Manchester United Propose Swap Deal To Sign "Unbelievable" Defender

After a summer of arrivals, Manchester United have got off to a surprisingly difficult start in the Premier League this season, just about sealing all three points against Wolverhampton Wanderers, before suffering a 2-0 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur.

In their most recent outing, they didn't exactly look comfortable, either, conceding twice in the first four minutes against Nottingham Forest. Eventually, the Red Devils fought back to win 3-2, but it was far from convincing.

With that said, Erik ten Hag reportedly has unfinished business in the transfer window, and could yet reportedly welcome another fullback.

What's the latest Manchester United transfer news?

On paper, Manchester United's summer additions looked more than suitable. They solved their goalkeeping dilemma by welcoming Andre Onana from Inter Milan, whilst also adding some much-needed energy to their midfield, in the form of Mason Mount, before adding an out-and-out striker with the arrival of Rasmus Holjund.

It looks as if another goalkeeping arrival is also on the cards in Altay Bayindir. Recent reports have claimed that the Fenerbahce shot-stopper has already signed a Red Devils contract and undergone a medical, with Dean Henderson set to join Crystal Palace.

So far this season, United have not looked like a side who have just solved a handful of weaknesses, perhaps leading them straight back to the transfer market. With a matter of days left before the window slams shut, those at Old Trafford must act fast, and that could yet result in exits to accommodate arrivals.

According to Football Insider, Manchester United have been in talks and proposed a swap deal to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers right-back Nelson Semedo, in a potential move that would see Aaron Wan-Bissaka go the other way.

As per Football Insider, it is believed that the Midlands club still need to sell players to meet financial fair play regulations in the current window. And, with Wan-Bissaka in the final year of his United contract, a deal including Semedo could help all parties involved. Given how complicated the transfer could be, though, you'd think that United will need to act fast if they want to make it happen.

Should Manchester United sign Nelson Semedo?

The transfer window is all about upgrades, and that's exactly what Semedo would be for Manchester United when compared to Wan-Bissaka.

Last season, according to FBref, the Portugal international made more progressive passes, made more take-ons and more clearances per 90 than the current United fullback.

When at his best, Semedo has earned deserved praise in the past, too, including from reporter Tim Spiers, who said, via This is Futbol:

“Semedo, his stats were unbelievable.

"10 tackles and 8 clearances, miles more than anyone on the pitch. Now there’s a reason for that, because Fulham targeted him, so the ball was often coming in his direction.

"Yeah, a few balls went over his head, but I thought he had a decent game. Semedo’s stats, they sort of cloud a little bit of how the game actually panned out but I thought he did pretty well. And it reflects an improved confidence from him and a better mentality and I think he’s settling in quite well.”

Read the latest Man United transfer news HERE…

It certainly looks like it could be an action-packed end to the summer transfer window for Manchester United, who will be desperate to give Ten Hag a squad capable of challenging on all fronts.

If the Red Devils can welcome Semedo whilst parting ways with Wan-Bissaka, they may see it as a shrewd deal, and it looks like one to keep an eye on.

Jude Bellingham is unstoppable! England star joins Real Madrid goalscoring royalty – and equals David Beckham record – after just 29 games

Jude Bellingham has equalled David Beckham's Real Madrid goalscoring tally of 20 goals – and in 126 fewer games.

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Bellingham helps Madrid thrash GironaBags 19th and 20th goals of seasonMatches Beckham's Madrid goal haulGettyWHAT HAPPENED?

Los Blancos struck a big blow to Girona's La Liga title hopes with a thumping 4-0 win over Michel's side on Saturday at Santiago Bernabeu. A Bellingham double, either side of goals from Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo, saw Madrid go five points clear at the top of the table. The England international's goalscoring feats in 29 matches mean he is primed to surpass Beckham's goalscoring haul of 20 goals in 155 appearances – and in just over six months.

AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE

The 20-year-old swapped Borussia Dortmund for Madrid last summer for £89million ($113m) but if anything he has been somewhat of a bargain so far. Last year the midfielder won the Kopa Trophy and Golden Boy award and the youngster is playing a huge role in Madrid's success this term. Bellingham is also now 93rd in Real's all-time scorers list, which puts him ahead of legends like Clarence Seedorf and Arjen Robben.

Getty ImagesDID YOU KNOW?

During Madrid's drubbing of Girona, Bellingham went off with an ankle injury at a time where the Spanish giants have a number of key players out on the sidelines. It remains to be seen when he will return for Carlo Ancelotti's men.

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WHAT NEXT?

Madrid are back in Champions League action on Tuesday away to RB Leipzig in the first leg of their round of 16 tie, before returning to La Liga on February 18 at Rayo Vallecano. League games against Sevilla and Valencia follow on February 25 and March 2 respectively and Bellingham will hope to back fit as soon as possible.

Arsenal: Late £17m signing could usurp Gabriel at the Emirates

Arsenal could be one of the sides opting to take a late dip into the transfer market, as the Premier League prepares for the close of the window on Friday.

The Gunners have used the summer to recruit wisely, welcoming Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber, Declan Rice and David Raya to strengthen in all areas, however an early injury blow has disrupted the depth going into the season.

50 minutes into his debut and Mikel Arteta’s side’s league opener, Timber was forced to withdraw with the club later announcing that the Dutchman will be absent for the foreseeable future.

For that reason, and with departures expected, Arsenal have been linked to defensive reinforcements ahead of deadline day.

Who could Arsenal sign this summer?

As reported by news in Spain, Arteta could be plotting a reunion with one of the talents he worked with during his time at Manchester City.

Read the latest Arsenal transfer news HERE…

The report links Barcelona centre-back Eric Garcia with a move to the Emirates, as the Spaniard weighs up his options with reference to his expected role at the Nou Camp this season.

It’s reported that a fee of €20m (£17m) would be the region that the Catalan giants would expect for the 22-year-old, according to other reports in Spain (as relayed by Football365 earlier in the year), who has a mammoth €400m (£344m) release clause in place.

What is Eric Garcia’s playing style?

Previously lauded as an “elegant” player who’s “excellent on the ball” by scout Jacek Kulig, Garcia has been schooled in the art of defending by the famed La Masia academy, as well as at City’s Etihad campus.

The Spaniard would be the ideal fit for Arteta’s plans of his back line, with one of his most notable qualities being his ability to play the ball, highlighted by his average of 7.49 progressive passes per 90 over the past year, via FBref.

Such numbers rank him in the top 1% of centre-backs in Europe's top five leagues in this area, suggesting his strength and composure in playing the ball from the back, an attribute favoured in Arsenal’s style of play.

In signing Garcia, the Gunners could find themselves armed with a talent capable of far more than being a rotational figure to the likes of William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, with the 22-year-old already built to play in the Premier League.

Barcelona'sEricGarciareacts

With reference to Garcia’s progress at City, Kulig tipped the defender to become a “future world-beater”, high praise for a player so young being part of two of the most impressive sides in Europe.

During his time in Manchester, the Spaniard gained 19 Premier League appearances across two seasons, being part of only four defeats in that time and adapting well to the demands of the English game.

His experience in England already backs his cause to become a favourite in north London, in a figure that could see the likes of Gabriel usurped by his ability and suitability to Arteta's style of play.

When comparing the two players based on their averages in their respective 2022/23 league campaigns, the numbers suggest that the two could be in close competition at the Emirates.

As per FBref, Gabriel averaged 1.27 tackles and 2.64 aerial wins per 90 for Arsenal, closely followed by Garcia who recorded 1.46 aerial wins and 1.52 tackles per 90 in LaLiga last term.

In terms of distribution, the Spaniard showed up the Brazilian with respect to last season's displays, averaging a monstrous 8.26 final third passes per 90 while maintaining a pass completion rate of 90.9%.

Arteta’s centre-back registered an average of 4.51 final third passes and a pass completion rate of 89.4% per 90 in the Premier League, equally impressive numbers but ones that only reinforce the talent of Garcia.

With deadline day fast approaching, Gabriel could find his position in the starting XI even more threatened than it currently is, as the former Lille colossus still waits for his first Premier League start of the campaign.

Federico Redondo is an official Inter Miami player! Son of Real Madrid great Fernando – and international compatriot of Lionel Messi – signs via U22 initiative

Inter Miami have officially landed Argentine talent Federico Redondo for a fee of $8m from Argentinos Juniors.

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  • Redondo officially joins Miami
  • Signs via U22 initiative
  • Midfielder son of Real Madrid great, Fernando
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The 21-year-old officially inked a new deal through 2027 with the Herons, who have a club option for the 2028 season. He will not, however, take up a coveted Designated Player spot – and instead is joining via U22 initiative.

    He will also be replacing winger Facundo Farias on the roster, as a season-ending injury player replacement, meaning his contract will not go against the Herons total.

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  • WHAT INTER MIAMI SPORTING DIRECTOR CHRIS HENDERSON SAID

    “We’re pleased to bring an exciting young midfielder like Federico to Inter Miami. He’s a very promising player who is sharp with the ball at his feet, and shows awareness out of possession. We believe in his potential, but also feel he will immediately be a strong addition to our squad as we look to build on our successes in 2024,” said Chris Henderson, Chief Soccer Officer and Sporting Director.

  • Getty

    WHAT REDONDO SAID

    “I’m very happy to join a club that is growing so much. It’s a great opportunity to share the pitch with top players,” said Redondo. “I’m looking forward to integrating in the group with my teammates. We have to go step by step but always dream big.”

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  • THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Redondo – son of Real Madrid great Fernando – has been likened to be a regeneration of Sergio Busquets in the midfield… who he will of course share the pitch with at Inter Miami.

    The midfielder will instantly boost the Herons odds of success in 2024, while also being a key addition to their youthful core moving forward. Also an integral part of the Argentina U23 international squad, Redondo will be headed to Paris this summer for the Olympic Games with La Albiceleste.

    The 21-year-old is the next Argentine star at South Beach, and Herons fans are buzzing over his potential.

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Todd Astle bags his first New Zealand contract

James Neesham and Neil Broom were left out of NZC’s list of 20 contracted players for the 2018-19 period

ESPNcricinfo staff15-May-2018Canterbury’s legspinning allrounder Todd Astle has been offered a New Zealand contract for the first time, while James Neesham and Neil Broom were left out of the list of 20 contracted players for the 2018-19 period.List of contracted players

Corey Anderson, Todd Astle, Trent Boult, Lockie Ferguson, Colin de Grandhomme, Martin Guptill, Matt Henry, Tom Latham, Adam Milne, Colin Munro, Henry Nicholls, Jeet Raval, Mitchell Santner, Ish Sodhi, Tim Southee, Ross Taylor, Neil Wagner, BJ Watling, Kane Williamson, George Worker

“Todd’s progress over the past 12 months has been exciting to see. When fit, he made the most of his opportunities in both Test and ODI cricket,” said New Zealand selector Gavin Larsen said. “We have a big summer ahead; we know Todd performs well in New Zealand conditions, and we also have a spin-friendly tour against Pakistan coming up.”Between Todd, Ish and Mitchell our spin bowling stocks have probably never looked better. Jimmy and Neil didn’t show the consistency required over the past year and we’d like to see them go back and demand our attention again through domestic performance.”The new master agreement between NZC and the New Zealand Cricket Players Association is yet to be finalised, but both parties came to an agreement so that the contracts process was not delayed.The new contracts will come into effect from August 1.

Wolves: Old Gold could have signed £35m Joao Gomes partner

The Premier League has overcome the circus of the summer transfer window, with clubs spending a record £2.36bn on signings in the highly-inflated market. Wolverhampton Wanderers took part in the spending, despite being anonymous for the most part due to restrictions on funds as a result of Financial Fair Play (FFP) breaches from windows prior.

The Old Gold welcomed eight new arrivals this summer, including the permanent moves of Matheus Cunha and Boubacar Traore, as well as the deadline day swoops for loanee Tommy Doyle and £12.8m Jean-Ricner Bellegarde.

Selling Matheus Nunes on the final day hugely bolstered Gary O’Neil’s chances of strengthening his squad for the season ahead, adding much-needed funds to the bank to enable such moves.

Despite bringing in reinforcements, the club missed out on a number of targets that could have been fundamental assets to O’Neil’s plans to better the squad's form of last season.

Who was linked to Wolves this summer?

The one that got away this summer was most prominently former Bristol City midfielder Alex Scott, whom Wolves made two bids for below the asking price of £25m.

The highly-rated Englishman made the move to the Premier League with Bournemouth, in a deal that highlighted how much of an issue the Midlands club’s financial struggles were at the time.

In July, it was reported that the Old Gold had got talks underway over the potential move for Real Betis’ Guido Rodriguez but nothing came of the rumours. However, it did signify the area that the club were hoping to improve.

Bristol City's Alex Scott

A deadline day saga over the reported interest in Southampton’s Che Adams also equated to nothing as the Saints blocked the striker’s move, leaving Wolves short on forwards.

While missing out on such deals is disappointing, one that truly could’ve made the difference at Molineux was Fluminense midfielder Andre, who was linked with the club by reports in Brazil.

The £35m-valued man was also eyed by Liverpool, who had a bid of £26m rejected by the Brazilian outfit, telling of his talents to be wanted in the Premier League and valued so highly at Fluminense.

A combative and lively central midfielder, Andre could have replenished the wilted middle of the park at Molineux, which was left relatively bare following the departures of Ruben Neves and Joao Moutinho.

Who is Andre?

A product of Fluminense’s academy, the 22-year-old has cemented his worth in his homeland, becoming a vital part of the club’s side as highlighted by his 43 appearances over the 2022/23 campaign.

Lauded as “top-class” by talent scout Jacek Kulig for his playing style and described as a “roaming play-maker”, the 2001-born gem has a host of attributes that could have been useful at Molineux.

Fluminense midfielder Andre.

To reward the impressive performances of Andre, the Fluminense ace was handed his first cap for Brazil in an international friendly against Senegal in June, the game ended in defeat but marked the start of something potentially special for the rising star.

Competent in both defensive and offensive roles relative to a player of his position, it’s unsurprising that he has gained attention from the Premier League, as both Liverpool and Wolves endeavoured on quests for a player fitting of his style.

South American football expert Nathan Joyes was full of praise for the 22-year-old following his links to English clubs, tipping him to become Brazil’s “next best defensive midfielder."

What could Andre have offered to Wolves?

Hiring from Brazil has already worked well for Wolves this year, with Julen Lopetegui sealing a deal for former Flamengo midfielder Joao Gomes in January.

Since his arrival, the 22-year-old has become a key member of the side at Molineux, with his playing style and tackling ability making him a reliable figure to balance play in the engine room.

As per FBref, the former Flamengo whiz averaged 4.00 tackles per 90 during his first taste of the Premier League, a figure that places him in the top 1% of midfielders in the English top tier.

As such, the more progressive Andre could have been the perfect partner in the middle of the park.

Andre averages per 90 in 2023 Serie A.

Pass Completion %

93.8%

Progressive Passes

5.76

Passes Attempted

80.32

Final Third Passes

7.07

Interceptions

1.43

Tackles

2.44

Figures provided by FBref.

It didn’t take long for the new arrival to settle into his new surroundings, which poses the thought of what could have been for Andre at Wolves, should the Old Gold have had the finances to sanction a swoop for his services.

Joyes also described the bright midfielder as an “unbelievable talent”, whom he believes has the ability to “flourish in the Premier League”, praise indeed for a player coming from afar to feature in one the best leagues in the world.

So many players have arrived in England with huge potential and little to show for it at the time of their eventual departure, with the demands of the English game deemed to be incomprehensible to the playing style of some.

Being identifiable as an individual who could take to the Premier League made Andre even more of an attractive coup for Wolves, pondering the question of just how well he would have fitted into the squad.

This summer induced change at Molineux, with long-serving midfielders Neves and Moutinho calling it quits on their career with the Old Gold, leaving behind a sense of instability in the middle of the park in their absence.

andre-transfer-gossip-Fluminense

With reference to his statistics in Brazil, Andre is the definition of stability, averaging a passing accuracy rate of 93.3% per 90, as well as making an average of 2.32 tackles per 90 over the past year for Fluminense, via FBref.

Amid all the chaos over the summer, Wolves could have captured the signature of a talent that could have replaced the calibre of the departed midfield duo, as well as introducing a state of control at a time of need.

Hailed as a “midfield orchestrator” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, the Old Gold missed a huge chance to seal the signing of a player highly lauded and backed to become one of the best as his career progresses.

Finances and changes within the club acted as a smokescreen to the potential that could have been captured in the window, however with the 22-year-old still playing his football at his boyhood team, maybe a move could still be on the cards in the near future.

Yorkshire's tail rallies to leave Headingley's faithful with something to care for

ScorecardCricket’s changing landscape was there for all to see at Headingley. Behind the arm at the rugby end of the ground, the clanking and hammering told of a new stand rapidly taking shape. And, as spectators soaked up the sunshine on an entertaining, helter-skelter day, conversation often turned to the ECB’s controversial plans for 100-ball cricket. Praise for that in this hotbed of traditionalism is not easy to find.The two things are linked, of course. Without the revenue gained by successful short-form cricket, such stands as the one that will secure Headingley’s future would be impossible to finance. But this? Sun-creamed heads shook not with shock, but with deepening sadness.Many feel the game is being stolen from them. Championship diehards begin to grow old, lose friends and family and the game they love is gradually pilfered. Having become used to Twenty20, they are now told that even Twenty20 is not enough. If there was a unanimous plea here it would probably be to say: “Just leave us something worth caring for.”At such times, traditionalists take their pleasures one day at a time. There was plenty to be had with Yorkshire, up against it for much of the day, finding resilience down the order in the form of Andrew Hodd, who made 62 from 116 balls, and then picking up four cheap Nottinghamshire wickets by the close.There was zest, too, from Jack Brooks, who is no fall-guy with the bat. Last season he scored a Roses Championship century at Old Trafford and added another during an intra-squad friendly on Yorkshire’s pre-season tour of South Africa last month. His stand of 44 for the tenth wicket with Ben Coad gave Yorkshire the edge and his 30 included another clanking of the new stand with a six off Samit Patel.Three top-order wickets then quickened Yorkshire’s rally. Steven Mullaney dragged on and Chris Nash’s furtive dab flew to slip – two for Brooks in his first two overs. Patel fell lbw, that one met by a throaty Headingley roar, 100-ball cricket temporarily forgotten. If Nottinghamshire’s batting line-up is to survive the rigours of Division One, one senses that Patel needs a big season.Yorkshire made much play before the start of the season on batting time in the Championship. Twenty20 shot-making was to be frowned upon. Lines were drawn in indoor schools, sessions arranged with psychologists, meaningful conversations held.Yet before the ball had lost its sheen Alex Lees fended at a wide one from Jake Ball and Gary Ballance, the skipper, yet to score, slapped his ninth ball to point. Conditions were testing, but there were grumbles that nothing had changed. Still, if they were accused of a T20 mindset, they could always have suggested that nobody had warned them not to play 100-ball.It was grand to see Luke Fletcher among the wickets – four of them – after his horrendous head injury in a Blast tie against Warwickshire last season. Such career-threatening blows, if things turn out well, can encourage players to return with fresh resolve, determined to make the most of their good fortune.For 18 overs, Fletcher allowed few gifts. His quartet included the Indian Test No 3 Cheteshwar Pujara, a valid lbw decision which Pujara dwelt upon before leaving, as if he was still hanging around for his luggage at the airport carousel.

'That's the spirit!' – Mauricio Pochettino praises Chelsea display in draw with Man City – and stresses his team could have won

Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino was delighted with the spirit his side showed in Saturday's draw with Manchester City but rued missed opportunities.

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Pochettino delighted with 'aggressive' first halfRegrets not scoring crucial second goalBlues head to Wembley with renewed optimism WHAT HAPPENED?

The Blues caused the champions all sorts of problems before going ahead just before half-time when Raheem Sterling finished off yet another threatening counter attack. City piled the pressure on during the second half, creating a host of chances but Chelsea had opportunities to double their lead before Rodri rescued a late point for the hosts. After the game, Pochettino reflected on a performance that he believes is another step forward in the development of his team.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesWHAT MAURICIO POCHETTINO SAID

"Very pleased," Pochettino told after the match. "I think that is the spirit that we want to show. We are working for that. I think today against the the best team in the world, to show this type of performance, we need to be feel very proud. I congratulated the players at the end of the game because we were so brave.

"First half was really good. I think we were very aggressive with the ball going forward and winning duels. In the second half I think they dominated and they forced us to defend deeper. But I think we sustained the effort and we created chances that we should score and win the game. I am so happy. It is a good draw for us and when you face this type of team I think it is important to be brave and to fight in every single aspect.

"Manchester City have the quality and capacity to create chances and they have amazing players. It is fantastic for us because we are a young team and we need these types of experiences to grow."

THE BIGGER PICTURE

It's less than two weeks since Chelsea's collapse at home to Wolves appeared to put Pochettino on borrowed time. But an FA Cup win at high-flying Aston Villa backed up by two strong league performances has suddenly changed the mood at Stamford Bridge with a young and haphazardly assembled squad finally showing some signs of cohesion. Chelsea fans can now head to Wembley dreaming rather than dreading the Carabao Cup final next Sunday.

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Getty ImagesWHAT NEXT FOR CHELSEA?

That first silverware of the season is on the line when the Blues make the short trip to Wembley Way next weekend. Pochettino has a free midweek to prepare his side, while injury-hit opponents Liverpool have to inspect their walking wounded as well as attending to league business against Luton Town on Wednesday.

Leeds: Academy star could be a ‘phenomenal’ Ampadu partner

Leeds United are no different to any other English club, in that their fans absolutely love to see an academy graduate thrive in the first team.

So, for Daniel Farke, he must surely stick by the notion that 'you do not fix what isn't broken' with regard to one of his current starters.

Deadline Day marked a busy one for the Whites, who scrambled to add some much-needed depth to their squad before the window slammed shut.

Succeeding in doing so, they welcomed three new faces to bring their summer acquisitions up to nine, as a fine number to offset the 15 departures they had overseen.

One of their starring acquisitions at the eleventh hour came for just £5.5m, as they tempted Glen Kamara to trade Ibrox for Elland Road in order to aid their promotion charge.

How good is Glen Kamara?

The Finland international had starred for Rangers ever since moving in 2019 but admitted that "I feel I just needed a change in my career and Leeds is the perfect place to kick-start my career again" in his first interview with his new club.

After all, he had accomplished most of what was possible in Scotland, having won the Scottish Premiership and the Scottish Cup, as well as featuring in the Champions League. The 27-year-old is now set to bring a wealth of experience to Yorkshire, with the hope that he can recapture the form that saw him lauded during the 2021/22 campaign.

glen-kamara-transfer-gossip-leeds-united-farke-ao-tanaka-dusseldorf

Maintaining a 7.01 average rating in the league, his six goal contributions and 1.3 key passes per game outlined his creative credentials, but paired it with a 91% pass accuracy and one tackle per game too, adding some solidity as well, via Sofascore.

All signs point towards Kamara being instantly thrown into the starting lineup given what he has achieved in the Scottish top flight, but it should not be that easy for him to usurp the exceptional Archie Gray after his start to the season.

How is Archie Gray playing?

Having only made his competitive debut in Leeds' Championship curtain-raiser with Cardiff City, the 17-year-old impressed many with his mature and combative midfield display in a 2-2 draw.

He has since featured in every single game across all competitions thus far, and earned special praise from club legend Jermaine Beckford on Sky Sports (via Leeds Live): "He played with such maturity, he was so confident on the ball. He didn't rush, he didn't panic at all. Everything about his game today was absolutely spot on, and if today is anything to go by, this kid has such a bright future ahead of him.

"He's in the right place to learn, he's got a little bit of everything in him. Phenomenal player, he did really well today."

Tom Elliott

16 years 02 months 25 days

Simon Walton

16 years 10 months 25 days

Ryan Edmondson

16 years 11 months 16 days

Aaron Lennon

17 years, 4 months, 13 days

Archie Gray

17 years, 4 months, 25 days

Although his 6.6 average rating perhaps does not emphasise the scale of Gray's influence, who is the son, great nephew and grandson of three former Whites stars, his 84% pass accuracy and 1.4 tackles does showcase that quality in possession and toughness in the tackle that has earned praise, via Sofascore.

The partnership he has struck up with Ethan Ampadu marks one of the few shining lights to emerge from a term where they have just one league win thus far, as the Wales international acts as more of a dictator to allow his teenage teammate to spread the play.

As such, the 22-year-old maintains an 86% pass accuracy alongside 1.2 key passes, 2.4 tackles and 2.2 clearances per game in the league, via Sofascore.

Another pundit, Michael Dawson, outlined the kind of creativity that this foundation allows Gray to showcase: "The ball from Archie Gray is absolutely sensational. He picks the ball up just on the right-hand side in his own half and hits a long diagonal pass to Sinisterra, who runs at Harry Clarke and he lets him get in the box, chop inside and whip the ball into the far post."

Although Kamara may be the outstanding option on paper, Gray has certainly merited a sustained period of first-team football to continue solidifying a fine partnership with the former Chelsea general.

West Ham: Moyes heading into transfer tussle for "sensational" free agent

Journalist Pete O'Rourke's "well-placed source" has shared an interesting update West Ham United manager David Moyes' transfer plans, concerning Jesse Lingard.

Who just signed for West Ham?

The Irons, helped by new technical director Tim Steidten, secured the signings of Edson Alvarez, James Ward-Prowse, Konstantinos Mavropanos and Mohammed Kudus over this summer.

West Ham's brand new quartet come in to replace the departed Declan Rice, who joined Arsenal in a deal worth £105 million, and striker Gianluca Scamacca after his return to Italy with Atalanta.

Moyes' side have started the new Premier League season with aplomb; remaining unbeaten over their opening four matches with three wins and a draw.

Striker Michail Antonio, despite two arguably lacklustre seasons prior to this one so far, has lead the West Ham line brilliantly as Jamaica's international ace seemingly replicates his 2020/2021 form.

West Ham United'sMichailAntoniocelebrates after the match

However, a potential injury to the 33-year-old is a real possibility given their hectic fixture schedule; including a plethora of Europa League matches from now into the festive period.

Antonio's history of fitness issues are a serious cause for concern at West Ham, and bearing this in mind, there have been reports that the east Londoners could take to the free agent market in search of more attacking options.

Moyes ultimately failed in his attempts to bring in a new striker to replace Scamacca on deadline day, despite their last gasp push for Paris-Saint Germain forward Hugo Ekitike.

One option who could provide forward depth is Lingard, who despite not being an out-and-out centre-forward, has proven in past seasons that he can contribute with both goals and assists at West Ham.

Jesse Lingard

The 30-year-old free agent was training at Rush Green in a bid to maintain his fitness level, and reports claim he has actually impressed on-lookers at the club.

Now, journalist O'Rourke has shared an interesting update on Lingard's potential return to West Ham on a Bosman.

The reporter writes for Football Insider that Moyes and co are now facing a battle with two other clubs from Turkey for the ex-Man United ace, so if they're to sign him, West Ham need a formal offer to table fairly soon.

That is from his "well-placed source"' sharing that Galatasaray and Fenerbahce are likely landing spots if West Ham don't make a move.

What happened to Jesse Lingard?

The ex-Nottingham Forest ace hasn't been able to showcase his rip-roaring 20/21 form at West Ham, where he bagged nine goals and five assists in 16 matches.

Lingard has instead endured being on the periphery at both Man United and Forest since then, perhaps explaining why he is still available for hire.

However, we if the player can replicate his brilliant displays whilst on loan at West Ham two years ago, they could be landing a "sensational" free agent.

“He (Lingard) looked like someone going nowhere but he’s been sensational at West Ham," said Nigel Winterburn to The Sun in the summer of 2021.

"I think there’s a conversation to be had at Man Utd as to whether he’d fit back into their plans,” Winterburn told The Sun. “If not, he’s had this success at West Ham, so I don’t know why he’d want to sign elsewhere. He knows the club, so I think West Ham would be favourites to sign him.”

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