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.
da betobet: Liverpool are sitting pretty at the top of the early Premier League table during this international break.
da bwin: Indeed, Arne Slot’s Reds are the only team in the difficult division with a 100% record intact, with the entertainment dialled down somewhat last time out when the reigning top-flight champions just about got the better of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal 1-0.
Hugo Ekitike scores for Liverpool
Not even new recruit Hugo Ekitike or first-team regular Mohamed Salah would get in on the goalscoring fun against the resolute Gunners, despite both attacking stars in question hitting the ground running in other contests so far this campaign.
How Ekitike & Salah have started this season
Ekitike will be hoping he remains as Liverpool’s focal point heading into games after the international break, despite Alexander Isak now being eager to make his lethal presence known at Anfield in a bumper £125m deal from Newcastle United.
Isak's Premier League record before joining Liverpool.
There is an argument to suggest the Dutchman will persist with the former Eintracht Frankfurt centre-forward, with the equally pricey striker – who walked into the building for an initial £69m – already three goals down and counting in his new environment.
It took just 37 minutes for Ekitike to open his Reds account in top-flight action, having previously bagged in the Community Shield against Crystal Palace with merely four minutes on the clock. Safe to say, it’s been a dream introduction to life in the English game for the ex-Paris St. Germain youngster.
Salah hasn’t been quite as jaw-dropping, in contrast, with the Egyptian usually lighting up pitches for fun, as seen in his mammoth 246 goals and 114 assists for Slot and Co.
He has, of course, shown sprinkles of his guaranteed excellence, with a goal and assist next to his name in the bread and butter of the league.
But, the loyal Liverpool servant faded in and out of the tense Arsenal clash, with a weak 32 touches of the ball only seeing him register one lame effort on David Raya’s net.
Still, as much as Luis Diaz and Darwin Nunez are no more at Anfield, Salah is likely to remain as part of the furniture, with his current Reds deal now in play until the summer of 2027.
It’s just that other key first-team presences are enthralling the masses more regularly, with one superstar in Slot’s permanent first-team plans boasting a transfer valuation that exceeds Ekitike and Salah’s high estimations.
Magic Liverpool star is now worth more than Ekitike & Salah
In such a cagey top-of-the-table affair against Arsenal, it was always likely to take an unbelievable moment of individual genius to break the deadlock.
Dominik Szoboszlai would offer just that as the uneventful game was winding down, with his inch-perfect free-kick sending Anfield into raptures to maintain Liverpool’s winning streak.
In truth, the Hungarian ace has consistently produced top-drawer performances for Liverpool ever since sealing a £60m move from RB Leipzig to the Premier League back in 2023, with the “magic” 24-year-old, as he’s been lauded by scout Jacek Kulig, one final parting gift from Jurgen Klopp, before Slot took over proceedings swimmingly.
The much-loved Liverpool number 8 will hope he can continue to deliver sublime individual performances as his side hunts down the glory of back-to-back Premier League titles, with that past £60m valuation also rising off the back of him never looking out of place or nervous during tense contests.
Market Movers
Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?
Rather, he looks to only be getting better, with his sumptuous free-kick against Arsenal proving that.
Szoboszlai numbers at Liverpool
Games played
72
Goals scored
10
Assists
8
Free kicks scored
5/12
Accurate passes
2814 (87%)
Value when joining
£60m
Value now
£69m
Via Premier League/Transfermarkt.
As a result of Szoboszlai growing into being a vital part of Slot’s high-flying team, the Hungarian’s transfer valuation has risen by £9m to £69m, according to Transfermarkt.
On the flip side, Salah, who is now in the twilight years of his career, is worth £43m, with Ekitike’s valuation coming in at the £65m range, too, despite his effortless transition to English shores.
Dominik Szoboszlai scores for Liverpool
All three players named here will no doubt be key to Liverpool attempting to retain their Premier League pride.
Szoboszlai, in particular, will try to be held in an even higher esteem, with more jaw-dropping free-kicks being put away for fun, giving Slot and Co a great chance at achieving their aims.
da bet sport: Everton’s transfer window has been a fascinating mix of ambition, pragmatism, and sentiment.
da fezbet: Under David Moyes, the Toffees are working hard to reshape their squad following the departures of several key figures, including Ashley Young, Abdoulaye Doucouré, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
The Hill Dickinson Stadium has already seen fresh faces arrive, with Moyes bringing in talent such as Thierno Barry from Villarreal, Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall from Chelsea, Tyler Dibling from Southampton, and Jack Grealish from Manchester City.
The latter made an immediate impression, providing two assists in the club’s 2–0 Premier League victory over Brighton.
Momentum has slowly begun to build.
Everton recovered from an opening-day defeat at a raucous Elland Road with back-to-back wins: the triumph against Brighton and a professional 2–0 dispatch of Mansfield Town in the EFL Cup.
For Moyes, however, the task of reinforcing his midfield remains urgent.
Everton manager David Moyes
The Scottish manager has never hidden his preference for industrious, disciplined footballers who combine physicality with tactical intelligence.
It is no surprise, then, that his latest target happens to be a player with whom he shares a deep personal and professional bond.
This towering talent could well be cast in the role once played so effectively at Goodison by Marouane Fellaini.
Everton plotting move for Moyes reunion
Reports from Football Insider suggest Everton are preparing an improved bid for a player Moyes knows better than most: Tomáš Souček.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The Czech Republic international, now 30, was first introduced to English football by Moyes during his second spell at West Ham in 2020.
What followed was a highly productive partnership.
Under Moyes’ guidance, Souček became a mainstay in the Hammers’ midfield, making over 200 appearances and establishing himself as one of the most reliable performers in the Premier League.
West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek
West Ham, however, are reluctant sellers.
Having already rejected Everton’s opening offer, the East London club are holding firm at a valuation of £19 million.
With his contract running until 2028, they retain leverage, though the recent arrivals of Mateus Fernandes from Southampton and Soungoutou Magassa from Monaco have added considerable depth to their midfield department.
That recruitment drive, coupled with a poor start to the campaign which has seen the Irons lose heavily to Sunderland and Chelsea, could create circumstances in which a deal becomes feasible.
From Everton’s perspective, the move would represent a deliberate attempt to reintroduce a profile of player Goodison Park has missed since Fellaini left for Manchester United in 2013.
Reports suggest the player himself is keen on the move, eager for another spell under Moyes in what could be one of the more emotive transfers of the summer window.
Why Soucek can be Moyes' new Fellaini
The parallels between Souček and Fellaini go well beyond stature.
Moyes’ Everton sides of the late 2000s were built on work ethic and tactical discipline, but they were also elevated by Fellaini’s unique capacity to blur the line between midfield and attack.
The Belgian was capable of breaking up play, bullying defenders, and popping up with crucial goals – qualities Souček has replicated at West Ham.
During his West Ham tenure, the towering midfielder was trusted implicitly by the Scottish coach.
Souček has netted 42 times and registered 13 assists across 248 games for West Ham, while also writing his name into the club’s history books by helping them win the Europa Conference League in Prague – his hometown – against Fiorentina.
Tomáš Souček – Stats 2024/25
Matches Played
35
Goals
9
Assists
1
Progressive Carries
9
Progressive Passes
74
Source: FBref
On a purely footballing level, the Czech international looks an excellent addition to Moyes’ evolving side.
His statistical profile underscores exactly why Everton are pressing to secure his services.
Standing at 1.92m, Souček has long been regarded as one of the Premier League’s most dominant aerial presences.
According to FBref, last season he averaged 3.47 aerial duels won per 90 minutes, a figure that places him among the most effective midfielders in Europe when it comes to contesting the ball in the air.
For an Everton side that relies on set-piece opportunities, this could prove invaluable.
His influence, however, extends far beyond his heading ability.
Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite
His work rate is exceptional, as reflected in his defensive and transitional metrics.
He recorded 1.61 tackles per 90, complemented by 1.44 blocks, providing reliable cover in central areas.
Where Fellaini once provided an outlet for direct balls, shielding possession and driving his team forward, Souček offers the same avenue in a modernised form.
He is adept at progressing the ball through carries, averaging nine progressive carries per 90, which speaks to his ability to break lines and drive his team forward.
While his passing accuracy of 73.8% is not elite, his 74 progressive passes per 90 underline a willingness to take risks and move play vertically, something Moyes has historically encouraged.
In the final third, Souček continues to be a consistent goal threat.
Averaging 1.93 shots per 90, with 0.60 of those on target, he boasts a shot accuracy rate of nearly 31%.
That productivity translated into ten direct goal involvements last season, impressive numbers for a player often tasked with the less glamorous defensive side of midfield work.
His ability to time late runs into the penalty area remains one of his defining attributes, as highlighted by Joe Cole’s description of him being “on fire” when he netted in three consecutive games for the Hammers in 2023.
For Everton, this mixture of stamina, power, and goal threat would offer a dimension currently missing in their midfield.
The loss of Doucouré, who combined industry with forward penetration, has left a void that needs filling.
Abdoulaye Doucoure
Souček is one of the few realistic options who can provide comparable output while also bringing proven Premier League pedigree and leadership qualities honed across more than 80 caps for the Czech Republic.
The emotional element should not be overlooked either. Moyes is not simply chasing a functional squad piece; he is targeting one of his most trusted operators.
The Fellaini comparison may feel nostalgic, but it is apt.
Both players are midfielders who thrive when trusted as disruptors rather than facilitators, who can dominate aerially and arrive late in the box to devastating effect.
Everton fans know better than most how valuable that can be. Souček’s familiarity with Moyes’ tactical demands means the adaptation period would be minimal.
The Everton manager has always valued loyalty and understanding, and in that respect, the midfielder is a tailor-made signing.
da dobrowin: Tottenham are working to sign an alternative to Eberechi Eze after their deal with Crystal Palace fell apart by the seams.
da stake casino: Despite agreeing both personal terms with the 27-year-old and the finances of a deal with Palace, Arsenal swooped in at the last moment to agree a deal of their own for Eze, and once left with the choice, the boyhood Gunners supporter was always going to pick N5.
It comes as Tottenham’s second public transfer mishap of the window, after also seeing an advanced deal for Morgan Gibbs-White blocked by Nottingham Forest in bizarre fashion earlier this summer.
For Thomas Frank, who’s now bereft of any playmaker at all following James Maddison’s long-term ACL injury and Dejan Kulusevski’s absence, it is a hammer blow and one that needs rectifying as soon as possible.
That being said, in response to all the reports surrounding Eze’s rejection, Frank has made it crystal clear that he only wants players with a burning desire to wear the Tottenham shirt.
Of the alternatives mentioned by media sources, a few have emerged in the past 48 hours.
England'sEberechiEzecelebrates scoring their third goal with England's Morgan Rogers
Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche, Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott and Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannouss are just some of the names linked with moves to N17 after Eze’s move elsewhere, with Como sensation Nico Paz apparently still in their thinking as well.
The latter was reportedly subject to a rejected Tottenham bid earlier in the window, according to Sky Italia’s Gianluca Di Marzio, with Como holding out for around £60 million to even consider a sale.
Napoli's Giacomo Raspadori in action with Como'sNicoPaz
The Argentine’s future is also tied heavily with his former club, Real Madrid, who possess a hefty 50 per cent sell-on clause and the option of bringing him back to the Bernabeu for a reduced fee in both 2026 and 2027.
Tottenham hold talks with Nico Paz's representatives after Eberechi Eze blow
According to TBR Football, amid other reports that Tottenham are preparing a fresh attempt for Paz, it is believed that Spurs have also held talks with the 20-year-old’s representatives in the aftermath of their Eze blow.
Paz bagged six goals and nine assists under Cesc Fàbregas last season as one of Como’s standout performers, with the ex-Madrid man shining among Serie A’s latest rising stars.
However, journalist Graeme Bailey also told TBR that a move for Paz carries plenty of risk, even if Spurs have explored it through intermediaries with the player.
Footballing icon Lionel Messi is on record calling Paz “incredible” for some of his traits, but Levy definitely won’t be keen on losing a hefty sum of money on him in the future.
da betano casino: Nottingham Forest’s summer rebuild shows no signs of slowing down.
da betcris: After manager Nuno Espírito Santo voiced concerns about the lack of movement, the club has roared into action with a series of ambitious signings and bids that underline their intent to become a consistent European competitor.
Dan Ndoye, Igor Jesus, and Jair Cunha have all already arrived at the City Ground, while bids have been accepted for James McAtee and Omari Hutchinson.
Meanwhile, a £25m approach for Manchester City’s Rico Lewis has been rejected, and negotiations continue for forward Arnaud Kalimuendo.
The flurry of activity comes at a crucial time. Forest are preparing for a season that includes European football, a reward earned after finishing seventh in the Premier League last term.
Their place in the Europa League was secured after Crystal Palace were demoted to the Conference League following an unsuccessful appeal to CAS.
Forest kick off their domestic campaign against Brentford on Sunday, and while the opening fixture might come too soon for several of their potential recruits, the scale of their ambition is clear.
Nottingham Forest agree terms with midfielde
At the heart of Forest’s latest negotiations is Douglas Luiz, the Juventus midfielder who could form a partnership with Elliott Anderson in the centre of the park.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Forest have agreed personal terms with the Brazil, with only club-to-club negotiations left to finalise, as they look to bolster their midfield with a new addition.
It is now down to the Tricky Trees to agree a deal with Juventus to bring the former Aston Villa maestro to the City Ground for the 2025/26 campaign.
Analyst Ben Mattinson described him as a “box-crashing 8, who’s press resistant with a good technical base, passing range and ball-striking ability.”
Juventus'DouglasLuizreacts
The Brazilian joined Juventus from Aston Villa in a £45m deal but endured a difficult spell in Turin.
He failed to score or assist in 27 appearances and missed 20 games due to injury setbacks.
Used sparingly under both Igor Tudor and Thiago Motta, Luiz managed only six starts last season, while his solitary contribution at the Club World Cup amounted to just 45 minutes of football, per Sofascore.
Juventus are now open to recouping around £30m, with the player himself reportedly eager for a Premier League return.
Why Douglas Luiz is perfect for Elliot Anderson
Despite a subdued stint in Italy, Luiz’s pedigree remains strong, particularly when judged on his final season at Aston Villa.
His statistics then underlined his all-round game.
Douglas Luiz – 2023/24
Pass Completion Rate
85.7%
Shot Creating Actions per 90
3.92
Tackles per 90
1.74
Blocks per 90
0.96
Progressive Passes per 90
5.49
Progressive Carries per 90
2.15
Successful Take-ons per 90
1.40
Source: FBref
When compared against Juventus teammates last season, Luiz still showed flashes of quality despite limited minutes.
His 89.5% passing accuracy ranked fifth in the squad, while his 72.2% dribble success rate also placed him among the top five. In 841 minutes of action, he created three big chances and averaged 0.69 key passes per game, per FBref.
These numbers suggest that, given consistent playing time and a role tailored to his strengths, he could rediscover the form that made him such a prized asset in England.
For Forest fans, the prospect of pairing Luiz with Elliott Anderson is particularly enticing. Anderson joined from Newcastle United amid the Magpies’ well-documented struggles with PSR compliance in a deal worth £35m.
The transfer also saw goalkeeper Odysseas Vlachodimos move the other way, while Yankuba Minteh left for Brighton to help balance the books at St James’ Park.
Anderson wasted no time making himself indispensable in Nottingham. He featured in 37 league games last season, contributing two goals and six assists,
His energy, versatility and ability to progress play made him a key part of the side that finished seventh on 65 points. Still only 22, he has caught the eye of England selectors and sits on the periphery of Thomas Tuchel’s squad in a World Cup year.
Statistically, Anderson has placed himself among the most effective midfielders in the Premier League across a range of important metrics.
His dribbling stands out, with the 22-year-old ranking in the 90th percentile for successful take-ons, averaging 1.19 per 90 minutes.
That ability to beat a man allows Forest to break opposition lines and progress play higher up the pitch.
He is equally influential in advanced areas, registering 2.38 touches in the attacking penalty area per 90, placing him in the 86th percentile league-wide. This shows how frequently he arrives in dangerous positions, complementing Forest’s forwards by adding an extra threat from midfield.
Defensively, Anderson is just as impressive. He averages 3.04 tackles per 90 minutes – enough to place him in the 88th percentile.
Alongside that, his reading of the game allows him to contribute 2.51 clearances per 90 (89th percentile), a figure that highlights his commitment to the defensive side of the game.
Perhaps most strikingly, Anderson has proven adept in the air. Despite standing at just 1.79m, he wins 1.85 aerial duels per 90, again ranking in the 89th percentile.
Pairing Luiz and Anderson could provide Forest with one of the most balanced midfields outside the Premier League’s traditional elite.
Luiz’s ability to dictate tempo, switch play and resist pressure would allow Anderson to thrive in more advanced areas, where his dribbling, pressing and box arrivals make him a constant threat.
In European fixtures, where possession and control become even more valuable, the partnership could give Forest an edge. Luiz’s Champions League and international experience adds another layer of quality and leadership.
For Anderson, lining up alongside such a seasoned professional would accelerate his development and give Forest a stable core around which to build. If Forest can finalise the deal with Juventus, it would represent a major coup.
Everton are also credited with an interest in Luiz, but Forest’s project – European football, an ambitious recruitment drive, and a manager eager to impose his identity – may prove more persuasive.
For Nuno Espírito Santo, adding Luiz to a midfield already anchored by Anderson could be the key to competing on two fronts this season.
For Forest supporters, it would be further proof that their club is no longer content with merely surviving in the Premier League.
da betobet: Liverpool have made a bid to sign a “monster” defender for Arne Slot, however, FSG’s offer hasn’t gone down well with the selling club.
Slot assesses Liverpool’s centre-back options
da 888: The Reds are preparing to defend their Premier League title with an opening Friday night game against Bournemouth on August 15.
Upgrade your next EPL matchday at Seat Unique
Secure your matchday experience with Seat Unique.
Buy Premium Now
Before then, Liverpool will take on FA Cup winners Crystal Palace at Wembley in the Community Shield, and supporters should get to see a number of new faces in action ahead of the new campaign.
Incomings
From
Fee
Florian Wirtz
Bayer Leverkusen
£116m
Hugo Ekitike
Frankfurt
£69m
Milos Kerkez
Bournemouth
£40m
Jeremie Frimpong
Bayer Leverkusen
£29.5m
Armin Pecsi
Puskas Akademia
£1.5m
Freddie Woodman
Preston North End
Free
Will Wright
Salford City
£200k
As can be seen, FSG have backed Slot in the transfer market by splashing more cash than any other Premier League side this summer.
More arrivals could still be on the way before the September 1 deadline, though, with a new centre-back not yet secured. Talking recently, Slot admitted that Liverpool are yet to replace Jarell Quansah, who joined Bayer Leverkusen, but shared how Ryan Gravenberch and Wataru Endo may fill in if required.
A number of defenders have been linked with moves to Anfield, including Palace star Marc Guehi and Parma teenager Giovanni Leoni.
Related Their own Huijsen: Liverpool ready to rival Arsenal for “Rolls Royce" CB
Liverpool still need to sign a centre-back in the summer transfer market.
Guehi would be the more proven addition of the two, and a new update has now emerged regarding a possible move to Merseyside.
Liverpool submit two offers for Marc Guehi
According to journalist Santi Aouna on X, Liverpool have made two offers to sign Guehi from the Eagles, however, both proposals have been turned down.
The Reds are now ‘exploring other defensive targets’, and in his Foot Mercato report, Aouna added that Palace want €55m (£48m) for Guehi and were left insulted by Liverpool’s offers.
It remains to be seen how much Liverpool put on the table for Guehi, but it seems as if the defensive “monster” will be lining up against them at Wembley on August 10.
The 25-year-old has less than 12 months remaining on his Selhurst Park contract, so his future could be one to keep an eye on, and it wouldn’t be a complete shock if FSG returned with a third bid over the coming weeks.
da aviator aposta: Leeds United have now identified a “scintillating” attacker as a key target, as there is a belief he would be the perfect addition to their forward line, according to a report.
Leeds still vying to sign new winger
da esoccer bet: Leeds were dealt a major blow when Igor Paixao chose to sign for Marseille, and they have now been forced to move on to alternative options, with a number of potential targets being identified.
Target
Current club
G/A in 24/25
Riccardo Sottil
Fiorentina
9
Moussa Djenepo
Standard Liege
3
Jota Silva
Nottingham Forest
7
However, the Whites were ultimately unsuccessful in their pursuit of Djenepo, with the 27-year-old remaining at Standard Liege, while they could also miss out on Jota Silva, with widespread reports suggesting the Forest ace is closing in on a move to Sporting CP.
Jota Silva.
That said, given that the two forwards hardly set the world alight last season, it may be a blessing in disguise that Daniel Farke’s side were unable to get deals over the line, and a different winger has now moved up the manager’s shortlist.
That is according to a report from TEAMtalk, which states Marseille’s Jonathan Rowe has now been identified as a key target for Leeds, with the French club looking to receive a fee of just £17m for the England U21 international.
Related Farke's answer to Sesko: Leeds offered chance to sign £93k-p/w "leader"
Leeds United have the chance to snap up their own Benjamin Sesko with this transfer.
1
The Whites are pushing to bring in new attacking options, and their pursuit of Rowe has now been reignited, as there is a belief he would be the perfect addition to their forward line.
Since moving to Marseille last summer, the winger has found it difficult to force his way into the starting XI, and a move could now be on the cards, with the French club open to a sale after signing Paixao and Timothy Weah.
"Scintillating" Rowe could be ideal signing for Leeds
Once praised for his “scintillating” form by pundit Carlton Palmer, the Marseille forward put himself in the shop window again with some impressive performances for England U21s at the recent European Championships.
The 22-year-old scored the winning goal against Germany in the final, while also scoring against Czechia in the group stage and picking up an assist against Spain in the quarter-final.
Former academy coach Greg Crane has also singled out the Marseille ace for praise, saying he “always had a bit of wow factor”.
Not only that, but the London-born winger caught the eye in the Championship with Norwich City during the 2023-24 campaign, scoring 12 goals, including an extremely well-taken effort against Hull City.
At just 22-years-old, Rowe is at the right age to be a long-term success at Elland Road, and the only concern about signing the Marseille winger is likely to be the fact he is yet to prove himself at Premier League level.
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.
Morgan Gibbs-White 2024-25 stats (timeless)
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.
Morgan Gibbs-White for Nottingham Forest.
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.
Related Bigger talent than Gibbs-White: Spurs open first talks to sign £70m CM
Tottenham Hotspur appear to be making a move for another young Premier League talent this summer.
da gbg bet: Manchester United are now in contact to sign an “expert striker”, who could join as part of an Alejandro Garnacho swap deal, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has revealed.
Garnacho's time at Old Trafford coming to an end
da bet sport: It is difficult to see a way back for Garnacho at Man United, after the winger was controversially pictured wearing an Aston Villa shirt with Marcus Rashford’s name on the back a little over a month ago.
Mark Goldbridge was left furious by the picture, suggesting the Argentina international was trying to engineer a move elsewhere, and there is certainly no shortage of interest in his services.
In fact, Villa recently made an approach for the 21-year-old, joining the likes of Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur in the race for his signature, and the forward is thought to have “heard good things” about playing under Unai Emery.
Related Vivell now persuading Amorim for Man Utd to sign £69m Gyokeres alternative
Man United scout Christopher Vivell has instructed Ruben Amorim to sanction a move for a striker.
1
However, in a report for GiveMeSport, Romano has revealed that United could try and get the winger off the books a different way, as they are now open to discussing the conditions of a swap deal involving Chelsea’s Nicolas Jackson.
The Red Devils have recently been approached over starting formal talks for Jackson, with the Blues open to sanctioning the striker’s departure, although the reported valuation of £100m could be off-putting.
A move to Old Trafford is considered a ‘good option’ for the Senegal international, but Ruben Amorim’s side are yet to decide whether he should be their main striker target, with the likes of Benjamin Sesko, Ollie Watkins and Dusan Vlahovic also on the shortlist.
"Expert striker" Jackson could be exciting signing for Man Utd
Of course, there are some doubts over the Chelsea forward, given that he is well-known to not be the most prolific finisher, underperforming his xG by a considerable margin over the past year.
However, the 24-year-old has still been a pretty reliable source of goals and assists ever since arriving at Stamford Bridge, while he also received high praise from former Crystal Palace winger Andros Townsend last season, after impressing against West Ham United.
Nicolas Jackson
Townsend said: “Even last season watching Nicolas Jackson, he had everything but the goals. He had the movement, he had the dribbling, he was getting into some great positions but he just wasn’t finishing them off.
“But, the goals he scored on the weekend were taken competently and confidently like an expert striker.”
It is also important that United get Garnacho off the books, with the Villa shirt stunt proving the winger has little interest in remaining at Old Trafford, and a swap deal could benefit all parties, considering the Blues have signed Joao Pedro and Liam Delap this summer.
da betobet: In what would be a bargain deal, West Ham United have now reportedly submitted an opening offer to sign a much-needed attacking reinforcement for Graham Potter.
West Ham's need for a striker
da apostebet: Following Michail Antonio’s departure at the end of last season, West Ham no longer have their trusty forward to fall back on when other options fail to live up to the hype. And that’s a problem that they must fix this summer.
Niclas Fullkrug, amid his injury record and poor form ever since swapping Borussia Dortmund for the London Stadium, is unlikely to become that solution at 32 years old. Meanwhile, new arrival Daniel Cummings is one for the future rather than a player who will make an instant impact. So it’s back to the drawing board for the Hammers.
Fullkrug at West Ham
Stats (via Transfermarkt)
Appearances
20
Goals
3
Assists
2
Games Missed
28
To that end, just who West Ham choose to turn to is the big question. In an ideal world, Evan Ferguson’s loan spell would have lived up to its potential and the Hammers would be chasing a permanent deal. Following his struggles, however, West Ham have now reportedly set their sights on alternative targets while the Irishman heads to AS Roma.
The likes of Gonzalo Garcia have entered West Ham’s reported radar. The Real Madrid star recently broke into Xabi Alonso’s side at the Club World Cup and stole plenty of headlines. Now, he could be on his way to the Premier League on loan.
Given how he burst onto the scene this summer, a loan move for Garcia would be quite the coup for all involved at the London Stadium this summer. Like Cummings, though, there would be concerns about the youngster’s lack of experience.
As impressive as the Madrid man is, West Ham have now reportedly submitted an opening offer to sign a far more proven option.
West Ham offered chance to sign Callum Wilson
According to talkSPORT, West Ham have now submitted an opening offer to sign Callum Wilson this summer. The Hammers have reportedly tabled a minimal salary with bonuses for goals and appearances after being approached by his agent, Will Salthouse, who David Sullivan knows well.
Given that Wilson turned down a similar offer from Newcastle United earlier this summer, it seems unlikely that he’d accept those terms at West Ham. That said, he is more likely to receive the game time that he desires at the London Stadium than at St James’ Park.
Wilson at club level
Record (via Transfermarkt)
Appearances
392
Goals
141
Assists
48
If West Ham want a proven goalscorer then Wilson is their man, especially if he can finally put any injury troubles to rest. His presence, combined with the emergence of Cummings, could prove to be crucial for the Hammers.
Related He'd finally replace Rice: £75k-p/w "monster" is now on West Ham's "radar"
West Ham United will be looking to finally replace Declan Rice by signing this first-class midfielder.
The deal wouldn’t break the bank, either. West Ham have offered a minimal salary and will not have to pay a transfer fee, as Wilson is a free agent. A player who Newcastle boss Eddie Howe described as “incredible” in 2023, Wilson is still capable of making an impact in the Premier League.