All posts by z3u9t.icu

Alexander Isak is finally a Liverpool player. That’s the headline. That’s the saga of the summer and that may well be the deal that commences not only more Anfield glory in the current campaign, but for years to come.

The Reds have been accused of not doing enough in the transfer window in the past. They welcomed a new manager in Arne Slot this time last summer and the only immediate arrival proved to be Federico Chiesa as doubts arrived over Richard Hughes’ ability to get the job done. One year on, those doubts are laughable.

The Reds are in a better place than ever to repeat the dominance that Anfield has been unfortunate enough to watch elsewhere in the Premier League era. But, it must be said, they still need to find a way to make sure all their new pieces connect to form another title-winning machine, especially Isak and Hugo Ekitike.

The Haaland mistake that Liverpool must avoid

On paper, it is the ultimate position of luxury to have two of the world’s best strikers at your disposal. Alas, things on the pitch are slightly different.

Unless managers are willing to sacrifice their systems and midfield numbers to have two strikers lead the line together, there’s a high chance that one high-level forward will have to settle for a place on the bench or an unfamiliar role. And all it takes is one look at Erling Haaland and Julian Alvarez to realise how that problem ends.

The Citizens had the world at their feet for four straight years in the Premier League, with Haaland breaking record after record along the way. Left to watch on, however, was the talented Alvarez. In an ideal world, Pep Guardiola would have found a way for them to click together on the pitch, but it just did not come.

The duo combined for just eight goals in 63 games and Alvarez’s compromise ultimately proved to be untenable as he departed to Atletico Madrid, becoming one of Europe’s most impressive players. It should be seen as one of Guardiola’s biggest regrets, given how they’ve struggled without the forward.

Whilst much of last season’s struggles will be put down to Rodri’s injury, and others that followed, there’s no denying that City became over-reliant on Haaland for goals. The Norwegian did his job – scoring 34 goals in all competitions – but this time there was no Alvarez to swoop in when City’s star suffered a rare off day.

Starts

30

16

21

Goals

17

3

1

Assists

4

6

8

Expected Goals

14.1

1.3

5

Had Guardiola compromised to find a place for Alvarez, things could have been different for Man City last season. Instead, it was Diego Simeone who benefitted from handing the Argentine 30 starts in La Liga.

It’s not a problem that is going away anytime soon for City, either. This time, it’s Omar Marmoush missing out. The Egyptian arrived in January and handed City an instant attacking boost – scoring seven goals in 16 Premier League games – yet has already found himself pushed out to the left-hand side this season and didn’t start at all against Wolves.

Man City have inadvertently handed Liverpool the exact blueprint to avoid if they want to see both Ekitike and Isak thrive. Now, it’s down to Slot to keep both strikers happy.

How Liverpool could line-up with Isak & Ekitike

Will Slot change his system? Will Ekitike be left to settle for a place on the bench? Or will one find themselves out wide? Those are the questions that only Liverpool can truly answer after the international break, but they’ve certainly got options to ensure that both players enjoy the game time that they deserve.

The easiest way here is to start Ekitike out wide. Unlike Alvarez, the Frenchman has featured in that role before arriving in the Premier League and is arguably a similar profile to Liverpool’s current left-winger Cody Gakpo. Both are towering, physical figures who look to cut inside from the left using their skill and strength.

The Gakpo mould is one that Ekitike should follow if he wants to enjoy his best form from that side. The Dutchman started his Liverpool career as a No.9, before Slot arrived and moved him to the left of the front three. Since then, he has thrived.

Nothing has to be permanent, either. Isak’s injury history suggests that having a player like Ekitike available will prove to make all the difference for the Reds. In one move, Slot would be losing a world-class striker and replacing him with someone who has already stolen the headlines in a Liverpool shirt.

Groin injury

24/25

1

Hamstring injury

24/25

1

Broken toe

24/25

7

Groin injury

23/24

4

So, although Haaland and Alvarez’s failure should act as a firm warning, there is a way for Liverpool to march towards a successful title defence whilst enjoying both of their big-money strikers.

As the 49ers desperately look to sharpen Russell Martin’s frontline, Glasgow Rangers are reportedly eyeing a late swoop to sign a Premier League forward this month.

Latest on Rangers' transfer targets

It’s been a fairly disastrous start for Russell Martin at Ibrox. The Gers simply have not got going and their midweek thumping courtesy of Club Brugge summarised where they find themselves at present. They were hit by a 20-minute rout by the Belgian side to spark early Ibrox exits, before Danilo handed Rangers a slither of hope ahead of this week’s second leg.

Whether anything changes on the transfer front ahead of that crucial tie is the big question. With just over one week left until the transfer window slams shut, Rangers still have several reported targets on their radar and that includes Jamie Vardy.

The former Leicester City forward is still a free agent after leaving the Foxes as a club legend at the end of last season and may now be on his way to Scotland. If the Gers are attempting to spark their frontline into life then signing a Premier League winner is certainly one way to do it.

That said, at 38 years old, Vardy is not the only name on Rangers’ shortlist. The 49ers are also reportedly targeting Karl Etta Eyong, who has starred for Villarreal’s B team and since made his debut for the La Liga club’s senior side.

Martin could win over Ibrox with Rangers swoop for £3.5m 'Portobello Pirlo'

As the pressure mounts on Rangers manager Russell Martin, could he attempt to win over supporters by signing the “Portobello Pirlo” valued at £3.5m?

Aug 23, 2025

With one experienced option and another who arguably lacks experience, it remains to be seen which route Rangers decide to go down. They could yet, of course, find the perfect in-between by shopping in the Premier League this month.

Rangers eyeing late Chermiti swoop

As reported by Rangers Review, the 49ers are now eyeing a late Rangers swoop to sign Youssef Chermiti from Everton this month. The 21-year-old forward has had much of his Everton career interrupted by injuries since arriving for around £10.8m from Sporting Club in 2023 and now needs a loan move to guarantee game time.

Dubbed a “superb prospect” by scout Jacek Kulig during his time at Sporting, Chermiti is still very much a player full of potential despite his recent injury woes.

If Rangers can keep him fit then, alongside the likes of Mikey Moore, they could have an exciting core of attacking talents at their disposal. After stuttering to another draw in the Scottish Premiership – this time against St Mirren – it’s the type of firepower that the Gers so desperately need.

As the transfer window approaches deadline day and the Gers seek reinforcements, Chermiti and Rangers may well be ones to watch.

Manchester United have now opened talks to sign a £52m midfielder who’s “out of this world”, with Ruben Amorim identifying him as one of his top targets, according to a report.

Neville urges Man Utd to sign new midfielder

The rebuild is well underway at Man United, with Matheus Cunha becoming the first major signing of the summer, while they remain in the running for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, but Gary Neville believes several other signings will be necessary.

The United legend said: “It needs a big overhaul in the summer. Five or six players minimum to be able to change the direction of how he wants to play. There’s at least two forwards, a central midfield player, definitely two wing backs and another centre-back. They need six players minimum.”

The Red Devils are now closing in on a new central midfielder, with a deal for Valencia’s Javi Guerra thought to be edging closer to completion, while they have also stepped up their pursuit of a Serie A star.

Man Utd now set to accelerate talks to sign "fantastic" £35m forward

The Red Devils’ pursuit of a centre-forward is expected to move quickly.

1 ByDominic Lund Jul 8, 2025

That is according to a report from GOAL (via Football Transfers), which states that Man United have now opened talks over a deal for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, having been identified as one of Amorim’s top targets.

The central midfielder is highly sought-after, with AC Milan and Juventus submitting enquiries of their own, while he also has plenty of admirers from within the Premier League, including Arsenal, Newcastle United and Chelsea.

None of the aforementioned English clubs are expected to make moves, however, potentially opening the door for a move to Old Trafford, but a deal is unlikely to be cheap, with the Italian club setting an asking price of €60m (£52m).

Ederson could take Man Utd's midfield to next level

Former England boss Fabio Capello was left extremely impressed by the Brazilian’s performances last season, saying: “He is out of this world for his ability to combine running, physicality, technique and intelligence”.

Central midfield has been a real problem position for the Red Devils in recent times, with Manuel Ugarte’s struggles since arriving at Old Trafford well-documented, while Jamie Carragher infamously suggested Casemiro is finished at the top level.

With the former Real Madrid man now 33-years-old, it is clear that Amorim needs to bring in a long-term replacement, and the Atalanta star could be a solid option, having been dubbed a “machine” in midfield by journalist Carlo Garganese.

Ederson could be a fantastic signing for Man United this summer, and it is a boost that Arsenal, Newcastle and Chelsea aren’t expected to make approaches, given that the propsect of playing in the Champions League could appeal to the Brazil international.

Rangers are “very keen” to sign an England international after making an approach over a transfer, according to Sky Sports.

Rangers want defenders and attackers after Cameron signing

The Gers secured the services of Dundee midfielder Lyall Cameron back in February, with the 22-year-old penning a pre-contract agreement at Ibrox.

Cameron has now been pictured in a Rangers shirt and described a move to Glasgow as a “no-brainer” earlier this week.

Martin can replace Hagi with Rangers move for "explosive" £10m "weapon"

Rangers can brilliantly replace Ianis Hagi by signing this reported transfer target.

ByDan Emery Jun 17, 2025

“It’s amazing to walk in the door, it’s a privilege really. I have been looking forward to it for a long time. It was a no-brainer as soon as Rangers came in, I was desperate to be here. It is obviously a massive club and the history and everything about it is just amazing. Being from Scotland, I know what the club stands for, so I just wanted to jump at the chance.

“It is a new project, they are looking to build, improve and win leagues again and I really wanted to be a part of it. I want to come here, make an impression, do as well as possible and get this club back to where it belongs.”

With a new midfielder though the door, Rangers and Russell Martin are now looking to bolster the defensive and attacking ranks.

In regards to specific defensive targets, Bournemouth right-back Max Aarons is a wanted man at Ibrox, and in attack, the Gers are keen on Peterborough United’s Kwame Poku when his contract expires at the end of the month.

Rangers “very keen” to sign Leicester City’s Conor Coady after approach

As reported in Sky Sports’ live transfer blog on Tuesday evening, Rangers have made an approach to Leicester City over a deal to sign Conor Coady. The Foxes are open to selling the centre-back after their relegation from the Premier League, and those at Ibrox “are very keen” on a move.

Coady, who picks up £3.9m per year at The King Power Stadium, made 26 appearances for Leicester in all competitions last season, captaining on three occasions.

Best known for his time at Wolves, Coady has plenty of Premier League experience, has won 10 caps for England and has even played in the Europa League 12 times.

Called a player with a “real infectious personality” by Gareth Southgate, Coady is an out and out centre-back who Martin will be well aware of during his time as a player and manager in England.

Games

22

Goals

1

Pass completion %

91.5%

Clearances per 90

3.1

Blocks per 90

1.1

Average WhoScored match rating

6.17/10

A move looks like one to keep an eye on, and if Coady does move north, that may see Robin Propper seal a return to FC Twente following recent rumours.

The 2025/26 campaign represents a new era for Everton football club, making the move to Hill Dickinson Stadium, after saying goodbye to Goodison Park a few weeks ago.

David Moyes will be the man to lead the Toffees into their new home, hopefully making it one to remember, building on the excellent work conducted since he returned to the club.

His side finished 13th in the Premier League table, a superb finish considering the side were just a couple of points above the drop zone after Sean Dyche was given his marching orders.

However, if the club are to reach the next level and push for a place in the top half of England’s top-flight, additions are needed, allowing for more quality and depth in numerous key areas.

With the transfer window now open, the 62-year-old has the opportunity to work with the Friedkin Group over the summer to land targets who could improve the options at the Scotsman’s disposal.

The latest on Everton’s hunt for new additions this summer

Over the last couple of days, Everton have been touted with a shock double swoop for two players currently on the books of bitter Merseyside rivals Liverpool.

Winger Ben Doak and centre-back Joe Gomez have been the two names mentioned over a short move across the city, but it’s unclear whether either are keen on the move or if the Reds would allow them to leave this summer.

However, another name has been mentioned in recent days, with Burnley defender Maxime Esteve on their radar, according to The Athletic’s latest report.

They claim that the Toffees have been monitoring his progress over the last couple of months, even sending scouts to watch him and could consider a move this summer.

However, Crystal Palace are also said to be keen on landing the 23-year-old French star, with Scott Parker’s side demanding a fee in the region of £30m to part ways with him this window.

Why Everton’s £30m target could be the perfect Branthwaite replacement

Centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite has once again been a shining light for Everton, going from strength to strength within their backline in recent seasons.

The 22-year-old featured in 30 league outings this campaign, often partnering James Tarkowski at the heart of the defence, helping the Toffees pull clear of any looming relegation threat.

His excellent form hasn’t gone unnoticed, being named the club’s Young Player of the Year, with Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur plotting moves for the youngster this summer.

Given the financial situation behind the scenes in recent years, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him sold for a huge profit this window, with such a decision leaving a huge hole in Moyes’ backline.

However, they appear to be targeting a readymade replacement in Esteve, with the Burnley star able to fill the gap should Branthwaite leave the club during the off-season.

When comparing their respective stats from this season, the French star has matched or bettered the current Toffees star in numerous key areas – having the potential to improve further given his tender age.

The Burnley star, who’s been labelled “unbelievable” by current boss Parker, has managed more progressive passes and a higher take-on success rate – highlighting his ability to play out from the back.

Games played

46

30

Goals scored

1

0

Progressive passes

3.1

2.3

Pass accuracy

90%

82%

Tackles won

1.1

1

Blocks made

1.3

1.1

Take-on success

78%

80%

Aerials won

62%

50%

Esteve has also won more tackles per 90 and made more blocks, showcasing his ability to impress without the ball, fitting into Moyes’ defensive philosophy.

He’s also won more aerials and scored more goals, subsequently allowing him to have an impact at both ends of the pitch if needed, potentially being an excellent pickup for the Toffees.

Whilst no supporter would want to lose Branthwaite this summer, the interest from the so-called ‘big six’ could see the club receive some serious cash for his signature – allowing for investments elsewhere.

A deal for the Frenchman would certainly soften the blow, having the qualities to replace the Englishman should he move on to pastures new in the coming months.

Everton want to sign "phenomenal" Denmark international who’s won 4 league titles

He could be a brilliant addition for the Blues.

ByHenry Jackson Jun 3, 2025

Everton are interested in signing another Liverpool player alongside Ben Doak in the summer transfer window, according to a fresh update.

Doak heads list of Everton winger targets

The Blues are reportedly interested in making a shock move for Reds winger Doak before next season gets underway, in a transfer that would cause plenty of controversy.

An update from Sky Sports suggested that Everton are one of the clubs who are interested in acquiring the services of the 19-year-old this summer, with the Scot seen as an attacking player with a big future in the game, spending the 2024/25 season on loan at Championship side Middlesbrough.

Liverpool have a big decision to make with Doak, with the young Scotland international someone who could potentially be an eventual successor to Mohamed Salah on the right wing, but also not quite mature enough to fully make the grade at Anfield just yet.

From an Everton perspective, the idea of the teenager heading to Bramley Moore Dock is certainly exciting, not only because they would be signing a great young talent, but also due to them snapping up a player from their nearest and biggest rivals. Now, another Reds player is also reportedly wanted by the Blues.

Everton keeping tabs on Gomez's situation

According to a new claim from Empire of the Kop, Everton are “keeping close tabs” on Liverpool defender Joe Gomez, as they eye a summer move for him alongside Doak. The Blues are one of eight Premier League teams who are believed to be in the mix to snap him up, including Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Leeds United.

The £85,000-a-week Gomez could be a really shrewd addition by Everton in the summer, although as is the case with Doak, it remains to be seen if Liverpool will be hesitant to sell to them.

The 28-year-old is now the Reds’ longest-serving current player, winning two Premier League titles and always proving to be an excellent squad player, with Jurgen Klopp a huge admirer.

“He is a lifesaver, to be honest, that he was here, that he could play. People forget how important Joey was in the best years we had. I don’t know how many games he played in the year when we became champions and how many games he played when we won the Champions League – a lot and rightly so because he’s a top-class player.”

Everton eyeing summer deal to sign "complete" 6-cap Ivory Coast international

Kevin Thelwell isn’t messing around this summer.

ByHenry Jackson Jun 2, 2025

Gomez may like the idea of being a regular for Everton, having had to accept being behind Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate in the centre-back pecking order, and he also wouldn’t have to up sticks and move away.

Premier League

2024/25

Premier League

2019/20

Champions League

2018/19

FA Cup

2021/22

EFL Cup

2023/24

EFL Cup

2021/22

Club World Cup

2019/20

UEFA Super Cup

2019/20

Community Shield

2022/23

That said, the England international may not want to risk tarnishing his Liverpool legacy by making a controversial switch, so a move elsewhere, or staying put at Anfield, feels more likely.

Manchester City’s deal to sign an “incredible” star is now advancing following positive talks, and he can’t wait to seal a move to the Etihad Stadium, according to a report.

Man City planning to move swiftly in the transfer market

Man City’s season ended on May 25th, with a 2-0 victory at Fulham securing qualification for next season’s Champions League, but this year it is a very quick turnaround, as they return to action on June 18th, taking on Wydad Casablanca in the new-look Club World Cup.

As such, chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has confirmed that City are looking to get new signings through the door as soon as possible.

With the transfer window now open for an initial 10 days, in order to allow teams to register players for the Club World Cup, Pep Guardiola’s side are looking to get a deal done for an attacking midfielder, with Kevin De Bruyne seemingly heading to Napoli.

That is according to a report from GiveMeSport, which states productive discussions have now been held over a deal for Lyon’s Rayan Cherki, which means the move could be wrapped up in a matter of days.

Man City extensively scouting £100m+ star alongside Ait-Nouri transfer

The Citizens are making some statement moves as they look to reclaim the Premier League title.

BySean Markus Clifford Jun 2, 2025

Cherki can’t wait to seal a move to the Etihad Stadium, and the deal is now edging closer to completion, with Lyon looking to hold out for a fee of £35m.

City are hoping to complete the move prior to flying out to the United States for the Club World Cup, and they are also confident about striking an agreement for AC Milan’s Tijjani Reijnders.

"Incredible" Cherki could be ideal De Bruyne heir

Florian Wirtz was heavily linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium, but there were concerns about the total package amounting to around £253m all-in, so signing the Lyon star could be a savvy move, as it would free up funds to strengthen other areas of the squad.

Not only that, but there are plenty of signs the Frenchman could be an ideal heir for De Bruyne, most notably ranking in the 99th percentile for assists and shot-creating actions per 90 over the past year, when compared to other attacking midfielders.

At 21-years-old, the “incredible” starlet is at a good age to be a long-term success at the Etihad Stadium, and his attacking numbers for Lyon this season are arguably already approaching world-class level.

Competition

Appearances

Goals

Assists

Ligue 1

30

8

11

Europa League

12

4

8

Coupe de France

2

0

1

Cherki could be a fantastic signing at just £35m, and it is promising news that a deal could be wrapped up before City jet out for the Club World Cup.

Since winning the Premier League a few weeks ago, Liverpool have either been working aggressively behind the scenes to sign new players or quite literally, they have been on the beach, enjoying the party life in Ibiza and Dubai.

Well, set to enter that part over the summer is Jeremie Frimpong, who is due to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold as Arne Slot’s new right-back.

They could also welcome Bayer Leverkusen Florian Wirtz to Anfield with the German being headhunted by some of Europe’s heavyweights.

Valued at over £100m, Wirtz has attracted the interest of Liverpool, Manchester City and Bayern Munich.

Bayern love signing domestic players while Man City are on the hunt to find a replacement for Kevin De Bruyne.

So, with such a hotly contested race, perhaps FSG will turn their attention elsewhere.

Liverpool big admirers of Florian Wirtz alternative

According to a report from journalist Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are currently working on a list of creative targets.

Transfer Focus

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

While Wirtz is on that list, the Reds have carried out background checks on RB Leipzig’s Dutch midfielder, Xabi Simons, while if Morgan Gibbs-White is made available by Nottingham Forest, he is another player they could pursue.

Also name-checked is Aston Villa sensation, Morgan Rogers. The report states that Liverpool are big admirers’ of the playmaker but it will be difficult to prise him away from Villa Park.

Rogers signed last year for a tiny fee of just £8m, and as some reports claim, he is now valued at around £90m by the Villans.

Given Villa’s PSR situation, it’s unlikely they’d turn down a bid in that region.

Why Rogers would be such an exciting signing

The meteoric rise of Rogers in the last year has been quite extraordinary. In January 2024, he traded Middlesbrough for the Midlands and has only gone from strength to strength since.

During 2024/25, the creative midfielder has become a full England international, scored a hat-trick in the Champions League against Celtic and helped himself to 29 goal involvements (14 goals & 15 assists).

It feels like Liverpool have been trying to add a player of his profile for a while. They famously missed out on Jude Bellingham before he went to Real Madrid and instead signed Hungarian Dominik Szoboszlai.

The attacking midfielder has impressed, but ultimately hasn’t been too great a goal threat, netting just seven times in all competitions this term.

That explains links to players like Rogers and Wirtz who beat the goalkeeper with greater regularity.

Similarities between the Villa midfielder and the aforementioned Bellingham are also eye-catching. Indeed, speaking back in August, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Redknapp acknowledged that “there are parts of what Jude Bellingham does” in Rogers’ game.

That comparison stems from not just the way they carry the ball – an “electric” trait of Rogers’ in the words of European football expert Zach Lowy – but primarily their final actions in the final third of the pitch.

Goals

0.24

0.30

Assists

0.30

0.30

Key passes

1.51

1.54

Progressive passes

3.62

7.11

Shot-creating actions

3.12

3.87

Successful take-ons

1.93

1.47

Progressive carries

3.38

2.71

Ball recoveries

3.41

3.50

Considering the former Borussia Dortmund star’s elite status, it’s interesting to note that of the metrics selected here, there aren’t too many differences between the two.

Villa’s star man doesn’t register as many progressive passes, but he is in the lead for progressive carrying, a particular highlight of the duo’s game.

It’s when it comes to creating chances and scoring goals where they are most similar, and if Liverpool are to miss out on Wirtz, Rogers would be a superb alternative.

What makes this comparison even more noteworthy is that the two are actually childhood friends, with Bellingham taking Rogers under his wing during his first training sessions with the Three Lions.

‌

So, while Liverpool fans might not be too keen on Bellingham right, good friends with Trent of course, they would love a player of his ilk in the squad.

There are not many in the game who perform quite as highly as the Madrid star does, but Rogers is well on the way to cementing himself as one of the most exciting English players about.

Arsenal could see £59m bid accepted for "monster" upgrade on Sesko

Arsenal have been handed the chance to sign an upgrade on Benjamin Sesko.

ByMatt Dawson May 18, 2025

Arsenal are now in the race to sign an “entertaining” attacking midfielder who’s been likened to Eden Hazard, with Mikel Arteta believed to be a fan of the player, according to a report.

Gunners set sights on attacking midfielder

Injuries suffered by the likes of Bukayo Saka and Kai Havertz have undoubtedly hindered the Gunners in their pursuit of the Premier League title, but questions also have to be asked about the performances of some of their other key players this season.

Martin Odegaard, for instance, has fallen short of his usual lofty standards, with the Norwegian on course for his worst full season, in terms of attacking contributions, since arriving at the Emirates Stadium, having picked up just two goals and seven assists in the league.

As such, Arteta may feel that new options are required in the attacking midfield area, and sporting director Andrea Berta is personally pushing for the signing of Paris Saint-Germain’s Lee Kang-In, with the French club now willing to sell the South Korean.

Arteta has also sanctioned a move for Leicester City’s Bilal El Khannouss, with a £22m offer for the 21-year-old now in the works, having been a bright spark in a very poor Foxes side this season, but another option is now emerging from further afield.

Like a younger Isak: Arsenal already doing work to sign "electric" £70m gem

It’s clear that Arsenal need to sign a striker and, given that they’re unlikely to land Alexander Isak, have they found an electric £70m alternative?

May 10, 2025

According to a report from Spain, Arsenal are now pushing for the signing of Las Palmas maestro Alberto Moleiro, but there could be fierce competition for his signature, with Premier League rivals Aston Villa and Newcastle United also keen.

Moleiro has been closely monitored for months, and Arteta believes the 21-year-old could provide a fresh injection of quality, into an area of the pitch where a lack of depth has been an issue.

The starlet has a €60m (£51m) release clause included in his Las Palmas contract, but there is a feeling the Spanish side would be willing to sanction a departure for a lower price, given that his current deal is set to expire in the summer of 2026.

"Entertaining" Moleiro likened to Hazard

The Spaniard has caught the eye with some of his performances in La Liga this season, picking up six goals and one assist for Las Palmas, while football scout Ben Mattinson has claimed he is an exciting player to watch.

Not only that, but Mattinson has claimed the youngster reminds him of former Chelsea great Hazard, given the way he dribbles, and he ranks in the 84th percentile for successful take-ons per 90 over the past year, when compared to other attacking midfielders.

Of course, Arsenal should persist with Odegaard as their first choice attacking midfielder, despite the Norway international’s drop-off in form this season, but it would be useful to have a solid alternative option, and Moleiro could be an exciting long-term addition to the squad.

It is a big summer for West Ham United, who will need to ratify the misgivings of the 2024/25 campaign. The Hammers have been largely disappointing this term, sitting 17th in the Premier League, and although they are safe from relegation, their 36 points are certainly underwhelming.

Having had two managers this season, with Graham Potter currently in charge, things have certainly not been easy at the London Stadium. However, West Ham’s tally of just nine wins so far, alongside 16 losses, is hugely disappointing. There have only been four teams that have won fewer games, and three of those have been relegated.

Now, with the summer transfer window around the corner, West Ham have already been linked with one striker who can solve their attacking problems.

West Ham’s new striker target

One of the most impressive clubs in Ligue 1 this season has been Liam Rosenior’s Strasbourg. They have reached seventh in the table and are pushing for European football. Unsurprisingly, clubs around Europe have been put on high alert for some of their stars, with striker Emanuel Emegha a wanted man.

Transfer Focus

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

According to a report from journalist Graeme Bailey, the Hammers are one of the sides who could make a move for Emegha this summer. They are thought to have made contact after lodging an enquiry about the 22-year-old’s availability.

However, they are not alone in the chase for the Dutchman. Chelsea, who are the sister club of Strasbourg, are in the race, as are Premier League rivals Everton, Brentford and Fulham.

The report suggests Emegha will be available for just £12m this summer.

Why Emegha would be a good signing

Emegha has been one of the standout players for Strasbourg in their really strong campaign so far. They are within two points of a Champions League finish, and he will be crucial to helping them qualify for Europe’s premium club competition.

Emegha has managed 14 goals in 26 games in Ligue 1 this season. The Dutchman, who has played for his country as high as under-21 level, has also grabbed three assists this term. He has played 2217 minutes so far, and averages a goal involvement every 130 minutes.

One of the standout things about Emegha is the consistency with which he scores. His longest goal drought in Ligue 1 this season is five games, which came on either side of a five-game layover due to a knee injury. As football talent scout Jacek Kulig said, he is “phenomenal”.

Should the Hammers look to sign Emegha this summer, he could be the perfect alternative to another reported target, Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The East London side have ‘registered their interest’ in the Everton striker, according to Caught Offside.

However, despite the talent he possesses, the 28-year-old England international can struggle with injuries at times. Calvert-Lewin has had 16 separate injuries in his Toffees career since the start of the 2016/17 campaign.

It has also been a tough season in front of goal for the Sheffield-born striker. He has managed just three goals in 22 Premier League games, although has proven he can find the back of the net, with 57 top-flight goals in his career.

With that being said, it seems a risk to bring him into the London Stadium, given the injury record on show. Indeed, the FBref stats suggest that Emegha might be the better signing for West Ham this summer.

For example, the Dutchman averages 0.4 goals per shot on target and 0.73 key passes per 90 minutes. In comparison, Calvert-Lewin averages 0.18 goals per shot on target and 0.4 key passes each game.

Goals and assists

0.69

0.23

Goals per shots on target

0.4

0.18

Key passes

0.73

0.4

Progressive carries

1.51

1.26

Ball recoveries

2.37

1.83

Indeed, £12m does seem like a bargain for someone as consistent as Emegha. He is a genuine goalscorer, which the Hammers have had issues with this season; they have found the back of the net just 39 times in the Premier League.

This is a deal that West Ham can’t miss out on. They would be able to bring a proven goalscorer into the club and add necessary depth up front.

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