On a day of goodbyes for Manchester United, there was a small insight into what will hopefully be a brighter future under Ruben Amorim, following a deserved 2-0 win over Aston Villa on Sunday evening.

Free from the shackles of expectation, the Red Devils were in positive mood right from the off despite the backdrop of their midweek disappointment, with Mason Mount twice going close in the opening exchanges.

The hope of signing off this wretched Premier League campaign with a win was then bolstered even further following Emi Martinez’s dismissal on the stroke of half-time, with the Argentine foolishly barging into the onrushing Rasmus Hojlund on what could be his final outing for the Midlands side.

After enduring a shaky moment of their own at that same end after the break, involving a controversial call on Altay Bayindir, the wasteful hosts eventually made the breakthrough at Old Trafford following a fine header from Amad Diallo at the backpost. The provider? Well, Bruno Fernandes, of course.

A subsequent foul on Amad then allowed Christian Eriksen the chance to end his United career with a goal from the penalty spot, with the veteran Dane set to depart at the expiry of his contract, alongside Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans.

That experienced trio could be among the first departures of what is expected to be a hectic summer in Manchester. Could the aforementioned Hojlund also be on his way?

Rasmus Hojlund's game in numbers vs Villa

If ever there was a game to epitomise Hojlund’s campaign, it was this one, with the 22-year-old showcasing real endeavour and the odd flash of quality, albeit while still lacking that vital end product.

The Denmark international did play his part in Martinez’s red card, although it remains to be seen whether he would have scored had the Villa ‘keeper not intervened, with United’s number nine taking a particularly wayward touch regardless.

As for the second half, the former Atalanta man – who did tee up Mount’s header early on – failed to capitalise on a Kobbie Mainoo pullback as his poor touch wasted a gilt-edged chance, with it having looked at that stage that the home side would again fire a blank in front of goal.

That luckless outing from United’s number nine also saw a well-taken header ruled out for offside, with Hojlund left looking to the heavens as he remained on just four league goals for the season and only ten in total.

As already stated, there were signs of life up against the Champions League hopefuls, although with reports suggesting that a return to Serie A could be on the cards, time may be up for United’s £64m signing.

Rasmus Hojlund’s key stats vs Aston Villa

Stat

Record

Minutes played

81

Touches

19

Shots

1

Goals

0

Big chances missed

1

Big chances created

1

Key passes

2

Pass accuracy

60%

Successful dribbles

0

Total duels won

4/9

Stats via Sofascore

The same, it must be said, should also be true of his floundering teammate, Bayindir.

Why Altay Bayindir needs to be sold

The ruthless nature of the Red Devils’ upcoming window has been epitomised by reports that Alejandro Garnacho will be up for sale, with the 20-year-old winger having been left out of Sunday’s win – as was Andre Onana.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Expand Collapse

With uncertainty also surrounding the future of the Cameroonian, this was an opportunity for his understudy to stake his claim. Once again, the Turkish star failed to do so in almost comical fashion.

It was only last month that the former Fenerbahce man was thrown into the mix at St James’ Park, with Onana having been left out of proceedings, only to ultimately ship four himself, while gifting the ball to the home side for the game’s final goal.

Having since also shipped six goals against Brentford and West Ham United combined, the 27-year-old was surprisingly given what should well be a final chance on Sunday, despite journalist Samuel Luckhurst previously suggesting that he should actually be behind Tom Heaton in the goalkeeping pecking order.

That viewpoint was corroborated further by Bayindir’s display against the Villans, with the “lucky” stopper – as described by Luckhurst – failing to grab hold of the ball following Harry Maguire’s backwards header, with Morgan Rogers then pouncing to score.

Controversially – and fortunately for Bayindir – the whistle had blown for a foul before Rogers’ effort had hit the back of the net, with Villa denied what would have been a vital goal against the run of play.

It would have summed up United’s season for a promising performance to be undone by a goalkeeping gaffe, although the officials had something else in mind, sparing Bayindir’s blushes in the process.

The £4.3m addition did go on to make a handful of pivotal saves late on, although his nervousness was illustrated with a dismal parry into the air following Youri Tielemans’ strike, having again provided no assurity for the defenders ahead of him.

With United on the hunt for a new goalkeeper and Bayindir tipped for an exit, this most recent display – which earned him a 5/10 rating from Luckhurst – should well be the final outing of his forgettable Old Trafford adventure.

Of course, there will always be that night at the Emirates, and the Turk’s penalty saving heroics, although it is hard not to look past the litany of mistakes he has made both before and since – not least conceding directly from a Heung-min Son corner in the Carabao Cup defeat to Spurs.

In truth, this is a squad that is in dire need of upgrading. The best place to start would be at either end of the pitch…

Related McTominay 2.0: Man Utd could land one of Europe's "most underrated players"

Man Utd could be set to finally replace Scott McTominay this summer

Posts ByRobbie Walls May 25, 2025

Leeds United head coach Daniel Farke followed in Marcelo Bielsa’s footsteps this season by becoming the latest boss to win the Championship title for the club.

The Whites recorded a club-record 100 points in the second tier with a 2-1 win over Plymouth Argyle on the final day of the season, to earn their promotion to the Premier League.

Bielsa, of course, then went on to keep the team in the top-flight with a top-half finish in the 2020/21 campaign, before he was relieved of his duties midway through the following season.

Farke will now be hoping to follow in the Argentine great’s footsteps once again by coaching the team to avoid relegation from the Premier League at the first time of asking, something that he was unable to do in two attempts at Norwich City.

Recruitment in the upcoming summer transfer window will be key to the success or failure of the German head coach next season, as shown by how important Bielsa’s signings in 2020 were.

Victor Orta and the board backed the manager by making several significant signings to bolster the squad, including high-profile forward Rodrigo from Valencia.

Why Rodrigo was a key signing for Leeds

Leeds pushed the boat out to smash their transfer record with a £30m deal to sign the Spain international ahead of the 2020/21 campaign to back Bielsa.

Rodrigo had already been capped 22 times by his country and had scored 59 goals and delivered 41 assists in 220 appearances for Valencia in all competitions, which meant that the Whites were signing an experienced player at the top level in Europe.

The West Yorkshire outfit knew that they had to add proven quality to their squad to handle the jump from the Championship to the Premier League, so they went out and signed a player who had been there and done it, albeit in Spain instead of England.

Rodrigo delivered seven goals and two assists in 26 matches in the Premier League in his debut season with Leeds to steer them clear of relegation, which was then followed up with six goals and one assist in 31 games in the 2021/22 campaign under Jesse Marsch.

The Spanish star’s haul of 13 goals and one assist in 31 matches in the Premier League during the 2022/23 campaign was not enough to prevent relegation back down to the second tier, but there is no doubt that he played a role in their survival in his first two years at Elland Road.

Rodrigo was, therefore, a key signing for Leeds because he brought proven quality and made an instant impact at the club in the top-flight, which is why the club should try to repeat that masterclass this summer.

Leeds eyeing deal for Serie A striker

The Whites could be on their way to finding their next Rodrigo in the upcoming summer transfer window, as they are reportedly eyeing a new centre-forward.

According to an Italian journalist, Leeds United are lining up a move to sign Lecce number nine Nikola Krstovic to bolster their options at the top end of the pitch 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.

Farke already has Joel Piroe, Mateo Joseph, and Patrick Bamford vying for one place in the starting line-up, but it is seemingly looking to add even more quality to his attacking arsenal.

Krstovic will not come cheap, though, as the reporter adds that Lecce, who are at risk of being relegated from the Serie A, are set to demand a fee of around €25m (£21m).

It now remains to be seen whether or not Leeds are prepared to pay the £21m that the Italian team want for their star striker, but they should consider doing so because he could be their next Rodrigo.

Why Krstovic could be Rodrigo 2.0 at Leeds

The 49ers should swoop to sign the £21m-rated striker for Farke because he has proven his quality in one of Europe’s major leagues and would be a player who could make an instant impact in the Premier League, rather than a player from the lower leagues in England or a young player with it all to prove.

Like Rodrigo, Krstovic would arrive at Elland Road as a seasoned international footballer. He has scored six goals in 24 caps for Montenegro to date, which shows that he has performed well on the international stage for his country.

The 25-year-old star made a name for himself in Slovakia with Dunajska Streda by scoring 37 goals in 66 matches in all competitions, an unbelievable return in front of goal for the striker, which earned him a move to Lecce in the summer of 2023.

Krstovic, who former manager Roberto D’Aversa claimed has a “hunger for goals”, did not take much time to adapt to life in one of Europe’s major leagues, with a return of seven goals in 35 games in the 2023/24 Serie A campaign.

Appearances

35

36

Goals

7

11

Right-footed goals

4

7

Left-footed goals

1

3

Headed goals

2

1

Big chances created

4

4

Assists

1

4

As you can see in the table above, the Montenegro international has showcased his quality in front of goal, with 18 goals and eight ‘big chances’ created, in his two seasons with Lecce in the Serie A to date.

A return of 11 right-footed goals, four left-footed goals, and three headed goals also shows that he is a versatile goalscorer who can thrive off a variety of service, rather than being limited to one way of scoring goals.

His statistics for Lecce perfectly illustrate why he could be Rodrigo 2.0 for Leeds because he has proven that the quality is there for him to make an instant impact in the Premier League as a goalscorer, given what the forward has already achieved in Italy.

This is why Farke must push the board to get a deal over the line for the £21m marksman, because Krstovic could bolster the club’s hopes of avoiding relegation from the top-flight by providing a big goal threat throughout the campaign.

Leeds could land their own Florian Wirtz by signing "outstanding" £33m star

Leeds could secure their own version of Florian Wirtz by signing this £25m transfer target.

ByDan Emery May 25, 2025

Looking to rebuild an ageing midfield, Manchester City have now reportedly made contact to sign a Serie A star with sporting director Hugo Viana hoping to secure his signature this summer.

Man City set to kick-start summer rebuild

The Premier League already received a glimpse of what Manchester City’s rebuild may look like in the January transfer window when the Citizens welcomed the likes of Omar Marmoush and Abdukodir Khusanov. Now, six months on, the Manchester club could seriously step things up. With a Kevin de Bruyne-shaped hole to fill, the rumours have already been coming thick and fast.

Names such as Morgan Gibbs-White and Florian Wirtz have both been mentioned, with a move for the former looking particularly likely to take place when the summer arrives. Following an excellent season at Nottingham Forest, the midfield star has earned the attraction of those at The Etihad, who are primed to make their move in the coming months.

If there were any doubts that Manchester City needed a rebuild, then their recent 0-0 draw against relegated Southampton should have acted as a timely reminder. The Saints were on course to match Derby County’s record low points tally in the Premier League before the most unexpected point saw them avoid embarrassment.

After a frustrating afternoon, City boss Pep Guardiola went against Ruben Dias’ criticism of Southampton’s defensive approach, telling reporters: “They can do whatever they want.

Big Nunes upgrade: Man City considering move for "outstanding" £40m star

Manchester City are in the market to sign a new right-back this summer, to replace Matheus Nunes, with an “outstanding” PL star “under consideration”.

By
Ben Gray

May 13, 2025

“For many years here, we faced teams in different approaches, and they decided they have to play. It’s on us to break them. In those terms, many times teams have played five in the back or six and the striker has gone on our holding midfielder and there’s no space, it’s difficult.

“You have to break it, and we had the chances. When you review the chances for nothing, we could not score and it happened. Now we prepare the [FA Cup] final and now it is next time and Fulham.”

Man City open talks to sign Reijnders

Away from their frustration on the pitch, meanwhile, the Citizens have pushed on with their summer rebuild. According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Manchester City have now made contact to sign Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan and whilst there is yet to be a formal offer, talks have begun and Viana is hoping to get a deal done this summer.

It would certainly be a statement opening for the new sporting director to sign such a talent, especially if Manchester City then go on and rebuild their midfield even further with the likes of Gibbs-White and Wirtz. In three swift moves, Guardiola’s side could be back to their dominant best.

League stats 24/25 (via FBref)	Tijjani Reijnders	Ilkay Gundogan	Kevin de Bruyne
Minutes	2,948	2,050	1,628
Goals	10	0	4
Assists	4	5	7
Ball Recoveries	110	105	63

Once dubbed an “immense” signing for AC Milan by U23 scout Antonio Mango, all signs are pointing towards Reijnders becoming equally impressive if he decides to join Manchester City this summer. In a summer of change at The Etihad, the Dutchman could be the start of a much-needed midfield rebuild.

Leeds United are now showing interest in signing a £21m striker who’s been likened to legendary centre-forward Filippo Inzaghi, according to a reporter.

Leeds set sights on new striker

Joel Piroe was the top scorer in the Championship last season, netting a total of 19 goals, however, it may be wise for Leeds to bring in a striker with more Premier League experience if they are to avoid an instant return to the second tier.

As such, a number of different strikers have been identified as potential targets ahead of the summer transfer window, with Jamie Vardy and Callum Wilson set to be available on free transfers upon leaving Leicester City and Newcastle United.

Leeds striker links

Current club

Potential cost

Jamie Vardy

Leicester City

£0

Callum Wilson

Newcastle United

£0

Troy Parrott

AZ Alkmaar

£21m

Semih Kilicsoy

Besiktas

Loan

Moves for Vardy and Wilson could make sense, having proven themselves over a number of years in the Premier League, but there may be some concerns over the fact that both strikers are now likely to be in the latter stages of their careers.

As such, there may be a temptation to take a gamble on a younger centre-forward in the summer, and reports in Europe, via The 72, claim that Leeds are interested in signing Lecce star Nikola Krstovic.

A deal for Krstovic is unlikely to break the bank, with the Italian club willing to listen to offers of at least €25m (£21m), which could be a bargain, given the level of some of his performances in the Serie A last season…

Inzaghi-esque Krstovic impressing in Italy

Indeed, the Montenegro international performed very well in the Serie A throughout the 2024-25 campaign, picking up 11 goals and five assists in 37 outings, while he has also received praise from former manager Roberto D’Aversa in the past.

D’Aversa said: “Every ball in the box seems to magnetically find him. His style, his hunger for goals, it all reminds me of the great Pippo Inzaghi.”

“The club’s decision to bring him to Lecce during the transfer window has been vindicated. He’s not just a goal-scorer; he’s integral to our build-up play and brings a physical presence up front.”

Leeds could land their own Florian Wirtz by signing "outstanding" £33m star

Leeds could secure their own version of Florian Wirtz by signing this £25m transfer target.

ByDan Emery May 25, 2025

D’Aversa also lauded the 25-year-old for his “impressive” goal record during his time in Slovakia, and the way in which he has adapted to life in the Serie A suggests he could now be ready to make a move to the Premier League in the near future.

As such, while signing Wilson or Vardy on a free transfer would be more of a low-risk move for Leeds, it may be worth taking a gamble on Krstovic, who could be capable of leading the line for Daniel Farke’s side for many years to come.

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.

Manchester United have now made an approach to sign a £59m striker who Ruben Amorim personally wants INEOS to bring in this summer, according to a report.

Man Utd eyeing new striker as Scholes backs Hojlund

Perhaps surprisingly, Paul Scholes has insisted that Man United should keep hold of Rasmus Hojlund beyond the summer, despite the striker’s very poor goal record in the Premier League last season, finding the back of the net just four times.

Speaking on The Overlap, Scholes suggested that Hojlund needs more support at striker, and cannot be expected to lead the line for United by himself at just 22-years-old.

However, despite receiving the backing of a club legend, it is looking increasingly likely the Danish forward could be on the move this summer, with a new report suggesting the Red Devils are now in talks over a sale.

Consequently, Ruben Amorim may well need to bring in a new striker before the new season starts, and a report from GiveMeSport has now revealed that Man United have made contact over a deal for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres.

Amorim is said to be desperate to reunite with his former player, who he worked with during his time at Sporting, and an initial approach has now been made, in order to assess whether a deal will be possible this summer.

The United boss was left unhappy with the initial decision to identify Liam Delap as the leading striker target, but with the Englishman moving to Chelsea, Gyokeres appears to have moved up the shortlist, and the Sweden international will be available for a fee of £59m.

"Incredible" Gyokeres could be real coup for Man Utd

The Sporting star could be considered an ambitious target, considering a number of Champions League clubs are also in the race for his signature, including Arsenal and Napoli, and it would be a real coup if the Red Devils are able to get a deal done.

Benjamin Sesko has also been identified as a target for United, but the 27-year-old has been far more prolific than the Slovenian in front of goal, albeit in a weaker league.

International teammate Emil Forsberg was also left impressed by his compatriot back in November, praising the strides he has taken in recent times: “He is incredible. He is constantly developing and doing what he is good at.”

Talks opened: Man Utd making moves to sign "fantastic" £25m prime target

The Red Devils are stepping up their pursuit of a 25-year-old, who is now one of their key targets.

ByDominic Lund Jun 5, 2025

Amorim will be well-aware of Gyokeres’ abilities, having worked with him at Sporting CP, and he has proven he could be the answer to Man United’s attacking problems, so it is a positive development that an approach has now been made over a deal.

Tottenham Hotspur are now planning to sell Richarlison, in order to fund a move for an “incredible” £55m star, according to a report.

Richarlison struggling to make an impact at Spurs

The Brazilian’s 2024-25 campaign was marred by a number of injury issues, which meant he only managed to make 15 appearances in the Premier League, during which time he provided four goals and one assist.

However, with Dominic Solanke often leading the line, the 28-year-old has found holding down a starting spot very difficult even when fit, often being utilised as a substitute last term, which indicates Spurs can afford to let him move on this summer.

That is exactly what Tottenham are planning to do, according to Football Insider’s transfer correspondent, Pete O’Rourke, who said: “With Son staying, Dibling linked, and Richarlison likely to be moved on… there’s got to be some restructuring at Tottenham this summer.

“The domestic campaign was awful… the squad depth and quality has to be addressed and must improve.”

Tottenham plotting bid to sign £195k-per-week France forward on loan

Spurs are eager to bolster their attacking options.

ByEmilio Galantini May 31, 2025

The report also states that Spurs plan to sell Richarlison in order to fund a move for Southampton’s Tyler Dibling, with the Saints looking to hold out for a fee of £55m for the forward, although the Lilywhites are hopeful a deal can be done for £40m – £45m.

Signing Dibling is said to align with the north Londoners’ transfer strategy “perfectly”, given that they plan on signing the best youngsters to give them first-team football immediately, in order to make an instant impact.

The Brazilian international’s exit could be crucial when it comes to Spurs’ ability to compete for the Southampton star’s signature, however, given the money it would generate, and Richarlison has previously been linked with a return to Everton.

Dibling could be "incredible" signing for Tottenham

Southampton’s 2024-25 campaign was one of the worst in Premier League history, collecting just 12 points across the entire season, but their 19-year-old winger still managed to make a name for himself.

Reporter Alfie House was left particularly enamoured with the youngster, lauding him as an “incredible” player back in November, and he went on to finish the season with four goals and three assists in all competitions.

The Englishman also drew praise from Match of the Day’s Danny Murphy, who said: “It is the quality he has got – the belief in himself and the physical power. He just goes past people with ease. He has got a lovely left foot. He is very brave on the ball and his decision-making is good.”

With Richarlison falling down the pecking order, it could make sense to cash-in on the forward to fund a move for Dibling this summer, given that he showed some very promising signs during his breakout season at Southampton.

Journalist Graeme Bailey has claimed that an “awesome” Sheffield United could depart alongside Gustavo Hamer in the summer transfer window.

Hamer has been linked with Sheffield United exit

The Blades suffered Championship playoff final heartbreak on Saturday, losing 2-1 to Sunderland in the dying seconds at Wembley, bringing an end to an ultimately disappointing season.

Hamer has been sensational for United this season, scoring 10 goals and registering eight assists in the league, not to mention winning the Championship Player of the Year award, highlighting what a magnificent individual campaign he enjoyed.

Sadly, the Blades now face a real battle to retain the services of the 27-year-old, who may want to test himself in the Premier League or another top division moving forward, rather than staying put in the Championship for another year. Everton have already been linked with a move for Hamer earlier this month, whereas Leeds United tried to sign him last summer.

Hamer may be far from the only United player to move on to pastures new, however, with plenty of other heroes potentially wanting a new challenge after the misery of Saturday and failure to get back into the top flight. Now, a worrying update has emerged regarding one such figure.

Sheffield United could also lose "awesome" star

Speaking to EFL Analysis, Bailey said that Sheffield United could also lose Vinicius Souza this summer, ahead of a potential exodus:

“I don’t see how they can hang onto their Brazilian stars, though. Gustavo Hamer ran the final before going off injured, which is a very strange repeat of what happened to him whilst with Coventry City. The other is Vinicius Souza – a huge talent, quite literally – the giant Brazilian has been awesome for United but there are a host of clubs looking at him. I also think their Bosnian star Anel Ahmedhodzic is unlikely to want another Championship season.”

Souza is another key man for United, so losing him would be a major setback, following a season that has seen the 25-year-old shine at the base of Chris Wilder’s midfield.

The Brazilian averaged an impressive 3.2 tackles per game across 38 Championship appearances, as well as two clearances per match, while Jimmy from Blades Ramble has hailed his performances, admitting he has proven him wrong:

“I have to hold my hands up because I did not think there was a player in there and one performance does not make an absolute superstar, but everything he’s showing at the minute is showing that he can definitely cut it at this level. It was one of the most impressive performances on Friday night, and he won Player of the Match. If we can keep hold of him, I think we’ll do really well.”

3 amazing defenders Sheffield United can sign to replace Robinson in the PL

Sheffield United could look to axe Jack Robinson with the experienced defender’s contract nearly up.

By
Kelan Sarson

May 20, 2025

United must do all they can to convince Souza to remain at the club and try his luck again this season, but in truth, it is easy to see him joining Hamer out of the Bramall Lane exit door.

Arsenal are now keen on signing a Premier League striker who has a £70m asking price, with his club now willing to sanction a departure this summer, according to a report.

Gunners' striker pursuit rumbles on

There have been persistent calls for Mikel Arteta to sign a striker for quite some time now, although Ian Wright has stressed the importance of signing the right player, rather than rushing into any decision.

The Gunners legend said: “I think that the worry [for Arsenal] more than anything is that you can go out there and pay 60, 70, 80 for a striker and it doesn’t work. I don’t think Arsenal can afford to get that striker that doesn’t hit the ground running for them.

“They have to get the one that they want, and maybe that is what Mikel is doing, and in the meantime, he’s trying to get by and again we’ve fallen short of it.”

With the summer transfer window now rapidly approaching, there is certainly no shortage of options on the shortlist, with recruitment chiefs searching far and wide for a new forward, who could be the final piece of the jigsaw for Arteta’s side.

Target

Current club

Potential cost

Benjamin Sesko

RB Leipzig

£70m

Viktor Gyokeres

Sporting CP

£67m

Hugo Ekitike

Eintracht Frankfurt

£84m

Julian Alvarez

Atletico Madrid

£126m

There are also options from within the Premier League, however, and a report from The Sun has revealed Arsenal are now keen on signing Brighton & Hove Albion striker Joao Pedro, with the Seagulls willing to cash-in for £70m this summer.

Newcastle United and Aston Villa are also credited with an interest in Pedro, while Chelsea are known to have made a £51m bid for the forward recently, with the Blues still looking to sign a striker despite advancing towards a deal for Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap.

"Special" Pedro enjoyed impressive 24/25 campaign

It could make sense for Arsenal to bring in a striker who is already proven in the Premier League, and the Brighton star fits the bill in that regard, having picked up ten goals and six assists in 27 matches during the 2024-25 campaign.

Presenter Sam Ucko has also been left impressed by the Brazilian in the past, describing him as a “special player”, who will “go to the very top”.

Related Arsenal eye bid to sign £35m Premier League ace who can "reach" Mane level

The Gunners have now identified a new wide target, who could go on to reach the level of Liverpool legend Sadio Mane.

Posts ByDominic Lund Jun 2, 2025

That said, there are doubts over whether the 23-year-old would be capable of taking Arsenal’s attack to the next level, given that he is not an out-and-out striker, ranking in just the 19th percentile for non-penalty goals per 90 over the past year.

Instead, it may be suitable to bring in a striker who is clinical in front of goal, and the Gunners have now agreed personal terms with Gyokeres, who scored 39 goals in 33 games for Liga Portugal title-winners Sporting CP.

Everton have plenty of work to do in the transfer window and could now swoop for an experienced defender who enjoys a pre-existing relationship with David Moyes, according to a report.

Everton confirm exits to pave way for incomings

Making their gratitude known, Everton have confirmed six senior players have left the club upon the expiry of their contracts – Abdoulaye Doucoure, Ashley Young, Joao Virginia, Asmir Begovic, Mason Holgate and Neal Maupay.

Releasing a short statement on their departures, the club noted: “Everyone at Everton thanks the departing players for their commitment and service and wishes them all the best for the future.”

Dominic Calvert Lewin’s future at Everton remains uncertain as the Toffees continue to liaise on new deals for the England striker and Michael Keane.

Expert Keith Wyness has claimed that the former’s offer of a new contract is bonus-related, which has led to a feeling of dissatisfaction and could spell the end to his spell on Merseyside.

Should he leave, Everton have identified Galatasaray’s Baris Alper Yilmaz as a potential replacement to strengthen their forward line. Youssef Chermiti and Beto remain as striking options after Armando Broja’s loan deal concluded.

Everton now ready to open talks in complex deal to sign £15.6m-a-year star

The Toffees mean business.

1 ByTom Cunningham Jun 11, 2025

Defensively, Kyle Walker-Peters is a free transfer target for the Toffees following his exploits in the Premier League with Southampton last term, illustrating that a wealth of financial muscle isn’t necessary to attract quality reinforcements.

The Friedkin Group definitely have money to spend at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, but there is an acknowledgement that they will need to be careful to adhere to PSR requirements.

Inexpensive deals in some areas may be a necessity in the infancy of their reign, so it won’t come as a surprise to hear that another free agent is being lined up to bolster Moyes’ backline.

Everton line up move for Vladimir Coufal

According to Football Insider, Everton are eyeing a free transfer move for Vladimir Coufal after his successful spell at West Ham United came to an end.

Fulham, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Leeds United, Burnley and Sunderland are also keen on the Czechia international, who Moyes is keen to reunite with following his five years at the London Stadium.

Vladimir Coufal’s Premier League season in numbers (Fotmob)

Duels won

66

Tackles won

15

Aerial duels won

23

Recoveries

39

Cross accuracy

32.1%

In what turned out to be a disappointing season for the Hammers, Coufal made 25 appearances across all competitions and still has more to give in the English top-flight at 32 years of age.

Jake O’Brien has filled in on the right side of defence amid Everton’s transition to a back three at times under Moyes, though it would make sense to recruit a reliable operator amid veteran right-back Young’s departure.

Competition is high for his signature. Still, Coufal and Moyes have already enjoyed success together, so there is no reason to suspect that the Scot couldn’t get the best out of the Ostrava-born man at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.