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Crystal Palace are facing a pivotal season as the Eagles look to build upon what has been an absolutely excellent 2025 — a year which has seen them go on an unprecedented unbeaten streak whilst ending their history-long wait for a major trophy.

Crystal Palace face an uncertain future after stellar 2025

Oliver Glasner masterminded an historic win over Man City in the FA Cup final in May, delivering the club’s first ever piece of silverware, with the Eagles also tasting defeat for the first time in 20 games against Everton last weekend.

Palace’s club record 19-game unbeaten run in all competitions is testament to the phenomenal job done by Glasner with very limited resources, all whilst coping with the departures of key stars like Michael Olise and Eberechi Eze since his arrival.

Crystal Palace’s 19-game unbeaten run in full

Palace 0-0 Bournemouth (Premier League)

Arsenal 2-2 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 3-0 Aston Villa (FA Cup)

Palace 1-1 Nottingham Forest (Premier League)

Tottenham 0-2 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 1-0 Man City (FA Cup)

Palace 4-2 Wolves (Premier League)

Liverpool 1-1 Palace (Premier League)

Crystal Palace (3) 2-2 (2) Liverpool (Community Shield)

Chelsea 0-0 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 1-0 Fredrikstad (Conference League)

Palace 1-1 Nottingham Forest (Premier League)

Fredrikstad 0-0 Palace (Conference League)

Aston Villa 0-3 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 0-0 Sunderland (Premier League)

Palace (4) 1-1 (2) Millwall (Carabao Cup)

West Ham 1-2 Palace (Premier League)

Palace 2-1 Liverpool (Premier League)

Dynamo Kyiv 0-2 Palace (Conference League)

However, while the Eagles are currently riding high, and still sit unexpectedly near the Premier League top four, this era is seriously threatened by Glasner’s uncertain future and a potentially imminent exit for star defender Marc Guehi.

Glasner is out of contract at the end of 25/26, and is attracting attention from top-flight rivals like Nottingham Forest amid his excellent work at Selhurst Park.

Guehi, meanwhile, was on the verge of joining Liverpool last summer only for Palace to pull out of the deal in dramatic fashion. The England star, who’s established himself as a Three Lions mainstay and proven Premier League defender since joining the South Londoners in 2021, will have his pick of new clubs once his deal also runs out in 2026.

It is absolutely imperative that Steve Parish shows a statement of intent to back Glasner if he hopes for the Austrian’s extended stay, and January could be vital in this respect.

Crystal Palace in contact with Conor Gallagher and could strike January deal

£150,000-per-week Atlético Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher, who dazzled at Palace on loan from Chelsea in 2021/2022, is apparently a potential winter target.

The England international has been in and out of the Atlético starting eleven under Diego Simeone this season, and journalist Graeme Bailey reports that Palace are in contact with Gallagher’s representatives ahead of a possible January swoop.

The 25-year-old was one of Palace’s star performers of the 21/22 season, bagging eight goals and three assists over 33 Premier League starts, and his contribution stretched far beyond the numbers going forward.

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Gallagher’s loan spell at Palace was widely regarded as a breakthrough period in his career, showcasing his immense talent and versatility in midfield.

Arriving from Chelsea, Gallagher quickly became a key figure, impressing with his energy, work rate, and technical ability. His box-to-box style of play combined relentless pressing with intelligence, making him a versatile asset both defensively and offensively.

The ex-Chelsea man’s performances earned praise from teammates, managers, and pundits alike, with many highlighting maturity beyond his years. Gallagher’s impact was so pronounced that Palace even sought to extend his stay, but while those attempts fell through, he could still make a sensational return.

Manchester United have spent big on strikers over the years, as the club looks to bolster their ranks and consolidate their place as England’s most successful club.

However, their investment over recent seasons has massively hindered their progress in the Premier League, leading to their bottom-half finish in 2024/25.

Rasmus Hojlund has been the Red Devils’ main talisman since Ruben Amorim’s appointment, but he’s massively struggled to provide the goods – netting just four league goals throughout this season.

As a result, he’s been touted with a move to join Inter Milan this summer, less than two years after his £72m switch from Atalanta, ultimately failing to live up to expectations as seen by his measly goal tally.

With the summer window reopening later this week, it presents the manager with the perfect opportunity to strengthen his squad and help them mount a charge up the table next campaign.

United’s hunt for new attackers this summer

Given the lack of goals scored by Hojlund throughout 2024/25, it’s no surprise to see the hierarchy targeting added reinforcements in the final third this summer.

The likes of Benjamin Sesko, Gonçalo Ramos and Liam Delap have all been linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer, but no deals have been completed – with the latter rejecting Amorim’s side in favour of a move to Chelsea.

However, progress has been made on a deal to sign Viktor Gyokeres this summer, with United taking a huge step towards winning the race for his signature this summer, according to one Spanish outlet.

They claim that Jason Wilcox and Co are preparing an offer for the Swedish international, after Arsenal entered the race for the 27-year-old, who’s scored 54 times this season.

It also states that the Portuguese outfit are demanding a fee in the region of €80m (£67m) to part ways with their star man, but doesn’t say how much they’re set to offer for his services.

Why Gyokeres could be United’s answer to Haaland

Erling Haaland is a talisman who has taken the Premier League by storm in recent seasons, helping rivals Manchester City claim the treble back in the 2022/23 season.

The Norwegian forward has just completed his third year in the North West, scoring a total of 85 goals in his 97 league appearances – finishing as the Golden Boot winner in two of the last three campaigns.

Such form in England has made him one of, if not, the most deadly attacking options in Europe, with every side wishing they could rely upon a finisher as lethal as the 24-year-old.

However, the situation could’ve been completely different, with the Red Devils hierarchy rejecting an opportunity to sign the star during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s tenure at the helm.

Gyokeres’ goalscoring record has undoubtedly caught the eye, but his underlying stats are just as impressive, outperforming Haaland in numerous key areas – becoming United’s own version of the Norwegian should he move to Old Trafford.

The Swede, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by one analyst, may have outscored Haaland, but he’s also registered a higher shot-on-target rate – demonstrating his accuracy within attacking areas.

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He’s also managed to complete more of the take-ons that he’s attempted, whilst registering more carries into the final third, having the ability to create changes for himself rather than relying on his teammates.

How Gyokeres compares to Haaland in 2024/25

Statistics (per 90)

Gyokeres

Haaland

Games played

33

31

Goals & assists

46

25

Shot on target accuracy

53%

52%

Shots on target per 90

2.2

1.8

Take-on success

46%

38%

Carries into final third

1.3

0.4

Aerials won

54%

53%

Stats via FBref

Gyokeres’ dominance doesn’t end there, winning more of the aerials he’s entered, subsequently handing Amorim the focal point he’s lacked since taking the reins back in November.

Whilst £67m may seem like a hefty fee for a player who’s never played in the Premier League before, it’s a risk worth taking given his recent goalscoring exploits.

Should he get close to the levels produced by the City star over recent years, it would be one hell of an addition, proving to be a bargain despite the huge fee they would have to fork out for his signature.

Related Amorim's own Carrick: Wilcox preparing Man Utd move for £20m "monster"

Manchester United appear to be making a move for a player who could emulate Michael Carrick’s achievements.

Posts ByEthan Lamb

Manchester City are pushing to sign a £50 million “elegant” player before the transfer window slams shut, according to Sky Sports.

Man City suffer heavy defeat to Arsenal

The Blues suffered their second defeat in their last four games, as they were thrashed 5-1 by Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium. That is City’s seventh defeat in the Premier League this season and now leaves them 15 points behind leaders Liverpool, who have a game in hand, and level on points with Newcastle United, who both could be overtaken by Chelsea if they beat West Ham on Monday evening.

Related Man City plotting hijack to sign "talented" £84m gem ahead of Man Utd

He’s one to watch…

Posts 2 ByTom Cunningham

After the game against Arsenal, Pep Guardiola admitted they are “giving away too many things” and regrets the last 25 minutes of the game. Guardiola told the BBC: “I only regret the last 25 minutes. We forgot to do what we should do, what we had done for 65 to 70 minutes. Of course, it’s a difficult game in this stadium against that team, conceding in the first minutes – it has happened many times this season.

“But, after 10 to 15 minutes, I think we took the game and played really good. We are in it after 1-1, and we had good momentum. We pass to make the transition with Omar [Marmoush], and then comes a deflection and the third goal. I regret the last 15 to 20 minutes, but the rest was a really good game for our side. It’s difficult to understand when you see the result, but this is my feeling.

“It’s happened all season; we are giving away too many things. We are aware this cannot happen, and it happened. But we reacted really well; we played with personality, and we defended so good. Then we were a threat with the ball, but unfortunately after that the second goal happened. Again, many times we had the momentum.

“You have to overcome it. You cannot lose the control when it’s 90 or 95 minutes. You cannot finish in the way we played. We could’ve scored three more goals, but the team has to be stable. It doesn’t matter what happened.”

Man City chiefs now pushing to sign £50m player

In the aftermath of the defeat to Arsenal, the Blues could now be set to add another player to their squad in this transfer window, as according to Sky Sports, Man City are hopeful of agreeing a deal to sign Nico Gonzalez from FC Porto before the deadline.

Sky Sports News’ Ben Ranson states that talks between City and Porto are ongoing, in the hope of agreeing a fee for the midfielder. Gonzalez has a £50 million release clause, but City are not willing to pay that much for the player, and as things stand, he is set to be part of Porto’s game against Rio Ave after being included in the squad.

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The 23-year-old, who has been dubbed a “joy to watch” by Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig, came through Barcelona’s La Masia academy. He went on to play 37 times for Barça before departing firstly on loan to Valencia and then joining Porto on a permanent basis.

Nico Gonzalez’s 24/25 Liga Portugal stats

Apps

17

Starts

17

Goals

5

xG

4.27

Shots per game

1.6

Assists

3

xAG

1.23

Passing accuracy per game

48.2 (90%)

Key passes

0.8

Interceptions per game

0.4

Tackles per game

2.0

Gonzalez has been a key player for the Portuguese side, getting among the goals as well as creating chances for his teammates. The Spanish under-21 international would be seen as a player who can play in the number six role, therefore, helping City fill the void left by Rodri, who remains sidelined with an injury. Gonzalez can also operate further forward in midfield, as well as having the technical ability to play as a right-winger if it is needed.

Newcastle United need a right winger. Jacob Murphy and Miguel Almiron are industrious sorts, but neither offer the kind of prolificness that Eddie Howe covets.

Much was made about the failure to sign Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace, but equally, landing a new winger would have been a real plus for a talented Magpies side that does have its flaws.

Anthony Gordon, typically a left-flanking winger, has played on the right against Tottenham Hotspur and Fulham this season, though he’s clearly at his best on the alternate side.

Indeed, Newcastle have been solid but definitely unspectacular across their three victories thus far, showing togetherness and a high-level understanding of their manager’s plan, but not dominating and wreaking chaos on their opponents.

Last season, despite their issues, Newcastle finished the campaign joint-second with Manchester City for big chances created (97), however, so far this year they are joint-ninth (alongside five other teams) with nine.

The frontline isn’t clicking together right now, with Gordon – who has reportedly signed a new long-term deal – and striker Alexander Isak yet to hit their stride.

How Isak & Gordon are performing in 24/25

Last season, Gordon was crowned Newastle’s Player of the Season after an emphatic campaign that saw him plunder 12 goals and 11 assists across all competitions. Isak was also in fine fettle, bagging 25 goals across 40 appearances and being praised as “world-class” and a “nightmare” by pundit Harry Redknapp.

Anthony Gordon & Alexander Isak (Premier League 23/24)

Stats (*per game)

Anthony Gordon

Alexander Isak

Matches (started)

5 (5)

5 (5)

Goals

1

1

Assists

0

0

Shots (on target)*

1.2 (0.4)

2.2 (0.4)

Pass completion

77%

74%

Key passes*

2.4

0.8

Dribbles (completed)*

1.8

0.6

Ball recoveries*

3.2

1.4

Total duels (won)*

6.2 (57%)

2.0 (29%)

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see from the table above, neither United forward is enjoying the most productive of starts to the season. Their seven goals scored is the lowest of any side in the Premier League’s top seven, and though the campaign is still in its fledgling phase, it’s clear that the attackers need to raise their game.

Isak, for example, is flattering to deceive as his team’s centre-forward, scoring one goal that was served to him on a silver platter against Spurs. He did good work to get in the position though, insofar as running forward is good work.

Were a shiny new right winger to complete Newcastle’s frontline welcomed this summer, there might be more optimism. Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga was the subject of a £50m bid at the end of the transfer window, but the Toon’s interest was rejected.

This talk of a right winger makes us think of the time when Raphinha nearly moved to St. James’ Park – now one of Europe’s most in-form forwards, it’s a shame it didn’t come together.

When Newcastle missed out on Raphinha

Tell you what, Raphinha would be perfect in this Newcastle side. The missing piece. The answer to the problems that sit just beneath the surface.

Newcastle have claimed ten points from 15 to start their season off, which is an improvement on last year: in 2023/24, United had six points at the same stage, with three losses from five.

But there’s an incompleteness about Howe’s squad, and the aforesaid failure to land a winger like Elanga could prove detrimental in the scramble for ascendancy in the Premier League – there are plenty of teams with their eyes on continental competition.

None of that would matter had Raphinha been welcomed to Tyneside in 2019. According to the Shields Gazette, Raphinha was offered to Newcastle in the January transfer window in 2018/19 when he plied his art for Rennes, with the report suggesting that a shrewd fee of £12.5m could have been enough to get the deal done.

It didn’t materialise, and Raphinha – 23 at the time – signed for the Elland Road side in a move worth £17m plus add-ons. The rest was history, with the dynamic forward proving to be a key attacking instrument in the Whites’ Premier League exploits and even being hailed as a “magician” by former teammate Dan James.

The Brazilian’s recent exploits have seen him rise to some lofty heights as far as his metrics are concerned. Indeed, as per FBref, Raphinha ranks among the top 10% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for goals scored, the top 3% for shots taken, the top 4% for assists and the top 19% for shot-creating actions per 90, speaking of a clinical nature that would improve any team across the continent.

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Let’s take a look at the £201k-per-week star’s improvements made in La Liga this season – disclaimer, it’s been pretty significant.

Raphinha: La Liga Stats by Season

Stats (*per game)

2022/23

2023/24

2024/25

Matches (started)

36 (25)

28 (17)

7 (7)

Goals

7

6

5

Assists

7

9

2

Touches*

47.5

34.1

62.3

Shots (on target)*

2.2 (0.7)

2.1 (0.8)

3.7 (1.9)

Pass completion

80%

81%

78%

Key passes*

1.6

1.5

3.1

Dribbles (completed)*

1.3

0.9

1.4

Ball recoveries*

4.3

2.6

4.3

Total duels (won)*

3.5

2.6

3.9

Stats via Sofascore

Five goals and two assists from seven matches is excellent going, and under Hansi Flick’s leadership, the 27-year-old appears to have found a manager who entrusts him with a starring role, placing him in the starting seat for each of his side’s contests so far. Moreover, he captained La Blaugrana during their most recent win against Getafe.

It’s quite clear that he’s comprehensively outperforming both Gordon and Isak at the moment. Not only is the South American outscoring both, he’s been more energetic and combative, more creative and influential.

Newcastle must rue the day that they failed to bring him in – he might just be the dream piece to finish the frontline. He might have made all the difference.

Related Howe must finally ditch Newcastle star earning as much as Gordon

He’s reached the end of the line…

Posts ByAngus Sinclair

Glasgow Rangers have had to rely on their fair share of free transfers to bulk up the squad in recent transfer windows.

Failure to build on the Premiership success of 2020/21 has led to the Light Blues slipping behind Celtic domestically, winning just two cup competitions since.

Qualifying for the Champions League group stages during the 2021/22 campaign could have seen Steven Gerrard enjoy major financial rewards which may have altered the course of the Scottish football hierarchy.

Alas, the Gers failed to reach the land of milk and honey. They did reach the Europa League final in 2022, but the likes of Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Michael Beale splashed money on several expensive flops, leaving Philippe Clement with a mammoth task on his hands this summer.

The club have endured a difficult time in the transfer window since the summer of 2021, yet there have been a few hidden gems that have cost the club nothing in the way of a transfer fee recently.

Rangers' recent free transfer arrivals

Beale spent vast sums of money last summer in order to bring Danilo, Sam Lammers and Cyriel Dessers to Glasgow in the hope that they could fill in the void left by the likes of Ryan Kent and Alfredo Morelos.

Around £15m was wasted last year, as only Dessers has shown real consistency, scoring 22 goals in all competitions.

Notable free transfers Rangers have made since 2019

Player

Previous club

Year joined

Jack Butland

Crystal Palace

2023

Dujon Sterling

Chelsea

2023

Leon Balogun

QPR

2023

John Souttar

Hearts

2022

Tom Lawrence

Derby County

2022

John Lundstram

Sheffield United

2021

Fashion Sakala

KV Oostende

2021

Steven Davis

Southampton

2019

Jermain Defoe

AFC Bournemouth

2019

Via Transfermarkt

Several players will surely have to be moved on by Clement when the summer transfer window opens in order to give him some flexibility in the market to bolster his playing squad ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

If the buyers aren’t there, however, the Belgian may have to focus the majority of his transfer business on players who won’t command a fee.

Despite enduring a turbulent ten-month period in charge of the Light Blues, Beale did work his savvy in the market as the likes of Dujon Sterling and Leon Balogun joined the club for free last summer.

His most important decision was to lure Jack Butland north of the border, however, and the Englishman was certainly the signing of the season.

Jack Butland's arrival at Rangers

After yet another poor domestic campaign, Beale was tasked with rebuilding the side ahead of the 2023/24 season in the hope that Rangers could challenge Celtic for the league title.

Beale oversaw a mass exodus of players departing Ibrox, while nine new arrivals joined the Light Blues.

Allan McGregor was one of the first team stars to leave. Across two separate spells for the club, the Scot made close to 500 competitive appearances, yet his final two seasons saw a few mistakes creep into his game, and it was clear retirement was calling.

Bringing in a ‘keeper who could be relied upon between the posts was crucial for Beale if he wanted to build a solid core to his new-look Rangers, yet a move for Butland was a gamble.

The former Stoke City number one had played only 15 times following the start of the 2021/22 season, with zero appearances coming last term due to a broken finger which kept him out for 16 games.

Following the expiration of his Crystal Palace contract, Beale quickly snapped him up in what was arguably his finest piece of transfer business during his short spell as the manager of the Ibrox side.

While Rangers may have lost the league title to Celtic following a drop-off in form during the run in, they wouldn’t have been in a race if it were not for Butland and his incredible shot-stopping ability.

Jack Butland’s Rangers statistics

Firstly, Butland has played a total of 56 times for the Gers this season, conceding 49 goals while racking up 25 clean sheets in the process.

Narrowing that down to just Premiership matches, the Englishman has played 37 times in the league, keeping 18 clean sheets while conceding 29 goals.

When compared with other ‘keepers in the top flight, Butland has kept the most clean sheets while making the third most runs out throughout the campaign, demonstrating his importance to the Light Blues.

Rangers losing the league isn’t down to the goalkeeper, it is down to the defenders in front of Butland failing to cut out sloppy errors in the most important matches.

With Euro 2024 just around the corner, Butland must surely be catching the eye of Gareth Southgate as he aims to secure a seat on the plane to Germany. Clement certainly thinks he is ready, saying this back in February:

"If people are talking about being in the England squad, that says enough – because England will be one of the favourites to win [Euro 2024].

"It is the decision of Mr Southgate. He knows all the other goalkeepers, I don't watch all these games, so I cannot make comparison, but I can say one thing, Jack is totally ready – every game he is proving that."

Jack Butland’s market value at Rangers

Former Rangers midfielder Derek Ferguson hailed the player as “phenomenal” previously and according to Transfermarkt, his current valuation is €3m (£2.5m), which could continue to rise given his impressive displays of late.

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This value is currently more than another free transfer who has shone for the Ibrox side this season – John Souttar.

The Scot is currently worth around €2.5m (£2.1m) and given how consistent he has been this season, missing just 16 matches in all competitions, his importance to the squad has certainly increased under Clement.

Related Rangers chiefs now believe £25k-a-week star will be at Ibrox next season

Huge news for the Gers.

Posts ByTom Cunningham

Butland’s displays this term could certainly attract attention from the Premier League, as a few clubs could be interested in making a move for the Englishman this summer.

Clement would certainly be able to demand a significant sum of money for the player, but could the Gers replace him ahead of next season?

The 50-year-old coach may face some tough decisions this summer, but if he could add another one or two free transfers into his squad who have some excellent potential to be sold for a profit down the line, they must be secured sooner rather than later.

Junior Firpo continued as Daniel Farke's first-team choice at left-back away at Cardiff City, the ex-Barcelona defender helping himself to another assist in Leeds United's straightforward 3-0 win versus the lacklustre Bluebirds.

Re-energised by more first-team minutes recently – Firpo also picking up two assists against Birmingham City on New Year's Day – Farke can't just rely on his improved number three to be a reliable starter for the rest of the season off this recent upturn in form with Sam Byram also susceptible to picking up a knock as another left-back option.

Therefore, a transfer window priority for Leeds this month could well be strengthening at left-back with this potential incoming even showing shades of former Whites man Barry Douglas when it comes to creative flair and getting fans off their seats.

Leeds' search for a left-back

With Djed Spence returning to Tottenham Hotspur after a brief but turbulent loan switch in West Yorkshire and Luke Ayling moving to Middlesbrough, Leeds are light when it comes to full-back numbers especially on the left-hand side of the pitch.

Related Leeds could sign "brilliant" upgrade on Luke Ayling after Phil Hay reveal

Leeds United could boost their defence significantly with this January signing.

Posts ByKelan Sarson

It's resulted in Leeds being linked with a whole plethora of defensive options so far this month, with Football Scotland now indicating that the second-tier promotion candidates are going after experienced Rangers figure Borna Barisic to strengthen at left-back.

Garnering a reputation for being an assist king at Ibrox – amassing 53 assists next to his name since joining the Glasgow giants back in 2018 – 6 foot 1 Barisic could well be a shrewd and smart buy for Leeds to help the Whites fire in even more goals in crunch clashes to come in the Championship.

Douglas also arrived at Elland Road with a similar glowing reputation for being a creative machine the same year the Croatian defender joined Rangers, history potentially repeating itself.

How Borna Barisic compares to Barry Douglas

Joining Leeds off the back of a sterling individual campaign that saw the Scotsman contribute to 20 goals in one singular season for Wolverhampton Wanderers, it's fair to say Douglas' signing was doused in hype as to what he could pull off in West Yorkshire.

Douglas would register five assists in his first and most impactful season at Leeds, picking up an assist on his debut against Stoke City in a 3-1 win.

This season for Rangers, Barisic is already onto the same total of five in all competitions from 23 games – the Croat's creativity and knack for teeing up teammates expertly showing no signs of slowing down despite now being 31 years of age.

Ex-Rangers assistant manager Gary McAllister has waxed lyrical in the past about Barisic's expertise when it comes to floating in an inch-perfect cross like it's second nature, stating that Barisic had a "beautiful left foot" back in 2021.

Everyone at Leeds will hope signing the 31-year-old is a transfer that proves to be a masterstroke, going against the grain of the current Leeds first team with the likes of Archie Gray waving the flag for youth in the starting eleven at just 17 years of age.

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Yet, with Barisic entering the final few months of his contract up in Scotland, Leeds could land the assist expert for a cut price and bed him in as a reliable defender renowned for his attacking capabilities.

Those at Elland Road will just hope that Barisic sticks around in West Yorkshire if he does join unlike Douglas who uprooted again after just 44 games, Barisic a useful weapon for Farke to deploy to catch teams off-guard and unlock Championship defences with ease if signed.

Aston Villa achieved a successful summer in the transfer window, bolstering the squad in a host of areas to better their chances at improving on last season's highs.

Five new faces have arrived on the scene during the window, with Moussa Diaby, Nicolo Zaniolo, Pau Torres, Youri Tielemans and Clement Lenglet joining Unai Emery on his quest to take Villa to the next level.

Making impressive signings would not have been possible without the Spaniard’s intervention following his arrival at Villa Park in October 2022, where he has since transformed the club in ways beyond in-play performance.

Aston Villa summer signings

Player

Club

Fee

Youri Tielemans

Leicester City

Free

Pau Torres

Villarreal

£33m

Moussa Diaby

Bayer Leverkusen

£51.9m

Nicolo Zaniolo

Galatasaray

Loan

Clement Lenglet

Barcelona

Loan

Figures via Sky Sports.

The Midlands club have been granted a new lease of life thanks to the 51-year-old’s objectives for his side, bringing with him a stellar CV that has ultimately helped to attract some star names to join his project.

Despite bringing in such a calibre of talent, as well as smashing the club's record transfer fee to obtain the £51.9m signature of Diaby, there were some targets that could not be collected by Emery and Monchi this summer.

Last month, one name was rumoured to be of interest to the Villans, as midfielder Tyler Adams was speculated to be on the manager’s and Monchi's radar, in a move that could have prevailed to have a strong outcome for Villa.

Did Aston Villa nearly sign Tyler Adams?

Reported by Football Insider in August, it was claimed that the Midlands side were ‘exploring a potential move’ for the former Leeds United midfielder, who joined a host of players who were hoping to depart Elland Road.

The Whites’ relegation to the Championship called time on a number of players’ futures at the club, with Adams being one of them eager to leave to avoid playing in the second tier.

Luckily for the United States international, a £20m relegation release clause was in place in his contract with the Yorkshire club, making him an affordable asset for interested parties to consider.

Villa looked to be in the race to sign the American, however, Chelsea seemed to get their first, as it was reported that the Blues were closing in on the 24-year-old.

Things took a quick turn, as Mauricio Pochettino’s side pulled the plug on the deal after the midfielder’s medical, with the Daily Mail reporting their concerns over his ongoing hamstring injury.

It didn’t take long for the former RB Leipzig star to find a new club after the west Londoners’ snub, as Bournemouth activated his release clause to secure his signature on a five-year deal.

The American is back in the Premier League, however after making such an impact in his debut campaign at Elland Road, it poses the question of just how much of a strong acquisition he would have been under Emery.

What is Tyler Adams’ market value?

Valued at €38.3m (£32.9m) by Football Transfers, Villa could have sealed a bargain in Adams, whose release clause was a price far lower than the figure reflective of his form.

At just 24, the combative midfielder has experience playing in his home nation in the MLS, as well as the Bundesliga and of course, the Premier League, where he made 24 appearances for Leeds.

Lauded as a “monster” by former defender and fellow countryman Alexi Lalas, the United States ace is highly-regarded back home, captaining his country at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar aged just 23.

With strong leadership ability and a rounded skill set in the engine room, the New York-born gem could have sparkled in Emery’s midfield, considering that the Spaniard recruited in such a position earlier in the window.

Who do Aston Villa have in that position?

Before the summer transfer window officially opened, Villa announced that they had reached an agreement to sign former Leicester City marvel Youri Tielemans, as the central midfielder’s contract expired with the Foxes.

A middle of the park maestro that had just suffered relegation from the Premier League, the Belgian had a similar claim to the club to their later rumoured target in Adams.

Deployed more typically in a slightly more advanced role to that inhabited by the American, Tielemans signed to seek relief from relegation, however, he hasn’t had a chance to show his worth yet under Emery.

Speaking in a recent press conference, relayed by Football 365, the former Anderlecht star admitted that his situation at Villa Park is “not pleasant”, as he still waits to earn his first Premier League start for the claret and blues.

The player believes the reason behind his absence to be down to the manager’s preference to play two in midfield, with enforcers Douglas Luiz and Boubacar Kamara fitting the demographic of a combative presence better.

Should Aston Villa have signed Tyler Adams?

There were rumours in the summer that Luiz, Villa’s favoured midfielder, was attracting interest from the capital, with The Sun reporting that both Arsenal and Tottenham were eyeing his movements.

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In the instance that the Brazilian was to leave Villa Park one day in the future, Tielemans would get a clearer path to being a crucial member of the midfield, which poses the question as to whether Adams would have been a better fit from the off.

Last season, the former Leeds dominator ranked in the top 3% of midfielders in the Premier League with reference to his rate of tackles per 90, in which he averaged a stellar 3.72 per 90, via FBref.

Tielemans, while eye-catching from a technical point of view is not so good at that part of the game, averaging below Adams but still impressively with 2.53 tackles per 90 in the same campaign with Leicester. However, his numbers fell glaringly short of those of Adams, telling of what Emery could have got in the American considering the role he wants his midfield duo to undertake.

Instead, the Belgian is heralded for his passing ability, but the Bournemouth man actually topped the Villa outsider in terms of his average pass completion rate per 90, recording 82.5% to his 80.3%.

There’s no denying the quality that Tielemans has in his locker, but with him missing out on minutes due to Emery’s preference to field the two holding midfielders, the Spaniard could have hired the player that fits his wishes better in Adams.

Adding in the fact that sides interested in Luiz may come knocking for the Brazilian again in the winter and beyond, the former Arsenal boss could have had a reassuring defensive presence in the American.

There are of course many factors to the reported interest, with the fact remaining that the Villans have got a seasoned midfielder in Tielemans despite missing out on Adams, however only time will tell if Emery lives to regret not pushing for the 24-year-old.

Arsenal are among the sides "leading the charge" to sign Brighton and Ecuador star Moises Caicedo this summer, according to reports.

Who could Arsenal sign this summer?

After failing to secure their first Premier League title in nearly 20 years, it's set to be a pivotal summer for Mikel Arteta and co, with the domestic transfer window now officially open for business.

Strengthening in centre-midfield is believed to be a major priority for the north Londoners, who have set their sights on West Ham star Declan Rice and are reported to be edging closer to a deal.

The England international isn't the only player who Arsenal could sign for the position, though, as reports suggest they retain a serious interest in Man City captain Ilkay Gundogan and Caicedo regardless.

The Gunners are also believed to be eyeing additions at full-back, with City's Joao Cancelo, Galtasary's Sacha Boey and Real Valladolid starlet Ivan Fresneda also heavily linked in recent weeks.

Going back to central midfield and Caicedo, there has been an update on their pursuit courtesy of Football Insider, who claim Arsenal are among the major favourites for his signing.

Indeed, despite interest from Liverpool and Man United, it is believed that Arsenal and Chelsea are "leading the charge" for Brighton's pivotal midfield man.

Arteta's side may have to act quickly, though, with the Blues making contact. In terms of asking price, Brighton are apparently demanding around £70 million plus a further £10m in add-ons to let him go this window.

Arsenal are long-term admirers of Caicedo, who clocked up 43 appearances across all competitions for the Seagulls last season.

Who is Moises Caicedo?

The 21-year-old has been sensational for Brighton at club level, averaging more tackles and interceptions per 90 than any player in their squad domestically over 2022/2023 (WhoScored).

Caicedo has also shone for Ecuador internationally, starting all three of their World Cup games in Qatar last year and even getting on the scoresheet in what was a pinnacle moment for him (WhoScored).

Journalist Roberto Rojas, writing on Twitter, called the defensive midfield enforcer a "star" for his nation with Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi holding him in equally high esteem.

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"Caicedo for me could become one of the best midfielders in the Premier League and in Europe," said De Zerbi last October.

"Caicedo is a top player with and without the ball.

“There are many players who are very good with the ball but without it in defensive spaces are not so good. With Caicedo, I don’t see anything not at the top level."

Presenter Mark Goldbridge has claimed that Manchester United loanee Marcel Sabitzer needs to do more to earn a permanent move to the club.

How has Sabitzer played for Man United?

The Austrian arrived on loan on deadline day in January following a long-term injury to Christian Eriksen, and has had a quiet start to life at Old Trafford.

He is yet to score or assist in his three Premier League starts, and appeared off the bench as United won the Carabao Cup, and it remains to be seen whether the club will keep him beyond his initial loan from Bayern Munich.

Speaking on The United Stand following United’s FA Cup victory over West Ham, Goldbridge claimed that Sabitzer has to start showing more if United are to make his move permanent.

“It’s interesting with Sabitzer so because people keep saying ‘I’d give him a contract in the summer.’ I want to get to the point where we give him a contract in the summer, but right here right now, we’re not going to give a contract to somebody that’s behind Fred, behind Casemiro and will be behind Eriksen, so he’s therefore fourth choice at best. So we’ve got to get more out of him,” he stated.

“It’s early days, but we’ve got to get more out of him, otherwise it won’t be a permanent move whether he wants it or not. So we’re not at that point for me yet. I’d like him to get there. I like the player. He’s got to settle and he’s got to grab a first-team slot.”

Should United keep Sabitzer?

During his performance yesterday he lost five duels and lost possession eight times. However, he did manage two key passes, a passing accuracy percentage of 79, two tackles and one interception (Sofascore).

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Erik ten Hag looks set to splash the cash on a new striker in the summer, with Victor Osimhen and Harry Kane linked, and given that the midfield also needs reinforcing, Sabitzer could be an easy addition for depth.

At 28, he may not be a long-term option in the midfield even if he becomes a starter, and whilst it may be an easy deal to do, there may be younger or better alternatives that United could sign instead of Sabitzer.

West Ham United’s form in the Premier League has plummeted like a rock down a mountain this season, a stark difference to the excellent form of the past two seasons that clinched European qualification on both occasions. 

What’s the word?

With Irons boss David Moyes looking to rectify the woes that have recently plagued his team, SC Freiburg’s dynamic forward Roland Sallai has been distinguished as an avenue to bolster the efforts over the latter course of the campaign. 

This is according to Hungarian journalist Bence Bocsak, who recently took to Twitter to confirm the growing attention on the player, and the prospects of a transfer.

He tweeted:

“Many clubs are interested in Roland Sallai (25) in January. He switched agencies recently and is open to a move.

“Lazio, Wolverhampton, West Ham, Sevilla and Fiorentina are all possible destinations. He has 4 G/As in his last 4 caps. Freiburg want €20m.”

With stiff competition for his services, Moyes would be prudent to act with conviction and swiftly, signing the player for roughly £17.6m after convincing him that his future is best suited with the ambitious east London outfit.

Dybala 2.0

Sallai has scored just one goal this season, although he has only made five starts due to an injury that severely hampered his progress, ruling him out for 13 competitive matches.

His international record, however, is exemplary; scoring nine goals and serving five assists from 38 appearances for Hungary, Sallai has cemented his integral offensive role for his nation, notably starring in the momentous 4-0 demolition of England at Wembley earlier this year.

In that match, as per Sofascore, the 25-year-old played his part to devastating effect, scoring an emphatic brace and proving to be a consistent threat with his 30 touches and 78% pass success rate.

His defensive statistics also caught the eye, with his three tackles, two interceptions and one clearance playing a vital part in rebuffing the advances of England on a chastening night on home soil. 

Such dogged attributes would be a welcome bonus to the Hammers, who could certainly utilise a player boasting offensive and defensive calibre in the fight to return to prominence in the division.

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The Daily Mail once stated that reports had left the Hungarian ace likened to A.S.a Roma’s Paulo Dybala, who has been a perennial star within the Serie A ranks for years, winning a wealth of major honours with Juventus before his summer switch this year, and scoring 103 goals and 53 assists in the league from 280 appearances since his debut with Palermo.

There will undoubtedly be reservations over a player that has yet to open his account in the German Bundesliga this term, but there is a layer of natural talent to Sallai’s game that could prove to be a valuable option at Moyes’ disposal.

A player who has not quite found his feet this term, West Ham must not be deterred, as evidenced by Bocsak’s tweet, there is plenty of intrigue from ambitious outfits for his signature; Sallai would bring a versatile approach and a robust presence to the heart of the team, flourishing across a number of roles and always on the search to instigate forward plays.