Manchester United are now reportedly in talks to hijack Liverpool’s move to sign a young defensive addition this month.
Man Utd commence talks to sign Liverpool target
It’s been a frantic month for all the wrong reasons at Old Trafford. The Red Devils, in the space of a month, have sacked Ruben Amorim, handed Darren Fletcher a brief caretaker spell in charge and then appointed Michael Carrick on an interim basis until the end of the season. It feels all too familiar for everyone involved at Man United.
Nonetheless, the task is now in Carrick’s hands. It doesn’t get much bigger than this for the former midfielder, whose only previous managerial experience came at Middlesbrough.
Carrick’s first game will come against Manchester City in the Manchester derby. It simply doesn’t get much more difficult than that, but the new boss will at least get the chance to assess his squad in one of their biggest games of the season.
It’s then that he could request reinforcements this month. Reports have already suggested that United could use Carrick’s connection to sign Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough and he’s not the only target.
Names such as Murillo have also been mentioned, although he looks more likely to be a summer target, as well as young Sheffield Wednesday defender Yisa Alao.
According to Football Insider, Man United have opened talks to sign Alao in an attempt to hijack Liverpool’s move this month.
17-year-old Alao is one for the future
He may not steal immediate headlines, but Alao is one to watch. Whilst Sheffield Wednesday have been destined for relegation ever since entering administration, the 17-year-old has received opportunities in the Carabao Cup, Championship and FA Cup.
No Cunha & Dalot; "wizard" in new role: Carrick's best Man Utd XI predicted
A look at how Manchester United could line up under Michael Carrick.
5 ByRobbie Walls
He even became one of the youngest players to ever play for the Owls when he featured against Bolton Wanderers at just 16 years old earlier this season. Now, he could be destined for greater things courtesy of Man United.
Whether Alao chooses to stick with Sheffield Wednesday in pursuit of game time is the big question. Man United can offer him a Premier League move, albeit with academy minutes. The Owls, especially in League One next season, could hand him plenty of first-team chances.
In spite of all the drama that has plagued Newcastle United throughout the summer transfer window, there’s a sense that Eddie Howe will be rather pleased with the lion’s share of his club’s business.
Newcastle rebounded from a frustrating start to the 2024/25 campaign and qualified for the Champions League, finishing fifth in the Premier League, having also defeated Liverpool at Wembley to lift the Carabao Cup.
But the feel-good factor faded out after the curtains draped on a successful season, with a slew of failed bids for top targets dampening the mood and then some.
This has been a transfer window of attrition, but one that Newcastle have weathered and now appears to be emerging from victoriously, having strengthened across the park.
And while the pursuit of a new striker has been an interminable and fruitless thing up until this stage, Newcastle have finally made headway, welcoming Nick Woltemade from Stuttgart for a club-record fee.
Why Newcastle signed Woltemade
While this remains conjecture at this stage, all the pointers suggest that Woltemade has been welcomed to Newcastle as Alexander Isak’s replacement.
Newcastle’s free-scoring talisman has made a menace of himself on Tyneside for three years now, but has essayed to secure a move to Premier League champions Liverpool for over a month, and appears set to get his wish.
A blow, no doubt about it. To Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher, Isak was “the best striker in the Premier League” last season, after all. He scored 27 goals across all competitions, and replacing him was understandably viewed as a steep task.
But Woltemade, 23, has all the tools to thrive as the Sweden star’s successor. Across all competitions last year, the 6 foot 6 centre-forward scored 17 goals and supplied three assists, with talent scout Jacek Kulig hailing his “unstoppable” form in front of goal.
A fantastic signing, of course, but there’s little evidence at this stage that Woltemade will hit the ground running, especially since Newcastle plan to further bolster their frontline with the signing of a Prem-proven number nine, Brentford’s Yoane Wissa at the top of the list.
Landing the German was fine business, but Newcastle aren’t done there. Indeed, Howe and United’s transfer officials have their sights set on a centre-midfielder to complete the set.
Newcastle in last-gasp race for midfielder
As per Caught Offside, Newcastle have joined a late transfer tussle for Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher, who is anticipated to be on the move ahead of Monday’s deadline.
Valued at £45m by the Spanish giants, Gallagher only swapped the Premier League for La Liga one year ago, and though he showed plenty of promise under Diego Simeone’s wing last year, he is open to making a dramatic return to his homeland.
Tottenham Hotspur are understood to be leading the race at this stage, but Newcastle are ready to pounce if the chance presents itself, with Crystal Palace and Manchester United also interested.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
What Gallagher will bring to Newcastle
Now that Woltemade has arrived, Newcastle are in a far better position to tackle the campaign ahead. However, his signing comes with the caveat that Isak will leave, and however you brush it up, that is a big blow.
But Gallagher would only reinforce a deep and dynamic midfield cohort, and having been described as being “like a machine” in midfield by former Chelsea teammate Moises Caicedo, it’s clear he has the backing of those billed as superstars in the Premier League.
Sevilla's Juanlu Sanchez in action against Atletico Madrid's Conor Gallagher.
And, moreover, he has a tried-and-tested method of success in England’s top flight, having showcased technical skill, intensity and energy throughout his years at Stamford Bridge and his loan spells with West Bromwich Albion and Crystal Palace, routinely covering the most distance in a match while at Selhurst Park.
Newcastle lost Sandro Tonali and Joelinton to injury after Monday night’s agonising defeat against Liverpool, and Gallagher’s presence would have gone a long way toward injecting that extra bit of quality and drive against the Reds, who withered and were pressed against the ropes on
Gallagher in the PL
Stats (* per game)
22/23
23/24
Matches (starts)
35 (18)
37 (37)
Goals
3
5
Assists
1
7
Pass completion
85%
92%
Big chances created
5
11
Key passes*
0.6
1.4
Dribbles*
0.7 (50%)
1.0 (68%)
Ball recoveries*
5.1
6.3
Tackles*
1.3
2.3
Duels (won)*
3.5 (45%)
5.7 (50%)
Stats via Sofascore
Across the past year at Atletico, Gallagher has played an important role, featuring 52 times and contributing to ten goal contributions. His prowess translated to life in Spain, and his ability to operate across a range of midfield roles in England speaks for itself.
FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Woltemade, for all his promise and potential, scored 12 times in the Bundesliga last season, and that doesn’t issue a fail-safe promise of prolificacy in the Premier League, considered by many to be the toughest division across the continent.
But how can Gallagher’s skill on English soil be contested? He has performed with aplomb for three different clubs, all of differing levels, and demonstrated his range while doing so.
There’s no doubt that Woltemade will alight on Tyneside with a weight of expectation, and that he has big boots to step into, but Gallagher would merely add to a midfield circle that already operates so fluidly and aggressively, and his skill set suggests he would dovetail right in.
Stuttgart's Nick Woltemade
And with someone like Wissa, who scored 19 times in the Premier League last season, there’s actually every chance that Woltemade could spend the campaign jockeying for a place at the front of the ship and taking a seat on the bench for a multitude of matches.
This shouldn’t be a negative thing for the Toon, however; even with the potential sale of Isak, Newcastle have recruited shrewdly, and have a wealth of options ready to raise Howe’s system up another gear.
Upgrade on Joelinton: Newcastle in talks over signing “one of the best CMs”
Newcastle are looking to make another addition to their midfield ranks…
Well, after a thumping win away at the weekend, Arsenal returned to form with yet another draw last night.
The result against Crystal Palace was the North Londoners’ 13th tie of the Premier League season, and while it wasn’t a total disaster, it would not have been what Mikel Arteta would have wanted to see ahead of next week’s colossal Champions League game.
From practically the first minute to the last, it felt like a game played in slow motion, and aside from Jakub Kiwior and, perhaps to a lesser extent, Leandro Trossard – the Gunners’ goalscorers – the entire starting lineup was poor.
That said, there were at least a couple of players that stood out as being particularly disappointing, such as William Saliba.
Saliba's performance vs Crystal Palace
Now, it should be said that away to Real Madrid last week, Saliba was almost perfect right up until he lazily gave the ball away to Vinícius Jr mid-way through the second half.
Unfortunately, instead of putting together a solid performance ahead of next week, the Frenchman made another silly mistake when, entirely unforced, he passed the ball to Jean-Philippe Mateta close to the box, who then saw David Raya off his line and pulled off a brilliant finish.
It was the sort of mistake fans might have been worried about Kiwior making, but instead, the Polish international was once again assured at the back while the former Saint-Étienne gem struggled.
We weren’t the only ones disappointed by the Bondy-born monster either, as Arsenal writer Charles Watts gave him a paltry 5/10 match rating at full-time, describing him as a ‘bit off it,’ which may be rather kind.
With all that said, there can be no doubting Saliba’s immense ability and importance to the team, so he should still be starting the game on Tuesday.
However, the same cannot be said for one of his fellow starters last night.
Arsenal's biggest underperformer against Crystal Palace
Now, as we’ve already said, there were a number of players who let themselves down last night, from Raya to Gabriel Martinelli, but only one starter was so dismally poor that he should not start another game for the club: Raheem Sterling.
Arsenal vs Crystal Palace
Arsenal
Statistics
Crystal Palace
2
Goals
2
1.22
Expected Goals
1.75
4
Big Chances
4
12
Total Shots
15
6
Shots on Target
4
705
Passes
325
3
Corners
6
68%
Possession
32%
All Stats via Sofascore
Yes, in what was just his 12th inclusion in a starting lineup for the Gunners this term, the Chelsea loanee might have managed to put in his most lacklustre showing yet.
FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Unlike Saliba, he wasn’t directly at fault for a goal, but he was also never likely to score or create one either, as when he wasn’t losing the ball, making the wrong run or fading out of the game entirely, he looked bereft of ideas.
It might sound hyperbolic, but once again, it’s an opinion shared by Watts, who slammed the Englishman for being a “passenger” when he came off and then gave him a damning 3/10 match rating at full-time.
Unsurprisingly, the Kingston-born ace’s statistics more than back up this appraisal, as in 60 minutes of action, he amassed a combined expected goal and assists figure of just 0.02, took no shots on or even off target, failed in 100% of his dribbles, took just 19 touches, made just ten passes, failed in 100% of his crosses, lost four of five duels and was dribbled past twice.
Sterling’s game in numbers
Minutes
60′
Expected Goals
0.00
Goals
0
Expected Assists
0.02
Assists
0
Shots
0
Dribbles (Successful)
1 (0)
Touches
19
Passes
10
Crosses (Accurate)
2 (0)
Duels (Won)
5 (1)
Dribbled Past
2
All Stats via Sofascore
Ultimately, it was a real night to forget for Arsenal, and while Saliba will undoubtedly come back stronger and remain a crucial part of the team, Sterling should not start another game for the rest of his loan spell.
Big Havertz upgrade: Arsenal confident of signing "the hottest CF in Europe"
Arsenal are looking for upgrades on Kai Havertz in their attack.
It’s easy to look at last weekend’s Anfield draw against Fulham as two more points dropped in the Premier League, but Liverpool actually showed title-winning spirit to claw back from the maw of defeat.
Arne Slot’s men had been reduced to ten before 20 minutes had struck the clock, with Andy Robertson’s erratic lunge compounding the woes that had already been inflicted by Andreas Pereira’s opening strike.
Liverpool managerArneSlot
Goals from Cody Gakpo and Diogo Jota preserved the Reds’ 20-match-unbeaten run that has seen them assume control across domestic and continental fronts.
But Arsenal thrashed Crystal Palace on Saturday evening to increase the pressure on the Redmen, who know that dropped points for a third top-flight fixture on the trot would change the mood significantly at the top of the table – especially if Chelsea beat Everton.
How will Liverpool line up at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium? Slot’s sure to ring the changes after rotating for the midweek Carabao Cup victory at Southampton.
1 GK – Alisson Becker
Alisson Becker.
Caoimhin Kelleher stood between the sticks in the Carabao Cup but Alisson Becker is fit once again and will take the number one spot in the Premier League, as he did against Fulham last time out, making a string of excellent saves.
He’s simply the best and will be crucial against a free-scoring Tottenham team.
2 RB – Trent Alexander-Arnold
Liverpool's Trent Alexander-Arnold
Withdrawn at half-time at St. Mary’s, Trent Alexander-Arnold will of course look to influence Liverpool’s attacking play.
His celestial range of passing could prove too much for the hosts, carve them open and make them pay for daring to dream against the rampant Reds.
3 CB – Joe Gomez
Liverpool defender Joe Gomez
Joe Gomez is doing a decent job with the £36m Ibrahima Konate out of action, and Slot should opt to partner him with the skipper this afternoon, for Jarell Quansah lacks the authority that he demonstrated so prodigiously last year.
Given that the experienced England international was taken off with Alexander-Arnold at the interval on Wednesday, it seems clear that the plan is for him to start in north London, and having played at centre-back for the past three Premier League matches, he seems set to reprise his role.
4 CB – Virgil van Dijk
Virgil van Dijk for Liverpool
What is there to say about Virgil van Dijk? He’s really good. Really, really good. Expect Tottenham to fashion attacking corridors that sit decidedly away from his zone of operation.
5 LB – Andy Robertson
Liverpool defender Andy Robertson
Can he atone for last week’s mess in north London? Robertson seems to face detractors on a regular basis this season but it’s important to remember that he is a devoted servant to the Liverpool cause.
Moreover, he literally won the Man of the Match award a week and a half ago against Girona in the Champions League. He has what it takes to steer his side toward three points.
6 CM – Ryan Gravenberch
Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch
Liverpool’s deep-sitting midfielder has been nothing short of a revelation this season, producing masterful performances from number six after FSG failed to convince Martin Zubimendi to spearhead the project as Slot’s first big buy.
Ryan Gravenberch will be restive after sitting out against Southampton and might prove too much for Spurs’ midfield.
7 CM – Curtis Jones
Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones celebrates
Curtis Jones was controversially sent off on this ground this season in what proved to be a disastrous and contemptuous affair for Jurgen Klopp’s side.
However, he’s been a quiet triumph over the past few months and may replace Alexis Mac Allister to bring a bit more control and progression to Liverpool’s centre.
8 RW – Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah warming up for Liverpool
Another to be given a rest a few days ago, Mohamed Salah’s mere presence will strike frissons of fear through Lilywhite fans, especially with Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven sidelined.
Most Goals + Assists – Europe’s Top Five Leagues (24/25)
Rank
Player
Goals
Assists
G/A
1.
Mohamed Salah
13
9
22
2.
Harry Kane
14
7
21
2=
Omar Marmoush
13
8
21
4.
Raphinha
11
8
19
5.
Robert Lewandowski
16
2
18
Stats via Transfermarkt
He’s posted 16 goals and 13 assists from 22 matches across all competitions this term and seems desperate to propel Liverpool toward the Premier League title.
9 AM – Dominik Szoboszlai
Dominik Szoboszlai for Liverpool
Dominik Szoboszlai might not rake in the goal return that fans hoped for after he left RB Leipzig for a £60m fee in 2023, but he’s a tireless and protean attacking threat who doesn’t shirk from his defensive duties either.
10 LW – Luis Diaz
Liverpool star Luis Diaz
You get the feeling Luis Diaz might play out his football on Sunday with a certain vengeance, having seen a perfectly good goal wrongly chalked off down N17 last season.
He’s bound to cause problems with his pace and movements, but given that the Colombian hasn’t scored a league goal since September, he does need to start proving that Salah isn’t leading a one-man frontline.
Looking to land their ninth signing of the summer transfer window, Aston Villa have reportedly made an approach to sign a defender who could be one for the future under Unai Emery.
Aston Villa transfer news
The Villans have been one of the busiest clubs in Europe so far this summer in a statement of intent from all involved in the Midlands. The likes of Amadou Onana and Ian Maatsen have stolen the headlines, whilst Jaden Philogene and Ross Barkley represent the crucial addition of depth to Emery's side ahead of their biggest European campaign yet in the Champions League.
Alongside that depth, those in the Midlands and president of football operations Monchi also seemingly have eyes on the future and maintaining their recent rise. According to Jacob Tanswell of The Athletic, Aston Villa have made an approach to sign Yeimar Mosquera and hope to finalise a deal for the 19-year-old Orosomarso centre-back.
That said, the teenager is reportedly unlikely to be a player thrown straight into Emery's side, instead potentially heading straight out on loan to Villa's sister club Real Union.
Dream Duran replacement: Aston Villa ready move for "phenomenon"
He is in the Premier League 100 club
ByJoe Nuttall
Signing a potential future star could be a smart move from those at Villa Park, who are clearly looking to ensure that their recent success is more than just a flash in the pan in the Premier League and something that can be sustained.
"Strong" Mosquera is one for the future
A player who's yet to really take significant steps in top-level senior football, Mosquera is undoubtedly one for the future rather than anytime soon. At 19 years old, a move to Villa Park before a loan switch in search of first-team action could be ideal for all parties involved. Described as "strong" by Colombian league scout Thanassis Avastagos, via Youth Scouting, Mosquera will be one to keep an eye on.
With Diego Carlos' Aston Villa future in doubt too, Mosquera could eventually be asked to step in and replace the Fulham-linked Brazilian, even if it is next season.
Diego Carlos for Aston Villa
The teenager could be picking an ideal time to complete such a move to the Premier League. Villa have just qualified for the Champions League and if this summer's business is anything to go by, they're only just getting started under the guidance of Emery.
Tottenham are looking into signing a £45 million star this summer, with his club now potentially forced into selling him amid their financial woes.
Spurs drawing summer transfer shortlist
Ange Postecoglou recently admitted that the Spurs squad needs a lot of work done over the next few transfer windows to reach their required level, but it's safe to say the recruitment team have done an excellent job during his reign thus far.
Tottenham planning to accept bid for £110,000-a-week player
Ange has called him “determined”.
ByTom Cunningham
The signings of Micky van de Ven and James Maddison last summer have been key to Tottenham's position in the table and fight for a Champions League place, while Timo Werner's addition on loan has also proved successful – so much so that they could opt to sign him permanently from RB Leipzig.
Technical director Johan Lange and the wider recruitment team have cherry-picked players from across the continent who are seemingly tailor-made for Postecoglou's system, with the biggest example being van de Ven, whose searing pace allows Spurs to play their aggressive high line defensively.
Tottenham's best-performing players in the league this season
Average match rating per 90 (via WhoScored)
Son Heung-min
7.40
James Maddison
7.33
Pedro Porro
7.12
Cristian Romero
7.08
Manor Solomon
7.05
The aim for Tottenham is to continue building upon their transfer success under Postecoglou and to avoid mishaps like the club-record signing of flop Tanguy Ndombele.
One of their key goals for the next summer window is bringing in a midfielder, with Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg looking pretty likely to leave Spurs as things stand.
They've been repeatedly linked with a move for Conor Gallagher as an option, as the England international's contract expires next summer and there is still no sign of a renewal.
A deal could be difficult to pull off, though, given the rivalry between both Chelsea and Spurs. Atalanta's Ederson is rumoured to be a Tottenham alternative to Gallagher heading into ther summer, but it appears another could well be Leicester City star Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.
Tottenham looking at signing Dewsbury-Hall
According to talkSPORT this week, Tottenham are looking into signing Dewsbury-Hall as Leicester may be forced into a painful sale.
The midfielder has bagged a sensational 11 goals and 13 assists in 38 Championship appearances this term, standing out as one of their star players, but the Foxes need to balance their books after posting £90 million losses for the last financial year.
Leicester's loss could be Tottenham's gain, as Postecoglou's side join the host of teams keeping tabs on the £45 million-rated Dewsbury-Hall heading into this summer.
"He is a wonderful demonstration of someone who works very hard and he has proved that if you work hard the opportunities come your way," said former Leicester boss Brendan Rodgers.
Leicester midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall
"It is a real joy as a coach and a manager to see a young player come through the system here over many years and then score his first goal at his home stadium in front of his home supporters that he has dreamt of doing all his life.
FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
"What’s very important for him is to keep proving his point and he needs to find consistency. He has certainly done that since he has come into the team and he’s been a revelation for us.
"He is a young man that is very determined. He has great human qualities as well. His humbleness, his vision of where he wants to go is very clear and he knows that is just about work. It is staying calm, staying focused and improving yourself every game."
Whisper it quietly but Manchester United are currently the form team in the Premier League.
It's a strange fact, particularly when you consider the sheer amount of animosity surrounding Old Trafford at the moment.
Coming into this gameweek, no team had won more than the 12 points Erik ten Hag's side had secured over the last five league fixtures.
Why, then, is it all so doom and gloom? Well, you could point to a number of factors. The football isn't the best, the Glazers are still there, Ten Hag has alienated a few players and the recruitment has been shoddy, to say the least.
Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag.
Therefore, a game against an Everton side who have just been deducted ten points for financial misdemeanours has come at the wrong time. This Toffees side will be inspired and hugely motivated to give another gut punch to this United team.
The latest Man United team news
Ten Hag will be boosted by the eventual return of Luke Shaw this weekend. The England left-back has been missing since the 2-0 defeat to Spurs at the end of August, having only made two appearances all season.
Since then, Sergio Reguilon was signed on loan from the Lilywhites but Shaw is expected to waltz back into the side.
There is also good news concerning goalkeeper Andre Onana who was injured on international duty with Cameroon. Despite that, the summer signing is set to be fit to face off against Everton.
Doubts still linger over star striker Rasmus Hojlund, however. Without a goal in the Premier League, he is still the biggest threat in this United side but could miss the game.
Rasmus Hojlund
Speaking recently, the club's Dutch head coach said: "Rasmus is a close finish, he is training, he is down and outside. He is making very good steps and we will have to wait to make a final decision."
How Man United could overcome Hojlund's fitness
If the Norwegian striker is unable to play against Everton on Sunday afternoon then Ten Hag could be forced into an unwanted change to his attacking lineup.
Man Utd could ease Eriksen blow by unleashing "unreal" Mount alternative
The Red Devils have yet another injury concern to contend with, ahead of today’s trip to Goodison.
ByRobbie Walls
Alejandro Garnacho will likely keep his place, as too will Marcus Rashford despite his profligate form this term.
In fact, Rashford could well feature up top. After all, the only other option is to deploy Anthony Martial in a centre-forward role. Without a league goal since last May, that hardly sounds like an ideal scenario.
How Man Utd wingers compare over the last 365 days
Statistic per 90
Antony
Marcus Rashford
Alejandro Garnacho
Jadon Sancho
Goals
0.12
0.46
0.17
0.26
Assists
0.08
0.16
0.17
0.13
Progressive carries
4.57
3.42
5.95
5.16
Key passes
1.50
1.11
1.17
2.91
Goal creating actions
0.25
0.54
0.67
0.40
Successful take-ons
1.66
2.12
2.01
2.38
Successful take-on %
37.7%
41.1%
31.2%
43.9%
All figures via FBref.
If Rashford does feature as a striker, then United could be forced to turn to Antony. Of course, that's not a great situation either, but at least he does offer a degree of threat and unpredictability in the final third.
FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
Only two players, Rashford and Bruno Fernandes have created more big chances than the Brazilian in the Premier League this season. That doesn't tell the whole story, however. Indeed, the former Ajax man has failed to score or register a single assist throughout 2023/24.
For a man who moved to England for a fee of £82m, that's dismal, and as such has been highlighted by the Manchester Evening News' Samuel Luckhurst. Writing in a player ratings article regarding the club's season to date, he handed Antony a 1/10. Harsh indeed.
Luckhurst wrote: "Dreadful before his six-week leave of absence and dreadful since he returned. One of United's worst signings."
Fielding such a player against Everton is not ideal and only if Hojlund passes a late fitness check will they need to resort to this eventuality. United may well be the most in-form team in the league right now but that could be undone if their £64m man doesn't make the squad this weekend.
Liverpool are interested in Eintracht Frankfurt star Jesper Lindstrom as manager Jurgen Klopp prepares his squad for the 23/24 campaign.
The Anfield side have been bolstering the midfield over the past couple of months, and the impressive signings of Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai could now be supplemented by Southampton's Romeo Lavia, who Liverpool have recently lodged a £42m bid for after seeing an initial approach turned down.
With the Reds falling by the wayside last term, failing to qualify for the Champions League for the first time in seven seasons, and Klopp will be hoping to make singings capable of spearheading an ascent back to the forefront of domestic and European football.
What's the market value of Jesper Lindstrom?
According to Danish publication Ekstra Bladet (page 43), Liverpool and Premier League rivals Arsenal are already in contact with Frankfurt for the dynamic midfielder, with the German Bundesliga outfit demanding €35-40m (£30m-£34m) for his signature.
Read the latest Liverpool transfer news HERE…
Despite a belief that Liverpool will attempt to bolster their backline before the transfer window closes in one month, there are still murmurings of further attention to the Anfield centre after a tidal wave of departures this summer.
How good is Jesper Lindstrom?
Some might feel that Liverpool do not need to wade into the transfer pool and search for more attacking talent, but Lindstrom is first-class and Klopp might view the opportunity to at least discuss a deal as irresistible.
A truly all-encompassing ace, Lindstrom has been deployed in a wealth of roles, finding success each time, and has been praised as "outstanding" by teammate Kevin Trapp after scoring nine goals and supplying four assists this term.
The 23-year-old also boasts the winning mentality that Klopp will covet after going without a trophy last season – barring the Community Shield – with Lindstrom playing an important role in Frankfurt's Europa League triumph in 21/22, beating Rangers on penalties in the final.
Denmark'sJesperLindstromin action with Australia's Aziz Behich
The nine-cap Denmark international also ranks among the top 20% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for goals and the top 12% for tackles per 90, as per FBref, which illuminates his application across both sides of the pitch.
While his flexibility will appeal to Klopp, he would most often find a home in the centre of the pitch, perched on the periphery of the final third as he orchestrates play and charges into the attack, and he could thrive with Alexis Mac Allister performing alongside him.
FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
The Argentina star sealed a move to Anfield from high-flying Brighton & Hove Albion this summer for a bargain £35m, after starring for the Seagulls last season, scoring ten goals and supplying two assists from 31 starts in the Premier League, also playing a pivotal role in his nation's momentous victory at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where his "sumptuous" assist in the final – as lauded by Gary Lineker – proved crucial.
Mac Allister recorded an impressive average Sofascore rating of 7.21 in the league, complementing his goals and assists with an 87% pass success rate, 2.5 shots and 1.3 key passes per game, two tackles per outing plus a 67% dribble and 57% duel success rate.
With Mac Allister's vibrant, diverse approach to his play blending with Lindstrom's directness, Liverpool could have a midfield for the ages, and Klopp must now consider his next move and whether a deal is in fact feasible.
Tottenham Hotspur's miserable season continued with defeat at home to Brentford on Saturday afternoon, with the visitors mounting an impressive second-half comeback to clinch a 3-1 triumph.
A late Yoane Wissa strike ultimately sealed all three points for the Bees following an earlier Bryan Mbeumo double, with the west London outfit recording yet another scalp in what has been a stellar season thus far.
As for Tottenham, that disappointing outcome will be of particular frustration for interim boss, Ryan Mason, with the home side having initially started brightly as record scorer Harry Kane fired home in exquisite fashion for his 28th Premier League goal of the season.
That moment of magic was as good as it got for both the 29-year-old and for Spurs in general, however, with Kane – who notably lost possession every three touches – unable to help guide his side to a much-needed victory in the battle for European qualification.
While there will be few positives to take from that limp, second-half showing, one man who did ultimately catch the eye was Sweden international, Dejan Kulusevski, with the 23-year-old having had his "best game in ages", according to The Athletic's Jack Pitt-Brooke.
How did Kulusevski perform against Brentford?
The on-loan Juventus man had gone into the game amid doubts over his long-term future at N17, with recent claims suggesting that the promising forward may not be signed on a permanent deal.
That decision would appear rather folly if Kulusevski's display earlier today is anything to go by, with the one-time Parma ace having "shone" in a number ten berth, as per The Sun's Tom Barclay.
As football.london's Alasdair Gold also noted, the £110k-per-week ace appeared to be "relishing" the chance to line up in that playmaking berth, with Mason taking the decision to move away from Tottenham's usual, 3-4-3 formation.
Tottenham's Dejan Kulusevski
The versatile dynamo appeared to be a real beneficiary of that tactical tweak, having recorded a staggering haul of five key passes from his 45 touches, including producing the layoff for Kane's opener.
FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
The young Swede also again found the Three Lions marksman after the break with a clever through ball, although the typically prolific ace couldn't only lash his effort high and wide.
That creative influence was crucial to all that was good about the home side in the first half, in particular, albeit with Kulusevski somewhat failing to maintain that impact, after being hooked in the closing stages.
Even so, despite that late withdrawal, the 6 foot 1 sensation undoubtedly proved his worth to the side after recording a stellar match rating of 7.5, as per Sofascore – the joint-highest among any Spurs player – with any prospective new appointment likely to relish the chance to work with such a talent.
Leeds United YouTuber Joe Wainman was left ‘fuming’ after Pascal Struijk’s ‘shocking’ performance at the weekend.
The Lowdown: Leeds suffer Forest defeat
Struijk picked up a booking, lost possession 26 times and completed just 65% of his passes in their Premier League match against Nottingham Forest, before being substituted after 67 minutes.
The 1-0 defeat would be Jesse Marsch’s final game in charge of the Whites, with the club recently announcing that they had parted ways with the American.
The Latest: Wainman slams Struijk
Speaking on the JustJoe Football Show, Wainman tore into Struijk’s performance – particularly his role in Forest’s goal – and questioned if he still rated him as a player.
He stated: “I’m not sure on Struijk anymore.
“He was shocking today. Terrible going forward. We’re going to have to start playing Firpo. But you don’t need to bring Brennan Johnson down.
“The yellow’s stupid, I was fuming with the yellow.
“You don’t need to bring him down because Jack Harrison’s on the cover. When the ball comes in, his clearance is terrible. Ayling’s left Brennan Johnson, and Brennan Johnson hits it first-time, he’s in hot form, bang, 1-0.”
The Verdict: A rough patch
We believe that Struijk has hit a bit of a rough patch, but he is one of the best options that Leeds have in the left-back area, as Junior Firpo has hardly featured in the league this season, forcing the Dutchman to fill in there throughout the campaign.
His performances in his last four Premier League games have arguably been underwhelming – his 6.9/10 performance against Forest was his highest-rated display on Sofascore since the turn of the year – but he’s proven he can be a strong asset for Leeds this season.
Presenter Conor McGilligan raved about the defender earlier in the season, claiming he has ‘ridiculous talent’ when talking about the player on Twitter.
Our view is that a new manager could help spark a revival in form for Struijk. It’s clear that Leeds needed a change in the dugout after their recent sluggish form.
Carlos Corberan is reportedly one of the candidates on the club’s list. The West Bromwich Albion boss has lifted the Baggies up the Championship table from relegation battlers to pushing for a spot in the play-offs.
In our view, someone like Struijk could really benefit from an appointment like Corberan.
FootballFanCast General: Subscribe and never miss what matters Stay ahead in the world of football analysis, commentary, and fan insights with FootballFancast.
By subscribing, you agree to receive newsletter and marketing emails, and accept Valnet’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe anytime.
He used to manage the Whites’ Under-21s, so should have an idea on how manage those still in the early stages of their careers, and it’s clear from his time with the Baggies that he can improve a team with the resources at his disposal.
But it remains to be seen if he can do that at Premier League level and keep Leeds up should he be appointed.
Though as far as Struijk is concerned, his focus should remain on staying in the side as the team go through this transition.