All posts by h716a5.icu

It appears as though Steven Gerrard is in the running to be the next manager of Glasgow Rangers.

His previous spell between 2018 and 2021 saw the Ibrox side win their first Premiership title since 2011 before he left for Aston Villa.

He was savvy in the transfer market, bringing in a mix of young players with plenty of potential and experienced professionals who were ready to make an immediate impact.

One of his most underrated signings was Jermain Defoe, who enjoyed a productive Indian summer to his career in Glasgow.

Jermain Defoe’s Rangers statistics

The Englishman arrived at Rangers in January 2018 on an 18-month loan deal, scoring on his debut against Kilmarnock.

He ended up with eight goals during his first six months, before netting 17 across 32 games the following season. In January 2020, he signed a pre-contract agreement to join the club permanently and went on to play a bit-part role in the 2020/21 title-winning campaign.

Games

20

Goals

13

Goals per game

0.7

Scoring frequency (minutes)

77

Minutes per game

50 minutes

Defoe scored only five times all season, but he won his first-ever domestic title in the process. He left Ibrox less than six months later, but the veteran striker was great to have around the training ground, offering advice and encouragement to the likes of Alfredo Morelos and Kemar Roofe.

While the transfer strategy has changed over the years, if Gerrard is appointed as manager, could he make a similar sort of signing in Jamie Vardy this summer?

An English centre-forward with a host of experience in the Premier League, looking for one final crack at the big time. It makes sense when you think about it…

Why Rangers should sign Jamie Vardy

Ally McCoist has stated his desire to see Vardy in a Rangers’ shirt next season, and given the fact he is soon to be a free agent, a prospective move could be closer than many think.

Vardy will leave Leicester City this summer after 13 years, making his 500th appearance for the club last week while netting his 200th goal for the Foxes.

It has been a remarkable career in the Premier League for the Englishman and he was even named as a “living legend” by manager Ruud van Nistelrooy recently.

He might be 38, but a season or two in Scotland could still see him finding the back of the net on a regular basis, especially if used as an impact sub.

The striker – who has ten goals to his name this term, including nine in the league – has managed to create six big chances in the top flight, having a goal conversion percentage of 16% and averaging 1.7 shots per game.

Not excellent statistics by any stretch of the imagination, but for Rangers, he could certainly replicate the feats of Defoe should the Ibrox side come calling this summer.

It may go against the club’s ethos of prioritising younger talents, but Vardy would offer something different in the final third.

That something might just make all the difference towards the end of the season. That’s for sure.

Rangers could sign Gerrard and immediately suffer blow as Arsenal poach 17 y/o

It could be a frustrating start for the Liverpool legend if he returns to Ibrox.

ByTom Cunningham May 23, 2025

The last time a Manchester United player scored 20 Premier League goals in a single season was Robin van Persie back in 2012/13, with the Red Devils having long waited to find a prolific presence again to lead the line.

While not a centre-forward by trade, Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo could well be the man to end that search, with the Cameroon international reportedly deciding to join Ruben Amorim’s ranks this summer, fresh off the back of netting 20 league goals for the Bees.

That remarkable individual campaign isn’t exactly a breakthrough one for the 25-year-old, however, with his talent having been evident ever since he arrived in west London back in 2019. Indeed, a return of 121 goals and assists in 242 games in all competitions says it all.

Season

Player

Goals

2024/25

Bruno Fernandes & Amad

8

2023/24

Bruno Fernandes & Rasmus Hojlund

10

2022/23

Marcus Rashford

17

2021/22

Cristiano Ronaldo

18

2020/21

Bruno Fernandes

18

2019/20

Marcus Rashford & Anthony Martial

17

2018/19

Paul Pogba

13

2017/18

Romelu Lukaku

16

2016/17

Zlatan Ibrahimovic

17

2015/16

Anthony Martial

11

2014/15

Wayne Rooney

12

2013/14

Wayne Rooney

17

2012/13

Robin van Persie

26

Perhaps more importantly, the £60m-rated star has provided 70 goal involvements in 136 top-flight games to date, including the fourth goal as Thomas Frank’s men ravaged United at the Gtech in August 2022.

The speed and power with which the winger tore away from Luke Shaw on the counter, before slotting home, was truly breathtaking, with Amorim in desperate need of more of the same should that deal be wrapped up as expected.

With Matheus Cunha on one side and Mbeumo on the other, United could be a force to be reckoned with once again. How about throwing a new striker into the mix too?

Latest on Man Utd's search for a striker

“The most unlucky number nine Manchester United have ever had”. Those were the words directed toward Rasmus Hojlund by TNT’s Darren Fletcher during United’s 2-0 win over Aston Villa, with the struggling Dane seeing a header ruled out for offside as he once again fired a blank.

A measly return of four league goals in 2024/25 has ensured the 22-year-old could well be nudged toward the exit door this summer, with the former Atalanta man perhaps in line for a return to Serie A, amid interest from Champions League finalists, Inter.

With one number nine potentially departing, another could well be set to replace him, with Football Insider claiming that INEOS are accelerating their pursuit of Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, with Amorim believed to be keen on a reunion with his former talisman.

Transfer Focus

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

The report suggests that the 26-year-old is the “dream” centre-forward target, following United’s failure to convince Liam Delap to make a move, with Amorim having signed the Swede from Coventry City in 2023.

As the piece does outline, however, the stumbling block is likely to be the financial package required to be able to sign the 6 foot 2 marksman, not least if his reported £83m release clause is accurate.

That said, reports elsewhere have claimed that he could depart the Lisbon side for a much more reasonable fee of £59m, with that surely worth the outlay for a player who has been in red-hot form of late.

Why Man Utd need to fork out for Gyokeres

Managing to land a player like Mbeumo – considering his Premier League-proven quality – would no doubt represent a real coup, with analyst Ben Mattinson lauding the former Troyes star as “one of the most deadly players on transition” in the top-flight.

Just as exciting, however, would be the prospect of signing the “hottest striker in Europe”, as hailed by ESPN’s Mark Ogden, with Gyokeres having set the world alight following his prolific form in Portugal.

Formerly the scourge of Championship defences, after scoring 46 goals in 117 games for Coventry, the in-demand star has gone to a whole new level at Sporting, having registered 97 goals in just 102 games over the last two years.

It is that rampant form which has led outspoken pundit Rafael van der Vaart to hail Gyokeres as perhaps a “better version of [Erling] Haaland”, with his fellow Scandinavian memorably scoring 86 goals in 89 games for Borussia Dortmund, before joining Manchester City in 2022.

Both men did shine during the inaugural league phase of the Champions League last season, with Gyokeres netting six times in eight appearances, while Haaland scored eight goals in nine games for Pep Guardiola’s side.

Non-penalty goals

0.59

0.70

Shots

3.26

4.21

Assists

0.15

0.00

Shot-creating actions

3.85

1.52

Pass completion

80.0%

74.4%

Progressive passes

1.78

1.05

Progressive carries

4.29

0.94

Successful take-ons

1.18

0.35

Touches in opposition box

6.07

6.79

Progressive passes received

9.47

3.75

The Norwegian machine may have outscored the Sporting sensation, although – as Van der Vaart alluded to – it was Gyokeres who showcased more to his game, as evidenced with regard to his superior record in progressive carries, pass completion and shot-creating actions.

The scorer of 39 league goals to boot – ahead of Haaland’s return of 22 Premier League goals – the one-time Brighton man appears to be the prolific presence that United are crying out for, with the club only netting 44 times as a whole in England’s top-flight last time out.

Partnering two players who have been there and done it in the Premier League – in the form of Cunha and Mbeumo – with a figure who just can’t stop scoring right now could prove the perfect combination, with United still longing for the days of Carlos Tevez, Cristiano Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney leading the line.

Of course, these three potential summer arrivals would have to go some way to match the levels of those 2008 Champions League heroes, although it’s hard to think of a more exciting triumvirate since.

The new Cavani: Man Utd in talks to sign "outrageous" £50m Mbeumo partner

Manchester United could land a player who could star at Old Trafford alongside Bryan Mbeumo.

2 ByEthan Lamb Jun 3, 2025

Manchester United’s hunt for a new striker this summer has constantly led them back to Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres, with the Swedish international firmly on their radar.

Ruben Amorim has previously managed the 27-year-old during his stint in Portugal, which has undoubtedly contributed to the rumours around his move to Old Trafford.

The Red Devils would be getting themselves a clinical option if his current goal record is anything to go by, after he registered a total of 54 goals in his 52 club appearances in 2024/25.

However, despite holding talks with the striker’s representatives, he’s currently involved in a dispute with the Liga Portugal side that could scupper any potential reunion with Amorim this summer.

As a result, other targets have been considered, with the manager working tirelessly with the board to secure the additions he needs to turn the current situation around.

The latest on United’s hunt for a new striker this summer

Whilst Matheus Cunha has already secured his move to join United, it’s expected that the Brazilian international is set to operate in a number 10 role behind the striker.

The likes of Dušan Vlahović, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Aleksandar Mitrovic have all been considered for the role, but appear to be backup options given the moves made elsewhere.

In recent days, it’s emerged that the Red Devils have made contact with Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt over a potential move for forward Hugo Ekitiké, according to Sky Germany.

They claim that the French star, who’s scored 22 times across all competitions this campaign, has a €100m (£84m) release clause in his current deal, with Chelsea and Arsenal also interested.

It also states that Amorim’s men have expressed concrete interest over a move for the 22-year-old, but doesn’t mention if they are willing to pay the clause in his current deal.

Why United’s £84m target could be their own Isak

The Premier League has become a brutal division over recent years, with many sides taking advantage of you if you fall below the required standard of England’s top flight.

Alexander Isak is a player who has been the thorn in many teams’ sides over recent seasons, netting a total of 54 Premier League goals in his last three seasons at Newcastle United.

Such form has led to him being one of the most sought-after talismen in Europe, with Eddie Howe’s side placing a £150m price tag on him amid interest from Liverpool and Arsenal.

If any side were to pay such a fee, it would make him the most expensive signing in the history of English football, but United could look to steer clear of any move in favour of a switch for Ekitike.

When comparing his stats to those of Isak from the 2024/25 campaign, the Frankfurt ace has managed to match or better him in numerous key areas – making the £84m fee appear somewhat of a bargain.

He’s been ranked as a similar player to the Swede by FBref, managing to register more shots on target per 90 – leading to talent scout Jacek Kulig labelling the French star as “world-class”.

Ekitike also completed more passes than Isak, whilst completing more of the take-ons he’s attempted, offering Amorim an all-round option in his attempts to take United back to their former glory.

Games played

33

34

Goals & assists

23

29

Progressive carries

3.3

2.7

Shots on target

1.5

1.3

Shots taken

4

3.1

Pass accuracy

76%

74%

Shot-creating actions

3.5

3

Take-ons completed

1.8

1.4

If he can transfer his form from the Bundesliga over to England in the coming months, it would be a deal that could be one of the best in the club’s history – allowing him to cement himself in the club’s history forever.

It may be a deal that will cost the club somewhat of a small fortune this summer, but the key is the limit for the youngster, with such a price tag being worth every penny if he can catapult them up the table in 2025/26.

He'd be amazing with Ekitike: Man Utd "optimistic" of sealing deal for star

Manchester United appear to be edging closer to completing a deal for one top-level talent.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 13, 2025

England have given themselves the chance of a favourable semi-final draw with rampant USA win

ESPNcricinfo staff23-Jun-2024After the angst of England’s escape from a dicey group-stage scenario, Jos Buttler’s men have become the first side through to the T20 World Cup semi-finals, with a brutal ten-wicket dispatching of USA in Barbados. And it was the captain himself who capped the charge with a six-laden 83 not out from 38 balls that could yet secure his team a favourable draw in the knockouts.England needed to win in 18.4 overs to guarantee that their net run rate vaulted above that of the current Group 2 leaders, South Africa, thereby ensuring their progression no matter what happens in what has now become a de facto quarter-final between South Africa and West Indies in Antigua tonight.However, Buttler admitted that his team had come out with a more ambitious target in mind – victory in 10.5 overs which would take them above West Indies’ current NRR of 1.814, a figure that is likely to come down irrespective of the result against South Africa, given that it is based on their own comprehensive defeat of USA in Bridgetown on Friday.”Yeah, it was, absolutely,” Buttler said at the post-match presentation, when asked if the top of the group was their ultimate aim. With Group 1 blown wide open by Afghanistan’s victory over Australia on Saturday, England have given themselves a chance to avoid the in-form India as they seek to defend the title they won in Melbourne in 2022.”You’ve got to earn the right to start with, to try and get in, and then once we got through a few overs, we were really trying to target the [short] side with the wind,” he added. “We paid the USA a lot of respect but, when we came here, we talked a lot about our intensity. If we could bring that on the field, we thought we’d be too good.”England proved that with an emphatic display with, first ball, and then bat. Adil Rashid was once again their pivotal performer with 2 for 13 in four boundary-less overs, and then it was over to Chris Jordan, whose four wickets in five balls included an innings-sealing hat-trick in front of his friends and family in the island of his birth.”They were brilliant,” Buttler said of his spinners, Rashid and Liam Livingstone, who finished with 1 for 24 in his own four overs, having bowled just three in total in the whole of England’s campaign to date.”Adil has been fantastic all the way through,” Buttler added. “And I thought Livie bowled brilliantly as well in tandem. They created a lot of pressure, and created wickets. We don’t make it easy for some guys sometimes – one game they don’t bowl at all, and then Livie bows four overs today, so credit to him for being ready and producing really good skill.”Jordan has also been an intermittent presence in England’s line-up, but was preferred to Mark Wood at a venue where extreme pace had proven expensive in the early matches of the tournament. And it turned out to be an inspired selection, as Jordan backed up a tight first two overs with an inspired third, as he landed his inswinging yorkers time and again to blow away USA’s tail.”I think we’ve got great options,” Buttler said, with Sam Curran’s left-arm swing also picking up two wickets to cement his own return to England’s first-choice XI.Related

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Jordan, Rashid and Buttler lead England's charge into the semis

“We wanted to bring CJ back in to add a little bit of depth to the batting line-up as well, with his allround capabilities, and we know what he’s capable of with the ball. He executed fantastically well, and a World Cup hat-trick is a great effort.”Perhaps the most important aspect of England’s victory, however, was Buttler’s own surging display with the bat, given how important his runs will be to the team’s title hopes come the final two matches of the tournament.After a previous tournament top-score of 42 against Australia, also in Barbados, Buttler powered to his half-century from 32 balls with a lofted six over long-off from Harmeet Singh, then added four more in as many legitimate deliveries, to hunt down England’s victory target of 116 in just 58 balls.”It was really important,” he said, of his innings, which finished with a similar flourish to his purple patch of form for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL in April. “I’ve been feeling good all year, to be honest. You don’t always get the results but, now, I feel like I’m hitting the ball well and it’s nice to get the confidence.”It’s important to look after my own game as well,” he added. “As much as you’re trying to be captain and have a broad view, I’m still one of 11. I’ve got to do my job.”

Leeds United now know what their opening set of fixtures in the Premier League look like, with August appearing to be a tough starting month for the already nervous Whites.

Indeed, top-flight stalwarts Everton, Arsenal, and Newcastle United all come in quick succession for Daniel Farke’s men to get the new season underway, with Leeds fans just praying an early result can be picked up to ease the expected anxiety around Elland Road.

Of course, there is still some time to go before Leeds’ Premier League adventure kicks off, with the off-season handing the newly promoted team plenty of opportunities to snap up some top-flight-ready talents.

Leeds in talks to sign £17m star

Jaka Bijol and Lukas Nmecha – who both played in the Serie A and the Bundesliga last season – have already entered the building but there is plenty more on the way for Leeds.

Indeed, the West Yorkshire titans could be about to secure an even better signing than their new 6-foot-3 Slovenian, with a Premier League-proven battler now on their shopping list.

According to reports in Spain, via Sport Witness, Leeds are in talks regarding the signature of Brighton and Hove Albion centre-back Igor Julio.

The report states that significant funds have come Leeds’ way after the glory of promotion, with the Whites desiring a player of Igor’s characteristics to try and consolidate as a Premier League-capable outfit.

Valued at around the £17m mark according to Transfermarkt, it will be intriguing to see who comes out on top in the race to land the Seagulls’ number three, with the report revealing that Crystal Palace and Wolverhampton Wanderers are other keen parties from England.

Leeds will hope they can put their newfound millions to good use by landing the Brazilian, with Igor already having an upper hand over his potential new teammate in Bijol in being instantly ready for the challenge ahead of the English top-flight.

Why Igor would be an even better signing than Bijol

Of course, plenty will be expected of Bijol on his arrival in England, but it will take him time to get up to speed with his daunting new environment.

On the contrary, the imposing South American already has two top-flight campaigns under his belt on the South Coast, with the 27-year-old consistently sticking out as a reliable member of the Seagulls camp when thrown into action.

Games played

24

13

Goals

0

0

Assists

0

0

Touches*

70.4

63.9

Accurate passes*

55.3 (94%)

50.8 (93%)

Ball recoveries*

4.4

3.2

Total duels won*

3.0

1.8

When glancing at the table above, it’s clear that the Brazilian shines with the ball planted at his feet, with a stunning 94% pass accuracy averaged during his debut Premier League campaign for Brighton.

This unerring ability to pick out a pass under pressure will stand him in good stead to shine under Farke’s wing, therefore, with Leeds defensive mainstay Joe Rodon successfully completing 92% of his passes last season.

This is where Bijol falls flat in comparison, with the Slovenian only average an 84% pass accuracy across the same time span.

On top of that, Igor has even more top-flight experience on his side when weighed up next to the ex-Udinese man, notably when on the books of Fiorentina.

104 Serie A appearances came his way when plying his trade in Florence. To add context, Bijol falls short of that amount by 14 games.

Of course, Bijol will have a key role to play next season as Leeds adjust to their new level.

But, having also recently been lauded as an “animal” by ex-Seagulls coach Inigo Calderon, picking up Igor could be just what Leeds crave in winning a battler ready to roll his sleeves up for the cause, with the 27-year-old well aware of what it takes to be a success in such a gruelling division.

Big Piroe upgrade: Leeds in the race to sign "deceptively quick" £21m star

Leeds United are reportedly in the race to sign a striker who could be an upgrade on Joel Piroe.

ByDan Emery Jun 28, 2025

Following an excellent campaign last time out, Nottingham Forest are looking to use the summer transfer window to ensure that their European qualification was no blip. And that could reportedly start with the addition of a Bayern Munich midfielder.

Nuno Espirito Santo extends Nottingham Forest contract

Starting as they mean to go on this summer, Nottingham Forest confirmed the news that Nuno Espirito Santo has agreed a new deal with the club and will now remain in charge until at least 2028.

The Portuguese manager has taken the Midlands club to fresh heights in the Premier League and Evangelos Marinakis was clearly keen to ensure that he remains the man for the job at the City Ground.

The Greek owner told Nottingham Forest’s official media channels: “Nuno has made a great impact and performed very well during his time with us so far.

With that contract signed and delivered, Nottingham Forest can now turn their attention back towards the transfer window. Already, it looks as though Jair Cunha, Igor Jesus and Cuiabano are all on their way from Brazilian club Botafogo, who just defeated Paris Saint-Germain at the Club World Cup. But those in the Midlands could yet return to the market.

How to Watch the FIFA Club World Cup for Free

Everything you need to know about the Club World Cup.

ByCharlie Smith Jun 13, 2025

Reports are now suggesting that the Midlands club have joined the race to sign a Champions League midfielder who looks destined to return to the Premier League this summer.

Nottingham Forest join £30m Palhinha race

According to Caught Offside, Nottingham Forest are now eyeing a move to sign Joao Palhinha this summer. The midfielder is reportedly free to leave Bayern Munich for up to €35m (£30m) in what is a cut-price deal considering that the German giants initially paid Fulham as much as £42m to secure his signature just one year ago.

The transfer fee is unlikely to be the main sticking point in any deal. Instead, there may be concerns about Palhinha’s wage demands. If he requests the same £8.5m-a-year contract that he earns at Bayern Munich then the likes of Nottingham Forest could instantly look elsewhere for options.

With Manchester United, former club Fulham, Benfica and West Ham United also in the race for his signature, Palhinha may have a decision to make regarding his salary if he wants to secure an exit away from Munich this summer.

At his best, there’s no denying that Palhinha is capable of making a significant impact with Fulham boss Marco Silva dubbing him “impressive” during his time in West London. Now, however, the Portugal international desperately needs a return to English football to rediscover his top form.

Rashid reiterated they’re happy to play the team, but have no direct control of things that happen beyond cricket

ESPNcricinfo staff23-Jun-20242:53

Rashid Khan: ‘Cricket is the only source of happiness back home’

Rashid Khan wishes “we could do something and wish there was a solution for it” but can’t do much about “some things which is not under the control of anyone in cricket.” The Afghanistan T20I captain was responding to whether beating Australia at the T20 World Cup on Saturday night in St Vincent gave them extra satisfaction.The backdrop to the question was in relation to Cricket Australia’s decision to not play Afghanistan bilaterally due to “a marked deterioration in human rights for women and girls” in the country. Earlier this year, Cricket Australia postponed a scheduled three-match T20I series with Afghanistan. CA have also postponed the hosting of a one-off Test for the same reason.”Well, we are sportsmen, and we love sports,” Rashid said at the post-match press conference. “People back home love sports. And I mentioned earlier, cricket is the only source of happiness back home. That’s the only source left in Afghanistan where people could celebrate. And if we keep that source away from us, I don’t know where Afghanistan will remain.Related

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Rashid after Afghanistan's win: One of our greatest T20 performances

“We sportsmen only think about the cricket. Everyone is saying sports bring the nation together and bring everyone together. So, for me, we’re always happy to play against any side, and that’s the only way where our cricket can improve day by day. Some things which are not under the control of anyone in cricket, and that’s something we can’t do anything about it. Wish we could do something, and wish that was a kind of solution for it, we would have been happy, but I don’t know what’s the solution for that.”Rashid had threatened to withdraw from the Big Bash League in 2023 after CA decided to postpone their ODI series. Rashid’s public stance joined a chorus of protests from Afghanistan’s male cricketers soon after ACB had termed CA’s statement over refusing to play Afghanistan due to the human rights crisis as “pathetic”.Rashid Khan reiterated Afghanistan are happy to play Australia•ICC/Getty ImagesRashid eventually softened his stance and put his name up in the drafts but was forced to miss the tournament through injury. On Sunday, Rashid reiterated they’re happy to play the team, but have no direct control of things that happen beyond cricket.”We’re happy to play any side, but as I mentioned earlier, some things, government, and political things, I don’t know much about these things, and I don’t like it as well. So, I have no answer for this, but my only thing always in mind is I love to play against the big teams. I love to travel all around the world to play and I have received so much so much love from everyone.”Whenever I go to Australia for Big Bash, I think I have got so much love and support from the fans there. They have given me so much love. In 2022 T20 World Cup, when we were playing in Adelaide against Australia, I got more support than them. And that was so satisfying.”Rashid reminisced the love and support he received in the aftermath of his father’s passing during the BBL in 2019, and termed fans in Adelaide [he plays for Adelaide Strikers] as “family”, while maintaining “cricket isn’t the solution for politics.””Playing in Australia, I’ve got massive support in every city. The hospitality I got in Australia, especially during the tough days in 2019 when my dad passed away, that was the hardest time for me when I was in Australia. And the amount of love and support I got from everyone in the team, and also the fans [was immense], I think I call them a family.”But as I said, I love to play all around the world. And those things which are not under the control, and cricket is not the solution, I don’t think we can bring sports into that. If there is another solution, you can take that. But don’t think cricket is the solution of politics and things like that.”So, yeah, if we play in the World Cup, why don’t we play in bilateral series? I think we’re happy to play against the best side. We learn from them. We get better day by day. But that’s the only thing I can say.”

It’s been the best part of a month since Tottenham Hotspur made the surprise decision to sack Ange Postecoglou after he delivered them their first piece of silverware in almost two decades.

Thomas Frank was then announced as the new head coach a few days later, and while a flurry of transfer rumours then followed, the club have only made one first-team signing – Mathys Tel.

The young Frenchman is undoubtedly an exciting player to have at the club, but fans are understandably keen to see a new face bought in, especially as Manchester United seem to be dead set on signing Bryan Mbeumo.

One of the names who continues to be linked with a move to the white side of North London is Antoine Semenyo, although another Premier League star has since been linked with Frank’s Lilywhites, a player who would be a more exciting signing than the Bournemouth star.

Spurs target Premier League star

While there have been occasional reports linking Semenyo with a move to Spurs for months now, they really began to gain momentum early last month, not long after Frank took the hot seat.

Transfer Focus

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

In fact, some stories went so far as to claim that positive talks had been held between Daniel Levy and the player’s representatives.

However, as with most potential deals, the main obstacle appears to be the price, with most stories reaffirming that the Cherries want around £70m to let their star attacker leave.

While such a fee would be a new record for Tottenham, it’s probably not entirely out of reach, although it now looks as if the club have another option: Mohammed Kudus.

Yes, according to a recent report from the Telegraph, Spurs are very interested in the West Ham United star.

The report has revealed that the Ghanaian international is now one of the club’s primary targets and that there is a belief that they will be able to sign him for less than his £85m release clause, which expires on July 10.

Interestingly, according to another update from transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the North Londoners have already made contact with the player’s camp, which is certainly encouraging from a Lilywhites perspective.

It could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given Kudus’ ability and potential, it’s one Spurs should fight for, especially as he’d be a more exciting signing than Semenyo.

Why Kudus would be more exciting than Semenyo

Okay, so the first thing to admit is that, yes, on this season alone, Semenyo looks to be more productive than Kudus, but when we expand the time horizon to include last season as well, it becomes very clear that the West Ham star is the far more dangerous attacker.

For example, since the start of the 23/24 campaign, the Accra-born “generational talent,” as dubbed by journalist Gary Al-Smith, has scored 23 goals and provided 14 assists in 83 appearances, totalling 6,502 minutes, which comes out to a strong average of a goal involvement every 2.24 games, or every 175.72 minutes.

In contrast, the Cherries star has scored 21 goals and provided ten assists in 78 appearances, totalling 5,869 minutes, which comes out to a less impressive average of a goal involvement every 2.51 games, or every 189.32 minutes.

Appearances

48

36

Minutes

3781′

2307′

Goals

18

8

Assists

10

3

Goal Involvements per Match

0.58

0.30

Minutes per Goal Involvement

135.03′

209.72′

Appearances

35

42

Minutes

2721′

3562′

Goals

5

13

Assists

4

7

Goal Involvements per Match

0.25

0.47

Minutes per Goal Involvement

302.33′

178.1′

However, while it’s clear that the former Ajax gem poses a greater goal threat, his output isn’t the only way to see that he’s the more exciting player, as it’s also evident in their respective underlying numbers.

For example, since the start of last season, the 24-year-old game-changer has completed more take-ons per 90 than his competitor, more shot and goal-creating actions, and more carries into the final third.

While these statistics might ultimately be less important than goals scored, they do give an insight into the sort of player the Irons star is, which is someone who is capable of grabbing a game by the scruff of the neck and making something happen – which is also the sort of player who’ll get fans on their feet.

If you still aren’t convinced that there is a superstar ready to explode in the 42-capped international, then listen to respected talent scout Jacek Kulig, who described him as a “future icon of Ghanaian football.”

Ultimately, Spurs need to add some more dynamism to their attack this summer, and while Semenyo would be a great signing, Kudus would bring more excitement and more substance to boot. Therefore, Levy and Co should be doing all they can to pick him up.

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He became the third member of India’s squad, behind Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, to bow out of the format after the Barbados final

ESPNcricinfo staff30-Jun-2024Ravindra Jadeja has become the third senior cricketer to retire from T20 internationals at the end of India’s triumphant run at the T20 World Cup 2024. Following the announcements from Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Jadeja “bid farewell” to the format through a post on his Instagram account.”With a heart full of gratitude, I bid farewell to T20 internationals,” Jadeja wrote a day after India’s win over South Africa in a thrilling World Cup final in Bridgetown. “Like a steadfast horse galloping with pride, I’ve always given my best for my country and will continue to do so in other formats.Related

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“Winning the T20 World Cup was a dream come true, a pinnacle of my T20 international career. Thank you for the memories, the cheers, and the unwavering support.”Jadeja retires after 74 T20I appearances, including every match in India’s T20 World Cup 2024 campaign. He didn’t have too big a role to play at the World Cup in the USA and the Caribbean, though, facing just 22 balls in five innings, in which he scored 35 runs, and sending down 14 overs, picking up one wicket at an economy rate of 7.57. Overall, Jadeja has 54 wickets in the format at an economy of 7.13 and 515 runs at a strike rate of 127.16.ESPNcricinfo LtdJadeja, 35 is a much-decorated player in the IPL, where he has won four titles, three with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and one, in the inaugural season in 2008, with Rajasthan Royals (RR), which was before he had made his international debut which came in 2009.One of a handful of cricketers who have been part of all three international sides for India for a while now, Jadeja will continue to be available for Tests and ODIs, where he has turned out 72 and 197 times respectively. In Tests, he has 3036 runs (average of 36.14) and 294 wickets (24.13), and in ODIs, he has 2756 runs (32.42) and 220 wickets (36.07), and is considered one of the finest all-round fielders in the world.

It was just over two years ago that Liverpool ended their pursuit of a certain Jude Bellingham, with reports at the time indicating that the potential cost of signing the Englishman – set to be over £100m – had proven too much of an obstacle to any deal.

Perhaps there was more to the story there, however, as mere months later, the Reds launched a mammoth £111m bid for the signing of Brighton’s Moises Caicedo, albeit with the Ecuadorian ultimately opting to join rivals Chelsea instead.

Despite Jurgen Klopp’s prior claims that he had no interest in making such costly moves – something he later rowed back on – that pursuit of Caicedo indicated that, for the right player, the Anfield hierarchy are willing to splash the cash.

Indeed, the recent £116m signing of Florian Wirtz is the perfect case in point, with a quiet two years on the transfer front having come to an end in statement fashion.

If prior high profile deals are anything to go by – namely the £75m capture of Virgil van Dijk and the £67m move for Alisson – the Reds rarely get it wrong when they do spend big, with it set to be a worrying prospect for the rest of the division if Wirtz does swiftly sparkle on Merseyside.

With the German genius likely to be the centre-piece of a new era at Anfield, now is the time for Richard Hughes and co to build the perfect attack around him.

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Darwin Nunez looks destined for Napoli. Last season’s false nine, Luiz Diaz, is the subject of intense interest from Bayern Munich. If those exits are green-lit, the Premier League champions will surely need to dip into the market once again.

Of course, Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak appears to be the dream target, yet with that deal out of the equation, Arne Slot may well have to settle for the next best thing. Perhaps even the next Isak, if you will.

Well, recent reports from Spain would suggest that Liverpool and Hughes are doing just that, with the claim made that the Reds are accelerating a move for Eintracht Frankfurt star, Hugo Ekitike.

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The suggestion is that the Merseysiders are ‘willing to enter the bidding’ for the 23-year-old, albeit with Chelsea and Manchester United also showing a ‘strong interest’ in the in-demand Frenchman.

Valued at €100m (£85m), the former Paris Saint-Germain man certainly wouldn’t come cheap, although while the race is said to be ‘wide open’, it is claimed that Liverpool are ready to make the ‘first move’.

Forking out for a fee close to the prior club-record addition – including add-ons – of Nunez may have a few supporters fearing the worst, although all the signs point to Ekitike proving a real hit, not least alongside Wirtz.

Why Ekitike would be the dream striker for Wirtz

While Wirtz enjoyed another stellar individual campaign last time out, having chalked up 31 goals and assists in all competitions, it was the year prior where Bayer Leverkusen had truly enjoyed the fruits of his labour.

The German outfit memorably enjoyed an unbeaten domestic season, alongside reaching the Europa League final, with the 22-year-old registering 38 goal involvements from just 49 appearances.

The figurehead of Xabi Alonso’s devastating attack, Wirtz was no doubt aided by the array of talent around him, namely Nigerian striker Victor Boniface. The 24-year-old scored 21 times in 2023/24, 14 of which came in just 23 Bundesliga games.

Patrick Schick

120

20

Amine Adli

101

11

Moussa Diaby

94

10

Alejandro Grimaldo

91

10

Victor Boniface

51

9

Jeremie Frimpong

150

8

Robert Andrich

120

7

Jonas Hoffman

53

5

Exequiel Palacios

109

4

In all, in just 51 games together, Wirtz and Boniface have combined for nine goals, with the former having only achieved more joint goal contributions with four other players, albeit from almost double the number of games.

As noted by the official Bundesliga website during that double-winning campaign, Boniface’s arrival had ‘arguably unlocked the full potential of the Germany international’s offensive ability’, with the pair ‘forming a special chemistry in the final third’.

Such a combination could well be replicated if young Ekitike is brought into the fold at Liverpool, with the former France U21 international noted as a statistically similar player to Boniface, among those in their position in the Bundesliga, as per FBref.

That likeness is particularly seen in the threat they pose in the final third, with Ekitike ranking in the top 5% for shots per 90, as well as in the top 6% for touches in the attacking penalty area per 90. Boniface, meanwhile, ranks in the top 3% and the top 8% for those same two metrics, respectively.

Such a single-minded streak doesn’t necessarily mean a selfish streak, however, with the Frankfurt man notably creating 12 ‘big chances’ in the German top-flight last term, as per Sofascore. His Leverkusen counterpart, meanwhile, registered eight ‘big chances’ during that stunning 2023/24 season.

Both towering focal points when leading the line, Ekitike can replicate Boniface’s impact as the man for Wirtz to work around, with the one-time Reims starlet able to combine beautifully with the German amid his talent in possession, having ranked in the top 8% in the Bundesliga for pass completion.

Hailed as the “perfect centre-forward” by TNT Sport pundit Owen Hargreaves, the £85m marksman could also prove to be the ‘perfect’ striker for Wirtz at Liverpool…

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