All posts by z3u9t.icu

Liverpool target Khephren Thuram has been urged to join the Reds as Premier League clubs battle for his signature this summer.

What’s the latest on Khephren Thuram to Liverpool?

RedmenTV presenter Paul Machin believes the Nice man should think carefully about his next destination, despite some of his potential suitors being able to offer Champions League football.

Indeed, Newcastle United are also believed to be admirers of the Frenchman and will return to the Champions League next term.

Machin told GIVEMESPORT: "I think Champions League football is an obvious draw, but the Newcastle project is still so young that there are so many uncertainties around it.

"I think they need a year or two of consistently qualifying for the Champions League before they become a proper Champions League club."

Whilst it’s difficult to argue against the project and the excitement brewing at St James' Park, Jurgen Klopp’s side is still expected to continue their pursuit of Thuram.

As per Nice-Matin, via Get French Football News, Liverpool will lodge a bid for the 22-year-old once the U21 European Championship has finished.

It is understood that Anfield is Thuram’s preferred destination, with transfer expert Fabrizio Romano recently revealing that the 2019 Champions League winners are in constant contact with the Frenchman.

Thuram is valued at around £35m, with Newcastle still in the race.

How could Liverpool line up next season?

Since making his first team debut for Nice in 2019, Thuram has evolved into one of the continent's most promising and exciting talents.

In total, he has accumulated 138 appearances for his current club, with 35 of those coming in Ligue 1 this season.

Didier Digard, Thuram’s coach at Nice last season, has eulogised over his limitless potential and said: “Khephren’s fantastic. He is very hardworking, very attentive. On rest days he's at the training centre. He recovers quickly for back-to-back matches and completes high-intensity training.

“He listens and applies himself. He has room for improvement and he's in demand. He simply eats up video analysis, additional sessions. He also advises others, because he takes on a leadership role.”

As well as his commendable mentality, the £14k-per-week gem has also displayed his sensational dribbling ability as he ranks within the top 9% in Europe’s top five leagues among his positional peers for progressive carries per 90 and successful take-ons per 90.

A player of this calibre could form a scintillating new partnership with Liverpool’s newest recruit, Alexis Mac Allister.

The Argentinian recently signed for just £35m and his incredible numbers make him a huge asset. The World Cup winner sits within the best 20% for successful take-ons per 90, shot-creating actions per 90, and total shots per 90, as his impudent trickery combined with Thuram’s energy makes for a frightening prospect.

Last campaign, across 35 top-flight games, the former Brighton man averaged 2.0 tackles and 1.3 key passes per game, as well as forging an 87% pass accuracy.

With a new-look midfield on the horizon at Liverpool, Klopp’s side could be back to their devastating best in the near future.

Wolverhampton Wanderers reportedly remain in the chase for a teen sensation, in a player that could turn the fortunes in front of goal around for Julen Lopetegui.

The Midlands side were the Premier League’s lowest-scorers last season, and will aim to bolster the strike area this summer while remaining on a tight budget.

The Old Gold could achieve both by making a swoop for the latest link, in a deal that could prove to be an overwhelming success in years to come.

What’s the latest on Adama Bojang to Wolves

As reported by Evening Standard this week, Wolves remain in the race for The Gambia and Steve Biko FC striker Adama Bojang.

The striker is reportedly wanted by a ‘raft of European clubs’, with Wolves listed as one of five representing the Premier League.

Evening Standard revealed that the Gambian teenager is valued by Steve Biko FC at £2.6m, making him an attractive prospect for Wolves.

What could Adama Bojang offer to Wolves?

The 19-year-old’s agent is a name familiar to English football, with former Millwall and Plymouth Argyle striker Cherno Samba mentoring the young talent.

Speaking about his client via talkSPORT, the former player lauded the teen as being a starlet “destined for greatness”, making his journey one to watch in world football.

The youngster has rightfully earned his praise, shining in international competition so far this year acting as a talisman for The Gambia in both the U20 African Cup of Nations and the U20 World Cup.

Named in the U20 AFCON team of the tournament, Bojang led his team to a second-place finish in the competition, scoring four goals and assisting one in six games, via Sofascore.

A similar feat has been evident at the U20 World Cup, where the 19-year-old scored two goals in four games, averaging two shots on target per game for his country.

Hailed as an “insane talent” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, the teenager could follow in the footsteps of a Premier League great, who was given a slim chance as a rotation player that allowed him to pass through a door that opened record-breaking status.

Harry Kane burst onto the scene in 2014 in his first full season in the Premier League, scoring 21 goals in 34 appearances for Spurs in a feat that redefined the meaning of taking your chance.

The now 29-year-old has never looked back from the campaign that he was nurtured into the first team by Mauricio Pochettino, and now leads as the club’s all-time leading goalscorer with 280 goals so far.

Kane’s story is an admirable one for rising stars to aim to follow, and with the England skipper listed as one of the players young Bojang “looks up to”, the Gambian is showing signs of having the potential to hit the ground running in the Premier League like his idol.

Lopetegui is desperate for a goalscorer, and in the 19-year-old he could deploy a hungry-to-succeed talent that undoubtedly has an innate eye for goal, as highlighted by his scoring records this year.

In giving such a young player creative freedom when leading the line, the Spaniard could unearth one of The Gambia’s biggest talents, in a side that isn’t short on creativity.

Molineux could pose to be the perfect place for the teenager to flourish, in an environment that could allow him to make a significant difference to his and Wolves’ future.

Fulham are interested in making a move for Manchester United midfielder Fred this summer, who has been valued at £20m, according to Jason Burt of The Telegraph.

Fulham transfer news – will they sign Fred?

With just one year left on his current deal at Manchester United, if Fred is to leave the Red Devils, it would make sense for them to cash in this summer.

With Fulham interested, too, a move to the London club may well happen before the start of the forthcoming Premier League season.

Marco Silva could see the Brazilian as a replacement for Joao Palhinha, who has been linked with a move to West Ham United, as they seek to replace the departing Declan Rice.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the Hammers are set to make their first approach for the midfielder.

Would Fred be an upgrade on Harrison Reed?

After Fulham shocked the Premier League to finish in the top half in their first season back in the top flight, not many upgrades are needed in Silva's side.

If they are to keep their place in the top half, however, then welcoming a player of Fred's experience wouldn't be a bad start this summer.

As solid as Harrison Reed has been for the Cottagers, the Brazilian would simply be a significant upgrade, as backed up by the stats.

Silva's side broke into the top half through their free-flowing football, and adding Fred would only enhance that style of play and hand the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic more service and, therefore, more goals.

As per FBref, when compared to Reed last season, the United man made more progressive passes per 90 and had a better pass completion rate, too.

Meanwhile, defensively speaking, the "magnificent" Fred – as lauded by his manager Erik ten Hag – also lost fewer challenges than the current Fulham midfielder and made more blocks per 90. So, with that said, the London club would be getting themselves a player capable of bettering Reed offensively and defensively.

Not to mention the trophies he has picked up at Old Trafford either.

Speaking about the Brazilian machine back in 2019, Sky Sports pundit, Jamie Redknapp said, via Manchester Evening News:

"The stick he received was remarkable. From 'useless' to 'waste of money', he was called it all. Maybe he is not the answer for Manchester United in the long term. Maybe he won't be their midfield lynchpin for years to come.

"But he has dug deep and refused to let the critics win. He was superb against City. In the same way everyone was quick to criticise, let's give him the credit he deserves, too."

After playing just 1231 minutes in the Premier League for Manchester United – the same as just over 13 games – Fred may feel as though now is the right time to move on from Old Trafford.

A side on the up such as Fulham would certainly make for an interesting project, too. We saw his former teammate Andreas Pereira make the same move last summer, before going on to enjoy a far better season at Craven Cottage than any that he experienced on an individual level for the Red Devils.

It is a transfer that would see Fulham upgrade on Reed, and Fred receive far more game time.

Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou could be set to make a raid on his former club Celtic this summer, amid reports that the 57-year-old is eyeing a deal for Japanese midfielder, Reo Hatate.

What's the latest on Hatate to Tottenham?

According to the Daily Mail, the Lilywhites are believed to be keeping tabs on the 25-year-old ahead of a potential summer move, albeit with the north London outfit holding concerns as to whether the one-cap international would be able to obtain a work permit.

The diminutive maestro was previously signed by Postecoglou for the Old Firm outfit on a £1.4m deal back in January 2022, although after just 18 months in Glasgow, the former Kawasaki Frontale ace could be on his way to the Premier League, with Brighton and Hove Albion having also been linked with a move.

This latest report also follows a piece from 90min last week which suggested that there were fears among the Parkhead hierarchy that the newly-appointed Spurs could return to make an approach for Hatate and a handful of his current teammates.

Who is Reo Hatate?

While the £12k-per-week machine may not be a household name to those who don't hold a vested interest in Scottish football, he has certainly caught the eye as a result of his standout form for the Hoops of late, having contributed 27 goals and assists in just 66 games for the club from his central midfield berth.

Part of Celtic's treble-winning side this season, Hatate has certainly warranted the attention of those at N17, having even been dubbed the "Japanese Luka Modric" by one Athletic employee due to his stellar displays.

That comparison between the 5 foot 8 ace and Modric – who is also a slight figure at 5 foot 8 – will no doubt pique the interest of Spurs supporters, with the Croatian sensation having previously dazzled for the club prior to his Champions League and Ballon d'Or-winning exploits at Real Madrid.

Much like Hatate, the former Dinamo Zagreb man was something of an unknown quantity when he made the £15m move to White Hart Lane in the summer of 2008, albeit with the then-youngster going on to showcase his class over the next four years in English football, contributing 42 goals and assists in 160 games across all fronts for the Lilywhites.

Dubbed "world-class" by compatriot Slaven Bilic during his time at Tottenham, Modric was also hailed for his all-action, box-to-box style by former boss Harry Redknapp back in 2009, with the Englishman stating:

"He heads the ball, tackles and has got strong legs. He's a powerful little lad. He's got a great heart and is a great all-round player."

Such traits appear to be shared by the exciting Hatate, with ex-Spurs man Alan Hutton having said of his qualities earlier this year: "He is all action, all energy, he is everywhere, tackling, scoring, creating."

Equally, while the nimble Modric is also a master at gliding and weaving his way up the pitch – as he ranks in the top 17% among his European peers for progressive carries – the Celtic gem also possesses "mesmerising" footwork and "Samba feet", according to journalist Sacha Pisani.

The two men also share the ability to be the creative hub for their respective clubs, with the veteran Madrid ace having created nine big chances in La Liga in 2022/23, while his Japanese counterpart recorded ten big chances in the Scottish Premiership, having become a key cog in Postecoglou's winning machine.

That comparison would suggest that if the Spurs boss is to reunite with Hatate over the coming weeks, it could allow the north London outfit to finally find a successor to the majestic Modric.

An update has emerged on Celtic and their plans to find a new head coach to take over at Parkhead for the 2023/24 campaign.

What's the latest on Kieran McKenna to Celtic?

According to the Daily Record, the Hoops have identified Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna as one of their targets as they attempt to replace Ange Postecoglou.

The report claims that they are eyeing the soon-to-be Championship boss as his team deploys a similar style of play to the Australian.

Tottenham Hotspur appointed Postecoglou as their new chief on Tuesday and the Scottish giants are now looking to find his heir, with McKenna and Manchester City's Enzo Maresca among the options on the table.

Would Kieran McKenna be a success at Celtic?

Majority shareholder Dermot Desmond could get Parkhead rocking next season by hiring the Tractor Boys tactician as his style of play and love for attacking football could make him a big success in Scotland.

Postecoglou made going to Celtic Park each week an exciting prospect as his team ended 2022/23 with a staggering 114 goals from their 38 Scottish Premiership matches – winning 32 of them.

The supporters could get behind the ex-Manchester United youth coach in the same way as the 37-year-old has shown plenty of promise in his short career as a coach who can build a clinical outfit.

Ipswich finished outside the play-offs in League One in the two seasons before McKenna arrived halfway through the 2021/22 campaign.

He was then able to push on and lead the East Anglian club to a second-placed finish in the third tier of English football in 22/23, which secured their promotion to the Championship with a whopping 98 points.

Whilst they did not win the title with Plymouth Argyle managing a stunning 101 points, his Ipswich team were the great entertainers of the division as they scored 101 times in the league – 19 more than any other outfit.

McKenna, whose work has been described as "absolutely incredible" by his captain Sam Morsy, typically deploys a 4-2-3-1 formation, which is not a far cry from the attacking 4-3-3 set-up that Postecoglou used during his time in Scotland.

Only the midfield configuration has a minor change with one of the central focal points playing slightly further up the pitch.

The 37-year-old tactician, who won 15 of his 22 matches in charge of United's U18 side in the Premier League 2 in 17/18, is unproven at the top level but his impressive work with Ipswich should not be sniffed at.

He turned the English team from a mid-table League One side into a promotion-winning outfit that destroyed the opposition by plundering goal after goal whilst playing football that has been likened to Postecoglou's progressive passing approach.

Therefore, Desmond could get Celtic Park rocking by appointing McKenna, a manager who can make the Hoops an entertaining side to watch, just as they were under their now former boss.

Tottenham Hotspur have "set their sights" on signing crucial Galatasary defender Victor Nelsson this summer, according to reports out of Turkey.

Who will Spurs sign this summer?

The Premier League side, after months of searching, have finally landed on their new manager to replace Antonio Conte. Indeed, former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou has now joined the north Londoners on a four-year contract.

After announcing his appointment, it is the task of chairman Daniel Levy to back him with key signings, and reports suggest they're set to attempt exactly that this summer.

It is believed that Spurs are looking to strengthen in a number of areas, including further forward, with Leicester City duo James Maddison and Harvey Barnes firmly on the radar. Goalkeeping additions, like Brentford's David Raya, have also been linked.

The Lilywhites' biggest issue appears to be their back line – with Tottenham conceding more goals than any other side above 15th in the top flight last season.

Numbers like that are a real eye-opener and perhaps highlight the need for star defensive reinforcements. Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, among others, are believed to be of interest to Spurs.

According to a report by Turkish newspaper Takvim, though, the north Londoners could widen their scope in search of centre-back signings and Galatasary's Nelsson is a player they're targeting.

The Denmark international, who featured at last year's 2022 World Cup in Qatar, is likely to leave this summer and Tottenham have apparently "set their sights" on signing him.

In a further bit of news, the Turkish Super Lig side are already starting to identify replacements for Nelsson, with Southampton's Mohammed Salisu attracting interest.

The report describes Nelsson as playing a "very important role" over 2022/2023, making "critical interventions" under manager Okan Buruk, and the 24-year-old's contract contains a £22 million release clause.

Who is Victor Nelsson?

The Dane has been a star defender and key mainstay for Galatasary, especially last season, and his numbers suggest there is a real asset there for the taking.

While he is yet to be tested in a more demanding division like the Premier League, it speaks volumes that Buruk selected Nelsson more than any other outfield Galatasary player last season (WhoScored).

The former FC Copenhagen star won more aerial duels per 90 and made more blocks per match than any of his teammates in the league last season – emphasizing why Tottenham have taken an interest (WhoScored).

Wolverhampton Wanderers are in action for the final time this season, as Julen Lopetegui’s side face a trip to the Emirates to face Arsenal.

It’s been a Premier League campaign of ups and downs for Wolves, who looked like relegation candidates earlier this term, sitting bottom of the table on Christmas Day.

Lopetegui reinstated the level of football that Molineux had become accustomed to over the years and now with survival confirmed, the club have the chance to end the season on a high.

Last time out, Wolves were held to a dramatic late draw against relegation-threatened Everton in the final action at Molineux of the 2022/23 campaign.

While the hosts controlled the possession with 53% over Sean Dyche’s side on the day, the Toffees posed a real threat, registering 1.99 expected goals to the Midlands outfit’s 1.57 – as per Sofascore.

It’s been a recurring theme this season for Wolves to be shy in front of goal, sitting as the league’s lowest scorers this campaign, scoring just 31 goals in 37 games.

While Wolves’ final-day opponents have been one of the best-performing sides, the Gunners have shown their defensive vulnerabilities of late, something that a certain ace in Lopetegui’s squad could unlock.

Should Hwang Hee-chan start for Wolves against Arsenal?

Lauded as “dangerous” by Kevin Campbell, Wolves forward Hwang Hee-chan has had to be patient for game time this campaign, making just 11 starts in a total of 26 appearances in the league – as per Sofascore.

In the previous game, the South Korean was undeniably the host's shining light, as echoed by his Sofascore match rating of 7.2 in what was an impressive individual display.

The 27-year-old opened the scoring in the 34th minute, with a simple finish but one that showcased his strong positioning to act as a poacher from the parried shot.

Praised as having “everything” by Arsenal legend Ian Wright on BBC’s Match of the Day – as relayed by Molineux News – the forward could pose a real threat to the Gunners’ fragile defence.

Arsenal have kept just one clean sheet in their previous nine fixtures – conceding 18 goals in the process, showing the defensive form that all but cost Arteta’s side the title.

The Gunners’ nervous defence was stunned last time at the Emirates by Brighton, who targeted the backline in a way that could be replicated by Hwang with his pace and strength.

Jakub Kiwior has made just four starts in the Premier League, and should be a target for the attacker to exploit one-on-one, with his lack of experience and weaknesses exposed in the north Londoners’ previous home game.

The Poland international was handed a Sofascore match rating of just 6.1 against the Seagulls, followed by a 6.4 last time out at Nottingham Forest, hinting at a potential lack of confidence going into the final day.

The centre-back lost possession seven times against Brighton, while the Wolves forward attempted eight ground duels against Everton, showing his instinctive nature to press, which could expose Kiwior once more.

Lopetegui’s side could end the season on a high with a win, but could also lift themselves off of the bottom of the scoring table against a wounded Arsenal side.

Aberdeen have enjoyed a stunning resurgence under Barry Robson during the final few months of the Scottish Premiership campaign.

Jim Goodwin was sacked following a woeful 6-0 defeat by Hibernian in January and Robson was placed in interim charge before finally securing the job on a full-time basis at the start of May following a run which included nine wins from their final 15 games to finish in third place and secure European football next term.

Much of their good form has come down to the performances of on-loan Liverpool youngster Leighton Clarkson, who is attracting the attention of both Rangers and Celtic, however, might his future be with the Dons in 2023/24?

The 21-year-old dropped a major hint following their 3-0 win over St Mirren, in which he scored a free kick that secured third place in the table, as a video appeared of him indicating he’d see the fans in Europe.

He said: "Thank you for your support this season. It's been incredible. I’ll see you in Europe."

Could Aberdeen sign Leighton Clarkson ahead of next season?

Nothing should be ruled out, especially with the video hinting that Clarkson could be playing European football for the club next term.

Jurgen Klopp may feel that the midfielder requires another campaign with regular first-team football and with added continental exposure on the table, it could have benefits for all parties that’s for sure.

The Englishman has been outstanding this term for the Dons, scoring six times and grabbing nine assists across all competitions, while a Sofascore rating of 7.14/10 ranks him as the second-best performer for the club in the Premiership.

He also further underlined just how important he was for Aberdeen by ranking first for big chances created (nine), free kick goals (two), key passes per game (1.6) and second for tackles per game (2.2), suggesting that not only can he score, but his ability to set up plenty of chances for his teammates, while being able to provide defensive support when required, are key strengths of his.

Indeed, he was lauded by Liverpool’s assistant manager Pep Ljinders when the player was just 17, claiming that he could “dictate play” and “speed up the tempo of the positional play”, certainly proving that he is well thought of among the staff at the Anfield side.

Another season in the North East would do his game wonders and with the added experience of already playing in Scotland for a year, imagine how good he can be throughout 2023/24.

It’s over to you Robson.

Manchester United enter their final three Premier League matches knowing that two wins will ensure they finish fourth and qualify for next season's Champions League, giving Erik ten Hag a major boost heading into the summer transfer window.

Following two defeats on the bounce to West Ham United and Brighton & Hove Albion, United returned to winning ways against Wolverhampton Wanderers last week, securing a 2-0 win which could prove to be important considering a resurgent Liverpool are hot on their heels.

The Red Devils showed a lot more desire against the Molineux outfit, having a total of 27 shots at the opposition goal and the two-goal margin could have easily been more.

Ten Hag may make a few changes for the tie against Bournemouth this afternoon as a few substitutes from last weekend impressed when they entered the fray. Fred enjoyed a ten-minute cameo in which he won all of his ground duels and completed 100% of his passes, which could earn him a start.

Meanwhile, It was youngster Alejandro Garnacho who sealed the win with United’s second goal against Wolves, and he must be unleashed from the start today.

Will Alejandro Garnacho start for Manchester United against Bournemouth today?

The Argentinian enjoyed a successful eight-minute cameo last weekend, during which he scored United’s second goal, took five touches and completed 3/3 attempted passes.

The 18-year-old has enjoyed a breakthrough season under Ten Hag, playing 16 matches in the Premier League – albeit only four of them have been starts. However, it is clear he has significant potential.

There is no doubting his attacking intent and enthusiasm at such a young age, as he has scored three goals and grabbed two assists – a tally made even more impressive considering he has averaged just 28 minutes of game time per match.

The teen gem has the required attributes to dismantle Bournemouth this afternoon having shown his eagerness to impress with a key winner against Fulham and the match-winning assist in the Manchester derby. If he started against the Cherries, he will offer a direct threat from the left wing.

The 5 foot 10 starlet was dubbed as a “game-changer” by Manchester Evening News journalist Samuel Luckhurst back in January, and although qualification for Europe’s premier club competition is on the line, United’s ethos as a club since the days of Sir Matt Busby has been to allow youngsters the chance to shine.

If Ten Hag unleashes Garnacho today, he surely won’t disappoint.

Aston Villa are back in Premier League action this afternoon with an away clash against Burnley at Turf Moor.

The Villans head into this showdown off the back of a 2-0 win over Championship-bound Norwich City last weekend as Steven Gerrard’s side aim to end the season in the top half of the table.

Burnley, on the other hand, are fighting to remain in the Premier League and avoid following Norwich down to the Championship.

Heading into this afternoon’s clash, it seems as though the Midlands club have been hit with an unfortunate injury blow which could have an impact on today’s game.

What’s the news? 

According to Gerrard, Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey is “a big doubt” to play this afternoon, with journalist Ashley Preece claiming that the 20-year-old is struggling with a groin issue.

This season has seen the youngster start 27 of the 31 league games in which he has appeared, showing just how important he is to the team and why it would be a big blow for them to not have him available to take on the Clarets.

In those appearances, Ramsey has shown what a capable player he is for Villa at this level.

On the ball, the youngster has a higher pass completion percentage (86%) than the likes of midfield colleagues Douglas Luiz (82.9%) and John McGinn (75.2%). He has also carried the ball further while controlling it towards the opponent’s goal than any of his teammates.

Off the ball, only McGinn (54) has won more tackles than the Villa youth talent (38). This shows just how useful the midfielder is for Gerrard’s side in an attacking and defensive regard.

Ramsey’s overall performances have earned the England youth international a season rating of 6.8/10, making him the fifth-highest rated player at the Midlands club according to WhoScored.

Taking all this into account, possibly not having the 20-year-old available to take on Burnley, who will be desperate for all three points, could be a big issue for the travelling Villans.

Looking beyond that, it will certainly be worrying for Gerrard if the midfield gem isn’t able to feature again this season and help his side end their campaign as strongly as possible.

In other news: Villa eyeing £16k-p/w ace who “gives absolutely everything”, he’s better than Mings