da apostaganha： Cursory comments regarding Newcastle United’s wealth must be frustrating for the Toon faithful, and indeed the powers that be at St. James’ Park.

da fazobetai： While several divisional rivals have struggled to direct their hosepipe stream of transfer funds over the past several years, Newcastle have been diligent and calculated under the wing of Eddie Howe.

However, last summer’s window left plenty to be desired. In that regard, it’s all the more remarkable that Howe led his Magpies to glory in the Carabao Cup and sealed a place in next season’s Champions League proper after finishing fifth in the Premier League.

With talisman Alexander Isak expected to stay put now that Newcastle have registered themselves for a return to Europe’s elite stage, focus has turned to a right-sided forward.

However, Newcastle have already hit a bump in the road on that front.

Newcastle's search for a right winger

The overload of reports on the matter has made it clear for a while that Newcastle have held a vested interest in Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, one of the Premier League’s standout stars last season.

Premier League 24/25 – Top Goalscorers

Rank

Player

Apps

Goals

1.

Mohamed Salah

38

29

2.

Alexander Isak

34

23

3.

Erling Haaland

31

22

4.

Chris Wood

36

20

5.

Bryan Mbeumo

38

20

Data via Premier League

Mbeumo finished fourth in the goalscoring charts, no doubt contented with his placement given the calibre of those ahead of him, and he would have added quite the dimension to Howe’s brood, had he not rejected interest from Newcastle and a host of further suitors.

The reason? Mbeumo has chosen Manchester United as his desired new stomping ground, in spite of the Red Devils finishing 15th in the Premier League and losing the Europa League final to Tottenham Hotspur, another interested party.

Newcastle have missed out on Mbeumo, but they could yet secure a fantastic new winger. They might even have the perfect fit, having profiled him one year ago.

Newcastle strengthen interest in winger

According to The Northern Echo, Nottingham Forest are on alert as Newcastle gear up to reinforce their interest in Anthony Elanga, who was the subject of a rejected £50m bid on transfer deadline day in August 2024.

The Tricky Trees would expect negotiations to start in a similar ballpark, though in truth, United would perhaps need to pay north of that figure, having held initial discussions this year to discuss the possibility of a deal.

While fellow Premier League forwards Joao Pedro and Antoine Semenyo are on PIF’s radar, the 23-year-old Elanga is felt to be Howe’s leading target.

What Anthony Elanga would bring to Newcastle

Nottingham Forest signed Elanga from Manchester United for a fee of £15m in July 2023, with the young forward earning scant opportunities at Old Trafford.

Two years on, you’d be hard-pressed to find someone willing to testify that the star’s decision was a bad one, instrumental in the club’s rise into European competition last year and in staving off relegation during 2023/24.

Anthony Elanga’s Premier League Career

Season

Apps

Goals

Assists

24/25 – Forest

38

6

11

23/24 – Forest

36

5

9

22/23 – Man Utd

16

0

1

21/22 – Man Utd

21

2

2

20/21 – Man Utd

2

1

0

Data via Transfermarkt

Still only 23, remember, the Sweden international could become a bona fide star in the years to come, with a transfer to Howe’s Newcastle sure to spark an acceleration of development.

His blistering speed and powerful athleticism even suggest Elanga could bloom into Howe’s new version of Allan Saint-Maximin, though perhaps one who offers a tad more by the way of clinical output.

As per FBref, Elanga ranked among the top 6% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for assists, the top 10% for goal-creating actions and the top 3% for crosses per 90.

He didn’t rank that highly across ball-carrying metrics, but do not let this fool you: Elanga is one of the most electric wingers in England, simply reduced in his intensity due to Nuno Espirito’s pragmatic tactics (often hemmed in, Forest ranked 18th for possession with a 42% average).

He’s got that “X-factor pace”, all right, as was agreed by Sky Sports pundits Andy Reid and Jamie Redknapp. And in that regard, Newcastle could unearth their new version of Saint-Maximin, one who could offer more of a clinical threat than the fleet-footed Frenchman.

Saint-Maximin’s qualities have earned him cult status on Tyneside, with reporter Pete O’Rourke also noting his own “X-Factor” quality, having been hailed as a real “box of tricks” due to his frightening speed and dribbling prowess.

While his £23m transfer to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli back in 2023 was bittersweet, Howe clearly knew what he was doing, however, with the winger posting 13 goals and 21 assists across 124 matches at Newcastle, a contribution rate of only 0.28.

Elanga, conversely, has been far more prolific in Nottingham, heaving an almost identical haul of 11 goals and 21 assists for the City Ground side, but doing so across just 82 fixtures in all competitions, a rate of 0.39.

Though Elanga wouldn’t bring the innate goalscoring quality of Mbeumo to the Newcastle fold, he could definitely make a big difference, promoting creativity and taking his athletic qualities into a more fitting park, with Howe’s expansive system allowing him to roam and find the likes of Isak in the middle.

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Of course, given that he only missed six big chances in the Premier League last term, converting six more, as per Sofascore, there’s every reason Howe could fashion this talented up-and-comer into a rip-roaring sensation, one bursting with completeness and layers befitting of a place in one of the most exciting projects on the continent.

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da imperador bet： Tottenham Hotspur appear to have lost out in the race for a highly-rated forward, as La Liga champions Barcelona agree terms to seal his signature before Thomas Frank’s side had the chance.

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da jogodeouro： Spurs are expected to back their new manager to the hilt this summer, especially after they qualified for the Champions League with their historic Europa League final win in Bilbao.

Tottenham’s best-performing regulars in the Premier League – 2024/2025

Average match rating

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

The Lilywhites are set for a significant financial windfall, which Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge described as “huge” in terms of their recruitment drive. Chairman Daniel Levy and technical director Johan Lange no longer have to operate under a sell-to-buy policy, with Spurs already agreeing a permanent deal for Mathys Tel as they continue to scour the market for new wingers.

With Son Heung-min’s future uncertain, amid links to Saudi Arabia, the likes of West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus, Man City outcast Jack Grealish, Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo, Southampton sensation Tyler Dibling and Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo have all been linked within the past fortnight.

Tottenham face competition from Man United for Mbeumo, who’ve now submitted a fresh £60 million bid for the Cameroonian, while Bournemouth are expected to demand around £70 million for Semenyo (The Athletic).

Levy and Lange will need to either dig deep into the Tottenham coffers or get very creative in their pursuit of a high-profile winger, as all of their reported targets are likely to cost a premium.

The north Londoners did have their eyes on a bargain option, though, in the form of FC Copenhagen starlet Roony Bardghji.

Bardghji, dubbed the ‘Swedish Messi’ by some, burst on to the scene with a heroic performance against Man United in the Champions League nearly two years ago.

He bagged a stunning late winner against them at the end of an unlikely 4-3 group stage victory over the Red Devils in November 2023, with Bardghji set to leave Copenhagen on the cheap this summer as his contract expires in late December.

The 19-year-old, after coming back from a serious injury, is now on the verge of joining Barcelona – but Spurs did try their hand.

Barcelona hijack Tottenham talks for Roony Bardghji

Tottenham held talks with Bardghji and his representatives in a bid to tempt the winger to London, according to journalist Graeme Bailey and TBR Football, but Barça are now seemingly set to “win the race” for his signature.

That is according to TBR again in another update this week, with Bailey reporting that while Tottenham hoped to inspire a ‘Lucas Bergvall-type’ transfer by opening talks with Bardghji, Hansi Flick’s side have hijacked their move by closing in on a deal for the top talent.

This is echoed by reliable media sources like Fabrizio Romano, who believe that Bardghji’s move to the Camp Nou is merely a matter of time with terms agreed.

Levy has now missed out on a potential bargain forward who could’ve joined for the meagre price of just £1.7 million, not to mention a player who’s been likened to Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah.

“He has very similar characteristics to Mohamed Salah,” said Scandinavian journalist Nicklas Degn.

“When Copenhagen have to come up with something brilliant or unlock a team, it is Roony they look to. He has this unique talent.”

da apostaganha： Crystal Palace have now held direct talks with a Brighton & Hove Albion player over a potential summer move to Selhurst Park, according to a report.

Palace awaiting Europa League verdict

da imperador bet： Despite Palace finishing below rivals Brighton in the Premier League table, a move to Selhurst Park could be the more attractive proposition this summer, given that they secured qualification for the Europa League courtesy of their FA Cup triumph.

However, there is still no clarity as to whether the Eagles will be allowed to take part in the competition next season, given issues surrounding multi-club ownership, with UEFA’s decision recently being delayed until Monday.

Despite Lyon being relegated to Ligue 2 due to financial issues, the French club have struck a deal to compete in the Europa League next season, which could also be a blow to Oliver Glasner’s side’s chances of taking part even after the news of John Textor’s sale to Woody Johnson.

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It remains to be seen whether Crystal Palace will be allowed to compete in Europe, but in the meantime they have been pressing on with their summer transfer business, with approaches being made for Andy Diouf and Ousmane Diomande.

According to a report from El Diario Vasco (via Sport Witness), Palace have also made a bold attempt to sign a Brighton player, having directly spoken to Igor Julio over a potential summer move to Selhurst Park.

A phone call has been held with Igor, but the Eagles are not the only club in the race for his signature, with Premier League rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers also expressing an interest, alongside La Liga side Real Sociedad.

A move to Sociedad appeals to the Brazilian, as he wants to seal a move away from England this summer, but the Spanish club are concerned that Palace or Wolves could outbid them, considering the English sides have ‘plenty of money to burn’.

Igor could be "excellent" signing for Palace

Not only would the addition of the 27-year-old allow Palace to get one-up on their major rivals, but there are signs he could be a solid addition to Glasner’s squad, with the manager in need of greater depth if his side are to embark on a European campaign.

Journalist Lorenzo Lepore has singled the defender out for particularly high praise in the past, saying: “Igor is a really great defender, who is capable of helping his team in both phases of play: he’s competent with his feet and in defence.

“He has excellent technique and he is a capable playmaker, too. He is strong, he is good in one-on-one situations.”

Since then, the £15m defender has also gone on to prove himself in the Premier League, featuring regularly for the Seagulls when fit, although there may be some concerns about the former Fiorentina man missing 18 games through injury last season.

Igor could be a solid signing for Palace, who may have to bring in a new centre-back this summer, amid Marc Guehi’s uncertain future, but it would be surprising if Brighton are willing to strengthen a rival club.

da wazamba： Tottenham are showing little sign of easing up after sealing their £55 million transfer of West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus, who’s poised to end an unofficial transfer embargo between the two sides which has spanned 14 years.

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da brdice： The African underwent his medical today, according to Fabrizio Romano, and it seems only a matter of time before Kudus is announced as Spurs’ first blockbuster signing of the summer, after they previously confirmed Mathys Tel’s permanent move from Bayern Munich and a £5 million deal for Kota Takai.

Kudus will put pen to paper on a six-year contract at Spurs, with the reliable David Ornstein first breaking this news on Wednesday afternoon in what is a major boost for Thomas Frank.

Tottenham’s best-performing regulars in the Premier League – 2024/2025

Average match rating

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

The 24-year-old’s previous Champions League experience at Ajax, versatility and Premier League know-how will be extremely useful for Frank as he looks to navigate his first ever season in charge of an elite side like Tottenham.

Another big plus for Daniel Levy was managing to whittle down West Ham’s initial demands in negotiations, with journalist Ben Jacobs reporting that the Hammers were originally holding out for around £60 million.

Kudus, whilst enduring a lacklustre second season at West Ham overall, still managed to complete more successful take-ons per 90 than any other Premier League player bar Man City’s Jeremy Doku (WhoScored), which is an extremely positive sign.

Now, as per a wave of reliable media sources, Tottenham are also on the verge of completing a deal for Nottingham Forest forward Morgan Gibbs-White next

News emerged this afternoon of Spurs’ formal talks with Forest over Gibbs-White, and Mike McGrath of The Telegraph outlet shared soon afterward that the England international is already poised for a medical at N17.

This is backed up by Fabrizio Romano, who’s already given his ‘here we go’ to the transfer as Spurs seal another quick-fire signing right after Kudus.

Interestingly, Kudus and Gibbs-White are not the only players who’ve been at the centre of Spurs’ concrete interest this week.

Tottenham have also held talks with Brentford striker Yoane Wissa

According to The Boot Room and journalist Graeme Bailey, they’ve also made contact with Brentford striker Yoane Wissa, but it is unclear how their move for Gibbs-White will impact this potential transfer right now.

The 28-year-old was one of Frank’s star men at the Gtech last season, bagging 20 goals in all competitions, and TBR report that Tottenham are real admirers – especially Frank.

They state that Tottenham have held talks with the representatives of Wissa, with Frank heavily influencing that move for the Congolese, who Brentford value at around £50 million.

Newcastle United are competing for the centre-forward too, though, as are Nottingham Forest, who’ve renewed their chase (David Ornstein).

This deal could also hinge on Man United’s talks for Bryan Mbeumo – as Keith Andrews’ side may be extremely unlikely to green-light exits for both of their most important players in the same window.

Signing both Wissa and Gibbs-White would be a real show of ambition from Levy, not to mention a serious statement of backing to Tottenham’s new manager, but time will tell whether Spurs can realistically pull that off.

da cassino： This summer is shaping up to be a truly seismic one for Arsenal.

da poker： The pressure on Mikel Arteta’s side to finally get over the line in the Premier League next season will be immense, but it looks like the board are doing their bit to back them in the market.

Kepa Arrizabalaga and Martin Zubimendi are now officially through the door, while Andrea Berta and Co appear to be in talks with England internationals Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke.

That’s not all, though, as reports suggest the club is making rapid progress to sign an international game-changer who could help make Madueke entirely unplayable.

Arsenal target free-scoring game-changer

Arsenal ended last season’s Premier League campaign with 17 fewer goals to their name than champions Liverpool, so bringing in a new striker this summer was always going to be a priority.

Transfer Focus

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

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Over the last few weeks, the club have been linked with a plethora of talented number nines, such as Ollie Watkins and Benjamin Sesko.

For some time, it looked like the latter was going to be the one to make the move to North London, but that changed late last week as it became evident that RB Leipzig were asking for too much money.

Interestingly, instead of caving to their demands, Berta and Co quickly pivoted to another target, someone who could help make Madueke unplayable: Viktor Gyokeres.

At least that is according to a recent report from transfers expert Fabrizio Romano, who has revealed that Arsenal are in constant talks with Sporting CP, and that the Swede himself is pushing for the move, asking his camp for updates “every hour.”

Moreover, the Italian journalist has reaffirmed reports that personal terms have been agreed, while a recent report from GIVEMESPORT has claimed that the Gunners are set to agree a deal in excess of £65m for the goalscorer.

It is undoubtedly a lot of money to spend on one player, but over the last two years, Gyokeres has shown he could be a difference-maker for a top side, and he’d help make Madueke unplayable as well.

Why Gyokeres would make Madueke unplayable

It might sound simplistic, but one of the reasons Gyokeres would be such a good teammate for Madueke is the fact that he’s a striker who spends as much time as possible in and around the penalty area.

This is important because the Chelsea ace’s biggest strength, at least at the moment, is his ball-carrying and ability to get the ball into dangerous areas.

Therefore, he needs his striker to constantly be in goal-scoring areas, rather than dropping back into midfield or out wide, as Kai Havertz does.

However, it should come as no surprise that the most significant reason the Swede could help Madueke reach another level entirely is his raw output.

For example, in 52 appearances last season, totalling 4248 minutes, the free-scoring “powerhouse,” as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, put the ball in the back of the net on 54 occasions and provided 13 assists for good measure.

In other words, the former Coventry City star averaged 1.28 goal involvements every game, or one every 63.40 minutes.

Just think about how many goals and assists the Blues ace would rack up playing next to a striker capable of such world-class output.

Moreover, the Englishman already showed last year that, in relatively restricted minutes, he could be a useful outlet out wide.

In the 2449 minutes of action he played prior to the World Cup, the former PSV Eindhoven ace scored 11 goals and provided five assists.

Madueke’s 24/25 (pre CWC)

Appearances

41

Minutes

2449′

Goals

11

Assists

5

Goal Involvements per Match

0.39

Minutes per Goal Involvements

153.06′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

That means he averaged a goal involvement every 153.06 minutes despite not having a prolific number nine to play alongside.

Ultimately, Madueke looks like he’d be a valuable addition to Arsenal’s squad this summer, but by adding Gyokeres as well, Arteta could help take the Englishman to another level entirely.

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da betsul： While the jury might still be out for some when it comes to the competition itself, there is no doubt that Chelsea were worthy winners of the Club World Cup.

da dobrowin： Enzo Maresca’s men impressed in almost every game they played, and saved their best performance for the final, in which they made Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain look totally out of their depth.

Aside from the out-of-this-world Cole Palmer, one of the Blues’ best players in the last few games was Joao Pedro, who scored three goals in three games.

So, fans should be delighted by the news that the club are looking to sign another international who could help the Brazilian reach another level entirely.

Chelsea's transfer business so far

On top of blowing away the competition on the pitch this summer, Chelsea have been just as impressive off it, in the transfer market.

Transfer Focus

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

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They’ve managed to ship off the likes of Noni Madueke to Arsenal for £52m and Đorđe Petrović to Bournemouth for £25m, while spending £60m on Pedro, £30m on Liam Delap and £48m on Jamie Gittens.

However, the Conference League champions aren’t done there, not even close, as they now appear keen on landing an international superstar who could help the former Brighton & Hove Albion ace get even better.

At least that’s according to a recent report from Spain, which claims that Chelsea are now interested in Rodrygo.

In fact, the report goes a step further than that, revealing that the Blues have already made an offer for the Brazilian – a straight swap for Nicolas Jackson.

The proposal has yet to be shot down, but the report states that Real would rather receive a fee for the player they value at €100m, which is approximately £86m.

Even if Chelsea have to splash the cash to get their man this summer, they should, as Rodrygo’s a proven winner and someone who could help Pedro get even better.

Why Rodrygo would make Pedro better

Now, there are quite a few reasons why Rodrygo could help Pedro reach another level at Chelsea next season, and one of the most significant is his output.

Since the start of the 23/24 season, the “world-class superstar,” as dubbed by Luka Modrić, has found the back of the net on 31 occasions and provided 20 assists in 105 appearances, totalling 7159 minutes.

That means the former Santos gem has been averaging a goal involvement every 2.05 games, or every 140.37 minutes across the last two years, which is undoubtedly impressive.

Rodrygo’s recent record

Season

23/24

24/25

Appearances

51

54

Minutes

3707′

3452′

Goals

17

14

Assists

9

11

Goal Involvements per Match

0.50

0.46

Minutes per Goal Involvement

142.57′

138.08′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

What makes those numbers even more impressive is that he has rarely played in his favoured position off the left across the last two seasons, so just imagine how much more effective he could be regularly starting there.

This regular supply of goals and chances to his left would undoubtedly see the former Brighton star’s own goal and assist tally soar next season, especially as he proved himself to be particularly clinical last year, scoring ten league goals from an expected goals figure of just 8.86.

Furthermore, the former Santos gem has also won all there is to win in the club game, securing two La Liga and two Champions League titles in the Spanish capital.

In other words, he has what it takes to win and should hopefully impart the right mindset to those around him, like his compatriot, and help them win major silverware at some point in the coming years.

Finally, the fact that they’re both Brazilian is also a significant bonus, as establishing a place for himself in the national team will give Pedro and the Real star even more opportunities to develop a deep understanding of one another’s game.

Ultimately, it might cost them a substantial sum of money, but Chelsea should do everything possible to sign Rodrygo this summer.

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da 888： Manchester United have finally announced the signing of Bryan Mbeumo, with a £71m deal agreed, finally, on Friday.

da premier bet： Weeks of negotiating had cast a grey cloud over the exciting transfer, with doubts beginning to creep in as to whether the Cameroonian would actually be plying his trade as a Red Devil next season.

Mbeumo, 25, is one of the Premier League’s most talented and prolific forwards, posting 20 goals across 38 matches last season. The likes of Arsenal, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur all registered their interest, but it was Old Trafford that Mbeumo’s heart was set on.

With Matheus Cunha on the opposite flank, the right-sided forward may well wreak havoc under Ruben Amorim’s wing next year, in a new-look United frontline tasked with leading the revival.

However, a new striker is still required.

Man United's need for a new a striker

Rasmus Hojlund appears committed to the United cause. Amorim needs, truly needs, to ensure that an upgrade is signed this summer, even if the 22-year-old remains in the first-team squad.

This wouldn’t actually be the worst thing in the world, for it would package some depth while easing Hojlund’s weight of responsibility, perhaps allowing him to work on his weaker points.

But United need a new centre-forward all the same.

According to Football Transfers, that man might be Nicolas Jackson, who is open to swapping Chelsea for United.

That follows positive talks between Jason Wilcox and the player’s representatives, with discussions still ongoing over personal terms for Jackson.

Chelsea have lowered their exorbitant £100m asking price to £70m; however it’s likely that United will still seek to whittle that figure down.

What Nicolas Jackson would bring to Man United

The duality of Jackson. At times, a rip-roaring, barnstorming menace of a striker; at other points, wasteful and lacking authority at number nine.

However, 24 goals and ten assists across two Premier League seasons is nothing to be sniffed at, especially when considering that only 59 of his 65 fixtures have come from the outset.

Jackson tapered off across the second half of the 2024/25 campaign, but he posted nine goals and three assists across his opening 15 league games, thus proving that with some more consistency, he could become one of the leading goalscorers competing in England.

Nicolas Jackson – League Stats by Season (past five years)

Season

Apps (starts)

Goals

Assists

24/25 – Chelsea

30 (28)

10

5

23/24 – Chelsea

35 (31)

14

5

22/23 – Villarreal

26 (16)

12

4

21/22 – Villarreal

9 (0)

1

0

Data via Transfermarkt

And partnered with someone like Mbeumo in United’s frontline, he could finally reach the level that his natural talent suggests is attainable.

Mbeumo is chiefly a deadly goalscorer, but he’s also a robust athletic profile and a creative presence besides.

As per Sofascore, he created a whopping 17 big chances in the Premier League last season, averaging 1.8 key passes per game.

In this way, he could be perfect for Jackson, feeding the Senegalese star balls while maintaining his own top-class goalscoring threat.

And Jackson, who has been hailed in the past as a “special” striker by journalist Rahman Osman, is hardly one-note himself, ranked among the top 17% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues last year for progressive carries and the top 22% for shot-creating actions per 90, as per FBref.

Ultimately, this would be a calculated risk from INEOS for a talented striker who has yet to bring it all together and sustain it in the English game.

But with Mbeumo partnering him up top (and Cunha too), Jackson might just prove to be an astute signing for a resurgent Man United side.

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da betsul： It’s been a testing summer window for Newcastle United.

da bet vitoria： Despite their return to the Champions League and a squad brimming with youthful potential, key attacking targets continue to slip through their fingers.

Bryan Mbeumo, João Pedro and Hugo Ekitike have all eluded the Magpies, while names like Benjamin Šeško remain out of reach for now.

Attention recently turned to Brentford’s Yoane Wissa, who left the Bees’ pre-season camp amid mounting speculation about his future and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.

Capable of playing across the front line and known for his pressing and intelligent movement, Wissa fits the profile of a player who could offer cover and competition for Alexander Isak, who remains a concern for Eddie Howe in terms of durability.

But Newcastle may have their sights set on a less polished alternative: a young forward who outscored Wissa and Sesko last season and could offer the clinical edge that’s been missing at key moments.

Newcastle looking at £40m striker

At 22, Mika Biereth might not be a household name in the Premier League just yet, but his numbers over the past 12 months have turned heads across Europe.

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

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Well, after that stunning form, Newcastle, Wolves, Aston Villa and Everton have all been quoted as having an interest, according to Caught Offside, as they plot their respective moves.

After spending the first half of the 2023/24 season at SK Sturm Graz, the former Arsenal academy product made a €13m move to Monaco in January but according to the report, he could go for £40m now.

Across both stints, the forward proved himself to be a “menace” in the words of The Athletic’s Alex Barker, racking up 27 goals in all competitions, including 24 in domestic leagues alone. That’s more than Wissa (20) and Sesko (21) managed during the same campaign.

What makes this even more striking is his underlying data: those 24 goals came from an expected goals tally of just 11.3.

That’s a dramatic overperformance, one reminiscent of Darwin Núñez’s final season at Benfica, and while such numbers often regress over time, they still signal elite-level finishing instincts.

How Wissa compares to Biereth

According to data from FBref, Biereth registered 1.66 shots on target per 90 minutes last season, with 60.5% of his total efforts hitting the target. By comparison, Wissa, a proven Premier League operator, managed 1.27 shots on target per 90, with an accuracy of just 45.6%.

Biereth’s sharpness in front of goal would complement Newcastle’s creative wingers, particularly Anthony Gordon and Anthony Elanga, who regularly generate chances with their direct running and early deliveries into the box.

However, Biereth is not yet the finished article. His contribution to build-up play is minimal compared to Wissa’s. He averaged just 10.9 passes per 90 and registered fewer progressive carries (1.02) and progressive passes (1.75) than Wissa (1.85 and 2.07, respectively).

He also ranks poorly in aerial duels, winning just 33.3% of his battles despite standing 6 foot 2 – a surprising stat when compared to Wissa’s 45.5% success rate, which places the Brentford man in the 64th percentile despite his smaller frame.

This same data from FBref shows that Wissa’s pressing numbers are also superior. He makes more tackles per 90 (0.68 vs 0.36), including more in the final third (0.25 vs 0.15), and he completes take-ons at a far higher rate (30.6% vs just 9.1%). These metrics suggest Wissa is far more integrated into all phases of play, from defensive pressing to link-up.

Still, that may be exactly why Biereth would offer something different. Newcastle already have a multi-functional No.9 in Isak, and what they lack is a game-changing finisher who can be introduced in moments of chaos.

For £40m, Monaco may be willing to sell, especially after signing Ansu Fati and with other forwards like Breel Embolo and Folarin Balogun on their books.

Newcastle would be gambling on potential, but it’s the kind of gamble that could prove inspired, particularly in scenarios against deep blocks where space is at a premium.

If Newcastle want a ready-made Premier League performer, Wissa ticks every box. He presses, combines well, and contributes defensively. But if they’re looking for a match-winner, someone who can convert at a rate few strikers in Europe can match, Biereth deserves serious consideration.

His raw data suggests an elite finisher in the making, and with the right service and role, he could offer Newcastle something they haven’t had in years: a true penalty-box predator with the confidence and tools to decide games on his own.

Related Better fit than Ekitike: Newcastle lead race to sign £44m Wissa alternative

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da betano casino： Everton are entering a new era. Under the guidance of the Friedkin Group, the club is working quickly to rebuild a squad that has been weakened by years of underinvestment and short-term thinking.

da imperador bet： David Moyes has already lost several senior players on free transfers, including Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Abdoulaye Doucouré and Ashley Young, leaving noticeable gaps in experience, quality and leadership.

A new midfielder is top of the agenda.

Idrissa Gueye has extended his contract, but the Toffees are determined to inject fresh quality into the engine room, with the aim of combining technical excellence with defensive steel.

Among the club’s key targets is a player who has already proven himself at Premier League level, someone who can help Everton move the ball with greater speed and purpose.

After a disappointing season in Serie A, Douglas Luiz is open to a return to England, and Juventus are now willing to sell for a fee in the region of €40m £34m).

Despite not registering a goal or assist for the Bianconeri last season, the Brazilian’s final campaign at Aston Villa showed why he remains such a valuable asset.

According to FBref, he averaged 71.27 passes per 90 minutes, maintained a pass completion rate of 85.6%, and produced 3.92 shot-creating actions each game, all elite-level numbers for a central midfielder.

But for Luiz to flourish, Everton must find the right partner – someone who can offer him the defensive backing he enjoyed at Villa.

Everton's search for a new midfielder

Wilfred Ndidi has long been one of the Premier League’s most effective ball-winners.

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Now 27, he is entering the prime of his career and is available at a cut-price fee of just £9m due to a relegation clause in his Leicester City contract.

With two years left on his deal and a base salary of around £75k a week, the Nigerian international represents one of the smartest deals on the market this summer.

According to Ben Jacobs – as he reported late last week – Everton have already made an approach.

Bayer Leverkusen, Juventus and Real Betis are also circling, while Manchester United have held talks with his representatives. However, their focus has now shifted to securing a new striker following the arrival of Bryan Mbeumo.

The chance is there for the Toffees to pounce…

Why Ndidi would be a perfect partner for Douglas Luiz

Ndidi’s statistical profile is exactly what Everton need.

FBref also reveals he is in the 95th percentile for tackles per 90 (3.29), and 93rd for blocks – clear evidence of his instinctive reading of the game. He ranks in the 97th percentile for clearances and 96th for aerial duels won, offering an extra layer of protection in defensive transitions.

His 4.61 touches per 90 in the defensive penalty area show a calmness and trustworthiness in dangerous zones, while his physicality and stamina make him difficult to bypass.

Players like Tyler Adams (Bournemouth) and Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest) are similar, but Ndidi’s experience and proven consistency give him the edge. In contrast to Luiz’s creative flair, Ndidi is a player who thrives on breaking up play and maintaining defensive shape.

Together, they offer balance: Luiz as the deep-lying creator, and Ndidi as the screen who shields the backline.

In Everton’s current setup, which often relies on defensive compactness and quick transitions, their complementary traits would give Moyes tactical flexibility.

Importantly, Ndidi brings Premier League pedigree. With over 150 top-flight appearances and Champions League experience with Genk and Leicester, he wouldn’t need a settling-in period.

Everton’s young squad would benefit from his presence both on and off the pitch, with the Nigerian international already described by ESPN’s Colin Udoh as an “absolute monster” in the middle of the park.

The appeal of the deal extends beyond tactics.

Financially, this is exactly the type of move Everton must now make: low-risk, high-upside, and cost-effective.

At £9m, Ndidi would be one of the bargains of the summer. For context, Leicester paid over £15m for him back in 2017.

At a combined fee of under £50m, Everton could land a midfield pairing that brings stability and quality.

Luiz and Ndidi are both under 28, experienced at the highest level, and tactically adaptable.

For a club rebuilding both its squad and identity, securing the duo would represent not just a midfield upgrade, but a clear blueprint for how the Friedkin Group intend to restore Everton’s competitiveness.

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da betsul： It’d be fair to say that after the last few windows, this hasn’t been the summer Aston Villa fans would’ve been hoping for.

da poker： After just missing out on Champions League football, there was a hope that the board would be able to back Unai Emery in a big way.

Unfortunately, that hasn’t happened, and while problems with PSR are the main reason why, fans are understandably underwhelmed so far.

With that said, the Claret and Blue were able to bring in the exciting Evan Guessand, and now appear to be targeting someone who’d be the perfect teammate for him.

Aston Villa target perfect Guessand teammate

Villa splashed £30m on Guessand late last week, and while he might not be a household name among English football fans, it’s a transfer that should excite the Claret and Blue faithful.

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

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After all, the Ivorian international managed to score 13 goals and provide ten assists in just 43 appearances for Nice last season.

Moreover, at just 23 years old, there is plenty of room for him to continue developing, and in yet more good news, the club hav identified another transfer target who’d be able to get even more out of him.

At least that is according to a recent report from Italian outlet Calciomercato, which claims Villa are very interested in AC Milan ace Alexis Saelemaekers.

In fact, the report goes a step further, revealing that even though the Italian side might offer him a new contract, the Villans are leading the race for his signature.

A price is not mentioned in the story, but reports from earlier this summer claimed that a fee of around £22m could be enough to tempt the Rossoneri into selling, and at that price, this could be a brilliant purchase for Emery and Co.

Why Saelemaekers would be a perfect teammate for Guessand

So, one of the first and most crucial reasons Saelemaekers could be a perfect teammate for Guessand this season is his raw output.

For example, in his 31 loan appearances for AS Roma last season, which totalled 1796 minutes, the Belgian international was able to score seven goals and provide seven assists.

That means the 26-year-old dynamo was able to average a goal involvement every 2.21 games, or more impressively, every 126.35 minutes.

In other words, he’s as capable of scoring goals as he is finishing them, and as the Ivorian striker is similar, the pair could end up forming a seriously deadly partnership for the Claret and Blue.

Moreover, it’s not like the Milan ace got lucky last season, as his underlying numbers were superb.

Saelemaekers’ Scout Report

Statistics

Per 90

Percentile

Goals/Shot

0.26

Top 1%

Tackles (Def 3rd)

1.45

Top 1%

Penalty Kicks Won

0.10

Top 1%

% of Aerials Won

71.4%

Top 1%

Dribblers Tackled

1.19

Top 2%

Goals/Shot on Target

0.54

Top 4%

GCA (Fouls Drawn)

0.10

Top 4%

Tackles Won

1.45

Top 5%

Shots on Target %

48.1%

Top 6%

Passes Completed

43.55

Top 6%

GCA (Shot)

0.10

Top 6%

Tkl+Int

2.80

Top 7%

Carries

41.52

Top 8%

Progressive Passing Distance

178.49

Top 9%

Total Passing Distance

650.55

Top 10%

All Stats via FBref

According to FBref, he sits in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for goals per shot, tackles in the defensive third, penalties won, the top 5% for tackles won, the top 6% for shots on target and goal-creating actions from shots, all per 90.

These numbers help to paint a picture of an attacking star who can not only create plentiful chances for his teammates, but is also more than willing to get involved in the less glamorous side of things and do his defensive duties.

Finally, as the “incredible” playmaker, as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, can play off the right and left, there would be more opportunities for him to play alongside the former Nice star, and therefore more chances for the pair of them to really develop an understanding of one another’s game.

Ultimately, while it could be a complicated transfer to get over the line, Villa should do all they can to sign Saelemaekers this summer.

Not only is he an excellent player in his own right, but he could also help get even more out of Guessand.