined impressive play on the ball, scoring two goals and providing nine assists, with dominant defensive work out of possession, making 3.6 tackles and interceptions per game and winning 58% of his duels, across 31 appearances in the Premiership.
Raskin also caught the eye with his fantastic performances for the Light Blues in the Europa League before the club were knocked out by Athletic Club in the quarter-finals.
24/25 Europa League
Nicolas Raskin
Appearances
12
Tackles per game
3.7
Interceptions per game
1.3
Ball recoveries per game
7.4
Ground duel success rate
50%
Aerial duel success rate
55%
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, the 24-year-old dynamo excelled at winning the ball back for his side, with a whopping five tackles and interceptions per game on average, and more than held his own in physical battles.
Raskin
These statistics reinforce how much of a blow it would be to lose the midfielder to Villa or Leeds this summer because of how impactful he can be in both the Premiership and the Europa League.
However, a fresh report has emerged on the club’s interest in a new central midfielder who could come in as a dream replacement for Raskin.
Rangers lining up move for £4m star
According to The Scottish Sun, the 49ers have Basel loanee Metinho at the top of their list of targets ahead of the summer transfer window, once their takeover is finalised.
The report claims that the Light Blues are lining up a move for the central midfielder ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, and that he is valued at £4m at this moment in time.
Metinho is currently on loan at Basel from Troyes, having spent the first half of the year at Sparta Rotterdam, and the Gers are hoping to reach an agreement with the French side in the coming weeks.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The Scottish Sun adds that there is also interest from several teams in the English Championship and that the 49ers want to fast-track a deal for the young star, which could mean that they bring him in before they even appoint a new manager.
Why Rangers should sign Metinho
Rangers must push to sign Metinho ahead of those teams in England because he could come in as the dream replacement for Raskin in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Signing the 22-year-old star from Troyes could soften the blow of losing the Belgium international, should he move on from Ibrox in the coming months.
Nicolas Raskin
The Brazilian midfielder struggled for game time with Sparta Rotterdam in the first half of the season, starting two of his 12 appearances in the Eredivisie, before a loan move to Basel sparked his campaign into life.
Since joining the Swiss giants, the £4m-rated star has been a key figure in the middle of the park, starting eight of his ten appearances in the Super League, and has caught the eye with his defensive work.
24/25 Super League
Metinho
Appearances
10
Pass accuracy
86%
Tackles per game
3.1
Interceptions per game
1.1
Ball recoveries per game
4.7
Ground duel success rate
69%
Aerial duel success rate
45%
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, Metinho has averaged 4.2 tackles and interceptions per game, which is more than the 3.6 that Raskin has averaged in the Premiership for Rangers this term, and won an eye-catching 69% of his ground duels.
Clearly, the Troyes starlet still has areas for improvement, including his success in aerial contests in the middle of the park, but he appears to have the raw defensive materials to be an excellent signing for the Scottish giants.
Metinho could be the dream replacement for Raskin by arriving at Ibrox to provide a similar level of defensive quality in midfield by breaking up attacks with tackles, interceptions, and ball recoveries at a similar rate.
In possession, the Brazilian star also ranks within the top 2% of midfielders in the Men’s Next 14 competitions over the last 365 days for progressive carries (3.49) and successful take-ons (1.83) per 90, which shows that he can provide quality as a progressive midfield player as well as being an excellent defender.
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At the age of 22, he is also two years younger than the Belgian star and still has time left on his side to develop and improve further, which is another reason why the youngster could be a fantastic signing for the 49ers to make, irrespective of who the next manager is going to be.
da 888： Manchester United were left frustrated once again in the Premier League on Sunday when they had to fight to scrape a 1-1 draw against Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium.
da poker： It took a 96th-minute goal from Rasmus Hojlund, who deflected an effort from Manuel Ugarte into the bottom corner, to secure a point against the Cherries, after Antoine Semenyo rifled the home team in front in the first half.
Ruben Amorim’s side created more than enough chances to win the match, though, as they racked up 2.52 xG and failed to make the most of their opportunities.
Bruno Fernandes, in particular, must have been particularly frustrated by the team’s wasteful finishing. The Portugal international created seven chances, including one ‘big chance’, and came off the pitch without an assist to show for his efforts.
Manchester United’s captain has been a shining light in a dim season for the Red Devils, once again, with the quality that he has provided in the middle of the park on a regular basis.
It is now down to the club and Amorim to ensure that they bring in the right players to complement his play in the upcoming summer transfer window.
Why Manchester United have let Bruno Fernandes down
The owners, the previous owners, the manager, and the previous manager, or managers, have all failed to build a squad that is equipped to make the most of Fernandes’ talent in the final third.
Manchester United’s captain has now created 14 ‘big chances’ in the Premier League this season and has only been rewarded with nine assists for his creative brilliance, which shows that his teammates have not done enough with the opportunities that he has created.
Bruno Fernandes
That is the story of Fernandes’ career at Old Trafford, particularly recently, as he has been an exceptional creative talent for the club throughout his time in the English top-flight.
The 30-year-old superstar, who has also scored 17 goals in all competitions this season, needs teammates who can make the most of the ‘big chances’ that he consistently creates.
Premier League
Big chances created
xA
Assists
24/25
14
9.24
9
23/24
21
13.16
8
22/23
32
17.27
8
21/22
15
8.81
6
20/21
20
11.47
12
19/20
4
2.75
7
Total
106
62.7
50
Stats via Sofascore & xA via UnderStat
As you can see in the table above, Fernandes’ teammates have only scored 50 goals from 62.7 xA created by the former Sporting star, which shows that they have significantly underperformed in front of goal.
These statistics show that Manchester United have not been able to recruit the quality of centre-forward that the attacking midfielder needs to finish the chances that he creates on a weekly basis for the Reds.
Manchester United are now, reportedly, eyeing up a deal to sign a player who would love to play alongside Fernandes, and who has the quality to thrive alongside him.
Manchester United close in on Premier League star
According to reports in Spain, Manchester United are closing in on a deal to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers attacker Matheus Cunha ahead of the summer transfer window.
The report claims that the Brazilian forward is ‘very close’ to joining the Red Devils from the Premier League side, as Amorim looks to bolster his options at the top end of the pitch.
Wolverhampton Wanderers' MatheusCunhacelebrates scoring their first goal
Revelo adds that the Brazil international has a release clause, worth £53m, in his current contract with the Old Gold, and that United are ready to pay it to bring him to Manchester in the ‘coming weeks’.
It claims that there is already a verbal agreement in place between Cunha and Manchester United to join the club, which suggests that personal terms have already been agreed between the two parties.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
INEOS must, now, pay the release clause to wrap a deal up as early as possible in the summer transfer window, to avoid any other clubs swooping in ahead of them, as the attacker could be a dream signing for Fernandes next season.
Why Matheus Cunha would be a dream signing for Bruno Fernandes
The former Atletico Madrid attacker could be an ideal addition to the squad because he is a proven Premier League performer who could hit the ground running at Old Trafford, in theory.
This is Cunha’s second full season in the top-flight, having also been on loan at Wolves in the second half of the 2022/23 campaign, and he has shown himself to be a classy operator at the top end of the pitch for the Old Gold.
The 25-year-old star, who was directly involved in 22 goals as shown in the video above, could come in to provide Amorim’s side with a boost as both a scorer and a creator of goals.
His finishing qualities, in particular, will be of interest to Fernandes because his record in the Premier League since the start of last season suggests that the United captain would love him.
Matheus Cunha (Premier League)
23/24
24/25
Appearances
32
29
xG
9.49
7.86
Goals
12
15
Big chances missed
6
2
Big chances created
7
12
Assists
7
6
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, the Wolves superstar has vastly outperformed his xG, scoring 27 goals from 17.35 xG, and delivered 13 assists.
Cunha, dubbed a “special” player by his manager Vitor Pereira, has the quality to take high-quality chances when they come his way, outperforming how many goals the average player would be expected to score from the shots that he takes.
This is why Fernandes, who has consistently been let down by his teammates in that respect, would love the Brazilian ace at Old Trafford, because the forward could provide the finishing quality to make the most of his creativity.
Cunha and Fernandes could be a lethal pairing in the Premier League for United next season because the Portuguese ace could consistently create chances for the ex-Atletico Madrid ace to find the back of the net week-in-week-out, improving Manchester United’s attack.
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This is why INEOS must get a deal done for the Wolves star as quickly as possible because he could be a fantastic signing to bolster Amorim’s squad, improving the team’s chances of success next term.
da doce： Leeds United are currently enjoying their title party and could already be set to kick that up a notch after identifying two candidates to join them on their Premier League journey, according to a report.
Leeds crowned champions after stunning win at Plymouth
da betcris： Daniel Farke has endured plenty of trials and tribulations this term, but his side have been a class above and deservedly find themselves top-flight bound after a successful campaign climaxed with a last-gasp title winner from Manor Solomon at Plymouth this weekend.
Many would argue that a club of Leeds’ stature belong in the Premier League, though there is plenty of work to be done to ensure his squad are equipped to take on the challenge of surviving after promotion from the Championship.
Dipping into the market, Farke has identified Celtic attacker Daizen Maeda as a primary target at Elland Road following his freescoring campaign north of the border. The Japan international is valued at £25 million, while Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are among a host of clubs ready to swoop for his services.
Confidence is high that Solomon will join Leeds on a permanent deal after a fine campaign on loan from Tottenham Hotspur, with the player said to have agreed to a return next term.
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Kalvin Phillips and Tomas Soucek have been mentioned in connection with the Whites. The former hardly comes a surprise due to his links with his boyhood club, but it remains to be seen if a fairytale return is on the cards.
Scaling up ahead of their Premier League return won’t be easy for Leeds, given the level of side they are likely to come up against on a weekly basis compared to the English second-tier. Nevertheless, they now have two talented players in their sights that could make all the difference, per recent developments.
Leeds want Nicolas Kuhn and Cameron Carter-Vickers from Celtic
According to TBR, Leeds are in the mix to sign Celtic duo Cameron Carter-Vickers and Nicolas Kuhn to strengthen their Premier League survival bid. The pair earn £50,000 per week between them at Parkhead and have lit up the domestic scene in Scotland, emerging as two of the best players in the top-flight, with Carter-Vickers playing a part in the Bhoys conceding only 22 goals in 34 league matches.
Cameron Carter-Vickers – key statistics in 2024/25 (Scottish Premiership)
Duels won
160
Aerial duels won
119
Recoveries
123
Dribbled past
3
Interceptions
32
Nicolas Kuhn – key statistics in 2024/25 (Scottish Premiership)
Chances created
47
Completed dribbles
55
Shots on target
24
Touches in opposition box
157
Duels won
107
On the other hand, Kuhn has notched 20 goals and 14 assists in 47 appearances across all competitions, earning plaudits for his consistent displays coming off the right flank.
Celtic’s involvement in Champions League football may be a sticking point for Leeds if negotiations were to occur, though the lure of Premier League football can be a tempting one for top performers in Scotland.
da realsbet： Newcastle United are firmly in the race for Champions League football ahead of next season, but they are also plotting moves to bolster their squad with the summer transfer window around the corner.
Newcastle United look to finish campaign with a flourish
da winzada777： Admittedly, a heavy loss to Aston Villa last weekend wasn’t in the script for the Magpies as they seek a Champions League slot, but an opportunity to bounce back across their remaining five Premier League matches will excite supporters.
Following their EFL Cup heroics over Liverpool earlier in the year, finishing the campaign by returning to Europe’s premier competition may prove to be the ideal tonic ahead of initiating their summer recruitment drive.
Newcastle United manager EddieHoweand assistant manager Jason Tindall celebrate
Per reports, Liam Delap is on Newcastle’s radar following his sparkling form at Ipswich Town, even if stiff competition for his signature is set to exist due to his £30 million relegation release clause. Matteo Guendouzi could also move to the North East in the event that Sandro Tonali seeks a new challenge elsewhere, illustrating the level of change that could occur at St James’ Park during the off-season.
Ultimately, prospective additions may be hesitant to commit their future to Newcastle until they know what European competition the club will enter, though their favourable run-in on paper may give them a key advantage over divisional competitors.
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Nevertheless, Eddie Howe and PIF won’t wait around for scenarios to unfold in their efforts to put the Magpies on a level footing with the Premier League elite by building for the future. In light of this, Newcastle are now reportedly closing in on a talented youngster that could become one of their first signings in 2025/26.
Newcastle United set to wrap up deal for priority summer target
According to The Daily Record, Newcastle United are closing in on Rangers youngster Oliver Goodbrand, and it is becoming clear that he will leave Ibrox to sign professional forms elsewhere. The 16-year-old left-back is set to arrive on Tyneside for training compensation after emerging as one of the Magpies’ priority summer targets to enrich their pool of youth talent.
Initially, his arrival will take the course of a scholarship deal before signing on full-time once he turns 17. Rangers have tried to retain the prodigious defender, but now look set to concede defeat amid strong advances from the North East.
Premier League clubs poaching talent from north of the border is becoming a regular theme due to tightened regulations surrounding EU-based players being unable to move to England until they are 18 years old.
From a Newcastle perspective, landing another teen with potential to develop could save Howe and company millions down the line should he grow into a first-team asset.
da marjack bet： Leeds United’s Saturday lunchtime couldn’t have gone any better, with the Whites recording a priceless victory in the ongoing automatic promotion tussle in the Championship against Preston North End, whilst one of their rivals for the top two spots succumbed to a third straight defeat in the league.
da blaze casino： That was Chris Wilder’s Sheffield United who shockingly fell to a late defeat at bottom-of-the-table Plymouth Argyle, with Leeds’ emotions very different at the final whistle away from the dour mood in Devon from the away stands.
The picture above encapsulates the mixture of both relief and jubliance inside Elland Road when the full-time whistle was sounded, with Manor Solomon standing out throughout as a top performer after gifting his promotion-chasing side the lead after just four minutes.
Solomon's performance in numbers vs Preston
With Daniel James confirmed to be out of the lunchtime clash when the lineup filtered through, Solomon must have been even more aware that he could be a hero for his team down the flanks, away from the energetic Welshman.
He instantly threw himself into the contest and was rewarded with a stunning early effort, with the Tottenham Hotspur loanee managing to curl this delightful effort past the opposition goalkeeper after the Whites’ patient passing approach paid off.
Preston would instantly fight back with an equaliser, but thankfully, the Championship’s table-toppers had more than enough in their system to get over the line and win, with Solomon a lively customer across the frantic 90 minutes.
Indeed, the 25-year-old winger would also turn provider when assisting Jayden Bogle’s winning goal, with the Spurs loan ace further completing four accurate crosses to try and make Leeds’ slim victory more comprehensive.
Whilst the attacking players in Daniel Farke’s ranks do often steal the plaudits with breathtaking displays of quality, there was also a resilient side to Leeds on show against Paul Heckingbottom’s visitors, with this defender a colossus throughout.
The 8/10 Leeds star who has become undroppable
It could be argued that the centre-back star in question was even better than Solomon across the full duration of the bumpy 90 minutes, with the 6 foot 4 titan having to remain alert throughout, away from his attacking teammate stealing the show early on.
Joe Rodon would come away from this nervy encounter with his head firmly held high, considering the Welsh enforcer would trudge off the Elland Road turf at the close of the contest with all but one of his seven duels won, among other standout numbers.
Rodon’s performance in numbers
Stat
Rodon
Minutes played
90
Goals scored
0
Assists
0
Touches
59
Accurate passes
47/51 (92%)
Key passes
1
Shots
2
Clearances
4
Tackles
1
Total duels won
6/7
Stats by Sofascore
Looking at the table above, it’s clear Rodon was a man in control throughout his near-faultless 90 minutes, with the ex-Swansea City man only misplacing four of his 51 passes on the day.
Whilst he followed a worried trend of Leeds being wasteful in front of goal with two chances spurned of his own, Rodon would still rightly be praised post-match, leading to Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Graham Smyth dishing out a high 8/10 rating to the dominant number six, labelling his forceful showing as simply ‘no-nonsense’.
Already undroppable before this tense fixture – considering Farke has started him in every Championship game this season to date – his importance to the cause has only been heightened now off the back the unfortunate backdrop of his usual centre-back comrade, Pascal Struijk, being ruled out for the rest of the campaign.
Rodon will hope more authoritative performances defensively, such as this one against the Lilywhites, leads to more invaluable victories coming his side’s way, with just one misstep in the automatic promotion race in the Championship proving to be very costly.
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da 888： For everything that has gone wrong during his tenure and the mistakes he has made as Tottenham Hotspur boss, Ange Postecoglou has a decent track record when it comes to signings.
da bet nacional： Granted, Timo Werner and Radu Dragusin haven’t been great, but aside from them, the Australian has done well.
For example, Lucas Bergvall, Archie Gray and Wilson Odobert look like brilliant long-term investments, while Dominic Solanke, Micky van de Ven and James Maddison have all massively improved the first team.
Moreover, while the latter has sometimes been a little more inconsistent than fans would like, he has the talent and ability to change a game on his own, and based on recent reports, the club appear keen to sign another Premier League star in a similar mould.
Tottenham Hotspur transfer targets
While Daniel Levy and Co have already backed Postecoglou to a significant extent in recent windows, the club are still in the midst of a major squad overhaul and, as such, have been linked to a whole host of incredible players in recent months, such as Matheus Cunha.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The Brazilian has a release clause worth around £62.5m in his current contract at Wolverhampton Wanderers, and while that is a lot of money, he’s already produced 19 goal involvements in 29 appearances this season, so it would undoubtedly be worth it.
However, he’s not the only attacker who has been touted for a move to N17, as Jonathan David continues to be linked with a free transfer to the North Londoners, although due to his brilliant tally of 33 goal involvements this season, there are a whole host of teams lining up to secure the Canadian’s services.
Lille'sJonathanDavidcelebrates scoring their fourth goal
Closer to home, another name has once again popped up as a key target for the Lilywhites, another international who’d be an unreal addition to the squad: Eberechi Eze.
According to a recent report from TEAMtalk, the North Londoners have maintained their interest in the Crystal Palace star and are ‘very keen’ to secure his services this summer.
However, there are two potential barriers they’ll have to overcome to do so: interest from Manchester United and the £60m fee the Eagles want for their star player.
It could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Eze’s immense ability, it is one well worth fighting for, especially as he could be a Maddison repeat.
Why Eze would be Maddison 2.0
So, if Spurs can get ahead of the Red Devils and stump up the cash for Eze in the summer, why could it be considered a repeat of the deal that saw Maddison move to North London in 2023?
Well, to start with, there are some surface-level similarities, such as the fact that it would be another example of the Lilywhites signing an exciting creative player from within the Premier League who has also played for England in recent years.
However, more consequently, the pair can and often do fulfil similar roles within their respective teams, as both a goalscoring and creative output from midfield.
Eze & Maddison’s 24/25
Player
Eze
Maddison
Appearances
32
38
Minutes
2547′
2240′
Goals
6
11
Assists
9
7
Goal Involvements per Match
0.46
0.47
Minutes per Goal Involvement
169.8′
124.44′
All Stats via Transfermarkt
For example, the former Leicester City star has scored 11 goals and provided seven assists in 38 appearances this season, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.11 games.
For his efforts, the former Queens Park Rangers gem has amassed a haul of six goals and nine assists in 32 appearances this term, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.13 games.
On top of their similar effectiveness, both players are fairly versatile.
For example, throughout his career to date, the Tottenham ace has played in central and attacking midfield, on both wings and in left and right midfield to boot.
Likewise, while the Eagles’ “superstar,” as dubbed by football analyst Ben Mattinson, undoubtedly prefers to play in attacking midfield, he has made plenty of appearances on the wings, in wide midfield and even a couple up top.
Ultimately, while signing Eze will cost Spurs a pretty penny, his performances over the last few years have more than shown he’d be worth it, and a team with him and Maddison in it is a team other sides will not want to play against.
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da apostebet： Aston Villa moved up to seventh in the Premier League table by beating the team that were ahead of them – Brighton & Hove Albion – 3-0 away from home on Wednesday night.
da fazobetai： The Villans, in a match that lasted over 100 minutes, secured all three points in emphatic fashion, thanks to goals from Marcus Rashford, Marco Asensio, and Donyel Malen, who all joined the claret and blue army in the January transfer window.
There were many impressive performers for Unai Emery’s side throughout the match at the AMEX, including the player who scored the opening goal on the night – Rashford.
Why Marcus Rashford's performance was vital for Aston Villa
The England international, who is on loan from Macnhester United until the end of the season, was the player to make it 1-0 for Villa with his terrific run in behind the Brighton defence.
He made a great movement off the shoulder of the last defender to race clear through on goal and the finish matched the run as the speedster brilliantly lifted the ball into the back of the net to give Villa the lead.
The 27-year-old attacker’s goal broke the deadlock and allowed the away side to play with more freedom, having taken the lead, which teed up the rest of the performance for Villa to go on and win with ease, which is why his display and goal were so vital for Emery’s team.
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There was a Villans star, however, who was even more important to the result, as Morgan Rogers proved that he is the main man for Villa with another sublime showing.
Why Morgan Rogers is the main man for Aston Villa
Emery has a host of brilliant attacking talents at his disposal, including the likes of Rashford, Asensio, and Ollie Watkins, but it is the former Manchester City man who runs the team with his performances.
As the attacking midfielder tasked with carrying the ball through the thirds, Rogers is crucial to everything that Villa do in possession and is now closing in on 20 goal contributions for the season, with 12 goals and seven assists in all competitions.
The 22-year-old dynamo, who was handed a player rating of 8/10 by BirminghamLive, added another two assists to his tally in the win over Brighton, playing a phenomenal long-range ball to Rashford for the opener, and racing down the flank to provide a perfect cut-back for Asensio to make it 2-0.
Vs Brighton (A)
Rogers
Rashford
Minutes
88
65
Goals
0
1
Big chances created
2
0
Assists
2
0
Duels won
6/12
0/2
Tackles + interceptions
7
1
Stats via Sofascore
As you can see in the table above, the English whiz outperformed Rashford with his contributions to the side in and out of possession throughout the game, which shows that he offered more to the team overall.
Rogers, who was compared to Jude Bellingham on Sky Sports earlier this season, has proven himself to the main man time and time again for the Villans, as he has started all 29 of his appearances in the Premier League, whilst Watkins has been a substitute on five occasions.
Illustrating his all-round quality, Rogers is the only player in the squad who ranks within the top five for shots, dribbles, key passes, and fouls won per game, which speaks to how much of an influence he has on matches on the ball.
The Villa star can impact games with his energy out of possession, by winning tackles and duels, whilst also providing a threat as a scorer and a creator of goals, which makes him the full package for Emery and the manager’s main man on the pitch in the top-flight.
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da bet7： Newcastle United’s search for a new striker has moved into overdrive.
da bet sport： With Alexander Isak pushing for a move and Liverpool having lodged their first bid, the Magpies appear resigned to a future without their star striker.
Isak’s decision to skip the club’s pre-season tour of Southeast Asia and train independently at Real Sociedad has only added to the growing sense of inevitability.
Eddie Howe’s side are determined to act decisively.
They don’t just want a short-term solution; they want someone who can lead the line for years to come.
The ideal target? A striker who has already adapted to the Premier League, blends physical presence with technical quality, and is ready to shoulder the scoring burden once carried by the Swede.
All signs now point toward a player who checks those boxes, and who has already made a name for himself in England’s top flight.
Latest on Newcastle's search for a striker
According to the Daily Mail’s Craig Hope, Newcastle are considering a move for Jørgen Strand Larsen, who enjoyed a standout debut campaign with Wolves.
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Speaking in a Q & A on Thursday, the Newcastle insider suggested that Larsen has been ‘described as the ‘dark horse’ from the list of possibles’, with his performances having ‘not gone unnoticed’ at St James’ Park.
The 25-year-old Norwegian scored 14 goals in the Premier League last season, the most ever by a Wolves player in their first season at the club, surpassing the previous record held by Raúl Jiménez.
Larsen joined Wolves from Celta Vigo in July 2024 on an initial loan, with the option to buy. That clause was activated earlier this summer, with the deal believed to be worth £23m.
Despite the club’s modest position in the table, Larsen quickly emerged as a key figure. His goals included a run of three in three during April, which earned him a nomination for the Player of the Month award.
Reflecting on his season, Larsen told reporters: “It’s been a good first season in the Premier League.” I’m proud of what I’ve done. I’ve been able to take the steps quite earlier than I’ve done before.”
As already stated, his performances haven’t gone unnoticed.
Alan Shearer, speaking on Match of the Day, highlighted how Larsen stepped up in the absence of Matheus Cunha:
“The question was how they were going to get on for the four games without their best player [Matheus] Cunha. I actually think they’ve looked a better team.”
“He was a nuisance. His hold-up play was excellent, and I thought his touch and his control were superb.”
The Norwegian international, who has 21 caps and 3 goals for his country, has seen his market value rise to €30m (£26m).
Standing at 1.93m, he has the physical profile of a traditional No.9 but also brings a versatility that makes him appealing to Newcastle as they look to evolve their attack in the post-Isak era.
Why Strand Larsen Might Be a Smarter Fit Than Šeško
Benjamin Šeško has long been admired by Newcastle’s recruitment team. At 1.94m, he draws obvious comparisons to Erling Haaland and fits the club’s typical age preferences.
He scored 21 goals in 45 games for RB Leipzig last season, including 13 in the Bundesliga, and would represent a clear signal of ambition, with prior reports suggesting an agreement had already been struck.
But there are growing doubts over whether Šeško will end up at Manchester United instead, as well as whether he is actually the right man for the job. For starters, the Slovenian’s numbers don’t surpass those of his Norwegian counterpart.
Strand Larsen outscored Šeško in league competition last season – 14 goals to Šeško’s 13, despite playing in a less dominant team and having far fewer chances created for him.
According to data from FBref, Šeško’s underlying stats also suggest that there is still room for growth.
His non-penalty expected goals (npxG) last season was 8.4, with 11 non-penalty goals scored – a good conversion rate, but not exceptional.
Larsen, by comparison, ranks in the 99th percentile for shot-on-target percentage at a remarkable 61.1%. His npxG per shot (0.19) places him in the 84th percentile, indicating smart, high-quality shot selection.
He also ranks highly for aerial involvement, underlining his all-round centre-forward credentials. There’s also the matter of adaptation.
Šeško would require time to acclimatise to the intensity of the Premier League, while Larsen has already proved he can deliver.
Financially, the move for Larsen also makes more sense. Šeško is tied to a long-term contract at Leipzig until 2029, and the German side are unlikely to sell for anything less than £60–70m.
In contrast, Wolves may be willing to negotiate a deal closer to the £25m they paid, especially if Newcastle structure their payments creatively.
Strand Larsen’s profile – similar to Chris Wood (Nottingham Forest) or Ante Budimir (Osasuna) – may not sound glamorous, but it’s highly effective.
His hold-up play would complement Newcastle’s wide runners like Anthony Gordon and Anthony Elanga, while also giving them an added dimension from set-pieces.
Newcastle won’t rush into a decision and are likely to explore both options thoroughly. But if they’re after an immediate impact, a proven Premier League scorer, and a more affordable route to replacing Isak, Jørgen Strand Larsen might just be the smarter bet.
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The Magpies could take full advantage of the situation.
