All posts by n8rngtd.top

With one eye on finishing the season strongly ahead of the play-offs and the other on building a squad for the future, Sunderland have now reportedly taken a talented 18-year-old on trial and are closing in on securing his signature.

Sunderland have play-off place secured

With just four games to go in the Championship campaign, Sunderland sit as many as 16 points clear of seventh place West Bromwich Albion and have, therefore, already secured their place in the play-offs. If things stay as they are, then the Black Cats will square off against Sheffield United, who will be the favourites, shock contenders Bristol City and Frank Lampard’s resurgent Coventry City.

As ever though, the drama is far from over in the Championship and anything could still change below Regis Le Bris’ side in the fight to secure a place in the top six come May.

With the pressure off, Le Bris’ side have begun to falter ever so slightly, however, with a 0-0 draw against Norwich City followed up by a disappointing 1-0 defeat at the hands of Swansea City to leave those at the Stadium of Light frustrated.

Following defeat against the Welsh side, Le Bris told reporters: “It’s a disappointing result. We had a lot of possession, but it was difficult to create chances – they were well-organised and stuck to their style.

Worry for Le Bris as Newcastle eye possible move for £25m Sunderland star

This would be a massive blow for the Black Cats.

By
Henry Jackson

Apr 13, 2025

“They played with an aggressive shape. It wasn’t about keeping the ball – we did that – but we struggled to break them down and create real openings. We have to manage the squad. While the result wasn’t what we wanted, today was an opportunity for some players to get valuable minutes.”

Meanwhile, now that they’ve secured their play-off place no matter what, Sunderland have reportedly had the chance to turn their attention towards signing a future star.

Sunderland closing in on Isaac Allan

Having already offered Crystal Palace fullback Freddie Cowin an opportunity to impress, those at the Stadium of Light have now reportedly taken another young player on trial. According to the Sunderland Echo, Sunderland are now closing in on signing Isaac Allan from Lincoln City with the goalkeeper’s trial already underway and his chance to impress coming against Wolves’ youth side.

The 18-year-old is reportedly open to a summer move away from Lincoln even if the Imps offer him a senior contract at the club and that has seen Sunderland come swooping in.

Sunderland’s interest in a talented young player should come as no surprise. The Stadium of Light has become the land of opportunity for young players in recent years, whether that’s been thanks to the Black Cats’ academy or, indeed, their transfer business.

Both Chris Rigg and Jobe Bellingham are fine examples of that and now Allan could follow in their footsteps towards Le Bris’ side if he completes his move ahead of the summer. Another one for the future, Sunderland are attempting to build a side not only capable of gaining a Premier League place, but also maintaining it for years to come.

Leeds United’s mammoth 6-0 win, coupled with Burnley’s triumph over Sheffield United on Monday, secured a return to the Premier League after a two-year absence.

The Whites have bounced back excellently from their play-off final defeat against Southampton last season, having the chance to secure the league title before the end of the season.

Daniel Farke has secured his third Championship promotion of his career, undoubtedly cementing his place in the club’s history forever after such an achievement.

However, the hard work undoubtedly starts now for the German, needing to make crucial moves in the transfer market if he is to buck the recent trend and keep the side in the top-flight.

Such a feat may not be achieved by the 48-year-old next season, especially if the latest rumours around his future at Elland Road are to be believed.

The latest update on Farke’s future as Leeds boss

In recent days, it was confirmed by the Daily Mail that the Leeds hierarchy could be tempted to part ways with Farke over the summer ahead of their return to the top-flight.

The German has achieved a 58% win rate over his two-year spell in Yorkshire, but it may not be enough to secure his long-term future at Elland Road.

The report claims that no decision has yet been made on his future, but that other candidates have already been lined up in case they decide to pull the trigger.

It remains unclear who the board could turn to should the German receive his matching orders, but that his lack of success in the top-flight could be a deciding factor in their decision.

Any decision to part ways would undoubtedly be a huge call given his achievements this season, but it could be one that would allow a proven top-flight boss to take the reins.

The manager who would be perfect to replace Farke at Leeds

Premier League safety is certainly the aim for Leeds next season, looking to be the side that prevents an unwanted record from happening in 2025/26.

It looks highly likely that all three promoted sides from the Championship have immediately returned back to the second tier – with Ipswich all but confirmed to be returning after just one year in the top-flight.

Investment is certainly needed, but questions will certainly be asked of Farke should he stay, given his previous inability to survive the drop at Norwich City.

As a result, the hierarchy could turn to former Everton boss Sean Dyche to fill the void should the German be sacked, offering the stability the Whites would need if they are to fight off relegation.

He was sacked from his role at Goodison Park back in January, but managed to secure the Toffees’ ever-present Premier League status in the two seasons prior.

The 53-year-old, who’s been labelled “one of the most underrated managers in the PL” by HLTCO, has a superb record in England’s top division, one that is better than Farke – handing the club the best chance of maintaining their status.

When comparing the duo’s respective figures during their time in the league, Dyche has achieved much more than Farke, further highlighting why he would be a superb appointment this summer.

He’s managed a higher win percentage during his time in the division, whilst also posting more goals scored per game and fewer conceded per game – offering an upgrade on the current manager.

His experience at the top of the English game could prove vital next season, with the club simply not being able to afford an immediate return back to the second tier.

It may not be the glamorous appointment many fans would be hoping for, but Dyche would certainly offer that know how that the side will need if they are to survive in 2025/26.

Not just Meslier: Farke must axe "half-hearted" Leeds flop after promotion

Illan Meslier is not the only Leeds United player who should be sold after promotion to the Premier League.

By
Dan Emery

Apr 24, 2025

Liverpool are winners, they are champions again. 20 times for the Reds. Doesn’t that sound a little bit nice, eh?

There was a sense of inevitability as fans gathered around Anfield this afternoon. Red flares could be seen from several miles away. Liverpool was red and by the end of the day, they were Premier League title winners.

Five years ago, in the midst of the pandemic, supporters did not have this day. They may have been celebrating a league triumph but it was from the dreary setting of their living rooms, rather than a sunny Merseyside occasion.

They deserve this, truth be told. The fans have waited patiently to celebrate something with the team and this was their moment, their special day. It was never in doubt, was it?

Well, it was for a bit. Dominic Solanke’s powered header made it 1-0 to Spurs early doors but the Reds, as they so often have this term under Arne Slot’s wing, fought back. 5-1. What a performance it was, goals from Luis Diaz, Alexis Mac Allister, Cody Gakpo, Mo Salah and a late own goal from Destiny Udogie.

How Liverpool celebrated their title win

What an afternoon this was. Liverpool basked in the glory of their title win, dancing in front of the kop.

Mo Salah took plenty of selfies, Virgil van Dijk waxed lyrical about the city he resides in and plays in, while Trent Alexander-Arnold watched on. Surely this isn’t his swansong tour?

A year ago, Jurgen Klopp stood chanting the name of Slot and a year on, Slot repaid the favour. But, where does Trent stand in all of this?

Salah has signed a new deal, as has captain fantastic, Van Dijk.

However, as we all know by now, Real Madrid want him. The whole of the footballing world seems to think he’s off to the Bernabeu but is he?

The right-back’s goal against Leicester last week was full of emotion, ripping off his shirt and darting over to the away supporters where he bellowed into the sky. It was full of fury, perhaps full of sadness too that these could be his final few weeks in red.

Well, as he looked into the Kop on Sunday afternoon, surely he wants a bit more of the pie. You’re not going to leave, are you, Trent?

Well, Gakpo certainly hopes he doesn’t. Speaking after the game, the Dutchman was looking ahead to the future and may have hinted that things aren’t as clear-cut as we may have thought.

“Now with Mo and Virgil staying and hopefully Trent as well, we can keep on building.”

Well, he didn’t say he was leaving but he didn’t say he was staying either. Whatever you think of the statement, it’s certainly a cryptic response to the current situation.

Agent in England: Liverpool pushing to sign "immense" £30m Trent heir

Liverpool are set to lose their vice-captain on a free transfer this summer.

By
Angus Sinclair

Apr 26, 2025

Wolverhampton Wanderers will play Premier League football once again next season after they avoided relegation back down to the Championship.

The Old Gold had been battling it out at the bottom of the table for much of the campaign until recently, when Leicester City, Southampton, and Ipswich Town all had their places in the bottom three confirmed.

Vitor Pereira, who came in to replace Gary O’Neil, has guided the team to six successive wins in the Premier League, moving them clear of relegation, and supporters may be excited to see what he can achieve with a pre-season and a full campaign at the helm.

Wolves, who beat Leicester 3-0 last time out in the top-flight, could utilise the upcoming summer transfer window to provide the Portuguese head coach with even more quality to call upon to help the club push on in the league next season.

The first signing of the window, however, will be a player who is already at the club because Jorgen Strand Larsen’s loan deal will be converted into a permanent one for £23m, having reached his appearance threshold back in January.

He is currently on loan from Spanish side Celta Vigo and will put pen to paper on a long-term contract with the Old Gold to remain at Wolves beyond the end of this season.

Why Jorgen Strand Larsen has been a great signing

The Norwegian forward scored 13 goals in 37 matches for Celta Vigo in La Liga last season, before his move to England, and this meant that the club are bringing in a player with a proven goal record in a major European league.

Thankfully, Larsen has been able to translate that form over to the Premier League with Wolves this term, making himself an incredibly valuable member of Pereira’s squad and vital to their efforts to avoid relegation.

Standing at 6 foot 4, the 25-year-old star provides a physical presence at the top end of the pitch for the Old Gold, winning 2.1 aerial battles per game and 41% of his contests in the air overall.

As well as being a useful outlet for the team to alleviate pressure, the Norway international has also offered a big goal threat throughout the Premier League season.

As you can see in the table above, the £23m-rated star has outperformed his xG by roughly three goals, which shows that he is an effective and clinical finisher who can make the most of the chances that are created for him.

Impressively, Larsen has scored eight right-footed goals, three left-footed goals, and two headers, as well as two goals from outside the box, which speaks to how complete he is as a striker and why the forward has been an excellent signing.

Wolves could, now, find a dream strike partner for the Norwegian powerhouse by completing a move for a free agent they are reportedly keen on.

Wolves eyeing up Premier League forward

According to Football Insider, Wolverhampton Wanderers are plotting a swoop to sign Leicester striker Jamie Vardy on a free transfer in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Despite missing a penalty against the Old Gold last weekend, the former England international has emerged as a target for the club as they look to bolster their attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

Transfer Focus

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

Vardy has already confirmed that his legendary association with Leicester will come to an end when his current contract expires this summer, which will provide Wolves with a chance to snap him up for nothing.

Football Insider reports that the striker wants to remain in the Premier League, and that Wolves view him as an impact player who could be a useful addition to their squad next season.

The 38-year-old star could come in as a short-term option to bolster Pereira’s attacking options, and he could be a fantastic one-two punch with Strand Larsen.

Why Wolves should sign Jamie Vardy

The Old Gold should sign the striker because he is a proven Premier League centre-forward who could almost guarantee an impact in the final third in the 2025/26 campaign.

Vardy, who has scored three goals against Wolves in his career, has scored 143 goals in the top-flight for the Foxes, which shows that he knows how to find the back of the net at that level.

Former Leicester winger Matt Piper claimed that the English attacker has the ability and the “hunger” to “consistently score goals”, which is backed up by his statistics over the years.

The current campaign is Vardy’s tenth season of Premier League football with the Foxes, and he has hit double figures for goals in seven of those, with a chance to do it for an eighth time before the end of this term.

As you can see in the table above, Vardy has consistently found the back of the net at an impressive rate throughout his time in the top-flight with Leicester.

The veteran attacker, who has scored 143 goals from 141.20 xG in his Premier League career, could be the perfect striker to come in and complement Strand Larsen, as an excellent player to bring off the bench.

Vardy could step in when the Norway international needs a rest, come in off the bench when required, or even form a strike partnership with the 25-year-old ace, whose physical presence could occupy defenders to provide the Englishman with space to constantly make runs off the last man.

Therefore, there are so many ways in which Pereira could utilise the 38-year-old marksman’s talents to make him an effective option alongside Strand Larsen next season, which is why Wolves must press ahead with a deal for the soon-to-be free agent.

He can help replace Neto: Wolves hold talks over signing "unplayable" star

Wolves will be looking to bolster their squad this summer.

1

By
Ross Kilvington

Apr 29, 2025

Celtic have enjoyed another fantastic campaign, but could now have to make a decision on the future of one of their key stars this summer following recent developments.

Celtic look to continue claiming regular silverware

Brendan Rodgers continues to dominate the landscape north of the border and stands on the verge of claiming a third treble over two spells at the club if he can see off Aberdeen in the Scottish Cup final at Hampden later this month.

With minimal fuss, Celtic have already claimed the Scottish Premiership title alongside the Premier Sports Cup, setting the scene for an exciting summer that could see several arrivals at Parkhead.

Per reports, Ross Doohan could join the Hoops on a free transfer from Aberdeen to bolster their pool of homegrown options in line with squad registration rules for European competitions.

Red Star Belgrade defender Veljko Milosavljevic is also a Celtic target, even if the Scottish champions have been warned that he isn’t for sale at this moment in time.

Closer to home, speculation over whether Lennon Miller will complete a move to the Bhoys remains unanswered despite persistent interest in the Scotland Under-21 international.

Fewer minutes than Nawrocki: Celtic must axe flop who's "not good enough"

Celtic must finally part ways with this player who has played fewer minutes than Maik Nawrocki.

By
Dan Emery

May 9, 2025

Either way, Celtic are aware they will need to act fast on the market to strengthen their squad efficiently for their involvement in the final Champions League qualifying round. Entry to the league phase isn’t guaranteed, so Rodgers and company may need to act earlier than normal to secure priority targets ahead of rival suitors.

Conversely, they could now have to decide on a star player who has recently been scouted by an outfit from Europe’s top-five leagues.

Celtic star Reo Hatate wanted by Udinese

According to Sunsport, Celtic midfielder Reo Hatate was recently scouted by Udinese during their 5-1 victory over Kilmarnock as the Serie A outfit ponder a move for the Japan international. Italian and French clubs are also interested in the 27-year-old. Nevertheless, the Bhoys are set to demand a significant transfer fee in the event of any emotional exit.

Labelled “incredible” by Celtic boss Rodgers, Hatate has once again emerged as a key player this term, creating 40 chances on Scottish Premiership duty.

Ten goals and nine assists in 53 appearances across all competitions from the former Kawasaki Frontale man in 2024/25 have inched his side closer to a domestic treble.

Despite this, there is always a shelf life for players north of the border. Hatate has been involved in delivering a steady stream of trophies at Celtic since 2022, but squad cycles come to an end and new faces are needed to maintain the hunger needed for further silverware.

Heading into the summer, it remains to be seen whether the Bhoys will be able to retain his services as they prepare for another tilt at success on both domestic and European fronts.

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has placed a marquee forward at the “top” of his transfer target list ahead of the summer window, and the Gunners have responded by opening talks between all parties.

Arteta makes "clear" Arsenal transfer claim

Speaking ahead of their final Premier League game of the season against Southampton on Sunday, Mikel Arteta was asked about the club’s recruitment drive, Berta’s crucial role and the type of player he wants to see his club try and go for.

Viktor Gyokeres' message to close circle amid Arsenal agreement claims

The Portugal has admitted something to teammates.

1

By
Emilio Galantini

May 22, 2025

Kai Havertz has returned to action already, after coming back from what was initially thought to be a season-ending hamstring injury blow, making his first appearance since February during Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Newcastle.

The German, who’s still managed to score 15 goals in all competitions in spite of his injury woes, also looks physically transformed after months of work in the gym. However, while Havertz’s return ahead of next season comes as a boost for Arteta, he sent a “clear” message to the Gunners hierarchy that more firepower is required if they’re to mount a more successful title challenge.

“What is clear with the amount of injuries we had in the front line is that we need a goal threat, we need the firepower out there, and understanding that the context can change tomorrow,” said Arteta in a pre-match press conference.

“We cannot rely just on the numbers we had before. We have to add goals, we have to add creativity, we have to add numbers and that will be in different positions.”

Arteta was also asked about their links to Real Madrid star Rodrygo, following recent reports he could well join Arsenal.

The 43-year-old didn’t get drawn in to named targets, but categorically refused to rule out a move for the Brazil international either, who’s bagged 13 goals and a further 10 assists from the right-wing, left-wing and at centre-forward this term.

Rodrygo "top" of Berta list with Arsenal talks opened

Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg shared news of Arsenal working on a deal for Rodryho behind-the-scenes earlier this week, and that same reporter has now provided a further update.

Plettenberg reports that Rodrygo is actually at the “very top” of Berta’s transfer list at Arsenal too, and negotiations have begun at all avenues, presumably meaning that they’re in talks with both the £202,000-per-week forward and Real.

Arsenal are not without competition in the race for him, though, with Chelsea also reportedly holding talks with Rodrygo’s representatives ahead of the mini-transfer window from June 1 to June 10 – which would allow them to sign him before the Club World Cup.

Chelsea chiefs are now internally debating a potential deal for another rising star, according to a report out of Stamford Bridge this week.

Chelsea continue transfer policy of signing high-potential starlets

Since the start of 2025, despite Enzo Maresca strongly suggesting that Chelsea need to bring in more experienced players, BlueCo have shown no sign of slowing down when it comes to their transfer policy of signing world football’s brightest up-and-coming talents.

£172k-per-week striker is waiting for Chelsea to contact him about joining

Chelsea are set for a big summer after qualifying for the Champions League.

2

By
Emilio Galantini

May 26, 2025

Earlier this year, the west Londoners agreed a double-deal with Sporting CP to sign their rising star duo, Geovany Quenda (18) and Dario Essugo (20), for a total fee of around £62.5 million, with the former set to fully join them in 2026 and the latter this summer.

It is now also being reported by reliable media sources that Chelsea are planning a pre-2026 deal for 22-year-old Strasbourg striker Emanuel Emegha, as confirmed by Fabrizio Romano.

Since Romano’s initial report, French media sources have claimed that Chelsea have moved in with a six-year contract offer to Emegha, and an agreement for the Ligue 1 sensation is merely a “matter of time”.

“Chelsea have offered Emanuel Emegha a six-year contract valid until June 2031,” wrote Foot Mercato reporter Santi Aouna on X.

“The intention is for him to stay in Strasbourg for another year and then go to Chelsea. A full agreement is just a matter of time.”

As Maresca’s side carry on planning for the long-term, Brighton starlet Valentin Barco, who spent the 2024/2025 on loan at Strasbourg, has now entered their radar.

Chelsea hold internal talks over signing Valentin Barco from Brighton

The Argentine midfielder can play in a variety of roles on the left, and he was the “most signed wonderkid” on popular PC game Football Manager last year.

According to CaughtOffside, while no formal approach has been made yet, Chelsea are holding internal talks over a potential move for Barco, and Maresca is believed to be a personal admirer of the 20-year-old.

“(He’s a) left back but he’s not going to be playing there, I don’t think,” said South American football expert Tim Vickery.

“He’s a left-sided attacking midfielder. Very good running with the ball. Amazing power that he generates from his left foot. Good from set-pieces.

“He can combine well. He had a sweet little thing going with Edison Cavani at Boca Juniors.”

Barco is fresh off a productive campaign at Strasbourg, finishing 24/25 as one of their best-performing players in Ligue 1 by average match rating per 90 – starting 14 Ligue 1 matches and bagging two assists (WhoScored).

It is little surprise Chelsea have taken note of his displays, possibly while keeping tabs on Andrey Santos’ progress in France and scouting Emanuel Emegha. In any case, the Blues’ relationship with their sister club may end up paying dividends again.

Man City were once linked with a move for Barco in 2023 as well, indicating he’s a player of real promise.

Tottenham Hotspur could soon find themselves on the hunt for a new head coach, with chairman Daniel Levy set to communicate his all-important managerial decision to Ange Postecoglou “this week”.

Ange Postecoglou set to learn Tottenham fate imminently

Reliable club insider Paul O’Keefe has claimed that Levy has already decided whether he’s going to stick or twist with Postecoglou after a very mixed campaign, and the Australian is apparently set to learn his fate imminently.

Tottenham now hold talks over signing "real deal" MLS defender

He’s got a glowing reputation in the States.

1

By
Emilio Galantini

Jun 4, 2025

Sky Sports report that Postecoglou’s future will be resolved “this week”, with critics and supporters alike set to find out the result of what must have been a very tough call behind the scenes at Hotspur Way.

The former Celtic boss made history by guiding Spurs to their first European trophy since 1984 and first piece of silverware generally since 2008 by beating Man United 1-0 in the Europa League final, which also gifted the club a spot in next season’s Champions League draw.

However, Tottenham’s domestic form across 2024/2025 was quite simply unacceptable, with Postecoglou’s side breaking the record for most league defeats recorded by Spurs in a single Premier League season (22).

If they hadn’t secured a narrow victory against Ruben Amorim’s Red Devils in Bilbao, there would be no debate about sacking the tactician, but the raw emotion that comes with ending Tottenham’s trophy-winning hoodoo has given Levy plenty to ponder.

Players have also spoken out in support of Postecoglou – including the likes of Pedro Porro, James Maddison, Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray – making the decision even harder.

If Levy does opt to hand the 59-year-old his P45, £4.5 million-per-year Brentford boss Thomas Frank is tipped as a prime contender for the job.

Tottenham are said to have held “multiple meetings” with Frank over the role, with journalist Pete O’Rourke now claiming that the Dane has entered pole position to succeed Postecoglou.

Thomas Frank "emerging" as top Tottenham target to replace Postecoglou

Writing for Football Insider, the reporter states Frank is “emerging” as Tottenham’s “number one” managerial target to replace Postecoglou.

The Lilywhites are apparently “increasingly convinced” of the 51-year-old’s credentials to do a job at Spurs and lead them into the Champions League next term, following his excellent job at Brentford on a shoe-string budget compared to more elite Premier League sides.

Frank has just guided the Bees to a solid mid-table finish, despite losing star striker Ivan Toney to Al-Ahli last summer, with the Dane also steering his injury-ravaged Brentford squad clear of relegation in 2023/2024.

Brentford have also registered a net-spend of just £96 million over the last five years, with Frank’s side holding their own in Europe’s most competitive division without having to splash that much on recruitment.

This will undoubtedly be attractive to Levy, and Man City boss Pep Guardiola is on record stating that Frank is “one of the best” managers around.

His appeal is clear, but it is still just a hypothesis as we await the result of Levy’s crunch Postecoglou call.

Crystal Palace now hold strong interest in signing a £30m defender, who’s also a target for Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich, according to a report.

Palace looking to strengthen with Europe on the horizon

Not only did Palace win the first major piece of silverware in their history courtesy of the 1-0 FA Cup final victory against Manchester City, but they also secured qualification for the 2025-26 Europa League, which could be quite the adventure for supporters.

This week, however, it was revealed the Eagles may not get to play in the competition, given their multi-club ownership model, although John Textor is willing to sell his shares in the club on the cheap to allow them to compete.

A meeting has been held to discuss the south Londoners’ involvement, but UEFA are yet to make a decision, meaning it is still very much up in the air whether Oliver Glasner’s side will be allowed to play in the prestigious competition.

It is thought that a decision will be made in around a week, which means the hierarchy must continue planning for the summer transfer window in the meantime, and they have now set their sights on a Bayern Munich target.

Indeed, according to a report from L’Equipe (via Get French Football News), Crystal Palace now hold strong interest in signing Burnley defender Maxime Esteve, having identified him as a priority target for the summer.

Top 1% for dribbling: Crystal Palace now "show interest" in "amazing" ace

Palace have now joined the race for a defender, who is “expected” to leave his current club this summer.

By
Dominic Lund

Jun 4, 2025

However, there could be competition for Esteve’s signature, with Everton stepping up their interest in recent days, while the Bundesliga champions are also thought to be keen, although not to the same degree as Palace.

Having played a key role in Burnley’s promotion to the Premier League, the Clarets should be in a strong position to command a good fee for the centre-back, and previous reports have suggested they could hold out for around £30m.

"Phenomenon" Esteve could be ideal Guehi replacement

This summer will be the Eagles’ last chance to cash-in on their captain, with his contract set to expire next June, meaning Glasner could be faced with the momentous task of finding a replacement for the Englishman.

Of course, no Palace fan will want to see Guehi leave, but there are indications the Frenchman could be an ideal replacement, given the role he played in Burnley’s promotion last season, featuring in all 46 Championship games as his side shipped just 16 goals.

The 23-year-old is also at a good age to be a long-term success at Selhurst Park, and he has been praised by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, who described the defender as a “true athletic phenomenon with some really good ball skills.”

Should they be allowed to compete in Europe, Crystal Palace will be in a good position to attract some top players this summer, and there are plenty of signs Esteve is in that category.

Arsenal are searching for a number nine this summer and have identified a new target who may strengthen their forward line for a cheaper fee, according to a report.

The latest on Arsenal's search for a striker

Undoubtedly, the Gunners’ search for a striker has become something of a saga in the last few weeks, and it doesn’t look like there will be an end in sight anytime soon despite Mikel Arteta’s advances.

Viktor Gyokeres has emerged as Arsenal’s most talked-about summer pursuit. However, Sporting won’t let the Sweden international leave on the cheap, which has compelled the Londoners to assess potential alternatives such as Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins.

Of course, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko has also been courted by Arsenal over the duration, and Ben Jacobs has confirmed that they are still in the picture to land the Bundesliga sensation.

“They have discussed whether or not there is flexibility beneath the variable release clause, set at the moment around €80 million. That’s why that one’s taking time, because Arsenal want to do Sesko for €70 million, or within that ballpark.”

Saudi Arabian clubs are also believed to be at the table, creating another layer to what is turning out to be a complicated search for a goalscorer in light of Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus being stricken by injury last term.

£30m flop closing in on Arsenal exit; it'll free up the space to sign Hato

Jorrel Hato is a name on Arsenal’s radar this summer.

By
Matt Dawson

Jun 16, 2025

The Premier League title is on the line and Arsenal need to make sure they get this one right if they are to unseat Liverpool at the summit, so it is only natural that time is being taken to assess all contributing factors.

However, they could now opt to move in a completely different direction from the names mentioned if reports elsewhere are to carry weight.

Arsenal set to court Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic

According to Tutto Juve, Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic has become a concrete option for Arsenal due to their ongoing frustration in the pursuit of Gyokeres.

Should their chase of the former Coventry City man fall by the wayside, the Serbia international may enter their thoughts more prominently due to the Old Lady’s willingness to listen to offers, providing they recoup a satisfactory outlay for the Serie A marksman.

Labelled “lightning” and “ridiculous” by former teammate Micah Richards, Vlahovic registered 15 goals and five assists in 41 appearances across all competitions last term as Juventus scraped into the Champions League on the final day of the campaign.

Now on Club World Cup duty, the ex-Fiorentina man has only one year left on his contract in Turin and it remains to be seen whether he would fancy the prospect of a move to England, but his contract situation would make him a cheaper option than the likes of Gyokeres.

Although he isn’t the first name on Arsenal’s list, Vlahovic’s name could be one to watch out for in the Gunners’ search for a high-profile striker to lead the line in 2025/26.