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Everton are riding a seven-match unbeaten run in the Premier League, but David Moyes will want to return to winning ways after successive draws.

At a glance, 15th-placed Everton’s trip to Molineux on Saturday evening, taking on a Wolverhampton Wanderers side sat just one place below them, could have the feel of a six-pointer with less than three months of the campaign remaining.

But the Toffees’ fine form under their new and former manager has created a comfortable ten-point buffer, unassailable save for a steep regression back toward the dismal end to Sean Dyche’s tenure.

A victory would all but cement Everton’s place in the 2025/26 Premier League roster, but Moyes will need to overcome a host of injuries. Business as usual, then.

When Everton's absentees are returning

Everton’s frontline might be depleted, but Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Armando Broja are progressing in their recovery – albeit not in time for the weekend – as confirmed by Moyes.

Iliman Ndiaye, however, is still stuck in the infirmary for a few more weeks at the least, while the prognosis for Dwight McNeil is all the more frustrating, both facing a fight for fitness before the end of the campaign.

Despite the paucity of attacking options, Everton have made do and seen their attacking spirit enkindled by Moyes’ arrival, but Wolves are going to bring a physical and perhaps desperate challenge that could see Jesper Lindstrom return to the bench, having struggled for success all season.

Should such a move occur, Moyes may need to think outside the box.

Why Moyes should drop Lindstrom

Dyche oversaw a 4-0 thrashing of Wolves in the corresponding fixture this season, but Everton should indeed expect a different fight against an outfit facing the peril of relegation.

Chalkboard

Vitor Pereira has essayed to shape Wolves into a creative and attractive outfit, and though they’ve caught the eye in moments, there is still concern that the drop zone lingers dangerously below.

Against Everton, Matheus Cunha begins a suspension after a fracas with Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez in the FA Cup last weekend. Wolves’ loss..​​​​.

For their part, Everton might want to unleash Charly Alcaraz and take advantage of the hosts’ setback, though with Abdoulaye Doucoure returning to action following personal leave, he may not find a place in the middle.

Doucoure’s combative physicality and box-to-box presence will be essential for this stylistic match-up, but that doesn’t mean attacking midfielder Alcaraz can’t play from the opening too.

Indeed, Everton’s January loan recruit, 22, might principally play in Doucoure’s zone, but he’s enjoyed a measure of clinical success when fielded off the right flank, with the overarching positional fluidity making a telling comment on his ability to cover out of place when necessary.

Central midfield

74

10

5

Attacking midfield

19

4

2

Right winger

14

4

2

Centre-forward

10

2

2

Defensive midfield

9

1

0

Left winger

7

1

2

Right-back

1

0

0

It’s not like Lindstrom’s untouchable: the Danish winger, also a loanee, has failed to register a single goal involvement across 27 competitive appearances for the Toffees this term, having missed six big chances in front of goal.

Alcaraz, conversely, has started life at Goodison Park on strong footing, notching a goal and an assist in a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace in February – his first start – while playing from the outset in last week’s draw at Brentford, creating three key passes, completing both his dribbles and winning six duels, as per Sofascore.

Before moving to Merseyside, Alcaraz’s exploits with Flamengo further evidence his suitability on the flank. As per FBref, the Argentina talent ranked among the top 6% of midfielders in the 2024 Brasileiro Serie A for progressive carries, the top 8% for successful take-ons and the top 7% for shot-creating actions per 90.

He’s a “special” talent – so says journalist Antonio Mango – and Everton must make this tweak. Lindstrom isn’t cutting it right now, and with Doucoure’s presence and security bolstering the attacking point of the midfield, Alcaraz could make a positive impression at Molineux.

Everton have a "monster" who could be Moyes' new Rooney & it's not Beto

Everton are resurgent under Moyes’ wing, with a new superstar on the rise.

ByAngus Sinclair Mar 6, 2025

Arsenal are now really keen on signing a £40m defender this summer, with a number of full-backs potentially set to exit the Emirates Stadium, according to a report.

Arteta set to reshape his backline

Mikel Arteta has now launched plans to reshape his defence, with the Gunners recently making contact over a move for Dinamo Tbilisi’s Saba Kharebashvili, who is part of a long-term plan at left-back.

Arteta wants to move Myles Lewis-Skelly back into midfield, which means a new left-back could be required, particularly considering Kieran Tierney is set to return to Celtic upon the expiration of his contract.

Andrea Berta is wasting no time in his new Sporting Director role, with a report revealing the Italian could also look at signing Espanyol left-back Omar El Hilali, whose release clause amounts to just £12.5m.

Arteta loves him: Arsenal now very keen on "amazing" £83m Barcelona star

The Gunners have set their sights on a new midfielder…

ByDominic Lund Mar 17, 2025

The Boot Room have now dropped another update on Arsenal’s pursuit of a left-back, revealing they are really keen on signing Ajax defender Jorrel Hato, who has previously been valued at £40m.

Hato has been admired by the Gunners for quite some time, and they are still interested in a move for the defender, who has displayed his versatility this season by taking up the role of left-back, having previously featured primarily at centre-back.

Arteta could be a little light on options at left-back in the near future, given that Tierney is set to depart, while clubs have been showing an interest in Zinchenko, and there is also a chance that Jakub Kiwior leaves this summer.

Versatile Hato could be a top signing for Arsenal

Given that Arteta plans to move Lewis-Skelly into midfield, and a number of left-backs are in line to leave Arsenal in the near future, it is clear a new recruit may be needed in that area, and there are plenty of signs Hato could be a top signing.

The Ajax defender has been compared to Timber by football scout Ben Mattinson, given his versatility and “elite potential”.

The 19-year-old has also previously admitted he looked up to Timber, rather than Virgil Van Dijk, during his time with Ajax’s U18s.

“Coaches told me that I always needed to look up to Virgil van Dijk, but when I played in the under-18s, I always looked up to Jurrien Timber.”

“When I came into the first team, he was my mentor.

“I love his playing style, his calmness on the ball.”

Statistic

Average per 90

Pass completion %

86.9% (90th percentile)

Tackles

2.66 (82nd percentile)

Interceptions

1.33 (87th percentile)

Aerials won

1.43 (87th percentile)

Not only that, but the Ajax star ranks very highly on some key metrics over the past year, when compared to other full-backs, indicating he could be the perfect addition for Arsenal at left-back.

Manchester United’s woes this season have been epitomised over the international break, with there notably having not been a single Red Devils representative named in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad.

With the likes of Harry Maguire, Mason Mount, Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo all making their respective returns from injury, United’s only connection to the Three Lions this time around was that of Marcus Rashford, albeit with the 27-year-old currently on loan at Aston Villa.

The Old Trafford outcast started in both games against Albania and Latvia, although endured two mixed performances on the flanks, with Tuchel admitting that he had “spoken” to both Rashford and Phil Foden following Friday’s win.

The United academy graduate has, it must be said, enjoyed a lively start to life at Villa Park after racking up four assists from just nine outings for his new side, yet the wait goes on to break his duck in the Midlands.

Even amid the shortage of attacking depth in Ruben Amorim’s ranks, few will be truly lamenting the decision to loan out Rashford back in January, with it already looking like the end of his lengthy association with the Manchester side.

Why Marcus Rashford should be sold this summer

It is now just over nine years ago that a teenage Rashford burst onto the scene following that brace against FC Midtjylland in February 2016, with the 18-year-old capitalising on a centre-forward injury crisis to force his way into Louis van Gaal’s senior set-up.

A further 136 goals and 425 games have followed in the time since, although it would appear that the forward’s time at Old Trafford has come to its conclusion, not least with Villa holding a £40m option to buy this summer.

Not long ago, Rashford had looked almost “unstoppable” after returning from the 2022 World Cup, as per then-boss Erik ten Hag, with the Englishman ultimately finishing that 2022/23 campaign with 30 goals to his name at club level.

£300k-per-week deal in the summer of 2023, albeit with the long-serving star failing to kick on since then, having scored just eight times last season.

A muted start to the current campaign, which yielded just seven goals, was followed by an imposed exile amid Amorim’s appointment, with Rashford having not been seen in a United shirt since being left out for the Manchester Derby back in December.

Previously described as a “major major problem” for the club by journalist Liam Canning, Rashford did himself outline his desire for a “new challenge” late last year, with talk of a dream move to Barcelona on the cards, prior to his switch to Villa.

That now looks to have marked the beginning of the end for his United journey – hopefully the same isn’t true of Kobbie Mainoo.

Man Utd have struck gold on Rashford 2.0

Despite the way it appears to be ending, Rashford’s spell at United has largely represented a real bright spot in an at times bleak post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, with the forward’s rise from academy prospect to first-team talisman having been simply meteoric.

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

Now, amid the ongoing PSR restrictions, cashing in on the Manchester-born striker would represent astute business for the club, particularly if that £40m price tag is met.

While there may also be a temptation to nudge other academy talents towards the exit door, it would be a crying shame for young Mainoo to follow suit, despite talk surrounding a £70m move to Chelsea back in January.

Player

Current club

Market value

Alejandro Garnacho

Manchester United

£38m

Scott McTominay

Napoli

£34m

Mason Greenwood

Marseille

£29m

Anthony Elanga

Nottingham Forest

£29m

Dwight McNeil

Everton

£21m

Angel Gomes

Lille

£17m

Andreas Pereira

Fulham

£17m

James Garner

Everton

£17m

There have been whispers in recent months that the teenager may even look to move abroad after a stall in contract talks, albeit with a more recent update indicating that the latest negotiations over a new deal have been ‘positive’.

The 19-year-old has endured an injury-hit season, although it was not too long ago that he looked the type of player that United should be building around – a point that pundit Jack Wilshere also thought was true at international level:

Who can forget the midfielder’s decisive strike in the FA Cup final, nor his delightful, curling effort in the 2-2 draw with Liverpool. Those moments of magic had come following a sublime solo goal away at Molineux in the 4-3 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers back in February 2024.

Described as a “generational talent” by teammate Rasmus Hojlund, Mainoo – who started every knockout stage game at Euro 2024 – hasn’t enjoyed a smooth ride under the new Amorim regime, although he did showcase his credentials in a number ten berth after scoring and assisting away at FCSB.

In truth, the United boss must find a home for the midfield maestro in his 3-4-3 set-up, with it likely to represent a real waste of talent and potential if Mainoo simply tumbles down the pecking order.

Indeed, the youngster’s status is indicated best by the fact that he is now worth around £46m, according to Transfermarkt, placing him ahead of that man Rashford in that regard, with the latter man deemed to be worth £42m.

Having followed in his teammate’s footsteps after rising from the youth ranks, Mainoo can now kick on and show just why he is United and England’s future. Rashford, meanwhile, could well be resigned to the past on both fronts.

Not just Hojlund: Man Utd star must be axed after 5/10 international howler

INEOS need to oversee a significant shift in the transfer market at Man United this summer.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Mar 25, 2025

Celtic failed to extend their lead at the top of the Scottish Premiership when they were beaten 1-0 by St. Johnstone away from home on Sunday.

The Hoops had the chance to move 16 points clear at the top of the division after their city rivals Rangers had been beaten 2-0 on Saturday by Hibernian, but failed to pick up a singe point of their own a day later.

Celtic had 26 shots on goal, nine of which were on target, and did not do enough to beat Andrew Fisher, who saved all nine of those efforts on target, between the sticks for the Saints.

The likes of Nicolas Kuhn, who was substituted at half-time in the match, Daizen Maeda, and Jota all ended the game without helping the team to find the back of the net.

It was an off-colour performance from Jota on the left wing as he played 76 minutes without scoring a goal or creating a ‘big chance’ for his teammates, although he did register a shot on target and two key passes.

Why Jota has been a great signing for Celtic

The Hoops swooped to sign the Portuguese forward on a permanent deal from Rennes in the recent January transfer window for a reported fee of £8m, 18 months on from his £25m move from Parkhead to Al Ittihad.

His performance against St. Johnstone was not reflective of his form since making that return to Glasgow from France at the start of the year, though, as he has been a great signing for Brendan Rodgers so far.

The 26-year-old talent has scored four goals, created three ‘big chances’, and assisted two goals in six starts and three substitute appearances in the Premiership since his £8m switch, which shows that he has been incredibly productive in the final third for the Scottish giants.

Goals

0.71

Top 4%

xG

0.52

Top 4%

xG on target

0.76

Top 1%

Shots on target

1.60

Top 1%

Assists

0.32

Top 16%

Chances created

2.13

Top 20%

As you can see in the table above, his statistics also place him very highly among his positional peers in the Premiership, as he has been one of the most frequent scorers and creators in the division per 90.

These statistics also show that he is well on his way to replicating the kind of form that earned him his £25m move to Saudi Arabia in 2023 in the first place.

As you can see in the graphic above, Jota consistently provided a threat as both a scorer and a creator of goals in the Premiership during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 campaigns under Ange Postecoglou earlier in his Celtic career.

Whilst the Hoops managed to bring the former Benfica man back to the club in January, the Bhoys did lose a talent last summer who could have become Jota 2.0 at Parkhead in Rocco Vata.

Why Rocco Vata deserved more chances at Celtic

The Irish youngster came up through the academy system at Parkhead and only made six appearances in the first-team before he left the club at the end of his contract last summer to sign for Watford.

After four appearances in the Premiership under Postecoglou in the 2022/23 campaign, Vata was not given many chances to impress at senior level by Rodgers last season.

The teenage sensation made two appearances, one in the Premiership and one in the SFA Cup, and played 29 minutes of football in the first-team, scoring against Buckie Thistle in his 26 minutes of cup action.

Vata, who was valued at £43k by Transfermarkt at the end of his Celtic career, scored 12 goals in 15 Lowland League matches in the 2023/24 campaign and scored in his only appearance that lasted more than three minutes for the first-team, but that was not enough to earn him any more outings for Rodgers.

The Ireland international took his chances, limited as they were, when they came and excelled as a goalscorer at youth level, yet still did not get more than three minutes of Premiership football in the entire season, leading to his move to Watford last summer.

Rocco Vata's soaring market value

At the time of writing (07/04/2025), Vata is currently valued at £854k by Transfermarkt and this means that his value has soared by a whopping 1,886% in the 2024/25 campaign from the £43k he was rated at by the end of his time in Glasgow.

His market value has skyrocketed as a result of his exposure to regular first-team football with Watford in the English Championship, as the Hornets have been willing to offer him the senior minutes that his promise at Celtic suggested that he deserved.

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

The 19-year-old talent has racked up 31 first-team appearances and 1,282 minutes of action in all competitions so far this season, including 27 outings in the Championship, after his 29 minutes of football for the Hoops this term.

Vata, whose screamer against Premier League side Fulham in the FA Cup is shown above, has shown that he has what it takes to play regular football at senior level, and that he can contribute at the top end of the pitch.

Talent scout Jacek Kulig claimed that the Irish whiz, who has been playing on the left wing of late for Watford, had an “exciting” future ahead of him during his time at Parkhead, and his potential is finally starting to shine through.

Appearances

27

Starts

10

xG

2.35

Goals

3

Big chances created

4

Assists

3

As you can see in the table above, Vata has been directly involved in six goals in ten starts in the second tier for Watford so far this season, which shows that he is well on the path to delivering goals and assists on a regular basis.

His return of 23 goals in 34 matches for Celtic’s B team showed that he had the potential to be a Jota-esque figure on the wing, by finding the back of the net on a regular basis, whilst he has now added creativity to his performances with the Hornets.

The Hoops, therefore, messed up when they failed to keep him at Parkhead last summer because they lost a player who could have developed into their next version of Jota on the wing, with the quality that he displayed at youth level in Glasgow and at Watford this season.

Not Engels: Rodgers has already found Celtic's new McGregor in teen star

Celtic may already have their next Callum McGregor and it is not Arne Engels.

ByDan Emery Apr 5, 2025

Celtic could have had their own homegrown star, whose value is now soaring at an exceptional rate, but they will now have to watch from afar as his career develops in England.

Celtic are on course for yet another impressive domestic campaign, despite losing 1-0 at the weekend, as Brendan Rodgers’s side close in on a fourth successive Scottish Premiership title at Parkhead.

The Hoops have already won the League Cup trophy, beating their fierce rivals on penalties in the first half of the season, and are in the semi-finals of the SFA Cup, which means that they are still on for a domestic treble.

Rodgers, however, will know that success at Paradise comes with a price in the summer transfer window, as their star performers garner interest from elsewhere.

The Hoops are no strangers to cashing in on their top talent and have extracted excellent value out of their key men over the past decade or so in particular, most recently cashing in on Kyogo Furuhashi in January.

As you can see in the graphic above, the Scottish giants have sold three players for £25m – including current star Jota, who returned to the club from Rennes in January – and have sold nine players for more than £10m.

One of the players they have made more than £10m from by selling has been Dutch full-back Jeremie Frimpong, whom the Bhoys played a masterstroke with.

Why Celtic hit the jackpot with Jeremie Frimpong

The Premiership side swooped to sign the young defender from Premier League outfit Manchester City in the summer of 2019 for a reported fee of just £350k.

Whilst a lot of clubs may focus on signing proven, experienced, players to come in and almost have a guaranteed impact on the team, Celtic are willing to gamble on young talent in the hope that it pays off in the long run.

Frimpong had not made a single first-team appearance for Manchester City, or any club, by the time that the Hoops signed him, which meant that they did not know what to expect from him on the pitch in the Premiership.

The Dutchman went on to play 51 times, scoring three goals and providing seven assists, in all competitions for Celtic in just 18 months at the club, as he hit the ground running in Glasgow to become a regular at right-back.

The young starlet’s impressive form for the Hoops led to interest from elsewhere, and Bundesliga giants Bayer Leverkusen swooped for his services in the January transfer window in 2021.

Celtic reportedly raked in a fee of £11m for his services, as shown in the earlier graphic, to make him one of the most expensive sales in the club’s history, just 18 months on from being signed for a measly £350k from Manchester City.

This shows that the Scottish giants hit the jackpot with Frimpong because they turned an unproven academy talent, worth just £350k, into an £11m player who was wanted by one of the biggest sides in Europe.

Celtic may, now, have unearthed their next version of the Dutch defender ahead of the upcoming summer transfer window, but it is not the team’s current right-back Alistair Johnston.

Alistair Johnston's current market value

The Canada international joined the club from CF Montreal at the start of 2023, under Ange Postecoglou, and has been a regular starter at right-back ever since, racking up 105 appearances in all competitions to date.

Johnston has started 27 of his 28 appearances in the Premiership so far this season, scoring four goals and creating 13 ‘big chances’, after he started all 32 of his outings in the division in the 2023/24 campaign.

Despite his impressive form at right-back for the Scottish giants over the past two-and-a-half years, his current market value – as per Transfermarkt – stands at €10m (£8.5m).

This means that, at his current value, Johnston would not be sold as one of the top ten biggest sales in the club’s history, and is currently worth less than what Frimpong was sold to Leverkusen for.

Chalkboard

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

There is another Celtic defender, however, who is currently worth more than £10m and could be the club’s next star to be sold to the Bundesliga for big money.

Celtic have unearthed their new Jeremie Frimpong

Cameron Carter-Vickers is on course to become the club’s new Frimpong as his value has soared during his time at Parkhead, and he has been linked with a move to Germany.

American journalist Larry Henry Jr reported earlier this season that ‘multiple sources’ confirmed that Bayer Leverkusen hold an interest in the Celtic central defender, although no offer had been made at that time.

This suggests that there is the potential for him to follow Frimpong to his new club in the upcoming summer transfer window if Leverkusen decide to act on their interest in him by making a bid for his services.

His value has doubled since signing for Celtic on a permanent deal in the summer of 2022 from Tottenham Hotspur, at which point he was valued at €7m (£6m) by Transfermarkt.

At the time of writing (08/04/2025), Carter-Vickers is valued at €14m (£12m) by Transfermarkt, which is double what it was when he joined the club and more than the amount the club raked in for Frimpong from Leverkusen.

Appearances

33

29

25

26

Clean sheets

17

13

8

14

Error led to shot

0

0

0

1

Error led to goal

0

0

0

0

Ground duel success rate

59%

59%

62%

64%

Aerial duel success rate

73%

74%

71%

75%

As you can see in the table above, the USA international has built that value by delivering consistently impressive performances in the Premiership for the Hoops over several seasons, with zero errors that have led to opposition goals in four league campaigns to date.

The dominant defender, who has never won below 71% of his aerial battles in a season, is currently the most valuable player at the club, per Transfermarkt, at £12m and that means that he could be the next star to be sold for big money in the off-season.

Celtic already sold "outstandingly basic" McGregor upgrade for just £1.5m

Celtic cashed in on the talented midfielder before he had the chance to develop into the long-term Callum McGregor upgrade.

ByDan Emery Apr 8, 2025

Therefore, Celtic have unearthed their next Frimpong in Carter-Vickers because he could be sold to the Bundesliga, and Leverkusen in particular, for more than £10m in the next window.

How can you follow Thursday night?

Well, Manchester United are back in action at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday afternoon, with Ruben Amorim’s men needing to shift their focus following the chaos of their Europa League exploits.

Unsurprisingly, the former Sporting CP boss has openly admitted that the club’s European commitments are now the priority, not least with it already confirmed that United are set for their worst-ever Premier League points tally.

The need to put all their energy into seeing off Athletic Bilbao next month should not mean that the Old Trafford side simply throw in the towel domestically, however, with now the time to build some momentum to help aid their continental fortunes.

Equally, United will also be keen to avoid losing out to the Molineux side for the second time this season, having notably been undone by a Matheus Cunha-inspired performance as the Old Gold secured a 2-0 win on Boxing Day.

That drab display memorably saw captain Bruno Fernandes dismissed after picking up two yellow cards, with Cunha also scoring directly from a corner to pile the misery on his potential future employers.

Will there be further drama this time around, with Amorim looking set to ring the changes?

Man Utd team news vs Wolves

Speaking after Thursday’s thrilling 5-4 win over Lyon, the Portuguese head coach admitted that it might be time to play “the kids” in the Premier League, with alterations needed after such a gruelling 120 minutes of action in midweek.

Indeed, the 40-year-old went on to state in his pre-match press conference that the likes of Diogo Dalot could be among those to make way, with the United boss suggesting the defender was among those looking “really tired” against the Ligue 1 side.

Amorim appears keen to avoid the “risk of injury” with his first-team stars, albeit with his options set to be boosted with both Victor Lindelof and Noussair Mazraoui set to be available once again, after the pair were forced to leave at half-time due to ‘personal issues’.

Meanwhile, Amorim did suggest that it is “not the best moment or the best season” to unleash academy talents, albeit while pointing to the rise of Ayden Heaven as an example of where throwing a youngster in at the deep end can bear fruit.

As for those who could follow in the footsteps of the likes of Heaven, Chido Obi and Harry Amass, it was noteworthy that Jack Moorhouse, Godwill Kukonki and Jaydan Kamason were all part of the matchday squad in midweek, with the teenage trio still waiting for a first taste of senior action.

Chalkboard

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

In the case of Kamason, in particular, the need to take Dalot out of the team could see the young full-back finally make his first-team debut.

How Man Utd can replace Dalot against Wolves

Having claimed the club’s Players’ Player of the Year of the award last season, Dalot’s form has somewhat “fallen off a cliff” this time around – as per one content creator – with the Portuguese full-back having perhaps been hampered by repeatedly being forced to line up on the left flank in the early months of the campaign.

Diogo Dalot

While even his suitability as a wing-back on the right flank can be questioned, the 26-year-old has quietly come good of late, notably teeing up Fernandes for the third goal against Leicester City, while also scoring himself against both Real Sociedad and Lyon at the Theatre of Dreams.

Described as an “elite” talent by Statman Dave, the former Porto starlet is particularly crucial to his compatriot, Amorim, due to his remarkable availability, having started 49 games this season, while missing just one game against Southampton due to suspension.

Diogo Dalot

50

3

5

Alejandro Garnacho

50

10

9

Bruno Fernandes

49

17

18

Noussair Mazraoui

49

0

3

Joshua Zirkzee

48

7

3

Andre Onana

44

0

0

Rasmus Hojlund

44

8

4

Matthijs de Ligt

40

2

0

Whether it is to give Dalot or rest, or merely to see a different option in that role, now is the time for Kamason to be unleashed, with journalist Shaun Connolly suggesting that the 18-year-old is “banging” on the door for a first-team chance.

The promising Englishman notably played every minute of United’s run to the FA Youth Cup semi-final this season, having even netted a crucial, stunning strike in the 3-2 win over Arsenal at the quarter-final stage.

With two goals and six assists to his name in 31 games in 2024/25, as per Transfermarkt, the right-back has showcased his attacking quality for the U18 and U21 sides, with it no surprise that he is now in the mix in Amorim’s ranks.

While Kamason has operated in a back four at youth level, that desire to get forward should ensure he is well suited to operating in a more advanced wing-back berth, with Amorim currently short on options in that role, particularly with Amad Diallo currently sidelined.

There has no doubt been talk of new recruits arriving this summer to help bolster that wing-back department, in particular – with Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong one name to have been mentioned – yet there should also be a willingness to try and solve that issue in-house, by promoting the likes of Kamason.

As such, now is the perfect opportunity for the teenager to show what he can do on the Premier League stage…

Not just Mainoo: Man Utd's "generational" talent now must start every game

Man Utd beat Lyon 5-4 in a Europa League classic

ByJoe Nuttall Apr 18, 2025

While there remains a slither of hope that this season ends in Europa League triumph for Tottenham Hotspur, there is no escaping from the fact that, at least domestically, it’s been diabolical.

Ange Postecologu’s side have lost 19 games in the Premier League, and it feels like a certainty that they’ll finish the season with 20 to their name.

However, for all the doom and gloom – of which there is plenty – there remains a reason to be hopeful about the club’s future: their youngsters.

The likes of Lucas Bergvall, Archie Gray and Mikey Moore look like superstars in the making, and if recent reports are to be believed, the club are looking to add another name to that list, someone who’d be a massive upgrade on Brennan Johnson, and has been tipped for Ballon d’Or glory.

Tottenham's transfer targets

Before getting to the player in question, it’s worth looking at some of the other youngsters who’ve been linked with Spurs in recent weeks, such as Dean Huijsen.

Transfer Focus

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

The Spanish international reportedly has a release clause worth £50m in his current Bournemouth deal, and while that is a lot to spend on a youngster, it could well be worth it, as he’s already made 32 appearances for the Cherries this term.

Another youngster from the South Coast who has been heavily linked with the Lilywhites this year is Tyler Dibling.

The Southampton star has racked up a reasonable tally of four goals and three assists in 35 games so far this season and will be available for reportedly £35m.

Finally, the most exciting player, and the one who’d be a significant upgrade on Johnson, is Rayan Cherki.

According to a recent report from Caught Offside, Spurs and Manchester United are now leading the race to sign the highly-rated Lyon youngster.

The report claims that the 21-year-old could be available for around €35m, which comes out to £30m.

It might be a complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Cherki’s immense ability and potential, it’s worth fighting tooth and nail for, especially as he’d be a big upgrade on Johnson.

How Cherki compares to Johnson

So, as Cherki’s primary position is off the right, his main competition for game time at Spurs would be Johnson, but who comes out on top when we compare them?

Well, when it comes down to their raw output, it’s the Frenchman who comes out on top, and by quite some way at that.

For example, in just 41 appearances, totalling 2894 minutes, he’s scored 12 goals and provided 19 assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.32 games, or every 93.35 minutes.

In contrast, the Welshman has scored 16 goals and provided seven assists in 46 appearances, totalling 2987 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every other game, or every 129.86 minutes.

Unfortunately for the former Nottingham Forest ace, the comparison remains just as one-sided when we take a look under the hood at their underlying numbers.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.71

0.52

Non-Penalty G+As

0.88

0.60

Progressive Passes

9.31

3.03

Progressive Carries

4.17

2.47

Key Passes

3.33

0.82

Passes into the Final Third

4.46

1.08

Passes into the Penalty Area

3.33

1.52

Live Passes

52.7

26.2

Shot-Creating Actions

6.23

1.99

Goal-Creating Actions

0.93

0.30

Successful Take-Ons

2.11

0.82

For example, Lyon’s “future Ballon d’Or winner,” as dubbed by The Athletic’s Alex Barker, comes out ahead in almost all relevant metrics, such as actual and expected non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive passes and carries, key passes, shot and goal-creating actions, successful take-ons and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, while Johnson has been a useful player, it’s clear that Cherki would be a massive upgrade and, therefore, Spurs should do all they can to sign him this summer.

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In a move that would see them get one over on Tottenham Hotspur, Manchester United are now reportedly plotting a last-ditch hijack to sign an England international this summer.

Full focus on Bilbao for Man Utd

Although there are still three Premier League games left to play, they are likely to be seen as opportunities to rest key players at Manchester United. The Red Devils’ domestic campaign has long been over and they could yet finish as low as 17th to increase their embarrassment to beyond simple failure. But, in quite the twist, they could still qualify for the Champions League.

After smashing Athletic Bilbao 7-1 on aggregate, Manchester United will square off against fellow strugglers Tottenham in a game between two sides desperate to change the narrative of their seasons.

Like those at Old Trafford, there’s still every chance that Spurs finish as low as 17th in the Premier League. But, just like United, they could do the unthinkable by securing Champions League football through the Europa League.

Given just how much both sides have struggled this season, that qualification wouldn’t be without its controversy and many have already had their say, including Arsene Wenger.

The legendary ex-Arsenal manager recently told reporters: “No – they should qualify automatically for the Europa League again but not necessarily for the Champions League.

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“Especially when you’re in the Premier League where already five teams qualify. I think it’s something [for Uefa] to think about and to review. On the other hand, people will tell you that to keep the Europa League focused, interesting and motivated you need to give them that prize (of qualifying for the Champions League).”

However, if Manchester United end their season lifting the Europa League, the words of Wenger will simply become an afterthought, and their summer transfer window could suddenly come to life.

Man Utd plotting late Angel Gomes move

According to CaughtOffside, Manchester United are now plotting a last-ditch hijack to sign Angel Gomes ahead of Tottenham this summer. Squaring off both on and off the pitch, the two Premier League sides are chasing the England international as his LOSC Lille contract comes to an end and he becomes a free agent at the end of June.

Whilst it is reportedly Spurs who lead the race, Manchester United should hold the advantage that Gomes came through their academy not so long ago. Having left as an attacking midfielder in 2020, the 24-year-old has since reinvented himself as a No.6 in France and could now make quite the return to Old Trafford this summer.

Dubbed “always impressive” by analyst Ben Mattinson, Gomes looks set to have quite the decision to make between his boyhood club that let him go and a Premier League rival this summer.

Chelsea have now held talks over a deal for the “new Erling Haaland”, but a deal will not be cheap, with his current employers set to hold out for a fee of £71m, according to a report.

Blues set sights on Haaland-esque striker

Crystal Palace’s shock FA Cup final victory on Saturday ensured that Haaland is set for his first trophyless season since arriving at Manchester City, with Eberechi Eze scoring the only goal in a game that had no shortage of controversy.

The decision not to show Dean Henderson a red card for handling the ball outside the box has raised eyebrows, while there was also bemusement over the fact that Haaland opted to let Omar Marmoush take his side’s penalty, which was saved.

That said, the Norwegian’s goal record since arriving at the Etihad Stadium remains stellar, having reached the 30-goal mark in all competitions for the third season on the spin.

Season

Appearances

Goals (all competitions)

2022-23

53

52

2023-24

45

38

2024-25

42

30

As such, almost any club from across Europe would be interested in signing a striker capable of emulating the 24-year-old, and Chelsea may now have found one, with a report from Spain revealing they are locked in a thrilling battle to sign RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.

The Blues are fighting it out for Sesko with Premier League rivals Liverpool, but a deal will not be cheap, with the German side set to hold out for a fee of €84m (£71m), which could be a potential stumbling block, as neither English club are willing to fork out a fee in that ballpark.

The report also states that negotiations have not been easy up to this point, which suggests that talks have already been held, but it remains to be seen whether the two parties are able to come to an agreement.

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Such is the 21-year-old’s potential, there have been suggestions that he could progress in a similar way to the Man City star, with scout Jacek Kulig claiming he may be the “new Erling Haaland.”

While the Slovenian is yet to be as prolific as Haaland once was in the Bundesliga, he enjoyed a solid 2024-25 campaign with Leipzig, picking up 13 goals and five assists in 33 league appearances, while also impressing in the 2023-24 season.

At the moment, Chelsea seem to be some way off striking an agreement for Sesko, but should the German side be willing to lower their asking price, there are plenty of signs he could be a fantastic long-term addition for Enzo Maresca.

Heading into their away tie with Newcastle United on Sunday, Chelsea were deep in some pretty impressive form in the Premier League.

The Blues were five league games unbeaten heading into his one – which included a stunning 3-1 victory being picked up against Arne Slot’s title-winning Liverpool – but all that positive energy came crashing down at St James’ Park as Eddie Howe’s Magpies ran out comfortable 2-0 victors.

Chelsea’s task on the day was made a lot harder by a clueless first-half red card, but there would have still been a lot to moan about from Enzo Maresca’s perspective at the full-time whistle, irrespective of his side having to play all of the second 45 minutes a man light.

Chelsea's biggest underperformers at St James' Park

Before touching on the rash red card, the likes of Noni Madueke struggled to ever get going in attack for the visitors.

Whilst Jacob Murphy and Alexander Isak busted a gut for the Toon cause up top, Madueke was timid and limp in approach, seen in the 23-year-old failing to a register a single effort on Nick Pope’s goal during his forgettable 45-minute stint, as well as losing all four of his contested duels.

Romeo Lavia would last far longer on the St James’ turf, but he wouldn’t be deserving of any praise himself come full-time either, with his lackadaisical approach early on gifting the ball to Newcastle to take the lead via Sandro Tonali.

Moreover, the usually electric Cole Palmer once again failed to spark into life with possession squandered a hefty 14 times, but the elephant in the room that remains is Nicolas Jackson’s hot-headed dismissal.

Jackson would brainlessly connect with Newcastle defender Sven Botman using his elbow, meaning the ex-Villarreal centre-forward will now be suspended for the rest of the season.

This could be the last time Chelsea fans see the 23-year-old lead the line for the Blues in the Premier League, therefore, with the pantomime villain very much turning into Stamford Bridge’s next Kai Havertz.

Chelsea's next Havertz

Much like Jackson now, Chelsea fans would regularly lament the amount of missed chances Havertz would spurn for their team when he was still on the books of the West London outfit.

That is the case despite the German popping up with 32 strikes overall – which included the now Arsenal man scoring a winner in a Champions League final.

Despite that, he would still infuriate the Stamford Bridge masses with his consistent wastefulness, seen in him missing a colossal 14 big chances in Premier League action during his final Blues season.

Games played

30

35

Goals scored

10

14

Assists

5

5

Big chances missed

19

24

Goal conversion %

13%

18%

Big chances created

6

8

Jackson has actually bagged a promising 29 strikes in total for Maresca’s men over two seasons, yet – much like Havertz – he gets regularly under the skin of the restless Chelsea fanbase with his off performances, seen in him missing a mammoth 19 big chances during the 2024/25 campaign.

Therefore, his hot-headedness away at Newcastle could be the final straw that sees Jackson – the club’s new Havertz-like scapegoat – moved on.

London Evening Standard journalist Dom Smith suggested that the £32m signing ‘ruined’ his side’s chances of a big win, handing him a dismal 2/10 post-match rating.

But, it shouldn’t be completely ruled out that the 23-year-old goes on to be a success elsewhere, with Havertz showing in flashes for Arsenal – as per his 29-goal haul from 85 appearances for Mikel Arteta’s men – that a damaging experience for the Blues isn’t the be-all-and-end-all.

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