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da heads bet： Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca looks set for a busy summer indeed. He may be close to leading the Blues to their first trophy since 2021, but the Italian is already thinking ahead to next season.

da 888casino： There has been no shortage of big-name players being linked with a move to Stamford Bridge in recent weeks.

Real Madrid superstar Rodrygo is one trending target, with reports coming from Spain that the club would love to sign the Brazilian.

Hugo Ekitiké has emerged as another potential option to bolster Maresca’s frontline this summer. Journalist Simon Phillips claimed that Chelsea had been scouting the Frenchman ahead of the summer transfer window following his excellent campaign for Eintracht Frankfurt.

While the need for attacking players is obviously key for Maresca, especially if the club secures Champions League qualification for 2025/26, bringing in another centre-back or two is equally important.

Across all competitions this season, the club have conceded 57 goals, including 43 in the Premier League.

The battle for a top five spot

Team

Games

Wins

Draws

Defeats

points

2. Arsenal

37

19

14

4

71

3. Newcastle

37

20

6

11

66

4. Chelsea

37

19

9

9

66

5. Aston Villa

37

19

9

9

66

6. Man City

36

19

8

9

65

7. Nottingham Forest

37

19

8

10

65

They will face tougher competition in Europe certainly, heightening the need for a defender capable of stepping up to the plate.

It looked as though they were frontrunners to sign Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen, but that plan was scuppered recently…

Chelsea have missed out on Dean Huijsen

Following an excellent season for the Cherries, Huijsen certainly attracted attention from elsewhere, and it appeared as though he would be leaving the south coast sooner rather than later.

According to the Mail, Chelsea were targeting a swoop for the Spanish defender, with the report claiming fellow admirers Liverpool, believed that the Blues were leading the chase.

Recent developments, however, now mean that the youngster won’t be making the move to London this summer.

Real Madrid activated the £50m release clause in his contract in order to secure his services at the end of the season.

This is a big blow for Maresca, as capturing Huijsen, especially with clubs such as Arsenal, Bayern Munich and Liverpool showing interest, would have signalled a statement of intent.

Now, the Italian will have to turn to other defensive targets ahead of the transfer window opening on June 1. By that time, the Blues will know which European competition they will be playing in next season.

Could this allow the club to sign more high-profile players?

Chelsea keen to open talks with teenage defender

Maresa could turn to Premier League defenders Marc Guehi and Jarrad Branthwaite as potential alternatives this summer, according to Sky Sports.

It is likely both Crystal Palace and Everton will attempt to put Chelsea off by placing huge price tags on their prized assets. If so, the Blues could well turn to the continent for another centre-back.

According to TEAMtalk, with Huijsen now unavailable, Chelsea are reportedly keen on opening talks with Ajax defender Jorrel Hato.

The 19-year-old is a sought-after player, with the likes of AC Milan, Liverpool and Arsenal all showing interest in prising him away from the Netherlands.

Ajax have set an asking price in the region of €45m-€50m (£38m-£42m), meaning if the Blues were to sign him, he would be cheaper than Huijsen.

The report claims that talks are set to begin soon between the Premier League side and Hato. If so, Maresca will be looking to get this deal over the line as quickly as possible.

Why Chelsea must sign Jorrel Hato

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig is used to waxing lyrical about young talent, but his praise for Hato back in 2023 proves just how highly-rated he really was.

“17 years of age. De Toekomst’s Finest. One of the most talented CBs of his generation in Europe.” Said Kulig and the youngster has gone from strength to strength since.

Players Chelsea have signed from Ajax

Player

Year joined

Hakim Ziyech

2020

Daishwan Redan

2017

Juan Familia-Castillo

2016

Per Weihrauch

2006

Moubarak Boussoufa

2002

Jesper Gronkjaer

2001

Mario Melchiot

1999

Via Transfermarkt

Despite only turning 19 in March, the Ajax sensation has already racked up 111 competitive appearances for the club, registering 13 goal contributions in that time.

Although the club collapsed over the final few games, allowing PSV Eindhoven to steal the Eredivisie title away from them, Hato enjoyed a wonderful campaign.

His 90% pass accuracy in the top flight was third-best in the squad, behind only Youri Baas and Josip Sutalo, while he ranked first for tackles (1.9), fifth for interceptions (0.7) and third for clearances (2) per game for Ajax.

He also won 4.1 total duels per game – a success rate of 52% – while recovering 4.2 balls per game in the Eredivisie this term.

These performances led Kulig to hail him for his “immense quality” and for having an “excellent season” for the Dutch club.

Huijsen may be on his way to Madrid, but is there a case for Hato to perhaps turn out to be the better long-term prospect for Chelsea?

Why Jorrel Hato can be a better signing than Dean Huijsen

While Huijsen is a superb centre-back, Hato offers positional flexibility which could see him thrive under Maresca.

Not only is he an excellent ball-playing centre-back, but Hato is also just as comfortable at full-back, particularly on the left side of the defence.

Domestically this season, the Dutch youngster has registered eight goal contributions for Ajax, along with recording 0.45 goal-creating actions, winning 36 tackles, making 33 carries into the final third and taking 413 touches in the final third.

Compare these statistics to Huijsen, however, and it is clear who could fit into Maresca’s style better.

The Spaniard has recorded four goal contributions for the Cherries this term, while he also recorded 0.12 goal-creating actions, wins 26 tackles, made 29 carries into the final third and has taken only 137 touches in the opposition’s final third in the top flight.

Hato’s ball-playing ability in advancing out of his own half could give Chelsea a new dimension next season.

Huijsen may have been flavour of the month for a while, but for a cheaper transfer fee, Maresca could sign a defender who has the potential to be even better.

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da bet sport： Chelsea booked their place in the final of the Conference League on Thursday night and are now preparing to face Real Betis with a chance to win silverware in Enzo Maresca’s first season in charge.

da dobrowin： The Blues beat Djurgarden 1-0 at Stamford Bridge, and 5-1 on aggregate, to clinch their place in the final, whilst the club are also in the race to secure a Champions League place by finishing in the top five in the Premier League.

Despite there still being plenty to play for domestically and in Europe this season, Chelsea are also putting plans in place ahead of the summer transfer window, with talks underway to sign a new centre-forward.

Chelsea have held talks to sign Ligue 1 forward

According to Foot Mercato, Chelsea have already held talks over a deal to sign Emanuel Emegha from Strasbourg 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.

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The report claims that the club have spoken with the player and his representatives to discuss a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge, as the English giants work on a transfer to bring him over in the summer.

It states that negotiations between Chelsea and Strasbourg are not expected to pose any problems, because they share the same ownership, but does not reveal how much money it would take to strike a deal for the centre-forward.

The Blues are clearly looking to bolster their attacking options in the summer transfer window and Emegha presents an interesting option, as he could be amazing with Cole Palmer at Stamford Bridge next term.

Why Emegha would love Cole Palmer

The Strasbourg number nine could love to play with the England international because the left-footed star has the creative quality to consistently provide him with opportunities to find the back of the net.

Put simply, Palmer is a striker’s dream because he has created 38 ‘big chances’ in the Premier League since the start of last season, more than any other player in the squad.

Emegha, whose form was hailed as “magnificent” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, is a clever striker with excellent movement, as shown in the clip above, and could be the perfect forward to make the most of Palmer’s exceptional passing quality.

His movement has been evident throughout the Ligue 1 season with Strasbourg because he has racked up 16.58 xG in 27 matches, which shows that he is consistently getting into high-quality positions.

24/25 Ligue 1

Emanuel Emegha

Appearances

27

xG

16.58

Shots per game

2.3

Goals

14

Conversion rate

23%

Big chances created

4

Assists

3

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, the 22-year-old star has only scored 14 goals from 16.58 xG, an underperformance, but it does show that the forward is good at getting into shooting positions.

Having a playmaker of Palmer’s quality in the number ten position behind him could help to make Emegha even more prolific by combining his passing with the striker’s movement, and that is why they could be an exciting pairing for Chelsea with their potential link-up in the final third.

Emegha could become amazing for the Blues by playing with the English star because of the quality of chances that could be consistently created for him, and that is why the youngster, who still has room to improve his finishing, could be an excellent addition to the squad.

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da wazamba： Crystal Palace are now “interested” in signing a “fantastic” Premier League player, who is set to be available for a bargain fee in the summer transfer window, according to reliable reporter Ben Jacobs.

Palace set sights on new midfielder

da bet7： Palace may have their work cut out trying to keep hold of some of their key players this summer, with the likes of Marc Guehi and Jean-Philippe Mateta attracting widespread interest, alongside Adam Wharton, with Liverpool now ready to sign the 21-year-old.

With attacking midfielder Eberechi Eze also catching the eye, Oliver Glasner may be tasked with bringing in at least one new midfielder in the summer transfer window, and the manager has several potential options in mind.

Sunderland’s Chris Rigg is of particular interest, with the Eagles racing a number of their Premier League rivals for the 17-year-old, while they are also eyeing a move for Rigg’s teammate, Jobe Bellingham, who Glasner is believed to be a big fan of.

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According to Ben Jacobs, Crystal Palace have now joined the race for a new central midfield target, with the reporter taking to X to reveal they are now “interested” in signing Leicester City midfielder Wilfred Ndidi.

With Leicester’s relegation from the Premier League now confirmed, they could be in line to lose one of their key players on the cheap, with Ndidi set to leave for just £9m due to a clause included in his contract.

There is widespread interest in the central midfielder, with Premier League rivals Everton and Fulham also emerging as potential suitors, while Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli have him on their “radar”, although they are yet to make an official approach.

"Fantastic" Ndidi has talent to remain in Premier League

Leicester’s performance in the Premier League this season has been nothing short of dismal, having collected just 18 points throughout the campaign, but the Nigerian midfielder has impressed in the top flight in the past.

The Lagos-born maestro was once described as a “monster” after impressing against Liverpool, while he has also been lauded as “fantastic” by members of the media, in light of his performances for Nigeria at international level.

Not only that, but the 28-year-old has been one of the standout players in a poor Leicester side, and he has performed well across a number of key attacking and defensive metrics over the past year, indicating he is a well-rounded midfielder.

Statistic

Average per 90

Assists

0.18 (84th percentile)

Tackles

3.37 (96th percentile)

Clearances

3.06 (97th percentile)

Aerials won

2.32 (95th percentile)

At just £9m, Ndidi could be a shrewd acquistion for Crystal Palace this summer, and they should be in a strong position to win the race for his signature, having shown they can compete for major honours by progressing to the FA Cup final against Manchester City.

da casino： Despite the injury issues at Arsenal this season, Mikel Arteta has done a tremendous job, leading the side to second in the Premier League and a Champions League semi-final.

da betway： Such problems have allowed numerous players to stake their claim as a first-team regular, many of whom have grabbed their opportunity with both hands.

Left-back Myles Lewis-Skelly has emerged out of the academy setup in recent months and nailed down the position as his own despite his tender age.

The 18-year-old has made 31 appearances across all competitions since his debut back in September, going from strength to strength under the guidance of the Spaniard.

He’s been joined in the side by one player who’s managed to star, albeit in a role that he’s never previously featured in during his time in North London.

Mikel Merino’s role as a centre-forward at Arsenal

Central midfielder Mikel Merino joined Arsenal back in the summer from Real Sociedad, looking to cement his place at the heart of the side alongside Declan Rice.

Whilst he started the season in his natural position, the injury crisis at the top end of the pitch saw the Spaniard shift to a centre-forward position – a decision that has worked wonders in recent weeks.

He came off the bench against Leicester City at 0-0, scoring twice in the closing stages, securing the win for Arteta’s men, leading to his regular inclusion as the focal point.

The 28-year-old has since registered four goals and three assists in such a role, with three of his seven efforts coming over the two legs of the Champions League quarter-final with Real Madrid.

Given such a successful transition for Merino, it would be a risk to change the player featuring up front, but Arteta could do just that by utilising another player out of position.

The Arsenal star who could repeat Arteta’s Merino trick

The decisions made by Arteta over the last couple of months have been complete masterstrokes, leading to the success they’ve endured on the pitch.

With such issues plaguing the side in recent times, many would expect the side to limp over the finish line, but they have exceeded all expectations – having the opportunity to end the season by claiming their first European title.

Whilst Merino has done a sensational job at the top end, the boss could repeat such a trick by utilising Ethan Nwaneri as the central striker to balance the workload.

The 18-year-old has enjoyed his own breakthrough this season, notching eight goals in his 32 appearances across all competitions – starring alongside Lewis-Skelly at the Emirates.

Whilst the teenager is primarily a wide player, he has all the tools to star in a central position, potentially taking his career to another level in such a role.

Nwaneri, who’s been labelled “superb” by Jeorge Bird, has registered 2.3 shots per 90 in the Premier League this season, having the skillset to thrive in the final third.

He’s also completed 3.6 dribbles per 90, at a completion rate of 65%, able to drive at the opposition backline when dropping deep, allowing Bukayo Saka to run in behind.

Ethan Nwaneri’s stats for Arsenal in the PL (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

22

Goals & assists

5

Pass accuracy

89%

Shots taken

2.3

Successful dribbles

3.6

Dribble success rate

65%

Duels won

5.8

Stats via FotMob

Despite his small frame, he’s managed to win 5.8 duels per 90 this season, subsequently being able to put himself about and make the defender’s job even tougher than it would’ve been by Merino.

Whilst the Spaniard has done an impressive job in the role, the return of Saka has undoubtedly restricted the first-team minutes for Nwaneri, with Arteta needing an alternative to further his development.

A switch to a central position could work for the side, offering another dimension to their attack in their quest for European glory in the next couple of months.

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da dobrowin： Following their heroics against Real Madrid, there is now a real chance Arsenal’s season could end in Champions League glory.

da cassino online： However, while that would be all fans will remember this campaign for years down the line, it would still be fair to describe their domestic season as a disaster.

While a significant reason for that has been the near-constant stream of injuries Mikel Arteta and Co have had to deal with, it’s also been down to several star players not performing at their best, with club captain Martin Odegaard perhaps the worst offender in this regard.

Since returning from his ankle injury in November, the Norwegian hasn’t been able to hit the heights of the last two years, and that may cost him next season, as recent reports have linked Arsenal to someone who could be a significant upgrade this summer.

Arsenal transfer news

On top of a new midfielder, Arsenal have also been linked with a plethora of wide talent in recent weeks, with perhaps the most consistent being Nico Williams.

The Athletic Bilbao star was touted for a move to the North Londoners last summer as well, but it seems like he could really be available for around £50m this year, and given his tally of 11 goals and seven assists in 42 games this season, that may be a fee well worth paying.

Likewise, the Gunners have long been linked with Raphinha, even before his move to Barcelona, and those rumours have once again reemerged this year, with reports suggesting he could be available for around £80m.

Transfer Focus

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

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While that’s an awful lot of money, it doesn’t seem too unreasonable considering he’s amassed a sensational tally of 30 goals and 23 assists in just 48 appearances this term, although if the North Londoners are going to sign Florian Wirtz, they might not be able to afford the Brazilian winger.

Yes, according to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are one of several top sides keen to sign the Bayer Leverkusen gem this summer.

Alongside the Gunners, the report claims that Liverpool, Manchester City, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich are all interested in the German international, who could cost up to €130m, which is about £111m.

It would be an incredibly costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, but given Wirtz’s immense quality and potential, one well worth fighting for, even if his arrival would be bad news for Odegaard.

How Wirtz compares to Odegaard

So, if Arsenal were to get ahead of the chasing pack and splash the cash on Wirtz this summer, they’d likely do so with the intention of having him start most games as an attacking midfielder, which would put him in direct competition with Odegaard.

With that said, who comes out on top when we compare them both? Well, from a pure output perspective, it’s an overwhelming victory for the Leverkusen star.

For example, in just 41 appearances this season, totalling 3040 minutes, he’s scored 15 goals and provided 13 assists, which comes out to a brilliant average of a goal involvement every 1.46 games or every 108.57 minutes.

In comparison, the former Real Madrid gem has only been able to amass a tally of five goals and nine assists in 38 appearances, totalling 2896 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 2.71 games of every 206.85 minutes.

What about their underlying numbers, then? Who comes out on top when we take a look under the hood?

Wirtz vs Odegaard

Statistics per 90

Wirtz

Odegaard

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.51

0.37

Non-Penalty G+As

0.77

0.28

Progressive Carries

4.91

3.59

Progressive Passes

6.80

10.4

Shots

2.79

1.80

Shots on Target

1.26

0.60

Shot-Creating Actions

5.76

5.02

Goal-Creating Actions

0.85

0.55

Ball Recoveries

4.41

3.73

All Stats via FBref for the 24/25 League Season

Unfortunately for the Gunners’ captain, he once again comes out on the losing side of this comparison, as the Pulheim-born gem, whom former Leverkusen striker Patrick Helmes has described as “the best midfielder in the world,” does better in most relevant metrics.

For example, he does far better in metrics like expected and actual non-penalty goals plus assists, progressive carries, shots and shots on target, shot and goal-creating actions and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, while it would require a club-record bid, Arsenal should be doing all they can to bring Wirtz to the Emirates this summer, even if it sees Odegaard relegated to a squad role.

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da betobet： With Mohamed Salah’s new deal confirmed last week and Virgil van Dijk’s now announced as well, Liverpool have also agreed a fresh contract with another player on improved terms.

Liverpool confirm Van Dijk deal ahead of Premier League title triumph

da marjack bet： No matter how much Arne Slot’s side pushed on towards the Premier League title this season, a contract cloud threatened to rain down on an otherwise excellent season. That cloud, with just two wins standing between the Reds and their English crown, is set to clear at long last, however – Salah’s new two-year deal has already been announced.

The Egyptian King was pictured atop his Anfield throne where he is set to stay. Now, Van Dijk is set to follow and signal a major sigh of relief around the red half of Merseyside.

After putting pen to paper on a new deal, Salah expressed his delight – telling reporters: “Of course I’m very excited – we have a great team now. Before we also had a great team.

“But I signed because I think we have a chance to win other trophies and enjoy my football. I have played eight years here, hopefully it’s going to be 10. I’m enjoying my life here, enjoying my football. I have had the best years of my career here.”

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Van Dijk only reciprocated that delight, saying on Thursday: “It was always Liverpool. That was the case. It was always in my head, it was always the plan and it was always Liverpool.”

That said, even after Van Dijk and Salah, the Liverpool contract news is seemingly not done there amid reports that another player has put pen to paper on new and improved Anfield terms.

Vitezslav Jaros agrees new Liverpool contract

According to InFotbal.cz, as relayed by Sports Witness, Vitezslav Jaros has now agreed a new Liverpool contract on improved terms, committing his future to the club alongside Van Dijk and Salah.

Whilst the goalkeeper remains behind Alisson Becker and Caoimhin Kelleher in the pecking order in what will likely remain the case when Giorgi Mamardashvili arrives, Jaros is set to stay put at Anfield before potentially heading out on loan this summer.

Still just 23 years old, the Czech Republic shot-stopper has enjoyed spells at Stockport and Sturm Graz in recent years and even made a shock Premier League debut earlier this season when he replaced the injured Alisson 11 minutes from time in Liverpool’s 1-0 victory against Crystal Palace in October. In the same week, Jaros then went on to start in a 3-2 victory against Brighton & Hove Albion in the Carabao Cup.

So, whilst his role may not be a prominent one, Jaros has still had his moments for Liverpool this season and he will be hoping to see similar opportunities fall his way in years to come.

da betcris： Attempting to solve their left-back problem at long last, Manchester City are now reportedly in constant contact with one £30m target who Kyle Walker has recently got to know fairly well.

Man City planning major overhaul

da lvbet： Whilst Kevin de Bruyne’s pending departure is likely to be an emotional one at the Etihad, Manchester City may have to get used to bidding farewell to club veterans in the coming months as the Blues commence a much-needed overhaul.

City boss Pep Guardiola has already paid tribute to De Bruyne’s time at the club as the Belgian prepares to leave, whilst revealing that it was the club’s decision. The Spaniard told reporters: “The decision has been made for the club, and the club is the club. Me, Txiki [Begiristain, sporting director], and the club, so this is what it is. It was not easy for me to tell him it won’t continue.

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“The last year and a half, he was out injured because he gave everything for the club. Everything he had in his body and his mind, he’s done it, so there’s no doubt about it.”

The focus has since shifted towards replacing De Bruyne and whilst some may see that as mission impossible at the Etihad, a number of candidates have already emerged. Recent reports have mentioned the likes of Florian Wirtz and even Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White regarding players on City’s radar and there’s no doubt that both have their own standout qualities.

When comparing the two, however, it must be said that it’s Wirtz who would steal the most headlines having become one of the most dangerous attacking midfielders during his time at Bayer Leverkusen.

Meanwhile, away from their need to replace De Bruyne, Manchester City must also finally sign another left-back this summer – allowing Josko Gvardiol to move back into central defence and ending Rico Lewis’ unsuccessful role down that side.

Man City in constant contact with Theo Hernandez

On that front, one name that has recently emerged as a potential solution is Theo Hernandez. According to The Boot Room, Manchester City are now in constant contact with Hernandez’s representatives over a summer move from AC Milan and are racing to secure his signature alongside Tottenham Hotspur.

A Champions League winner who could reportedly be available for as little as £30m this summer, Manchester City may well get themselves a bargain solution by signing Hernandez this summer. There’s no doubt that he would be an instant upgrade on Lewis and a player who could match Gvardiol’s quality or allow the Croatia star to move into the middle.

League stats 24/25 (via FBref)

Theo Hernandez

Josko Gvardiol

Rico Lewis

Minutes

2,254

2,647

1,720

Assists

3

0

2

Tackles Won

22

33

19

Ball Recoveries

111

119

89

Dubbed “electric fast” by analyst Ben Mattinson, Hernandez will have the chance to find out all about Manchester City whilst at AC Milan if he speaks to former captain Kyle Walker, who had plenty of pace of his own, often relied upon to halt counter-attacks as City dominated possession.

The England international is currently on loan at the San Siro and whilst he may yet leave on a permanent basis, he could first bring back the gift of Hernandez this summer.

da doce： Celtic have had mixed success in the Scottish Premiership since the club returned to action after the final international break of the 2024/25 campaign.

da brwin： The Hoops made a fast start to the last stretch of the season when they hammered Hearts 3-0 at Parkhead in their first game after the break, thanks to two goals from Daizen Maeda and one from Jota.

However, they followed that up by being beaten by bottom-of-the-league St. Johnstone away in the Premiership in their most recent match on Sunday.

It was a disappointing performance and result for the Hoops, who could have little complaints about the scoreline after they failed to produce the kind of quality supporters have become used to seeing from them in the final third.

The difference in Callum McGregor’s performance between the two matches illustrated the difference in Celtic’s play, and why the former Scotland international is so integral to Brendan Rodgers’ style of play.

Why Callum McGregor is integral for Celtic

In the 3-0 win over Hearts, the left-footed star completed a staggering 99% of his attempted passes – making 66 of 67 – and assisted Maeda for the opening goal with a through ball that split open the Jam Tarts defence.

The Scottish ace also won two of his three physical duels during the match, whilst also making two interceptions, and was not dribbled past a single time by an opposition player, which shows that he excelled in and out of possession.

This meant that McGregor was able to impact the game at both ends of the pitch, by effectively screening in front of the back four and using his quality on the ball to create the opening goal.

Against St. Johnstone, however, the captain played the full 90 minutes and did not create a single chance for his teammates despite having 79 touches of the ball and completing 94% of his passes.

Callum McGregor

Hearts (H)

St. Johnstone (A)

Minutes

64

90

Key passes

2

0

Assists

1

0

Pass accuracy

99%

94%

Duels won

2/3

1/6

Interceptions

2

0

Dribbled past

0x

1x

Stats via Sofascore

As you can see in the table above, McGregor’s use of the ball and his actions defensively were nowhere up to the standards he set during the win over Hearts, as the Saints midfielders got the better of him far too easily in physical duels.

The difference in his performance correlating with the difference in results speaks to how integral he is to Celtic, because he is the heartbeat of the side and much of the team’s success depends on him playing to his level in the middle of the park.

McGregor, who has started 28 of his 29 appearances in the Premiership this season, provides a metronomic presence at the base of the midfield, controlling games for the Hoops, but allowed his level to drop against St. Johnstone and it contributed to the loss.

There is a former Celtic player, however, who has gone on to develop into being an even better player than the Hoops skipper in a deep-lying midfield role, as Ryan Christie has thrived since moving on from Parkhead.

How much Celtic sold Ryan Christie for

The Hoops reportedly sold the Scotland international to Bournemouth for a reported fee of £1.5m in the summer of 2021, having spent six years at Parkhead.

Christie made 151 appearances for the Premiership giants during his time in Glasgow, scoring 42 goals and providing 44 assists, before his move down south to the Championship – at the time.

During his time with the Hoops, the left-footed whiz predominantly played as either an attacking midfielder or as a winger as part of the midfield set-up, as he looked to impact games with goals and assists.

Christie was capable of the spectacular, as shown in the clip below, and even racked up an eye-catching tally of 21 goals and 16 assists in 45 appearances in all competitions during the 2019/20 campaign.

At that point, it seems unlikely that anyone would have predicted that Christie would go on to become an upgrade on McGregor in the number six position, as he was thriving as an attacker before his move to Bournemouth for £1.5m.

However, that is what has happened as the former St. Johnstone star has gone on to become an exceptional deep-lying midfield player in the Premier League at the Vitality.

Why Christie is now an upgrade on McGregor

Since signing for the Cherries, the bulk of the 30-year-old star’s appearances for the club have come as a defensive midfielder or a central midfielder, which is a big change from purely playing as an attack-minded midfielder or winger for Celtic.

If you compare Christie’s performances against McGregor’s over the past 365 days, whilst both now play in similar positions in midfield – unlike their time together at Parkhead, then it appears as though the left-footed ace would be an upgrade on the Celtic captain.

As you can see in the chart above, the Bournemouth star offers significantly more out of possession whilst also providing his team with more from an offensive perspective, when it comes to creating chances and building play that leads to shots.

Similar conclusions can be drawn by comparing Christie’s form in the Premier League to that of McGregor’s in the Champions League in the 2024/25 campaign, as shown below.

These statistics, this season and over the past 365 days, suggest that the former Bhoys ace would currently be an upgrade on McGregor in midfield, by doing more to help out his defence whilst also providing more creativity with his passing from a deep-lying role.

The Scottish ace was hailed by former Cherries defender Joe Partington earlier this year, as the former Celtic man was lauded for his consistency in the middle of the park.

Partington said: “Ryan Christie’s consistency this season is incredible. His level is so so high – his ability to look exceptionally in control of what he’s doing. I hope its not underwhelming to say he’s outstandingly basic.”

He added: “His touch is always perfect, his pass is always the right weight at the right time at the right angle – he plays the pass to the right player in the right moment into the right space.”

Christie, who has started 27 of his 29 appearances in the Premier League, has consistency to go along with his quality on the pitch, and consistency has been an issue – albeit over just two games – for McGregor since the international break.

However, there is no guarantee that he would have developed in the way that he has if Celtic had kept him at Parkhead, as the midfielder may have stuck to his role as an attacker, rather than being moved further back into a number six position.

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Therefore, the Hoops may not see Christie as one that got away from them from that perspective, but he was still a quality player who was sold for a relatively small amount of money, which should be frustrating for the Scottish giants.

da luck： Tottenham Hotspur’s business in the transfer market over the last couple of years has been seriously impressive, helping the club end the 17-year wait for any form of silverware.

da bet7： Attention has been turned to investing in younger talents, buying them at bargain prices and allowing them to develop and improve to reach their full potential in North London.

The likes of Pape Sarr and Lucas Bergvall are just two examples, with the pair featuring in a combined tally of 100 outings between them despite their tender ages.

Both have shown the rewards their current recruitment focus could yield if done correctly, with Thomas Frank needing to continue such a trend ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.

However, they’ve also spent big in the past, as seen by Mohammed Kudus’ £55m transfer from West Ham United this window, with other big-money additions also being lined up.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for Morgan Gibbs-White

Two weeks ago, Spurs triggered the £60m release clause in Morgan Gibbs-White’s contract at Nottingham Forest, with a deal expected to progress after such a move.

However, that switch swiftly ground to a halt after Reds owner Evangelos Marinakis raised an issue with the transfer, claiming that the Lilywhites made an illegal approach for his signature.

No one even knew that the England international had an option in his current deal, entering talks with the player and his agent without the approval of his current employers.

It had subsequently been reported that the 25-year-old remained keen on a move to North London this summer, although the latest developments appear to suggest otherwise.

Having travelled with the Forest squad on their pre-season tour of Portugal, the former Wolverhampton Wanderers man has since quashed any speculation after penning a new deal with the Tricky Trees.

The playmaker has committed his future to City Ground until 2028, with journalist Fabrizio Romano outlining that a move to Spurs is now “off”.

The Spurs player who’s already worth more than Gibbs-White

With Gibbs-White undoubtedly one of the hierarchy’s main targets this summer, other options will likely be drawn up as a result of his decision to stay put in Nottingham.

However, trust should be placed in the recruitment team to make the right call, something which they’ve done as seen by their recent success rate in the market.

As previously mentioned, with the likes of Bergvall and Sarr, the club have got it right in previous times, just like they have with winger Brennan Johnson, who’s excelled at the club in recent months.

The Welsh international arrived in a £47.5m deal from Forest back in the summer of 2023, with such a price tag appearing a huge chunk given he’d only had one prior year of top-flight experience.

However, a couple of years on from his transfer, it appears to be a shrewd piece of business, racking up a total of 23 goals within his 85 appearances for the club.

18 of which came in the most recent campaign, subsequently proving all of his doubters wrong after he was forced to deactivate his social media accounts following abuse from supporters for his lack of impact.

The 24-year-old is also responsible for one of the biggest moments in the club’s recent history, scoring the winner in the Europa League final – topping off a dream campaign for the youngster.

As a result of his rise in the last few months, Johnson, who’s been labelled “unbelievable” by international teammate Aaron Ramsey, is now valued at a staggering €75m (£66m) by CIES Football Observatory.

His subsequent value is higher than that of Gibbs-White, who’s deemed to be worth £60m due to his release clause, showcasing the phenomenal rise he’s endured during his time at the Lilywhites.

Tottenham’s most expensive signings of all time

Rank

Player

Fee

Signed from

Year

1

Dominic Solanke

£65m

Bournemouth

2024

2

Tanguy Ndombele

£62.8m

Lyon

2019

3

Richarlison

£60m

Everton

2022

4

Mohammed Kudus

£55m

West Ham

2025

5

Brennan Johnson

£47.5m

Nottingham Forest

2023

6

Micky van de Ven

£43m

Wolfsburg

2023

7

Cristian Romero

£42.5m

Atalanta

2021

8

Davinson Sanchez

£42m

Ajax

2017

Stats via Transfermarkt

If he can continue his incredible form into the 2025/26 campaign, he will be a key player in Frank’s quest to lead the side up the Premier League table.

The prospect of Johnson linking up with Gibbs-White once again after their time at the City Ground was certainly an exciting one, although the former teammates will remain foes against next season.

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da premier bet： A worrying update has dropped regarding the future of a “fantastic” Liverpool player, with a huge club confident that they will sign him next year.

Liverpool linked with potential Salah successors

da bet7k： Mohamed Salah continues to be one of the best players in the Premier League, despite the fact that his form has been well short of its best so far this season.

At 33 years of age, however, Liverpool do need to be aware that the Egyptian legend isn’t getting any younger, and that an elite replacement will eventually need to be found, in order to make the transition as seamless as possible when it happens.

Lyon winger Malick Fofana has been linked with a move to Anfield, being touted as a Salah successor, with the Belgian a hugely talented young player who can excel on either flank. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich star Michael Olise is also reportedly considered a leading option to come in and be Liverpool’s next star winger, with the Frenchman already scoring three goals in two Bundesliga appearances this season.

Away from the Salah situation, there is a Reds player whose future needs to be resolved as soon as possible, with a new update dropping.

Club think they will sign Liverpool regular

Speaking in a Q&A for The Athletic, journalist Mario Cortegana claimed that Real Madrid feel Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate wants to move to the Bernabeu.

This comes just days after it was reported that Konate is in “very advanced” talks over a move to Madrid, with the rumours refusing to go away.

He doesn’t appear to be any closer to extending his stay, with the European giants considering him a key target alongside Arsenal’s William Saliba.

At this point, it does certainly feel more than possible that Konate could join Madrid next year, with his current Liverpool deal expiring in 2026 and no sign of an extension being agreed currently.

The £70,000-a-week Frenchman is an important player who the Reds should be looking to tie down, though, with Virgil van Dijk one admirer, heaping praise on him early last season.

“I think we need everyone to be at their best. He is a fantastic player who still can be better. As you saw, he is important with the goal, he is defensively solid, a bit unlucky with the goal we conceded, but obviously the qualities he has are outstanding in my opinion.”

Konate has received criticism for some poor form this season, but that shouldn’t cloud the fact that he is Liverpool’s second-most important defender and he has been a regular under Slot.

While losing him to Madrid wouldn’t necessarily feel like the end of the world, some supporters may only fully appreciate the job he does when he leaves, and how hard it may be to replace him.