Tottenham Hotspur are now confident they can win the race for a midfield “magician” following their Europa League triumph against Manchester United, according to a report.
Spurs end 17-year trophy drought in Bilbao
Tottenham’s long wait for a trophy came to an end earlier this week, sealing European glory with a 1-0 victory over Manchester United in Bilbao, which sparked some wild scenes upon their return to north London.
Ending the 17-year wait for major silverware was of the utmost importance to Ange Postecoglou, who once again delivered in his second season, but his side’s Europa League triumph also secures a return to the Champions League next season, despite their dismal Premier League form.
As such, moving to Spurs should be an attractive proposition for some top players in the summer transfer window, and they are now growing in confidence they can win the race for a midfielder, who is also being targeted by Man United.
Indeed, according to a report from The Boot Room, both Tottenham and United are interested in signing Lille’s Angel Gomes, who is set to be available on a free transfer upon the expiration of his contract this summer, and the north Londoners are now confident about winning the race.
England'sAngelGomesin action
The Red Devils’ defeat in the Europa League final means they will not be playing European football of any description next season, which could make a move to north London more appealing for Gomes, who has been a long-standing target for Postecoglou’s side.
"Magician" Gomes could be excellent signing for Spurs
Ange has been plagued with injuries throughout the campaign, with the likes of Rodrigo Bentancur and James Maddison spending time on the sidelines, while there is also a feeling the manager could look to offload fellow midfielder Yves Bissouma in the summer.
As such, it makes perfect sense for Tottenham to bring in more depth in the middle of the park this summer, and the Lille maestro could be an excellent addition to the squad, having received his first England call-up earlier this season.
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Indeed, the Englishman caught the eye of former interim boss Lee Carsley, while he has also received high praise from former teammate Jonathan Panzo, who said: “He’s like a magician,”
“He’s a small player, but his IQ is so smart and he just knows how to get around the pitch.”
Tottenham’s return to the Champions League should ensure they have money to spend in the upcoming window, but signing Gomes on a free transfer would still be a smart piece of business, and a move to north London should be far more appealing than Old Trafford after the heroics in Bilbao.
Leeds United are now willing to trigger the £21m release clause in the contract of a “spectacular” midfielder, according to a report.
Leeds looking to sign midfielder amid £120m cash injection
The 49ers are showing they mean business as Leeds prepare for their return to the Premier League, having injected £120m into the club, with former Everton CEO Keith Wyness revealing the Championship title winners are willing to splash the cash.
Wyness said: “I think a chunk of it will be going towards transfer business. I think that £100million mark is a minimum spend now, and they’ve got to spend it wisely.
“This cash injection will pay for some new players to give the fans hope.”
One position in which the Whites are particularly keen on strengthening is central midfield, with Kalvin Phillips being linked with a return to Elland Road, while they are also “one to watch” in the race for Tottenham Hotspur’s Yves Bissouma.
Moves for Bissouma or Phillips could make sense, having proven themselves in the Premier League, but there have now been suggestions that Daniel Farke’s side may also take a risk on a La Liga midfielder.
According to a report from Super Deporte (via Leeds United News), Leeds are now willing to activate the £21m release clause in Uche’s Getafe contract, with the midfielder catching the eye of some bigger clubs courtesy of his performances in Spain.
Brighton & Hove Albion are also in the race for the Nigerian, with the Seagulls also showing a desire to trigger the release clause in his contract with the Spanish side, so there may be stiff competition for his signature.
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Leeds have joined the race for a new goalkeeper having missed out on Caoimhin Kelleher
ByDominic Lund Jun 5, 2025 "Spectacular" Uche impressing in La Liga
The 22-year-old emerged as a key player for Getafe in the 2024-25 La Liga season, making 33 appearances, during which time he has displayed his versatility by featuring in a range of positions, including striker, although the maestro most commonly plays in a midfield role.
It is clear to see why the Nigeria international has been given the nod further forward, having picked up four goals and six assists in La Liga during the 2024-25 campaign, scoring with an impressive effort from outside the box back in August.
However, the “spectacular” Getafe gem, as lauded by manager Jose Bordalas, is also strong at winning back possession, ranking in the 95th percentile for tackles per 90 over the past year, and the 89th percentile for interceptions, when compared to his positional peers.
Uche’s versatility could make him a very useful option for Farke next season, and £21m feels like a fair fee, given his recent exploits in La Liga, but Brighton’s interest could pose a problem, considering they are a more established Premier League side.
Manchester United’s central midfield department has been an area for debate over recent months, with Ruben Amorim having multiple options at his disposal.
Manuel Ugarte and Casemiro have often operated in such positions, but Bruno Fernandes has often dropped into a deeper role, with Kobbie Mainoo also an option after his injury setbacks.
However, it’s unclear if the manager fully knows his best partnership in the middle of the park, which could see the Red Devils dip into the transfer market to make further additions.
Christian Eriksen has already been told that he will be released from the club at the end of his contract in a couple of weeks, with Casemiro potentially being moved on to raise additional funds.
With the window now in full swing after its one-week closure, it’s pivotal that the board land the right targets for the manager, with any additions having a bearing on his long-term future in the role.
United’s hunt to land new midfielders this summer
Despite the season not long ending, United have already wasted little time in the market, already pursuing moves for various players in the midfield department.
Ederson, Hayden Hackney, and Fermin Lopez have all previously been mentioned as potential additions, but no deals have yet been completed ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
However, that could be about to change, with the Red Devils identifying Inter Milan star Davide Frattesi as a potential option, according to one Spanish outlet.
Their report claims that United have already begun making moves to bring him to Old Trafford this summer after only making nine Serie A starts in 2024/25.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
It also states that he’s asked his agent to consider potential options away from Italy this summer, seeing Amorim’s current project at the club as an exciting one that could tempt him in the coming months.
Why Frattesi could be Amorim’s own version of McTominay
After leaving United for Napoli in a £25m deal last summer, no supporter could’ve envisioned the rise Scottish international Scott McTominay would have in Italy – subsequently taking his career to new heights this season.
The 28-year-old was offloaded by former boss Erik ten Hag, a decision that now appears to be a huge mistake after his form across Europe, which saw him net 13 times across all competitions in his debut year in Naples.
Such a record helped Antonio Conte’s side claim the league title, with McTominay being named the division’s Most Valuable Player, further highlighting the mistake made in allowing him to depart.
It’s a real shame that Amorim didn’t receive the opportunity to work with the academy graduate, with his skillset at both ends of the pitch certainly aiding the club in their chances of overturning their recent slump.
However, a move for Frattesi could allow the Red Devils to land their next version of the midfielder, possessing a very similar playstyle to that of the 28-year-old.
When comparing their respective figures from the recent campaign, the Inter star has managed to match or better him in numerous key areas, subsequently able to inject the needed quality into the current squad.
Frattesi, who’s been labelled as “one of the best midfielders in Serie A” by Fabrizio Romano, has averaged a higher goal per shot on target rate, able to pop up with crucial goals in key moments – as seen with his winner in the Champions League semi-final against Barcelona.
He’s also completed more key passes per 90, having the tools to provide the likes of Fernandes ahead of him with the opportunity to have a further impact in the final third.
The Italian has also dominated without the ball, winning more of the tackles he’s entered and also making more blocks per 90, handing Amorim the perfect box-to-box option in his 3-4-2-1 system.
Games played
27
36
Goals & assists
6
16
Goals per shot on target
0.7
0.3
Key passes made
1.5
0.8
Carries into opposition box
0.6
0.4
Tackles won
56%
48%
Blocks made
0.9
0.6
Fouls won
2.3
1.8
Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal would set the Red Devils hierarchy back, it seems as though they could be about to take advantage of his lack of playing time in their ambitions of strengthening the squad.
When he has had the chance to impress, he’s taken such an opportunity with both hands, with his experience amongst Europe’s elite taking the side to the next level in the process.
If he can emulate McTominay’s success at Old Trafford, it would be an astute piece of business and one that would transform the club’s current two-man midfielder pivot ahead of a crucial 2025/26 campaign.
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Manchester United could be about to land a star who could thrive under Ruben Amorim.
Everton are now in a race with David Moyes’ former side to sign a “very good” international midfielder who will be allowed to leave this summer for £25 million, according to a recent report.
Everton weighing up several transfer options
It’s been a rather quiet transfer window for the Toffees so far, but that could soon be about to change, as the return of pre-season gets ever closer. Everton have brought in Carlos Alcaraz on a permanent basis this summer, and they could be close to adding to that, as BBC Sport reports that Everton are close to signing defender Kenny Tete on a free transfer.
A deal is said to be close to being secured, as signing a new right-back has become a priority given Ashley Young was allowed to leave upon the expiry of his contract.
Everton now want to buy "brilliant" 65-cap star who could sign for only £9m
The Toffees could land a bargain…
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The Merseysiders remain in talks with Villarreal over a deal to sign striker Thierno Barry, but he is not the only forward David Moyes is considering signing. Goodison News reported that the Toffees are interested in Millwall striker Mihailo Ivanovic after he scored 13 goals in the Championship last season.
Mihailo Ivanovic in action for Millwall.
Everton don’t want to stop there, and a report has now revealed that they have registered their interest in signing James McAtee from Manchester City. The young Englishman looks set to leave the Etihad this summer.
Everton in race with West Ham for Onyedika
McAtee may not be the last midfielder to arrive at Goodison Park this summer, as according to Sacha Tavolieri, Everton are in pole position to sign Raphael Onyedika from Club Brugge, albeit together with the Hammers.
Tavolieri states that both the Toffees and West Ham are leading the race to sign the midfielder this summer, with the Hammers the most concrete with their interest so far. He goes on to add that while he is under contract until 2027, the Belgian side would be happy to get around €30 million, which is roughly £25 million, this summer.
The 24-year-old has been with his current club since August 2022, where he’s won the Belgian league once and the Belgium Cup, which came in 2025. Onyedika, who has won 16 caps for Nigeria, was a key player for Club Brugge last season, as he played 25 times in the Jupiler Pro League and started all 11 of their Champions League matches.
Apps
141
Goals
6
Assists
4
Onyedika is very unknown to English football, as he’s spent his football career playing for FC Midtjylland and FC Fredericia before moving to Belgium. But reporter Graeme Bailey has labelled the midfielder a “very good player” and someone who is a “threat”, while he’s also been linked with a move to Leeds United.
It wouldn’t be all that controversial to claim that this season was a bit of a bust for Arsenal.
Mikel Arteta’s men did well to reach the semi-finals of the Champions League, but failing to win a domestic cup and finishing ten points off Premier League champions Liverpool was undeniably disappointing.
However, while the Gunners’ attack failed to spark this year, there were still some players who could go into the summer with their heads held high, like Declan Rice.
The former West Ham United captain was a force of nature in the middle of the park and was justifiably named the club’s Player of the Year for his efforts.
Fortunately, he could get even better next year, as reports have now heavily linked Arsenal to a dangerous goalscorer who’d be a dream teammate for the Englishman.
Arsenal target prolific goalscorers
As Arsenal still managed to create the best defence in the Premier League during their lacklustre campaign, it’s hardly a surprise that most of the players they have been linked with in recent weeks and months have been goalscorers.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
For example, the most significant saga for the North Londoners so far has been around Benjamin Sesko, who scored 21 goals for RB Leipzig in 45 games this year.
Then, off the left, the primary target seems to be Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, who’s scored 14 goals in 52 games for the Spanish giants.
Interestingly, the Gunners were even linked with Bryan Mbeumo, who found the back of the net 20 times in 42 games for Brentford this year, at one point this summer.
Yet, another name has now firmly reentered the picture, and when it comes to scoring goals, nobody can hold a candle to him: Viktor Gyokeres.
Yes, according to a recent report from the Portuguese outlet Record, as relayed by Sport Witness, the Sporting CP star is now desperate to leave the club and join Arsenal this summer.
The report has revealed that the striker has expressed his desire to the Lisbon side’s president and informed them that he would not be returning to the club this summer in an attempt to force their hand into accepting offers totalling €70m, which comes to £60m, and stands at around €5m – £4m – less than the unofficial offer the Gunners made prior, per the report.
Sporting CP's ViktorGyokereskisses the trophy as he celebrate after winning the Taca de Portugal
It might be an expensive transfer for Arsenal to get over the line, but given Gyokeres’ unreal ability in front of goal, it’s one they should pursue, especially as he could be a superb teammate for Rice.
Why Gyokeres would be a dream teammate for Rice
It will come as no surprise that the number one reason Gyokeres would be a dream teammate for Rice is his utterly absurd output, but there are two reasons for this, and the first is that he’d surely help the midfielder improve his own output.
For example, in just 52 appearances for Sporting this season, totalling 4248 minutes, the Stockholm-born “powerhouse,” as dubbed by respected analyst Ben Mattinson, was able to score 54 goals and provide 13 assists, which comes out to an out of this world average of 1.28 goal involvements per game, or one every 63.40 minutes.
Just imagine a striker as devastatingly effective as the Swedish international playing ahead of the Englishman, who has himself become more of an attacking threat since becoming the team’s left-eight; he’d certainly rack up more assists than the ten he managed this year and probably even a few more goals than the nine he scored to boot.
Appearances
52
Minutes
4248′
Goals
54
Assists
13
Goal Involvements per Match
1.28
Minutes per Goal Involvement
63.40′
On top of helping his own tally, though, it would also be a serious signal of intent to bring in someone so prolific and hopefully be the difference in getting the team over the line next year, in turn putting any potential doubt that the 25-year-old could start to have to rest.
Finally, on top of the mountain of goals the former Coventry City star might bring to the Emirates, he could also allow the Englishman the space to further develop his skills as a proper out-and-out left-eight.
We say this as the Sporting star’s heatmap from this season shows that he doesn’t drop into midfield very much at all, instead preferring to spend time in and around the penalty area, which in turn should give the former Irons star space to operate in without worrying about where his striker is.
Ultimately, while it won’t be cheap, Arsenal should do all they can to sign Gyokeres this summer, as not only could he fire the team to glory, but he could also help Rice reach another level entirely.
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The sensational attacker would be a game-changer for Arsenal.
Tottenham Hotspur salvaged their 2024/25 campaign when a goal from Brennan Johnson was enough to secure the Europa League against Manchester United.
Ange Postecoglou ended the club’s 17-year wait for a trophy by winning that game, securing Champions League football in the process, and was subsequently relieved of his duties.
Daniel Levy has, since, replaced the Australian head coach with former Brentford boss Thomas Frank, who will now be looking to kick the team on to win even more silverware in the years to come.
The Danish manager could look to the transfer market to bolster his squad, although deals for Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso have already been agreed and will be made official at the start of July.
Spurs bringing in new recruits to improve the team could help them to kick on in the Premier League, after finishing closer to relegation than the top four, but it could also mean that some members of the current squad could have to make way.
One player whose future remains up in the air is Dejan Kulusevski, who is a reported target for Italian giants AC Milan and Napoli in the summer transfer window.
Why Spurs should cash in on Dejan Kulusevski
The 25-year-old star joined the club on loan from Juventus at the start of 2022 before eventually signing on a permanent deal, and has been a solid performer over the years for Spurs.
To date, Kulusevski has racked up 25 goals and 30 assists in 146 appearances in all competitions for Tottenham, which is a very respectable return and shows that he can provide quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals.
However, the Sweden international is one of the top earners in the squad and has not delivered enough consistent quality in the final third to justify that.
Heung-min Son
£190k
Cristian Romero
£170k
James Maddison
£165k
Dejan Kulusevski
£110k
Dominic Solanke
£90k
Richarlison
£90k
Pedro Porro
£85k
Radu Dragusin
£85k
Ben Davies
£80k
Rodrigo Bentancur
£75k
As you can see in the table above, Kulusevski is one of only four players in the squad who earn more than £90k-per-week, on a weekly wage of £110k, which suggests that he should someone the team can rely on week-in-week-out.
The left-footed forward, though, has never produced more than eight goals or eight assists in a single Premier League season for Tottenham, failing to hit double digits in either type of goal contribution.
Therefore, Spurs should look to cash in on this reported interest from Napoli and Milan in order to make room for a new attacker to come in this summer, with a view to them delivering more quality, through goals and assists, in the Premier League next season.
In fact, Tottenham are already reportedly eyeing up a Bundesliga star who could come through the door as an upgrade on Kulusevski in the coming months.
Spurs eyeing deal for Bundesliga star
According to GIVEMESPORT, Tottenham Hotspur have identified RB Leipzig attacking midfielder Xavi Simons as one of a number of targets in the summer transfer window.
The report claims that the Netherlands international, formerly of Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona, is on the club’s radar as they consider their options in the number ten role.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
It adds that Tottenham are also among a number of teams keeping tabs on Harvey Elliott’s situation at Liverpool, and are interested in Crystal Palace attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze.
Simons represents a slightly more left-field option, as he is unproven in the Premier League, and the Dutch playmaker is said to be open to a move to the English top-flight this summer.
Leipzig failed to qualify for any European competition ahead of the 2025/26 campaign and are reportedly looking for a fee in the region of £60m to part ways with the 22-year-old talent.
Why Spurs should sign Xavi Simons
Described by one data analyst as “one of the best 10s in the world”, the Lilywhites should press ahead with a deal to sign the young attacking midfielder because he is a player who has the potential to deliver goals and assists more frequently than Kulusevski has for Spurs to date.
Simons could come in as a big upgrade on the Swedish forward in the attacking midfield and wide areas, if he can translate his form for Leipzig in the Bundesliga over to the Premier League in North London.
The Dutch starlet, who was once described as a “pocket rocket” by analyst Raj Chohan, has hit double figures for goals in each of the last three seasons for Leipzig and PSV combined, and racked up double figures for assists in two of the last three seasons.
Simons produced ten goals and 13 assists in all competitions in the 2023/24 campaign, creating 14 ‘big chances’ and averaging 2.5 key passes per game in the Bundesliga, which speaks to the kind of quality he can provide in front of goal on a regular basis.
Appearances
25
32
xG
5.11
4.23
Goals
10
7
Big chances created
12
9
Key passes per game
2.0
2.1
xA
5.98
3.94
Assists
7
4
As you can see in the table above, the Dutchman’s form in the 2024/25 Bundesliga season also suggests that he has more to offer to Tottenham than Kulusevski moving forward, with more xA, more assists, more ‘big chances’ created, and more goals, despite playing seven fewer matches.
The Leipzig star is also on a reported wage of roughly £98k-per-week, per Capology, which suggests that he could arrive on similar wages to the Sweden international, unless he demands a significant pay hike to make the move.
Xavi Simons celebrates
If Spurs can bring Simons to the club on a similar wage to Kulusevski, the Dutch star’s performances for Leipzig in recent seasons suggest that he would arrive as a big upgrade on what Frank currently has to work with.
The 22-year-old maestro has the potential to provide more goals and more assists as an attacking midfielder, as a player who can finish his chances with more efficiency, whilst also creating more high-quality opportunities for his teammates.
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Therefore, Spurs should sign the £60m-rated star to bolster Frank’s squad before the summer transfer window slams shut, to improve their options at the top end of the pitch.
Glasgow Rangers have used the loan system to great effect in recent seasons and are currently looking for a player to replace their latest loan success, Vaclav Cerny.
The winger spent the 2024/25 campaign on loan at Ibrox, and caught the eye with his impressive performances on the right flank for Philippe Clement and Barry Ferguson’s side.
Cerny, 27, ended the Scottish Premiership season with an excellent haul of 12 goals and four assists for Rangers, which shows that he offered a threat in the final third on a regular basis.
It was the latest example of the Light Blues’ excellent use of the loan market, and there have been plenty of other great examples over the years, going all the way back to the signing of Ryan Kent on loan under Steven Gerrard.
Abdallah Sima
More recently, though, the Light Blues snapped up a promising talent from a Premier League club by signing Abdallah Sima on loan from Brighton & Hove Albion, in a deal that was another big success.
Rangers hit gold with Abdallah Sima
In the summer of 2023, the Gers swooped to sign the versatile attacker on a season long-loan from Brighton, but they did not include an option to make the deal permanent the following summer.
Despite only having the Senegal international on loan for one season, Rangers will surely look back on his time at Ibrox as a success due to his quality on the pitch.
Abdallah Sima
As you can see in the graphic above, Sima ended his time in Glasgow with a return of 16 goals and two assists in 39 games, which shows that he posed a big threat as a goalscorer.
The 24-year-old star also started the quarter-finals, the semi-finals, and the final of the League Cup as Rangers won the competition, scoring in the quarter-final against Livingston.
Appearances
25
Starts
17
Goals
11
Big chances created
2
Assists
2
Dribbles completed per game
1.2
Duels won per game
6.4
As you can see in the table above, Sima was particularly prolific in the Premiership, despite injuries limiting his minutes, as he scored 11 goals in 17 starts in the division for Michael Beale and Philippe Clement.
The right-footed forward hit the ground running in Scottish football and proved to be a reliable forward who was depended on by both managers that season.
Overall, it was a brilliant deal for Rangers because they had a high-quality player who made a big impact on the pitch and helped the team to win a trophy, without having to pay a transfer fee for him.
Rangers eyeing move for Brighton talent
The Light Blues could repeat that Sima blinder by signing another young star on loan from Brighton this summer, amid interest in one of their current crop of talents.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
According to Football Insider, Rangers are interested in a deal to sign Brighton’s young English goalkeeper Carl Rushworth on a season-long loan to bolster Russell Martin’s squad.
The report claims that the Light Blues are ‘accelerating’ their efforts to bring in a new shot-stopper to improve the team, as they look for competition for Jack Butland and Liam Kelly.
Carl RushworthCarl Rushworth
Football Insider adds that Rangers are working to agree a deal for Rushworth this week, although it remains to be seen if they will be able to wrap up a move before the 17th July deadline for the Champions League squad to face Panathinaikos later this month.
The outlet reveals that the Gers would like to replace Butland and that the Brighton youngster is looking for a club where he can play regular football again.
Why Carl Rushworth would be an Abdallah Sima repeat for Rangers
Rangers would repeat their Sima masterclass with Rushworth because he would be another young loanee from Brighton who could arrive to make an instant impact at Ibrox as a key player on the pitch.
In the 2024/25 campaign, Butland conceded 2.22 more goals than expected based on the xG of the shots against his goal in the Premiership, which shows that he underperformed as a shot-stopper.
Jack Butland
Rushworth only played two games on loan at Hull, as they preferred their permanent number one option, but his form on loan at Swansea in the Championship in the 2023/24 campaign suggests that he has the potential to come in as an upgrade on Butland.
In that season with the Swans, the former England U21 international started all 46 league games and caught the eye by preventing 4.02 goals (xG) between the sticks, which shows that he could be a better shot-stopper than the current Gers number one based on the quality of his shot-stopping that term.
It was his all-round game in that season for the Welsh side, though, that really suggests that Rangers could find their next Sima success by raiding Brighton for another young gem on loan.
Post-shot xG minus goals conceded
+0.12
Top 14%
Save percentage
70.9%
Top 22%
Touches
50.48
Top 6%
Percentage of passes that were launched long
31.8%
Bottom 49%
Defensive actions outside of the box
1.39
Top 29%
Average distance of defensive actions
16.3 yards
Top 26%
As you can see in the table above, Rushworth is a modern goalkeeper who can act as a sweeper behind the defence as well as being comfortable and composed in possession, taking plenty of touches without launching it long very often.
These statistics suggest that the left-footed star, who was hailed as “fearless” by former boss Matt Taylor, would suit Martin’s ball-dominant style of play, as he will need to be competent at drawing in a press and playing around it, rather than constantly launching the ball long.
Factor in that his shot-stopping form for Swansea suggests that he could be even better than Butland with his hands and the potential is there for Rushworth to be the dream all-round goalkeeper for Rangers.
This is why he could be a Sima repeat because the 24-year-old titan could step in and instantly be the best option to be the number one for Martin, hopefully helping the team to achieve success on the pitch next season, if they can land him on loan.
As important as Raskin: Rangers receive bid to sell "vintage" Ibrox star
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Setting their sights on signing another attacking addition this summer, the Friedkin Group are now reportedly plotting a move to sign a talented £50 million star for Everton.
Friedkin could hand Everton £150m spree
Friedkin are in a strong position to make some much-needed changes at Everton this summer. As revealed by earlier reports, the Toffees are able to spend as much as £150m if they please ahead of next season, having already signed Thierno Barry, Mark Travers and Carlos Alcaraz on a permanent deal.
Villarreal's Thierno Barry
As they head into a new era at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, David Moyes still reportedly wants to sign two midfielders to soften the blow of Abdoulaye Doucoure’s exit and a new winger.
Several targets have emerged who would tick those boxes too, with the likes of James McAtee and Takefusa Kubo chief among their priorities. Both would be excellent additions, especially the latter, who came through at Real Madrid and has since thrived at Real Sociedad.
The Japan international, whilst not at his true best last season, still managed seven goals and four assists; the type of numbers that would see Everton land an instant upgrade on former loanee Jack Harrison.
Whether Moyes’ side can agree a deal with Sociedad in the coming weeks is the big question.
The Merseyside club are reportedly preparing to submit an offer worth around £35m, which they hope will be enough to advance any deal to sign Kubo. The move would mark Everton’s second La Liga signing of the summer after Barry and would once again steal plenty of headlines.
That said, Kubo isn’t the only option on their shortlist.
Takefusa Kubo scores for Japan
Indeed, reports are now suggesting that Friedkin have set their sights on another talented winger.
Everton plotting Tyler Dibling swoop
As reported by The Times’ Paul Joyce, Friedkin are now plotting a fresh swoop to sign Tyler Dibling from relegated Southampton this summer. The teenage talent was one of few standouts for the Saints in a season to forget last time out, and he could now get the chance to retain his Premier League place.
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Dibling won’t come cheap, however. There are claims that Southampton are looking to secure as much as £50m to sell the 19-year-old this summer in what would make him Everton’s joint-record signing with Richarlison.
The big question will be whether Dibling is worthy of breaking that record, and based on Russell Martin’s praise last season, the answer is a resounding yes.
Southampton's TylerDiblingin action with Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers and Ian Maatsen
The former Southampton boss told reporters:
“Tyler was unfortunate not to play earlier because he had an amazing pre-season.
“So he has an incredible belief in himself in a really nice, humble and modest way. But he has to just keep living at 100 per cent and understand where that is and understand what’s got him this far.
“I think he has a brilliant support network with his family. He has a lot of trust from us and he has that back. It’s not always plain sailing with young players.”
Everton’s ongoing search for a reliable winger has become one of the defining narratives of their pre-season.
Following the departures of Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom, both of whom returned to their parent clubs after loan spells last term, manager David Moyes faces mounting pressure to reinforce his squad’s attacking width.
Everton manager DavidMoyesbefore the match
The club has cast a wide net in pursuit of fresh talent, but so far, the results have been disappointing.
One key target, Lyon’s Malick Fofana, one of Ligue 1’s most exciting young prospects, looks to have turned down a £31.5m move, reportedly preferring a move to a club competing in the Champions League.
That has left Everton to identify alternatives capable of filling the void quickly.
Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo has also been linked with a move to Goodison Park, but the Spanish side’s insistence on his £51.9m relegation release clause makes negotiations difficult.
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Meanwhile, Como’s Assane Diao, who has impressed since arriving from Real Betis, is another name in the mix, but competition for his signature is fierce.
One of the most intriguing potential signings is Southampton’s 19-year-old Tyler Dibling, with the Toffees said to have made a £27m bid for his services. That offer was swiftly rejected, with it yet to be seen if a renewed approach will arrive.
Dibling is a player with a promising future and has attracted interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Dibling’s natural aggressiveness and ability to influence matches through direct running rather than intricate passing are traits increasingly valuable in modern football.
However, despite these qualities, Dibling remains largely unproven at the highest level.
Everton’s immediate needs may demand more than promise and potential.
Everton looking at Dibling alternative
Enter Jack Grealish. The 29-year-old England international has become a focal point of speculation in the Everton transfer saga.
Left out of Manchester City’s Club World Cup squad last December and struggling to find consistent game time, Grealish is reportedly available for transfer.
As per TEAMtalk, while his hefty £300k per week salary complicates the possibility of a permanent deal, Everton are willing to make a substantial loan bid in order to bring him in. There is said to be optimism on Merseyside that a deal can be struck.
Grealish’s versatility is a major asset. He can operate both as a winger and as an attacking midfielder, providing Moyes with tactical flexibility.
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While last season saw him limited to just 721 minutes, his previous campaigns have demonstrated his class at the highest level.
Why Grealish could be the upgrade Everton need
According to data from FBref, during the 2022/23 treble-winning season, Grealish was a creative powerhouse, boasting 6.27 progressive carries per 90 minutes and averaging 4.55 shot-creating actions.
His pass completion rate was an impressive 84.1%, and he made nearly 34 touches in the attacking third every game.
This kind of influence and creativity is precisely what Everton have been missing.
Pep Guardiola, speaking in February following an FA Cup fourth-round win, encapsulated this spirit perfectly:
“Jack is one of those players that came to fight in these stadiums when the people shout; he is a fighter.”
Manchester City's JackGrealishon the substitutes bench
This, combined with a proven record in the Premier League and international football, marks Grealish out as a safer bet compared to younger, less experienced targets.
Looking deeper into the profiles of Grealish and Dibling reveals the dilemma Everton face between short-term reliability and long-term potential.
Dibling’s statistical profile impresses in terms of physicality and defensive contribution.
He ranks in the 90th percentile or higher for several key metrics: fouls drawn (2.49 per 90), tackles in the midfield third (0.86), and percentage of dribblers tackled (61.5%).
He also ranks highly for shots blocked and successful take-ons, underscoring his combative style and willingness to engage opponents directly.
In an era where many players focus on limited touches and rapid distribution, Dibling’s approach of moving the ball with pace by dribbling is a distinctive asset that could unlock defences.
However, Dibling’s end product at the Premier League level remains limited: just two goals and one assist in a full season of appearances.
Everton’s current squad demands players who can immediately influence the attacking phase, and Dibling still has work to do to reach that level consistently.
Grealish, on the other hand, offers proven creativity and goal involvement at the top tier. With 27 Premier League goals and 39 caps for England, his experience is vast.
His impact when fully fit is undeniable.
His progressive passing and dribbling numbers during his peak season reflect a player capable of dictating play and carving open defences.
Furthermore, Everton’s financial situation means a loan deal for Grealish could provide immediate quality without a long-term financial commitment, balancing ambition and pragmatism.
Ultimately, Everton’s winger conundrum highlights a broader strategic choice: invest in a young, unproven talent with high potential or secure an experienced player who can deliver now.
Given the team’s recent struggles and urgent need for creativity, Grealish appears to be the upgrade Everton need, even if only temporarily.
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Moyes wants to reinforce Everton’s attack this summer
Aston Villa have been handed a golden opportunity to sign a “prolific” striker, with his club now open to sanctioning a departure this summer, according to a report.
Villa set sights on new striker amid Watkins uncertainty
Widespread reports have suggested that Villa have no interest in allowing Ollie Watkins to leave this summer, but they may find it difficult to hold onto the striker, given that he is thought to be really keen on a move to Old Trafford.
At the moment, Manchester United are battling Newcastle United for the services of RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, but there is a feeling that Ruben Amorim’s side may not be able to match the Magpies’ offer, which would force them to move on to alternative options.
Should that happen, the Red Devils could pursue a move for Watkins, with the 29-year-old of the belief that now is the right time to leave Villa Park, and Unai Emery’s side have now started running the rule over potential replacements.
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Last week, it was revealed that RB Leipzig’s Lois Openda has been identified as a key target, should Watkins leave, but the 25-year-old is not the only striker on Emery’s shortlist.
According to a report from Caught Offside, Aston Villa are now assessing a move for Paris Saint-Germain’s Goncalo Ramos, and they have been handed a golden opportunity to get a deal done, given that the French club are now open to a sale.
Ramos is looking to leave PSG this summer, given that he is no longer a regular starter, and there are plenty of potential suitors waiting in the wings, with Newcastle, Man United, Liverpool, Napoli and Juventus all named as interested parties.
PSG forward Goncalo Ramos
However, Villa may have to spend big if they are to get a deal over the line, as PSG are looking to recoup as much of the €65m (£56m) fee they forked out to sign the centre-forward as possible.
"Prolific" Ramos could be ideal Watkins replacement
The 24-year-old may be finding it difficult to force his way into Luis Enrique’s plans, but he still managed to amass 19 goals in all competitions in the 2024-25 season, and football talent scout Jacek Kulig has praised the striker for his performances at international level.
Luis Enrique has also singled the Portuguese striker out for praise in the past, saying: “If I have to talk to you about Ramos, I can only say that he has an iron spirit. He has a faultless ambition and he’s a very interesting player.”
That said, Villa’s number one priority this summer should be to keep hold of Watkins, given that the Englishman has already proven himself in the Premier League over a number of years.