Manchester City and Pep Guardiola could sanction the departure of an “incredible” £300,000-a-week player this summer, as the club plan an overhaul of the squad, according to a Sky Sports journalist.
Man City reach seven FA Cup semi-finals in a row
The Blues secured their place in the last four of England’s oldest competition on Sunday afternoon, as they came from a goal down to beat AFC Bournemouth 2-1. The FA Cup represents City’s only chance of winning silverware this season, and Guardiola believes his side were “outstanding” in their win over the Cherries.
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“It was harder for them [Bournemouth]. We played an outstanding game and had incredible chances but missed a penalty. We conceded with one chance we gave away. Our approach was magnificent. Seven times in a row in the semi-final in the FA Cup, no team has done it, and it will be difficult for any other to do what these legendary players, the new ones and the old ones, will have done,” Guardiola told the BBC.
Pep was then asked about City reaching the FA Cup semi-finals for a seventh consecutive season, and he labelled it an “unbelievable” achievement.
“It is unbelievable. The way we competed today compared to the way we played in the first game here [in the Premier League]. I was not good enough to overcome that situation then. We were sloppy for many games, and I was not able to let them realise is what they have done today. For example, Brighton was a difficult game; we didn’t play our best, but we fought. This is what had to happen.”
Man City could sanction Grealish exit as Pep plans busy summer
Despite possible success in the FA Cup, it has been a poor campaign for the Blues, and therefore, there is expected to be plenty of incomings and outgoings come the summer.
According to Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, Man City could look to sell Jack Grealish this summer as the Blues plan a busy summer of change.
Plettenberg states that City are planning a squad overhaul in the summer, and with them holding an interest in players such as Florian Wirtz and Hugo Larsson, the likes of İlkay Gündoğan and Kevin De Bruyne are likely departures when their contracts expire, while Grealish could also be moved on despite his not ending until 2026.
Grealish, who earns £300,000 a week at the Etihad Stadium, has struggled for regular game time this season, playing just 16 times in the Premier League, six of which have been starts, and the last one came in the defeat to Aston Villa back in December.
Despite the lack of game time, Guardiola has continued to heap praise on the Englishman, labelling him “incredible”.
Apps
27
Starts
14
Goals
2
Assists
5
“I want him to make goals and assists, and he does too, but it’s not about that. It’s about his contribution without the ball and what he can produce for the other ones. We didn’t sign Jack Grealish for the incredible goals or assists at Aston Villa. It was for another reason. He competes with top, top players as well, and he knows it perfectly. He never complains about that.”
In recent seasons, Manchester City’s academy has been a conveyor belt of talent.
Current Premier League stars including Cole Palmer, Roméo Lavia, Liam Delap, Taylor Harwood-Bellis and many more have represented the Sky Blues at youth level, before being sold for huge fees, and that’s not even mentioning those who have stayed and are key first team figures.
Manchester City's Cole Palmer celebrates scoring their first goal
However, did the best of the lot leave for free when he was just 16, making him the biggest mistake of the lot, considering he’s now outscoring Phil Foden at one of Europe’s biggest clubs?
Phil Foden's continued struggles
As recently as last season, Phil Foden was presented with both the PFA Players’ Player of the Year and Football Writers’ Association Footballer of the Year awards, having scored 27 goals across all competitions, on top of 13 assists.
In recognition of this amazing form, teammate Rodri asserted that Foden “has the ability to be the best English player in history”. Now, however, even a starting berth is not guaranteed, with the 24-year-old only introduced late on in the 2-2 draw with Brighton.
The City academy product has accumulated just ten goals and six assists to date in all competitions, with James Ducker of the Telegraph stating that his end product has ‘fallen off dramatically’.
Andy Hampson of the Independent adds that he ‘endured a slow start to the season’, thereby unable to ‘regain his rhythm’, according to Sam Lee of the Athletic, with Jonathan Wilson of the Guardian believing he has merely ‘flickered’ all campaign.
Foden himself stated that he’s been suffering from “burnout” and has been carrying “a few niggles” after a long season, featuring a run to the Euros Final, with Pep Guardiola pleading with supporters to “be patient” as his players “are human beings”.
Put succinctly by Simon Bajkowski of the Manchester Evening News, Foden was ‘the best player in the Premier League’ but is now enduring the ‘roughest campaign of his career’, having been usurped by January arrival Omar Marmoush behind Erling Haaland.
Thus, with the England international struggling for form and fitness, will Man City rue allowing an attacker outperforming Foden to leave for free?
Man City's forgotten academy superstar
Even before being old enough to vote, drink or drive, Michael Olise was something of a journeyman, given that he spent time at Arsenal, Chelsea and Man City’s academies, before departing the latter for Reading at the age of just 16.
The winger made his senior debut against Leeds in March 2019, racking up 73 appearances for the Royals, before being snapped up by Crystal Palace, who paid his £8m release clause in 2021, really bursting onto the scene in South London.
In 90 outings for the Eagles, Olise racked up 16 goals and 25 assists, earning rave reviews; Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout described him as “superb”, Matt Woosnam of the Athletic labelled him one of world football’s ‘brightest talents’, while former Arsenal winger Adrian Clarke noted that his performances for Palace were both ‘incredible’ and ‘elite’.
As a result, Bayern Munich paid around £50m to secure his services last summer, with Seb Stafford-Bloor of the Athletic noting how this move to Bavaria has taken Olise’s stardom to a whole new stratosphere.
The 23-year-old has scored 13 goals and provided 11 assists for the run-away Bundesliga leaders so far, also earning his senior international debut for France against Italy earlier this season, choosing to represent Les Bleus, despite also being eligible to represent Algeria, Nigeria and England.
So, let’s analyse how his statistics compare to Foden’s this season.
Statistics
Olise
Foden
Appearances
39
38
Minutes
2,540
2,605
Goals
13
10
Assists
11
6
Shots on target %
37.5%
32.2%
Progressive carries
126
69
Progress passes
203
141
Pass completion %
80.3%
84.9%
Shot-creating actions
157
120
Goal-creating actions
18
15
Take-on success %
51%
40.7%
Touches per 90
70.3
52.3
As the table outlines, Olise and Foden have played a near-identical number of minutes this season, there’s under an hour in it, making comparing the pair about as fair as it can be.
Michael Olise in action for Bayern Munich
The Frenchman comes out on top for pretty much every metric featured, pass completion percentage the sole exception, with Olise outperforming Foden when it comes to goals, assists, chances created, dribbles and pretty much everything else.
Thus, it’s pretty indisputable that Man City would be better off if they had the 21-year-old in their ranks, a rising star that, as Ryan Taylor of the Daily Mirror reports, those at Bayern believe is now worth £100m.
Man City sold the original Haaland for just £11m, now he's outscoring Foden
A former Man City hero is continuing to fire in front of goal this season
Setting their sights on summer reinforcement, Manchester United have now reportedly opened talks to sign a talented young forward who’s valued as high as £55m.
Man Utd set sights on future star
The Red Devils were beginning to enjoy a slight turnaround on the pitch just before the international break, earning a point against Arsenal, before battling past Real Sociedad in the Europa League and thrashing Leicester City. The argument could even be made that it was their best week under Ruben Amorim, only for the international break to arrive at a frustrating time.
However, what the break has given those at Old Trafford a chance to do is turn their attention towards the summer transfer window. It simply must be a busy one for INEOS as they look to rebuild Amorim’s side in his vision and that has already seen several rumours come thick and fast.
The likes of Xavi Simons have particularly threatened to steal the headlines this week and whilst there’s little doubt that the Dutchman would be a perfect candidate to play in one of the two No.10 roles, the Red Devils may find it difficult to attract his signature without European football.
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Instead, they’ve reportedly turned towards a rising star. According to GiveMeSport, Manchester United have now opened talks to sign Tyler Dibling from Southampton this summer, making their first approach for the 19-year-old star.
In a season to forget for the Saints, Dibling provided a rare bright spark before injury disrupted his break-out campaign. Now, even amid a frustrating spell on the sidelines, it looks as though he’ll get the chance to stay put in the Premier League courtesy of United.
Southampton's TylerDiblingin action with AFC Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen
Dibling’s signature won’t come cheap, however, given that Southampton were demanding as much as £55m for his signature in January. And even if relegation sees that valuation dip, potential suitors could still be left paying a hefty fee.
"Creative" Dibling destroyed Diogo Dalot
Of course, Manchester United are already well aware of Dibling’s talent – as is Diogo Dalot. The full-back found himself on the receiving end of the winger’s sharp dribbling to concede a penalty against Southampton earlier this season. Ultimately, it was a game that the Red Devils won after Cameron Archer missed the resulting penalty, but Dibling certainly left a lasting impression.
Described as the “definition of a creative winger” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, Dibling is a talent who needs to be playing Premier League football and he’d get exactly that by swapping Southampton for Manchester United.
Joining one of England’s biggest clubs in doing so, the teenager could yet play a large part in awakening a sleeping giant.
Real Madrid have been “heavily” scouting one of Sunderland’s star players ahead of a potential summer move, according to a new report.
Sunderland braced for interest in young stars as Le Bris prepares for playoffs
With the Championship season now nearing its conclusion, Sunderland are, barring an almighty slip-up, almost all but guaranteed a spot in the play-offs. Currently sitting in fourth place, Regis Le Bris’ side are well ahead of the sides below them, including Coventry, West Bromwich Albion and Bristol City.
Automatic promotion, however, while not totally out of the question, will be a push for the Black Cats, with Burnley, Sheffield United, and Leeds United all seemingly picking up steam in recent weeks while Sunderland ran out of it.
Earlier this week, Sunderland midfielders Jobe Bellingham and Chris Rigg were named join-best young men’s player at the North East Football Writer’s awards for their performances this season at the Stadium of Light.
Speaking with BBC Radio Newcastle in light of the awards, former Black Cats defender Darren Williams heaped particular praise on Bellingham, whose performances this year have seen him linked with some of Europe’s top clubs, including Borussia Dortmund, the former club of his older brother, Jude.
“Last season, I said I don’t think Jobe’s work rate was there, but this season he’s changed that. He’s been a massive, massive part of this season,” Williams said. “The two lads, they stand out. They’re amazing talents and obviously got a bright future.”
Real Madrid among huge clubs scouting Sunderland star
It isn’t just Bellingham who is being linked with a move away from the Stadium of Light. According to Sunderland AFC News, Rigg, who is just 17, is being scouted by some huge clubs, namely Real Madrid.
Speaking to the publication, transfer expert Graeme Bailey described Rigg, who has already made over half a century of appearances for Sunderland, as a “generational talent”. He revealed that he will have his pick of clubs come the end of the season whether they go up or not, as Madrid chiefs such as Florentino Perez “love” and “want” him.
Sunderland midfielder Chris Rigg.
Aside from Manchester United, a host of other Premier League clubs are also understood to be interested in Rigg.
Scouts from Chelsea have reportedly been closely monitoring the attacking midfielder’s development and have even sent scouts to watch him play on three separate occasions, against Leeds United, Hull City and Luton Town. Brighton, Arsenal and Wolves are also said to be keeping an eye on English youngster.
Manchester United had a fairly busy January transfer window. The Red Devils made a couple of deals, along with some major outgoings. The biggest departure was that of United academy graduate Marcus Rashford, who left on loan to join Aston Villa until the end of the season.
Brazilian winger Antony also made a temporary switch to La Liga side Real Betis, and Tyrell Malacia joined Dutch outfit PSV Eindhoven on loan. There were also loan moves for several academy players, including Ethan Wheatley.
In terms of incomings, United made two signings. Ayden Heaven joined the club from Arsenal on a free transfer, and left wing-back Patrick Dorgu also made the switch to Old Trafford.
Dorgu's time at United so far
Red Devils boss Ruben Amorim addressed a key issue in his side by signing Dorgu. The Dane signed from Serie A strugglers Lecce for a fee of £25m upfront with a further £4.1m in potential add-ons.
The Denmark international was signed to help add depth at left wing-back, an area of United’s squad which clearly needed strengthening. With Luke Shaw out injured and the plan for Malacia to leave on loan, Diogo Dalot was the only option Amorim had on that flank.
It is fair to say that Dorgu has made a strong impression during his short United career so far. He has made four appearances, and was described as “a very promising player” after his impressive performance against Everton last weekend.
Frustratingly, the young Dane was sent off against Ipswich Town in his most recent Premier League clash for a dangerous challenge, which was deemed worthy of a red after a VAR review. Aside from that, he has been excellent in a United shirt so far.
Dorgu clearly has excellent potential, and will surely only get better under Amorim. However, he may not be the only talented left wing-back the club will soon have at their disposal.
The talented youngster who can rival Dorgu
Over the decades, United have been all about giving young stars a chance to prove what they can do in that famous red shirt. The next young player who could be in line to showcase his talent is Diego Leon.
The 17-year-old is a Paraguayan left-back who, according to BBC Sport, had a medical with the club in January. He seems set to make a permanent switch to Old Trafford in the summer from Paraguayan side Cerro Porteno, having progressed through their academy ranks.
Last season, the 17-year-old became a key player for the club. He made 19 appearances in the Primera Division Clausura from left-back, completing 90 minutes on 15 occasions. He even managed to get himself on the scoresheet twice.
Already, Leon has made a quick start to the new season in Paraguay. He scored the first goal, a key equaliser, in Cerro Porteno’s 3-1 Copa Libertadores win over Monagas SC. If there were any doubts about Leon’s suitability for playing as a wing-back in Amoirm’s backline, perhaps his goal threat will help to settle them.
Described as an “explosive” player by football analyst Nicolas, Leon’s stats on Sofascore highlight some of his key strengths. For example, he created nine chances last season and made 45 tackles and interceptions.
In contrast, as per Sofascore, Dorgu created 20 chances and made 68 tackles and interceptions this season for Lecce in four more games.
Stat
Diego Leon
Patrick Dorgu
Key passes
9
20
Dribbles completed
18
17
Pass accuracy
71.5%
83.8%
Aerial duels won
21
29
Tackles and interceptions
45
68
It certainly seems like Leon is a player for United fans to get excited about. The 17-year-old no doubt has a lot to learn in the professional game, but he is clearly a talented youngster who is already impressing in senior football.
Whilst Dorgu has made the left wing-back spot his own for now, perhaps further down the line, Leon could begin challenging him for a spot in the side should he become part of the United first-team squad.
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Arsenal have been hit with several huge injury blows in recent weeks that have left Mikel Arteta with little to choose from when selecting his attacking options in matches.
Bukayo Saka, Kai Havertz, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli are all out injured for the foreseeable future, and the Gunners did not swoop to bring in any reinforcements during the January transfer window.
Gabriel Jesus
ACL
August 31st 2025
21
Bukayo Saka
Hamstring
April 1st 2025
18
Kai Havertz
Hamstring
June 30th 2025
14
Gabriel Martinelli
Hamstring
Unknown
1
Takehiro Tomiyasu
Knee
Unknown
29
Whilst it remains to be seen how the London giants will resolve their issue in the number nine position, the emergence of Ethan Nwaneri has helped to deal with the loss of Saka to injury.
Arsenal's Ethan Nwaneri celebrates scoring their fifth goal with teammates
The 17-year-old whiz, who turns 18 in March, has emerged as a genuine first-team option for Arteta this season, with some eye-catching performances on the right flank.
Ethan Nwaneri's emergence this season
Nwaneri made his Premier League debut at the age of 15 years and 181 days against Brentford in September 2022, which made him the youngest player in the history of the division.
Two seasons later the England U19 international has become a regular in the senior set-up. He has made 24 appearances for Arsenal in all competitions this season, including 15 outings in the top-flight.
Appearances (starts)
15 (4)
xG
0.74
Goals
3
xA
1.01
Assists
1
As you can see in the table above, Nwaneri has produced four direct goal contributions in four starts in the Premier League, with his latest being an assist for Mikel Merino in the 2-0 win over Leicester at the weekend.
The teenage sensation, who has scored seven goals in all competitions, may soon have another incredible teenage talent alongside him in the first-team, as Arsenal have 15-year-old Max Dowman rapidly rising through the ranks.
Arsenal could hit gold with Max Dowman
Arteta, as he already has with Nwaneri, could hit the jackpot by unearthing the young attacking midfielder in the coming seasons, as he is emerging as an incredible prospect who could be as good as the current first-team academy graduate.
Back in November, Fabrizio Romano reported that the then-14-year-old was already training with the first-team at Arsenal, and that the club consider him to be a “huge” talent.
In the same month, analyst Ben Mattinson claimed that Dowman has stood out at U19 and U21 level, despite his incredibly young age, and described his talent as “insane”, whilst he added that it would not be a surprise for him to make his debut this season and beat Nwaneri’s Premier League record.
The 15-year-old starlet has already made his U21 debut and has racked up three goals and two assists in eight appearances for the U18s this season, which shows that the youngster is starring well above his age bracket.
Dowman is shining in the academy and has clearly caught Arteta’s attention, hence why he has been in first-team training as young as 14, which is why he could be as big of a talent as Nwaneri, who has emerged in the senior set-up at the age of 17.
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It is now down to the manager to plot the perfect pathway to the first-team for the left-footed playmaker, who is yet to make his senior bow, to ensure that the club can strike gold with the teenage ace, who could eventually become a regular for the Spanish tactician in the future.
Aston Villa host Tottenham Hotspur in the fourth round of the FA Cup this Sunday, as Unai Emery and Ange Postecoglou look to lift their first piece of silverware in England.
A place in the last 16 of the competition is on offer, with both clubs ready to put the Premier League to one side as they aim to reach Wembley come May.
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Spurs will be looking to bounce back after EFL Cup disappointment against Liverpool last time out, whereas Villa suffered a league defeat to rivals Wolves in their last fixture.
Aston Villa v Tottenham team news Aston Villa
Tyrone Mings, Pau Torres, Matty Cash and Ross Barkley were all out injured for Villa in the defeat to Wolves, whereas Ollie Watkins was also replaced at half-time with a muscle problem.
All five won’t be available on Sunday afternoon against Spurs, whereas new signing Axel Disasi is cup tied. Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio could make their debuts, though.
Tottenham
Spurs’ injury crisis has seen Radu Dragusin, Brennan Johnson, James Maddison, Wilson Odobert, Cristian Romero, Dominic Solanke, Destiny Udogie, Timo Werner, Guglielmo Vicario all missing.
Richarlison can now seemingly be added to the list after being forced off against Liverpool on Thursday, with Postecoglou saying: “It looks like his calf. It didn’t look too good after the game, so probably one to add to the list.”
Where to watch Aston Villa v Tottenham on TV
Aston Villa vs Tottenham is scheduled for Sunday 9 February with a kick-off time of 5:35pm (GMT).
It will be broadcast live on BBC One to viewers in the UK and Premier Sports for those in the Republic of Ireland. Those in the UK can also stream the match on BBC iPlayer.
Aston Villa v Tottenham referee and is there VAR?
Even though this is a meeting being played by two Premier League clubs, there will be no VAR for the fourth-round tie, with the FA deciding to introduce Video Assistant Referees from the fifth round onwards.
The referee assigned by the FA for the match is Anthony Taylor, with assistant referees Gary Beswick and Adam Nunn and fourth official Simon Hooper. Taylor has officiated 47 Spurs matches and 31 Villa games.
Games
31
47
Record
W13, D6, L12
25W, 6D, 16L
Cards received
62 Yellow, 4 Red
80 Yellow, 3 Red
Cards to opponents
68 Yellow, 5 Red
87 Yellow, 5 Red
Penalties for/against
6/1
4/11
Aston Villa v Tottenham form Aston Villa
Aston Villa have been going through a tricky period of late, winning just one of their last five fixtures in all competitions.
Morgan Rogers’ hat-trick against Celtic was enough for Villa to seal a top 8 finish in the Champions League, however, Emery’s side have dropped seven points from their last three Premier League games, including a defeat to Wolves last time out.
Date
Opponent
Competition
Result
Sat 1st Feb
Wolves (a)
Premier League
L 2-0
Wed 29th Jan
Celtic (h)
Champions League
W 4-2
Sun 26th Jan
West Ham (h)
Premier League
D 1-1
Tue 21st Jan
Monaco (a)
Champions League
L 1-0
Sat 18th Jan
Arsenal (a)
Premier League
D 2-2
Tottenham
Inconsistency has been the story of Spurs’ season, and that is highlighted in their last five fixtures in all competitions. Wins over Hoffenheim and Elfsborg guaranteed Postecoglou’s side qualification into the Europa League last 16, and they even defeated Brentford on their own patch.
However, a disappointing home defeat to Leicester City and giving up a one-goal advantage in their EFL Cup semi-final second leg with Liverpool have been extremely frustrating for Tottenham.
Date
Opponent
Competition
Result
Thu 6th Feb
Liverpool (a)
EFL Cup
L 4-1
Sun 2nd Feb
Brentford (a)
Premier League
W 0-2
Thur 30th Jan
Elfsborg (h)
Europa League
W 3-0
Sun 26th Jan
Leicester (h)
Premier League
L 1-2
Thur 23rd Jan
Hoffenheim (a)
Europa League
W 2-3
Aston Villa v Tottenham head-to-head
A regular Premier League fixture over the past 30 years, it is no surprise that these two have faced off regularly in their histories – over 175 times in fact.
The first meeting was actually in the FA Cup way back in 1903 and in total, there have been 12 FA Cup fixtures between Villa and Spurs.
Celtic are looking to strengthen their squad before the end of the summer transfer window at the start of September, despite winning two trophies in the 2024/25 campaign.
Brendan Rodgers led his team to the Scottish Premiership title and the League Cup trophy in his second season back at Parkhead, although his side did also lose in the final of the SFA Cup.
As shown in the post above from Fabrizio Romano, Celtic are set to complete the signing of Benjamin Nygren to bolster their options on the right flank.
The Hoops have already signed Ross Doohan to fill the role of third-choice goalkeeper and have snapped up Kieran Tierney to be their new first-choice left-back.
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According to 67HailHail, Celtic are interested in a deal to sign Scotland international Andy Irving from Premier League side West Ham United before the end of the summer transfer window.
The report claims that the Hoops ‘could make a move’ for the left-footed star in the coming weeks, as Rodgers looks to add to his options in the middle of the park.
It states that there are also teams from the Championship in England that are looking at him as a potential signing, but that the Bhoys are currently at the front of the queue to secure his signature.
Why Celtic should sign Andy Irving
The Scottish giants should swoop to sign Irving from the Hammers this summer because he could be an amazing midfield partner for Reo Hatate when called upon.
Whilst captain Callum McGregor is likely to start when fit, given that he started 34 league games this season, Rodgers will be thinking about what life could look like after the 32-year-old’s powers start to wane.
Callum McGregor
Arne Engels was trialled as a number six at times in his debut campaign in Scotland, and playing the Belgian star there would allow the manager to play Irving and Hatate as the two number eights ahead of him.
Celtic’s Japanese maestro has proven himself to be adept at breaking down opposition defences to chip in with goals and assists, having scored ten goals and provided four assists in 37 league games for the club in the 2024/25 campaign.
Appearances
31
28
Goals
5
9
Big chances missed
0
1
Big chances created
10
7
Key passes per game
1.4
1.2
Assists
6
4
As you can see in the table above, Irving caught the eye at the top end of the pitch whilst playing as a midfielder for Klagenfurt in Austria, in the same division that Nicolas Kuhn was signed from when he was at Rapid Vienna.
The 25-year-old star, who was dubbed a “Premier League-level” talent by former scout Mick Brown, only made ten league appearances for the Hammers this term, which meant that he did not have much of a chance to showcase his attacking qualities for Graham Potter’s side.
Andy Irving on Scotland duty.
However, a move to a dominant Celtic team, that have won the title in each of the last four seasons, could help him to regain his best form as a central midfielder who can provide quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals.
That could, therefore, result in Rodgers having two amazing attack-minded number eights in the form of Hatate and Irving, who could cause havoc in the final third, with either Engels or McGregor sat behind them as the number six.
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This is why this move could make a lot of sense for Celtic if they decide to go through with a move for him, as this latest report suggests that they may do.
The start of this season felt unusually tough for Arsenal, with visits to Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City all within the first month and a half.
Unfortunately, next year looks set to be just as tough, with an opening game away to Manchester United quickly followed by games against Liverpool and City.
So, the best way for Andrea Berta and Co to help Mikel Arteta and his side prepare for a gruelling introduction to the 25/26 Premier League season is by signing some seriously talented players who’ll elevate the squad.
Fortunately, recent reports have linked the Gunners to an incredibly exciting left-winger who’d do just that, although it would be bad news for Gabriel Martinelli.
Arsenal's winger search
While most fans have been crying out for Arsenal to sign a striker for a couple of windows now, it’s arguably just as important that they add at least one more wide player to the squad this summer.
Transfer Focus
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It appears that that’s an opinion shared by the club, as in recent weeks and months, countless reports have linked them to incredible talents like Nico Williams and Bradley Barcola.
However, with the former now looking like he’s on his way to Barcelona and the latter now a target for German behemoths Bayern Munich, the North Londoners might need to look elsewhere, which could explain the links to Kenan Yıldız.
According to reports from JuveFC, Arsenal are now interested in Juventus’ young dynamo.
The report claims that the Gunners and London rivals Chelsea have ‘re-engaged in discussions’ to assess the possibility of signing the talented winger this summer.
Juventus' KenanYildizcelebrates
Interestingly, the report claims that as the Old Lady do not want to sell the Turkish talent, they have placed a price tag of €100m – £85m – on his head, and yet it also states that offers in the region of €70m – £60m – might be considered.
It would be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Yıldız’s ability and potential, it’s one Arsenal should pursue, especially as he’d be an upgrade on Martinelli.
How Yıldız compares to Martinelli
Now, one of Yıldız’s biggest strengths is that he can play in several positions, be that in midfield, up top, second striker and off the right, but his natural and most played position is left-wing, which is where he’d sure play at Arsenal.
Therefore, his primary competitor for game time in North London would be Martinelli, so how do the pair stack up against one another?
Well, when it comes to pure output, it is the Juventus star who comes out on top, as in 49 appearances, totalling 3332 minutes, the “magnificent” gem, as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, scored ten goals and provided seven assists, which comes out to a goal involvement every 2.88 games, or every 196 minutes.
In contrast, the Gunners’ number 11 scored ten goals and provided six assists in 51 appearances, totalling 3564 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 3.18 games, or every 222.75 minutes.
Unfortunately for the Brazilian international, the comparison only becomes more one-sided when we take a look under the hood at their underlying numbers.
Non-Penalty G+As
0.43
0.38
Progressive Passes
4.33
1.87
Progressive Carries
4.24
4.69
Shots
2.41
2.12
Shots on Target
0.75
0.94
Passing Accuracy
79.7%
71.4%
Key Passes
1.81
1.56
Passes into the Final Third
2.55
0.47
Passes into the Penalty Area
1.72
1.40
Live Passes
38.4
25.4
Shot-Creating Actions
4.33
2.90
Goal-Creating Actions
0.36
0.25
Tackles
1.99
0.92
Blocks
0.98
0.73
Interceptions
0.38
0.16
Clearances
0.45
0.70
Successful Take-Ons
2.40
1.48
Ball Recoveries
4.87
3.10
For example, while he does better in a couple of metrics like shots on target and progressive carries, the young Turkish star does far better in almost every other relevant statistic, such as non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive passes, shot and goal-creating actions, shots, passing accuracy, key passes, tackles and many, many more, all per 90.
Ultimately, while Martinelli could remain an incredibly useful squad player next season, it’s clear that Yıldız is the far superior winger in practically every metric and four years his junior, so Arsenal should be doing all they can to sign him this summer.
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Well, it feels like Liverpool and Newcastle United are primed for a summer of fencing over Alexander Isak. The Magpies striker is on FSG’s wishlist, even if there’s a prevailing sense that Eddie Howe’s side are going to ensure their talisman stays put.
In fact, PIF have priced the centre-forward at £200m and are reportedly prepared to make him the highest-paid player in Newcastle’s history.
It’s unlikely that this one will come to fruition for Arne Slot’s side, but the door isn’t completely closed on a stunning summer capture to complement the thick breadth of talent already being added to the Anfield ranks: Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz brought in from Bayer Leverkusen, Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez just announced too.
Isak was only outscored by that man Mohamed Salah in the Premier League last season, and is one of the most mobile and talented nines in Europe, even remarked to have been “the best striker in the world” last season by analyst Raj Chohan.
Of course, in order to get such a deal over the line, Liverpool would need to make sure they offload Darwin Nunez.
The latest on Darwin Nunez's future
25 years old, Nunez should be heading into his prime – and he might be, but not at Liverpool. It hasn’t worked out for the man who cost FSG some £64m to bring over from Benfica (his full £85m fee will not be reached).
Anticipated to be on the move for several months, things are starting to move, with Serie A champions Napoli locked in talks with Liverpool to bring the player – who has green-lit the potential transfer – over to Naples.
Despite his flaws, Nunez remains popular within the Liverpool fanbase and is endowed with the archetypal physical faculties of the modern high-level striker. But consistency has proved elusive across his three years on Merseyside, and now it’s time for change.
Nunez actually regressed under Slot’s management, scoring just seven times across 43 matches in 2024/25. Others rose to the occasion, stepped up, but, tactically, the Uruguayan was incongruent in the system, unable to process the calculated and measured nature of the coach’s vision.
Liverpool's DarwinNunezcelebrates after winning the Premier League
Liverpool might not sign Isak this summer, but it’s pretty clear that a new striker will be required to combat Nunez’s departure. Someone refined and respected as one of the continent’s sharpest marksmen.
And someone affordable at that.
Liverpool open talks for Nunez upgrade
According to Correio da Manha, Liverpool have entered the race for Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres, with Arsenal and Manchester United the notable competitors.
The 27-year-old has established himself as one of the most prolific strikers in Europe over the past few years and is believed to have a €80m (£68m) price tag, something Liverpool have confirmed after opening talks with the player’s representatives.
Said to be ‘heartbroken’ after Sporting president Frederico Varandas purportedly went back on a gentleman’s agreement to let him leave for a comparatively modest fee at the end of the 2024/25 season, Gyokeres has no intention of playing for the two-in-a-row Liga Portugal champions again.
Arsenal are the clear favourites in the race, but Liverpool are there, and they need a striker.
Why Liverpool should sign Viktor Gyokeres
Gyokeres is at the top of his game and has been profiled favourably by some of English football’s heaviest hitters. He might not have the same depth of talent as Isak, and indeed remains at this point unproven in the Premier League, but he’s a “ball-striking monster”, as per analyst Ben Mattinson and could prove a massive upgrade on Nunez.
Sporting CP's ViktorGyokereskisses the trophy as he celebrate after winning the Taca de Portugal
When you consider he’s available for a fraction of the cost that FSG would need to pay to bring Newcastle’s goal-getter over to Anfield, snapping him up before rivals steal ahead feels like a bit of a no-brainer.
In fact, Isak’s 27-goal haul across the campaign is dwarfed by that of his compatriot, who fired 54 goals home for his outfit across domestic and European endeavours, playing only 52 matches.
1.
Viktor Gyokeres
33
39
2.
Kylian Mbappe
34
31
3.
Mohamed Salah
38
29
4.
Robert Lewandowski
34
27
5.
Harry Kane
31
26
Think of a forward, the best you can. They didn’t outscore Gyokeres in any of Europe’s top ten divisions last season, with the Swede’s 39-goal haul an illustration of his prowess.
His clinical nature – something that Nunez is decidedly lacking in – has even illustrated a sharper ball-striking quality than Isak, and if that can be translated over to English football, Slot will be a happy man indeed.
A fair criticism would be that he plies his trade in Portugal, and Nunez wrapped up his final campaign in the country with 34 goals across 41 matches in all competitions, prompting Jurgen Klopp to spend prodigally on his signature.
Liverpool'sDarwinNunezreacts
However, Gyokeres is far more accomplished, technically, athletically and physically, having been described as a “very physical striker” and a “powerhouse” by analyst Ben Mattinson.
Moreover, he’s proven his ability to steal the show against the Premier League’s finest.
And if that’s not sold him, just take a look at FBref’s evaluation, Gyokeres’ data gleaned across a period of 12 months to paint a vivid picture of his completeness, not just a goalscorer.
Indeed, he ranked among the top 11% of positional peers across divisions similar to the Liga Portugal for assists, the top 1% for progressive carries and shot-creating actions, and the top 2% for successful take-ons per 90.
Nunez was much younger when he arrived in the Premier League, a raw prospect with the hint of something special. Conversely, Gyokeres is at the heart of his prime years, no doubt robust and confident enough to work well with Salah, Wirtz and the like.
Fans have always clung onto hope that their record forward would come good, but when Slot stated in February that he “can’t accept” his work rate after a string of disappointing performances, it became quite clear that his day was done.
Sporting CP's ViktorGyokerescelebrates scoring their third goal to complete his hat-trick
It’s time for change, and Gyokeres would be a fantastic addition given his relatively affordable price tag and the existing depth of creative quality in Slot’s squad.
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