All posts by z3u9t.icu

Manchester United are closing in on their first signing of the upcoming summer transfer window, as Matheus Cunha is set to join on a permanent deal.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the Brazil international is poised to arrive at Old Trafford for a fee of £62.5m to bolster Ruben Amorim’s options at the top end of the pitch.

Cunha is set to arrive as a proven Premier League star after his impressive performances for the Old Gold in the 2024/25 campaign, with a return of 15 goals and 13 ‘big chances’ created in the top-flight to steer them clear of relegation trouble.

The former Atletico Madrid star has shown that he can score goals at an impressive rate, whilst also creating high-quality chances for his teammates, and could hit the ground running in Manchester next term.

He also played as one of two number tens behind a central striker for Wolves, which means that he will be a perfect fit for Amorim’s attacking set-up.

United are also in the market for a new centre-forward to play ahead of Cunha, but it does not look like there is going to be a reunion between Amorim and Viktor Gyokeres.

The latest on Viktor Gyokeres to Man Utd

According to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg, a deal for the Sweden international is ‘almost off the table’ for Manchester United in the upcoming summer transfer window.

The journalist claims that the former Coventry City star is not eyeing up a move to Old Trafford, but it is unclear if that has anything to do with the fact that the Red Devils will not be playing European football next season.

Amorim signed Gyokeres for Sporting in the summer of 2023, from the Sky Blues, and the impressive marksman scored 66 goals in 68 appearances in all competitions under the Portuguese head coach.

The news that the 26-year-old superstar is looking unlikely to return to England to sign for United this summer may come as a blow to supporters who may have been excited by the prospect.

Appearances

33

33

xG

22.71

30.95

Goals

29

39

Minutes per goal

101

72

Conversion rate

25%

29%

Big chances created

11

11

Assists

10

7

As you can see in the table above, Gyokeres has been incredibly prolific during his time in Portugal, mostly under Amorim, with 68 goals in 66 league matches for Sporting.

However, the Manchester United head coach could find his next version of the striker if the latest update on their pursuit of a Premier League forward pans out.

Man Utd expected to sign English striker

According to The Telegraph, Manchester United are ‘widely expected’ to win the race to sign Ipswich Town centre-forward Liam Delap in the summer transfer window, and he could arrive as their second signing after Cunha.

The report claims that the Red Devils are likely to sign the England U21 international from the Tractor Boys after they were relegated from the Premier League, one year on from his move to Suffolk from Manchester City.

Transfer Focus

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

It reveals that Nottingham Forest are also interested in signing the former Hull City loanee ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, but it is expected that the young marksman will opt for a move to Old Trafford instead.

Fabrizio Romano revealed earlier this month that the striker has a release clause in his Ipswich Town contract that will allow clubs to sign him for just £30m this summer, which could make him a bargain addition for United.

If Delap, as expected, ends up joining Manchester United before the end of the summer transfer window, Amorim could mould him into his new version of Gyokeres.

Why Liam Delap could be the next Viktor Gyokeres

The obvious goalscoring quality aside, one of the Swedish star’s best attributes is his physicality in the number nine position, with his running power and his raw strength to hold off opposition players.

Manager Slaven Bilic once hailed his physical qualities, saying: “He (Gyokeres) is a very strong striker, a player who can not only keep and hold the ball but he can hurt you. He can run into the channels and he’s strong.”

Delap, dubbed a “monster” by teammate Alex Palmer, is cut from the same cloth as Gyokeres as a physical, hard-working, centre-forward who does not give opposition defenders an easy afternoon.

Pundit Paul Robinson praised his physicality earlier this season, saying: “He (Delap) is a pest. He is a nuisance. He is always there on the shoulders of the centre-backs. He is making runs in the channels. He is always available. When it looks like he isn’t going to win the ball, he puts his body in between the player and the ball, somehow managing to win a free-kick or something for his team.”

The clip above illustrates the kind of raw power and pace Delap can provide in the number nine role for Manchester United, but the next step for him is to prove that he can score enough goals to fire a team to a title.

He has shown promise in that respect after an excellent year with the Tractor Boys, in spite of their relegation back down to the Championship.

Appearances

37

32

xG

9.34

5.24

Goals

12

4

Conversion rate

18%

13%

Big chances created

3

4

Assists

2

0

As you can see in the table above, the England U21 international would already come in as a big upgrade on Hojlund as a goalscorer at Premier League level, after an impressive haul of 12 goals in his debut season in the top-flight.

Manchester United are set to sign an incredibly gifted creative talent in Cunha, who could provide Delap with the chances he needs to improve his output from 12 to closer to the likes of Alexander Isak and Erling Haaland, if he can remain consistent as an effective finisher.

Man Utd's "outrageously good" flop has been better than McTominay in 24/25

INEOS must terribly regret letting this player leave Old Trafford.

ByAngus Sinclair May 25, 2025

That could, then, complete his transformation into becoming an elite Premier League centre-forward and Amorim’s next Gyokeres, as a clinical and physical centre-forward with plenty of time ahead of him to develop even further.

Continuing their search for a new manager, the 49ers and Rangers have now reportedly added another name to their shortlist alongside Steven Gerrard and Davide Ancelotti.

Rangers' manager shortlist shrinking

The Gers have been considering their options ever since deciding to part ways with Philippe Clement and even handed Barry Ferguson the interim role to buy themselves some time for the rest of the season. With the season now over, however, those at Ibrox have a decision to make between a number of reported candidates.

One name that can at least be ruled out is Ferguson. Although the interim boss showed some promise in European action, his Ibrox record was always unlikely to be enough for the permanent job.

After Hagi & Balogun: 49ers must ruthlessly axe "struggling" Rangers flop

Rangers must move on from this flop after they released Ianis Hagi and Leon Balogun.

ByDan Emery May 22, 2025

Nonetheless, he admitted the honour of taking charge if only for a short spell, saying in a recent statement: “I’ve already lived the dream as a player and as captain of Rangers, and to do so as head coach in these last three months has been an enormous honour.

“There have been some ups and downs, but I have loved this experience and given it my all throughout. The backing I have received has been phenomenal. I said, no matter how this period panned out, I would always remain a committed supporter of the club, and I look forward to remaining a Rangers ambassador. I wish whomever becomes the new manager every success in the job.”

Narrowing Rangers’ shortlist down to just a few names, the Gers must get their next decision right. According to reports, it’s Steven Gerrard who is the favourite to become the next Rangers manager and arrive for his second stint in charge.

The former Aston Villa manager recently left Saudi Arabia after a difficult spell in charge of Al Ettifaq, but could be given an instant opportunity to get back to familiarities at Ibrox. Meanwhile, Davide Ancelotti – son of Carlo Ancelotti – has also been heavily linked with what would be his first managerial job away from his father.

There’s every chance that it could be neither of those options, however, with another name now reportedly added to the shortlist.

Rangers add Gattuso to list of candidates

According to Graeme Bailey for The Boot Room, Rangers have now also identified Gennaro Gattuso as a managerial option alongside Gerrard and Ancelotti. The Italian is well known around Ibrox thanks to his spell at the club from 1997 to 1998 and could now make his return away from the pitch and in the dugout at the home of the Scottish giants.

Whilst Gattuso’s playing career was undeniably iconic – Gerrard himself admitted the Italian’s style “really angered” him in their 2005 Champions League final meeting – his managerial career hasn’t quite hit the same heights.

Often implementing a 4-2-3-1 system, the longest that the Italian has lasted at a club is two years, with spells at Napoli, Valencia and AC Milan all ending fairly unsuccessfully. Now at Hajduk Split until at least 2026, Rangers would also face the problem of getting Gattuso out of his current role.

On their list nonetheless, Gattuso could be an interesting name to watch if neither Gerrard nor Ancelotti take the Rangers job in the coming months.

Chelsea have held talks with the representatives of a highly-rated forward, and he’s set to decide whether he’ll join them or another suitor pretty soon.

Chelsea scour market for new attackers ahead of Club World Cup

A special edition transfer window, open from June 1 to June 10, hands Blues boss Enzo Maresca an opportunity to recommend squad upgrades to the Stamford Bridge hierarchy before their Club World Cup campaign kicks off.

Once-£137m forward holds talks over signing for Chelsea from elite club

His representatives have been in touch with the west Londoners.

1 ByEmilio Galantini May 13, 2025

While the full focus remains on Chelsea’s mission to qualify for the Champions League next season, amidst a hotly-contested top five race, the CWC is also seen as fairly crucial when factoring in the potential prize money on offer.

2. Arsenal

68

3. Newcastle United

66

4. Man City

65

5. Chelsea

63

6. Aston Villa

63

7. Nottingham Forest

62

Winners of this year’s tournament could take home up to £97 million, according to official figures, and BlueCo will be fully aware of this as they seek to reinvest a chunk of this possible windfall into the squad whilst erring on the cautionary side of PSR.

They’ll want to give themselves the best chance of performing well at the CWC, leading to some reports that Chelsea wish to seal deals for key targets like Dean Huijsen “as soon as possible”.

As well as the Spaniard, Chelsea are said to have their eyes on his international teammate – Athletic Bilbao starlet Nico Williams.

The £170,000-per-week forward’s £49 million release clause has garnered attention from Europe’s elite, following an exceptional last two seasons at Bilbao, and Chelsea are believed to be among the contenders for Williams’ signature as they pursue new wide options.

Nico Williams set for Chelsea transfer decision after talks

According to The Boot Room and journalist Graeme Bailey, Chelsea are joined by Arsenal, Liverpool, Man City and Newcastle United as part of the five teams to have held talks with the 22-year-old’s camp recently.

The competition for his signature is ferocious, and Williams remains unsure over his next destination, despite those close to him insisting that a switch to England is on the cards.

Bailey reports that Williams is set to make a decision over potentially joining Chelsea, or any other interested club, once Bilbao’s final position in the table is confirmed – which will be pretty soon considering there are just three La Liga games remaining of the 24/25 season.

Bilbao are involved in a tight race for Champions League qualification themselves, and Williams is fully focused on that before deciding his next destination. It is worth noting that, if Bilbao do find themselves in the draw next year, there is a “real chance” he could even remain in Spain.

That would be horrible news for Chelsea, especially considering what he’d give Maresca in terms of sheer quality.

“Williams, for me, is exceptional,” said Wayne Rooney about Williams.

“He reminds me of Cristiano Ronaldo when Cristiano was young. He’s a big lad, he’ll take the ball and sometimes tries too much but usually makes the right decisions.”

Aston Villa chiefs are ready to back Unai Emery in the summer transfer window, should the manager make it clear he wants to sign an “incredible” player, according to a report.

Villa's summer transfer plans taking shape

We are now at the business end of the season, and things aren’t going exactly to plan for Villa, having been knocked out of the FA Cup by Crystal Palace at the weekend, while the defeat against Manchester City has weakened their top-five aspirations.

As such, if Emery’s side are to take the next step and compete for major honours next season, the manager may feel he has to strengthen in the summer window, and targets have been identified in a number of key areas.

Despite having Emiliano Martinez on the books, the Villans are now ready to pay the £21m release clause for Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia, while they have also held talks over a move for Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Matheus Cunha.

"Unbelievable" £50k-a-week Aston Villa player reaches agreement to leave

He has been a popular figure at Villa Park.

ByHenry Jackson Apr 25, 2025

Last week, it was also revealed that internal discussions had been held over Manchester City’s Kevin De Bruyne, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer, and there has now been a new update on Aston Villa’s pursuit.

According to a report from Football Insider, Villa are chiefs are now ready to back Emery, should the manager make it clear he wants to sign De Bruyne this summer, with the Belgian keen to continue playing at the highest level.

The attacking midfielder is on a monster £400k-a-week salary, but the board are ambitious, and they are willing to battle it out with clubs from Saudi Arabia and the MLS if Emery gives the green light.

Interested clubs are set to table lucrative contract offers, so while the 33-year-old is available on a free transfer, the Villans will have to be willing to spend big on wages to win the race.

De Bruyne could be "best player of his generation"

The Belgium international has started to play more of a sporadic role, recently being benched for his side’s 2-0 triumph against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup semi-final, but he is undoubtedly among the best players in Premier League history.

The “incredible” midfielder has played a major role in Man City’s golden era, picking up 107 goals and 177 assists in 417 appearances for the club, which perhaps makes it a little surprising they are willing to let him leave on a free transfer this summer.

That said, De Bruyne is set to turn 34 in June, and the fact he is receiving reduced game time suggests his best days could be behind him, so it would be a risk for Villa to snap him up on a big contract.

Everton lost their second game on the bounce in the Premier League, falling short against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge with a 1-0 loss. David Moyes’ side held 45% possession, creating two ‘big chances’ in the match, but only generating 0.52 xG and taking six shots in total.

Meanwhile, Chelsea held 55% possession, having more control of the game, taking 10 shots and generating 0.98 xG. Whilst it wasn’t a blockbuster game, the Blues had enough control to see the game out, making it back-to-back losses for the Toffees without scoring a goal.

Everton have only scored 34 times this season in 34 games, so we already know they aren’t the most lethal attacking team, but they have been one of the tighter defensive sides this season, conceding 41 goals and holding plenty of teams to frustrating draws, having 14 draws this season. But they were unable to keep a clean sheet today against Chelsea, despite Jordan Pickford’s best efforts.

How Pickford kept Everton in it

The Everton and England shot-stopper has already made 36 appearances this season, conceding 43 goals in all competitions and keeping 11 clean sheets in his 3,240 minutes played. The 31-year-old was unable to add to his clean sheets, despite making some big saves to keep Chelsea out.

Pickford made six saves in the game, preventing a total of 0.66 xG, with four saves coming from inside the box. The only goal of the game came from Nicolas Jackson in the 27th minute, catching Pickford off guard with a shot from a turnover, finding the bottom corner from outside the box.

If it wasn’t for Pickford, Chelsea could have had a few more, but Everton didn’t really look like scoring themselves, apart from the odd snapshot, which isn’t a new story this season for the Toffees.

Why Everton should drop Beto

Beto has made 31 appearances for Everton this campaign, netting 10 goals in all competitions, six of which came in the Premier League in his 1,583 minutes played. All six of his league goals have come under Moyes since his arrival, but he now finds himself eight league games without a goal after not scoring against Chelsea.

Minutes

64

Touches

23

Accurate Passes

4/9

Shots

1

Dribble Attempts

0/1

Ground Duels Won

2/7

Aerial Duels Won

1/3

Possession Lost

12

Error leading to goal

1

The 27-year-old only managed 23 touches in the game, fewer than Pickford, who managed more than double Beto’s touches (54). He only made four of his nine passes, having a 44% pass accuracy in the match, and lost possession 12 times.

This saw Beto given a 1/10 match rating by Football Insider, labeling his afternoon as ‘horrendous’. Whilst the target man was often feeding off scraps at Stamford Bridge, his inability to make it stick up front and get bodies around him as an outlet saw Beto hooked after 64 minutes.

Therefore, Moyes should drop the Portuguese centre-forward from the starting line-up for the next match, because he has not done enough to keep his shirt.

Everton are being heavily linked with strikers for this summer, with both Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Armando Broja not expected to be at the club next season. This could see Beto fighting it out next season for a starting spot, with far more competition in his position than there currently is.

Manchester City took a gigantic step towards Champions League qualification on Tuesday night.

The Sky Blues beat top five rivals Aston Villa 2-1 at the Etihad, with Bernardo Silva breaking the deadlock early, only for Marcus Rashford to equalise from the penalty spot soon after.

Nevertheless, just as the game seemed set to fizzle out to a stalemate, Jérémy Doku’s trivela cross across the box found Matheus Nunes at the back post, and he poked home a dramatic stoppage-time winner.

This propelled Pep Guardiola’s team up to third, ahead of Sunday’s huge FA Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest, seeking to reach a third consecutive final.

One Man City star in particular impressed on Tuesday night, suggesting he could stake a claim to be first choice next season.

Manchester City planning for next season

As Kevin De Bruyne continues to wave farewell to Manchester City, he really put on a show on Tuesday night, creating six chances, the 60th time the Belgian has registered five or more chances created in a Premier League match, the most by any player since Opta records began.

However, De Bruyne is not the future of this side, having announced he will be leaving at the end of the season, and, after a difficult campaign, Guardiola is surely already making plans for the summer.

Full-back has been a problem position for Man City all throughout this season, following Kyle Walker’s sudden exit in January, while numerous players have been deployed at left-back.

Thus, as noted by Simon Bajkowski of the Manchester Evening News, the Citizens have a ‘longstanding interest’ in Juventus’ Andrea Cambiaso, expecting a bid to be made this summer, with Tuttosport reporting that la Vecchia Signora value the player at around €80m (£68.5m).

However, could the emergence of one star save the Sky Blues a lot of money, as he continues to impress at right-back?

Manchester City's long-term right-back

Matheus Nunes’ last-gasp winner against Villa capped off an impressive night from the Portuguese international, as the table below outlines.

Minutes played

90

=1st

Accurate passes

88%

6th

Dribble success %

100%

=1st

Ground duels contested

7

=4th

Tackles

2

=1st

Defensive actions

3

=6th

Sofascore rating

7.3

=3rd

Nunes has been deployed all over the pitch this season by Guardiola, central midfield and left-wing among other positions, but has found a home at right-back, starting ten of the last 14 Premier League matches in that spot.

In his player rating piece for the Manchester Evening News, Simon Bajkowski gave Nunes a 7/10, noting that he made a ‘needless error’ for Villa’s equaliser, reflecting the fact he is still learning how to be a right-back.

Nevertheless, Guardiola has previously stated that Nunes “is one of the best players in the world today”, with Loay Mamdouh of Breaking the Lines impressed by his ‘decision-making’ as well as his ‘technical and physical attributes’.

Back in January, Graham Ruthven of Forbes asserted that Nunes ‘doesn’t have the defensive instincts of a natural full-back’, but this is offset by the fact he offers ‘plenty in possession’, with the Portuguese international having improved since then, so let’s assess how he compares to Cambiaso.

Appearances

35

37

Minutes

2,320

2,532

Goals

4

2

Assists

9

3

Progressive carries

87

92

Take-on Success %

53.6%

62.5%

Pass completion %

87.5%

89.3%

Chances created

30

33

Duels Contested

219

210

Aerial Duel Success %

44.8%

37.5%

Ground Duel Success %

45.6%

53.2%

Tackles

46

47

Clearances

29

20

Interceptions

19

16

Ball Recoveries

86

134

Touches per 90

62.71

63.16

As the table outlines, Nunes and Cambiaso’s statistics this season are remarkably similar, as noted by FBref.

In a near-identical number of minutes, the duo are extremely comparable when it comes to the vast majority of statistics included, with the Man City man coming out on top in terms of goals and assists, as well as duels contested, aerial duals, clearances and interceptions.

Thus, rather than spending upwards of £65m to recruit Cambiaso this summer, Guardiola should show faith in Nunes, entrusting him to be Man City’s right-back going forward.

Pep must axe 5/10 Man City dud who just proved why they need to sign Wirtz

The Man City player struggled against Aston Villa on Tuesday night

1 ByJoe Nuttall Apr 23, 2025

As concerns over Alexander Isak’s future continue to rumble on, Newcastle United are reportedly poised to join the race in pursuit of signing a forward who has matched their star man for goals this season.

Newcastle braced to stand strong in Isak saga

As much as they’ll be desperate to avoid it, the Isak rumours aren’t going away anytime soon. Instead, Newcastle are likely to face a summer-long saga which will end one of two ways. The Swedish star is one of the most wanted strikers in European football and with Liverpool and Arsenal reportedly on his list of suitors, there is no doubt that he’ll have a decision to make in the coming months.

That said, his price tag certainly reflects the amount of interest in his signature. Reportedly pricing their star man at as much as £160m this summer, Newcastle are keen to at least get bang for their buck if Isak departs or preferably simply scare away the suitors.

As good as Murphy: Newcastle star just proved he's as undroppable as Isak

The Newcastle United star showed why he is as undroppable as Alexander Isak.

ByDan Emery Apr 8, 2025

When asked about his future and a potential new deal at St James’ Park, Isak told reporters in the build-up to Newcasle’s Carabao Cup final success: “That will probably be a talking point once the season finishes, but we will really see because no talks have been held yet.

“Really, about my future, it is not really something I think about. During a season I just focus on the job and it’s probably the worst time to think about anything else. All of our focus is just on Sunday, doing good and hopefully bringing the trophy back to Newcastle.“

Until he puts pen to paper on a new deal, then the anxiety around Isak’s Newcastle future is likely to remain in Tyneside. It does at least look like the club are preparing for the worst, however, having identified a potential replacement who’s arguably as good as the former Real Sociedad man.

Newcastle poised to battle for Vangelis Pavlidis

According to reports in Portugal, as relayed by Sports Witness, Newcastle are now poised to battle Chelsea to sign Vangelis Pavlidis from Benfica this summer, who has a release clause worth as much as €100m (£87m).

The forward has stepped into Darwin Nunez’s role ever since he left Benfica for Liverpool in 2022 and has exceeded the struggling Anfield star ever since. Now, he may have done enough to earn himself a Premier League move of his own, especially if Isak calls it quits at Newcastle this summer.

Appearances

46

35

Goals

24

24

Assists

10

5

Involved in more goals than the 29 that Isak has managed, Pavlidis has also matched the Swede’s total of strikes in all competitions and looks like a player destined for great things this summer.

Dubbed “decisive” by analyst Data Foot on X, the 26-year-old is at the peak of his powers and could yet become Benfica’s most successful recent export by doing what Nunez has failed to do in the Premier League.

Newcastle, meanwhile, could splash the cash to welcome a potential replacement for Isak should he depart this summer.

As new sporting director Hugo Viana looks to make his mark, Manchester City are now reportedly battling Chelsea to sign a 6 foot 8 goalkeeper who could replace Ederson this summer.

Man City racing to sign Ederson replacement

It’s set to be a summer of change at Manchester City as the Citizens look to make their way back to the top of English football following a disastrous campaign. As things stand, Pep Guardiola’s side remain on course to take the new Champions League place in fifth, but Erling Haaland’s injury is more than likely to throw a spanner in the works for the remainder of the season.

Following yet more injury news, those at the Etihad will simply be desperate to see their campaign come to an end before turning their attention towards a much-needed overhaul.

It’s then that Ederson could be replaced, with just over a year left on his current deal and reports suggesting that he could be among those shown the door this summer. If that is to be the case, then Viana could instantly welcome a fresh option between the sticks.

Man City now willing to grant Pep request to go for £190k-p/w Arsenal star

This would be among the moves of the summer…

ByTom Cunningham Apr 1, 2025

According to Calciomercato, Manchester City are now battling to sign Vanja Milinkovic-Savic ahead of Chelsea this summer. The Torino man reportedly has a release clause worth just €20m (£17m) and a fan in City sporting director Viana, who could welcome the first signing of a new era by securing the 28-year-old’s signature.

Standing at a staggering 6’8, Milinkovic-Savic could replace Ederson and hand City one of the most imposing goalkeepers in the Premier League.

"Unbeatable" Milinkovic-Savic is better shot-stopper than Ederson

Whilst there may be some that are concerned over Milinkovic-Savic’s age, the Serbian international is at the peak of his powers at 28 years old and could yet follow the familiar role of goalkeepers maintaining their place at the top well into their 30s. If he does do exactly that then City would be wise to secure their deal as soon as this summer.

Clean Sheets

9

5

Save Percentage

77.5%

69.6%

Saves

104

47

Pass Completion

66.9%

87%

A level above Ederson in the shot-stopping department, Milinkovic-Savic certainly has the foundations to become a No.1 around Europe’s top sides, albeit whilst needing to work on his ball-playing ability.

Described as “unbeatable” by Opta Paolo after saving his fourth penalty of the season in February, the 28-year-old will be one to watch this summer if he decides to leave Torino.

With Chelsea also reportedly interested, Manchester City will hope to get one over on their Premier League rivals by swooping in and landing their own goalkeeping upgrade, replacing Ederson by doing so.

Leeds United are now plotting a January transfer swoop for an “outstanding” striker, who just scored in the Champions League this week.

Leeds eyeing new striker amid Dominic Calvert-Lewin's struggles

On paper, it was a savvy move to bring in Dominic Calvert-Lewin on a free transfer, given that the former Everton man has plenty of experience in the Premier League, but he is yet to pull up any trees since completing a move to Elland Road.

The centre-forward has scored just one goal in 11 matches in all competitions, failing to find the back of the net in his last seven outings, and Lukas Nmecha has recently emerged as the first-choice striker, scoring the opening goal in the 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa last time out.

With Daniel Farke clearly doubtful that Joel Piroe is capable of replicating his form from last season, having predominantly limited the Dutchman to appearances as a substitute, the manager may need to bring in a new striker in the January transfer window, and a new target has been identified.

That is according to a report from TEAMtalk, which states Leeds are now plotting a January bid for Union Saint-Gilloise striker Promise David, who could be available for a relatively low fee, with the Belgian club willing to listen to offers of around £17.5m.

At the moment, David is viewed as a back-up option if the Whites are unable to bring in their other targets, with AZ Alkmaar’s Troy Parrott and Real Madrid’s Gonzalo Garcia also of interest, and Farke is personally keen on bringing in the Spaniard.

There may also be fierce competition for the Union Saint-Gilloise star’s signature, with West Ham United believed to be leading the race, while Wolverhampton Wanderers are said to be plotting a rival bid.

"Outstanding" David impressing in the Champions League

Lauded as “outstanding” by scout Jacek Kulig courtesy of his performances in the 2024-25 campaign, the striker has gone on to make a name for himself in the Champions League this season, scoring two goals in Europe’s elite competition.

Most recently, the 24-year-old scored the only goal of the game as his side prevailed as 1-0 winners away at Galatasaray, finding the back of the net for the ninth time this season across all competitions.

Promise David’s goalscoring record

Appearances

Goals

Jupiler Pro League

13

6

Champions League

5

2

Croky Cup

1

1

As such, the Canadian clearly has the quality to help fire Leeds to safety, and £17.5m could be a bargain fee for a striker who has proven that he can deliver in the Champions League.

Transfer twist at Leeds with 49ers ready to back Farke with £20m forward

The Whites are ready to produce a show of strength by backing Daniel Farke in the transfer market.

BySean Markus Clifford Nov 24, 2025

That said, it remains to be seen whether David would be interested in a move to Elland Road, given that Leeds are now looking like real relegation contenders, having lost five of their last six matches in the Premier League.

Having made the decision to sack Alan Sheehan after just six months in charge earlier this week, Swansea City have now reportedly opened talks with Kim Hellberg.

The South Wales outfit felt a change was needed following a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Ipswich Town on Saturday which left them as low as 18th in the Championship. Sheehan lasted just six months at the club and ended his tenure with 17 wins in 39 games.

Ultimately, despite a positive start to life at Swansea last season, it was Sheehan’s recent four-game losing run which acted as the nail in the coffin for his tenure. The international break also hands the club some much-needed time to get their next appointment right.

Swansea owners Brett Cravatt and Jason Cohen told the club website after announcing their decision: “Alan has been instrumental in helping improve the club through two periods of time. Alan has a tireless work ethic, an honest approach and a positive attitude.

“He has put his full effort into the job on behalf of the club. The club would like to place on record its thanks to Alan for all of his hard work during his time at Swansea City. We wish Alan and his family all the best for the future.”

Those in Wales will hope to have an appointment through the door by the time that they return from the international break to face Bristol City on 22 November. They’ll also be desperate to hire a manager that lasts longer than six months and can provide a long-term solution to their current struggles in the Championship.

Swansea hold talks with Kim Hellberg

As reported by Sky Sports’ Anthony Joseph, Swansea have now held talks with Hellberg, who is currently in charge of Swedish side Hammarby IF. The Swans are reportedly “keen” to hire the 37-year-old and have identified him as one of the early leading candidates to take their vacant role.

Whilst Hellberg isn’t the most experienced manager that Swansea could find, he is impressive in his own right.

The young manager has earned plenty of praise from those in Sweden, including IFK Varnamo sporting director Enes Ahmetovic, who worked with Hellberg at the club and said: “An incredibly skilled football coach. He spends a huge amount of time on every detail. I’m completely convinced that Hellberg will coach much bigger clubs than IFK Värnamo.”

Operating in a 4-2-3-1 system, Hellberg would also suit Swansea’s current squad who are used to the formation thanks to their time working under Sheehan.

Every Premier League and EFL manager sacked in the 2025/26 season