All posts by z3u9t.icu

Enzo Maresca is not short of options at centre-back for Chelsea. The Blues boss has several options when everyone is fully fit, not including Axel Disasi, who is currently on loan at Aston Villa. Youngster Josh Acheampong is also an option at centre-back, as is Wesley Fofana, although he is out injured.

Trevoh Chalobah was recalled to the club in January after spending the first half of the season on loan at Crystal Palace, and he has had a big role to play since returning, having started the last six Premier League games.

Levi Colwill – who has started 32 top-flight games in 2024/25 – has also been a key player, with the likes of Benoit Badiashile and Tosin being options, too.

However, the Blues seem like they will bolster their defensive depth in the summer and bring in a new recruit for Maresca.

Chelsea’s defensive target

If there is one defender who is widely wanted across Europe this summer, it is Feyenoord and Slovakia international David Hancko. The 27-year-old came close to leaving the club last summer, but seems destined to depart in 2025.

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 Dutch news outlet Voetbal International, Chelsea are one of the sides ready to make an offer to sign him this summer. The report suggests the Blues ‘want to work on the arrival of the defender’ before someone else snatches him up.

They will face stiff competition, however, with West Ham United the other Premier League side said to be interested in striking a summer deal.

Outside of England, Atletico Madrid and Al Nassr are also strongly linked. In March, a report from TEAMTalk suggested the defender could leave Feyenoord for a fee in the region of £42m.

Why Hacko would be a good signing

It has been an impressive season for Hancko, in a Feyenoord side who have had a good time of things from a defensive standpoint in the Eredivisie. As per Sofascore, they have conceded the second-fewest number of goals, letting in 33. They have also kept nine clean sheets, bettered by just three sides.

Slovak international Hancko has played a big part in that, too. He has played 44 times across all competitions, with 29 of those games coming in the Dutch top flight. He has featured in all of those aforementioned nine clean sheets.

The 27-year-old has also chipped in with goals and assists this term, too. He has scored and assisted four each across all competitions, with one of those goals coming in that famous 3-3 draw away to Manchester City, when his side came from three goals down in the Champions League.

Described as a “freak technician” by football analyst Ben Mattinson, Hancko’s ability on the ball is a standout feature of his game. He can play at both left-back and left centre-back, showing excellent versatility.

In fact, that is like another Chelsea target, Jorrel Hato, who also plays in the Eredivisie for Ajax. According to a recent report from Sky Sports, the West Londoners are ‘seriously considering making a move’ for the 19-year-old.

The Ajax academy graduate has been crucial for the Dutch giants this term. He has featured 47 times in that famous shirt, scoring three goals and assisting six. Just like Hancko, he can play at centre-back or at left-back.

Well, the pair can be compared via FBref, to gain a better understanding of their underlying numbers. Their defensive number are very close, with Hancko averaging 2.17 tackles and interceptions and 4.34 ball recoveries each game. Comparatively, Hato averages 2.88 tackles and interceptions and 4.4 ball recoveries per 90 minutes.

Passes into final third

7.55

3.88

Progressive passes

7.34

4.38

Progressive carries

2

1.46

Tackles and interceptions

2.17

2.88

Ball recoveries

4.34

4.4

Signing Hancko seems like an excellent option for the Blues. He is progressive on the ball, as the stats show, and can play in a couple of positions, which adds to Maresca’s options at the back.

£42m is a fairly sizeable amount of money, but he would certainly increase the technical floor of the squad and become another quality option.

Maresca must unleash 18-year-old Chelsea star who's their homegrown Hato

Chelsea might not have to worry if they miss out on signing Hato

ByJoe Nuttall May 7, 2025

This summer is a huge window for Manchester United if they are to overturn their lack of success in the Premier League throughout 2024/25, currently sitting in 14th position.

However, despite their lowly league standing, the Red Devils could find themselves in the Champions League next season should they manage to win the Europa League in the coming weeks.

If they are to compete at the top level, all areas of the pitch are in need of investment to inject the needed quality and depth to take the side back to their former glory.

Undoubtedly, sales are needed to provide Ruben Amorim with the funds he requires to make the necessary changes to his squad to try and push them back towards the summit of England’s top-flight.

With the summer window rapidly approaching, work is already being done behind the scenes as Amorim prepares for an overhaul of the Red Devils side this summer.

The latest on United’s pursuit of new attackers

Over the last few weeks, countless attackers have been linked with a move to United, including Liam Delap, who was seen as the club’s number one option for the centre-forward role.

However, no deal appears to have progressed despite his £30m relegation release clause, with the likes of Chelsea and Newcastle United entering the race for his signature in recent weeks.

It appears that the Red Devils have switched their attentions to other targets in the form of Viktor Gyokeres, that’s if the recent reports from Spain are to be believed.

It’s been reported that United have stepped up their attempts to land the Sporting CP striker, advancing talks and making contact with the player’s representatives ahead of the summer.

It also states that they are considering making a lucrative offer to the player and club to hand Amorim a reunion with the player who thrived under his guidance in Portugal.

Why United’s target would be perfect with Cunha

Matheus Cunha is another player who has emerged on United’s shortlist over the last couple of weeks, with the Brazilian potentially becoming their first signing this summer.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed that the Red Devils have already been in talks with Wolves over a deal for his signature, whilst also willing to trigger his £62.5m release clause.

The 25-year-old himself is open to a switch to Old Trafford, regardless of whether or not the side secure a place in the Champions League next season.

Cunha would be signed to operate in the number ten role behind the striker in Amorim’s side, handing strikers endless chances – based upon his figures of 2.1 chances created and 2.2 dribbles completed.

Such tallies would fall perfectly into the hands of Gyokeres, who could certainly end United’s pursuit of a new talisman, taking the side to the next level as a result.

The Swede, who’s been labelled “world-class” by one Portuguese analyst, has registered 52 goals in 48 appearances in 2024/25, potentially forming a deadly partnership with Cunha in forward areas.

He’s also managed to register 2.6 shots on target per 90 and complete 49% of the dribbles he’s attempted in the Liga Portugal – offering a constant threat to all opposition backlines.

Games played

30

Goals scored

38

Pass accuracy

75%

Shots on target

2.6

Dribbles completed

49%

Aerials won

55%

Touches in the opposition box

10.7

Gyokeres has also impressed as a focal point, winning 55% of the aerial duels he’s entered, allowing the likes of Cunha to link up and play off him, bolstering his own goalscoring tallies as a result.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for the Sporting talisman would set the hierarchy back in the coming months, it’s evident that he would massively bolster the attacking department.

The prospect of the pair linking up together at Old Trafford is certainly an exciting one for the supporters, with their talents hopefully pushing the club in the right direction ahead of 2025/26.

Amorim must offload 5/10 Man Utd dud who’s becoming the new Van de Beek

Manchester United took a huge step towards the Europa League final last night with a 3-0 win over Athletic Club.

ByEthan Lamb May 2, 2025

While the fans and team will have their full attention on the second leg of their Champions League semi-final next week, the Arsenal board will already be planning for what could be a blockbuster summer of transfer business.

Last year, Mikel Arteta and Co shifted a lot of the club’s unwanted players for good money, but they didn’t really strengthen the first team enough to sustain a successful title challenge this season.

It looks like it’s going to be a totally different story this year, with links to top-level attackers like Viktor Gyokeres, Ollie Watkins and Nico Williams coming in from every direction.

However, while the frontline certainly needs addressing, the midfield could be just as important, and it seems like the club agrees; a recent report has touted one of the most exciting midfielders in world football for a move to the Emirates, a player who might just be able to get the best back out of Martin Odegaard.

Arsenal's midfield targets

Before getting to the player in question, it’s worth looking at a couple of the other midfielders that Arsenal are said to be interested in, such as Hugo Larsson.

Transfer Focus

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

Reportedly available for around £51m, the Eintracht Frankfurt gem would undoubtedly be an investment for the future, but with respected analyst Ben Mattinson describing him as a “transitional monster” and comparing him to a young Jude Bellingham, he might just be one worth making.

However, the far more likely acquisition would undoubtedly be Martin Zubimendi.

The Spanish international has long been touted for a move to the Gunners, and based on more recent reports, it appears the club themselves are confident of getting their man.

However, perhaps the most exciting link of them all has been to Frenkie de Jong.

According to a recent report from Spain, Arsenal are now one of several Premier League sides interested in the Dutch international.

Alongside the Gunners, the report has revealed that Liverpool and Manchester City are also keen on the player.

While no price is mentioned in the story, it is said that Barcelona are being forced to consider selling him as no progress has been made on his renewal.

It would be an incredibly costly and complicated transfer to get over the line, but given his immense ability, it’s one worth fighting for, especially as he could help revive Odegaard.

Why De Jong would be perfect for Odegaard

So, if Arsenal are able to get ahead of the chasing pack and get their man, why would he be an ideal partner for Odegaard?

There are two key reasons for this; the first is his defensive qualities.

While the Dutchman is now primarily an eight and would likely join as such, he’s got plenty of experience playing as a six – making 132 appearances there – and so, were he to chip in with the defensive work alongside Declan Rice, that might allow the captain to focus all of his energy and focus at the sharp end of the pitch.

The second reason is that, on top of his defensive abilities, the former Ajax star is an incredibly technical and gifted midfielder, with former manager Xavi going as far as describing him as “one of the best players in the world.”

It’s not hard to see where the Spanish legend is coming from either, as the 27-year-old’s underlying numbers are nothing short of spectacular.

Goals per Shot

0.25

Top 1%

Pass Completion

94.0%

Top 1%

GCA from Take-Ons

0.12

Top 1%

Progressive Carrying Distance

169.24

Top 1%

Carries into the Final Third

3.14

Top 1%

Passes Completed

78.36

Top 2%

Goal-Creating Actions (GCA)

0.64

Top 2%

GCA from Live Passes

0.52

Top 2%

Passes into the Final Third

9.72

Top 3%

Live Ball Passes

81.56

Top 3%

Carries

57.65

Top 3%

Touches

90.29

Top 4%

Progressive Passes

7.62

Top 7%

For example, FBref places him in the top 1% of midfielders in Europe’s top five leagues, the Champions League and Europa League, for goals per shot, pass completion, goal-creating actions from take-ons, progressive carrying distance, carries into the final third, the top 2% for passes completed and goal-creating actions, the top 3% for passes into the final third and more, all per 90.

So, just imagine a vastly experienced international who currently captains Barça, who can influence the game in almost all areas of the pitch playing alongside the North Londoners’ number eight – he’d undoubtedly improve as well.

Ultimately, it would be a complicated and costly transfer to get done, but with how much of a difference De Jong could make to Odegaard’s career and Arsenal overall, Arteta and Co must do what they can to get it done.

Mega Kiwior upgrade: Arsenal initiate talks for "superb" £34m monster

The experienced international could be just what Arsenal need.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 2, 2025

It’s unfortunate but undeniable: the wheels are coming off for Ange Postecoglou at Tottenham Hotspur.

The Australian’s time in North London started so positively as a ten-game unbeaten streak actually had them at the top of the Premier League for a time.

However, this season has been a total disaster, and while there is still a chance they win the Europa League, it feels like his time is up in N17.

With that said, even though so much has gone wrong, Postecoglou has overseen some brilliant signings, including one now worth millions more than Micky van de Ven.

Postecoglou's best Spurs signings

So, before getting to the player in question, it’s worth reviewing some of the best additions made under Ange’s tenure, starting with perhaps one of the best bargains in recent years: Lucas Bergvall.

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

The midfield maestro only cost the club around £8.5m last winter, and since officially joining up with the squad at the start of this summer, he’s seen his valuation explode with Football Transfers now valuing him at €31.3m, which comes out to about £27m.

It’s not hard to understand why this has happened as, despite being just 19 years old, the “generational” talent, as dubbed by journalist Mitch Fretton, has made 44 appearances across all competitions this season, scoring one goal, providing four assists and making some of the team’s senior midfielder look bad.

Drop back into defence, and we come across another of the manager’s best signings, Van de Ven.

The Flying Dutchman joined the North Londoners for around £43m in the summer of 2023, and while he has undoubtedly had more than his fair share of injury problems since then, he’s been incredible when he’s played.

While the 24-year-old is a “complete & dominant” centre-back, as talent scout Jacek Kulig described him, it’s no secret that one of his greatest strengths is his sensational speed, which is what allows the team to play such a high line at times.

For example, in a game against Brentford last season, the Wormer-born titan set a new Premier League record for fastest sprint, coming in at an incredible 37.38km/h.

Since joining the club, Van de Ven has seen his valuation increase to €62m per Football Transfers, which is about £53m, and yet even with that increase, there is another Postecoglou signing who is worth millions more.

The Ange signing worth millions more than Van de Ven

So, while some of you may be thinking of players like Dominic Solanke or maybe even Brennan Johnson for the goals he’s scored this season, you’d be wrong.

Instead, the man in question is none other than teenage sensation Archie Gray, who only joined the club for around £30m from Leeds United last summer.

However, in the almost ten months since that deal was agreed, the youngster’s valuation has exploded, with Football Transfers now pricing him at an astounding €72.5m, which comes out to around £62m, or £32m more than his transfer fee and £9m more than Van de Ven’s current valuation.

Now, that might sound rather absurd to some of you out there, but we reckon it’s not far off the mark, as while he’s seen his game time reduced somewhat in recent weeks, the Englishman has undoubtedly been one of the Lilywhites’ most impressive performers this term.

For example, due to the injury crisis earlier this season, the “ridiculous” talent, as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, had to step into the defence, and despite being a central midfielder by trade, he did a commendable job.

Centre-Back

19

Right-Back

8

Left-Back

5

Defensive Midfield

3

Other

5

Across all competitions, the Durham-born gem has made 19 appearances at centre-back, eight at right-back, five at left-back and just three in defensive midfield, lending credence to Kulig’s description of him as a “Swiss army knife.”

Ultimately, this season has been a trial by fire for the Lilywhites’ exciting crop of youngsters, and like the rest of them, Gray has come through it with flying colours and is looking better than ever.

Their answer to Yamal: Spurs are brewing "one of England’s best talents"

The incredible youngster looks destined for greatness with Spurs.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Apr 24, 2025

Reliable journalist David Ornstein has shared an update on Chelsea and their transfer plans for the summer window, involving a marquee forward who is very much under consideration at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea targeting new centre-back and striker this summer

Reports in the last fortnight have made it pretty clear that manager Enzo Maresca and BlueCo are in the market for a central defender and striker ahead of the 2025/2026 season.

Chelsea in talks with striker they were secretly close to signing in January

They nearly got a winter deal done “behind closed doors”.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Apr 11, 2025

Champions League qualification is firmly on the cards for Chelsea now that five spots are now up for grabs, but it will be an extremely tight race from now till the end of this Premier League campaign.

Ipswich Town (home)

April 13th

Fulham (away)

April 20th

Everton (home)

April 26th

Liverpool (home)

May 4th

Newcastle (away)

May 10th

Just two points separate fourth and seventh in the table, with Newcastle United, Man City, Aston Villa and the Blues all tussling for spots in Europe’s most prestigious competition next term.

It is set up to be a very intriguing race, and many twists are anticipated in the coming weeks, but qualification for the Champions League is a non-negotiable for Maresca, which also could be crucial in attracting their desired transfer targets this summer.

Chelsea have earmarked the signing of a striker as one of their key aims, according to Sky Sports, with RB Leipzig ace Benjamin Sesko, Lille’s Jonathan David, Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitiké and “long-term target” Victor Osimhen all on their radar.

Chelsea have also reopened contact with Ipswich Town star Liam Delap’s representatives, following the Englishman’s impressive campaign at Portman Road, and it is believed his deal will include a tempting £30 million release clause if his side are relegated.

Ornstein reported earlier this week that Chelsea have also held talks with Dean Huijsen’s camp in the last week, so a new central defender to cover the likes of Wesley Fofana is also on the club’s agenda.

However, the wide area may also be reinforced, with uncertainty surrounding the long-term futures of Jadon Sancho, Mykhailo Mudryk and Noni Madueke.

Mudryk is facing a lengthy ban after failing a recent drug test, while there is apparently no guarantee that Chelsea will sign Sancho on a permanent deal from Man United, as they possess the option not to trigger his obligation clause if they pay a penalty fee (Sky Sports).

Meanwhile, it is believed Chelsea are becoming more open to selling Madueke amid interest from Aston Villa and Newcastle.

Chelsea considering deal for Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens

Taking all of this into account, BlueCo are also planning to sign a winger this summer, with Ornstein sharing in a Q&A that Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens remains a target after previous links.

“We’ve reported about Gittens and Garnacho since January and there will be other names under consideration, too,” said Ornstein.

“Equally, Chelsea won’t be the only club looking at the players they are. So let’s see — but I am fascinated to watch what happens with Gittens, as he’s a fantastic player and looks to have a very bright future.”

The England Under-21 international boasts 12 goals and five assists from 41 appearances in all competitions this season, scoring in big games against the likes of Eintracht Frankfurt, Bayern Munich and Bayer Leverkusen.

He’s justifiably attracting attention from his homeland as a result, but Chelsea will need to pay a premium for the 20-year-old. Gittens reportedly commands a price tag of around £80 million, and while Maresca wants to strengthen other areas of the squad, they’ll most likely need to whittle this figure down – potentially by offering players in exchange.

Chelsea claimed a 1-0 win over London rivals Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge last night, edging them one step closer to securing a Champions League place.

Enzo Fernández’s header in the second half secured all three points for Enzo Maresca’s men, securing their third Premier League win in the last four outings.

Pape Matar Sarr thought he had clinched a point for the visitors, but his effort was ruled out after a foul on Moises Caicedo in the build up to his long-range effort.

The Blues could’ve easily won the game by more than a one-goal margin, but ultimately, the boss will be happy to gain another victory in their hunt to return to Europe’s biggest competition.

However, despite the victory, numerous players failed to deliver in West London, potentially putting their starting role in the first-team at risk between now and the end of the season.

Chelsea’s poor performers against Tottenham Hotspur

Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez has had his doubters over the last few months, with his ability to be the club’s number one in the long-term coming into question.

The Spaniard was let off the hook by Sarr’s effort, with the 27-year-old beaten by the strike, but he should’ve easily kept it out after getting a hand on it before pushing into the ground.

Striker Nicolas Jackson made his return to action after an injury lay-off last night but failed to deliver – highlighting the need for added investment within the final third this summer.

The Senegalese international only completed eight passes during his 82-minute display, also failing to complete any of his three dribbles – showcasing his wasteful nature when having the ball at his feet.

However, despite the lack of quality from the aforementioned duo at the Bridge, one other first-team member also failed to deliver, with Maresca needing to take action ahead of the club’s next outing.

The Chelsea dud who needs to be dropped after Spurs

Despite sitting in the top four with just eight games to go this campaign, Chelsea have endured some tricky periods throughout the last few months – with many players failing to deliver.

Frustrations have grown within the fanbase as a result, especially considering the amount of money spent in West London over the last couple of seasons.

They could be about to drop more money on winger Jadon Sancho this summer, with the club expected to trigger his £25m clause within his loan deal.

However, the 25-year-old did himself no favours with his showing last night, once again failing to produce the goods amid murmurs around his long-term future.

The winger featured for 68 minutes before becoming the first Blues player to be withdrawn, understandably so given his lack of impact against Ange Postecoglou’s men.

Whilst he was unlucky not to find the back of the net with his effort expertly saved, his strike was the highlight of what was a dismal overall showing on the night.

He failed to complete any of his attempted dribbles, whilst also being unable to find a teammate with any of his crosses – showcasing his lack of quality in attacking areas.

Minutes played

68

Touches

38

Possession lost

9x

Dribbles completed

0/2 (0%)

Crosses completed

0/1 (0%)

Duels lost

6/7 (85%)

Shots taken

2

Sancho also only managed 38 touches during the win, losing possession nine times, subsequently gifting the ball away every four times he had it at his feet.

He was shrugged off the ball multiple times by full-back Djed Spence, losing 85% of the duels he entered, further highlighting how poor he was against their London rivals.

As a result, the attacker was handed a measly 4/10 match rating from The Express’ Alex Turk, compounding his misery on a personal level.

Given his showing, Maresca simply can’t afford to start Sancho ahead of the club’s next league outing, with Champions League qualification still hugely up for grabs.

It’s an unforgiving division, with numerous sides waiting to pounce should they slip up, with all players needing to deliver if they are to achieve their goal.

Maresca's own Drogba: Chelsea plot summer move for "phenomenal" CF

Chelsea could land a player this summer who could be their next Didier Drogba.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 3, 2025

Newcastle United have now reportedly set their sights on hijacking West Ham United’s move to sign a midfield star who’s been described as “Premier League-ready”.

Howe admits it was "too easy" for Leverkusen in draw

Not for the first time this season, Newcastle very nearly had the perfect evening. The Magpies came from behind to lead Bayer Leverkusen 2-1 in the Champions League and looked destined to seal what would have been a crucial victory with qualification in mind. All it took was one lapse in concentration for Alejandro Grimaldo to find an equaliser, however, to spoil yet another night late on.

Eddie Howe admitted that Grimaldo’s equaliser was “too easy” as he reflected on what could have been, telling reporters: “Goals happen in games and we haven’t defended well enough today. It was too easy for them to go through the middle of our defence [for the second goal].

“I wasn’t happy at half-time, not so much with the performance but there was a real lack of belief that we could score. You have to make things happen and really believe internally. Off the ball, we were getting close to them but not in that final yard.

“It leaves us in a good position [to qualify in the top eight]. It leaves it in our hands but we have two tough games to come. All we can do is focus back onto the Premier League where we are in a decent vein of form.”

A future £100m star: Newcastle have made "one of the best signings" of 2025

This Newcastle star could be their next big sale

ByJoe Nuttall 2 days ago

Up next for Newcastle is the small matter of the Tyne-Wear derby, which is simply a must-win game for Howe’s side. In their first Premier League meeting with Sunderland since 2016, the Magpies should be desperate to come out on top.

Victory would also do their European ambitions no harm, which could of course help their transfer ambitions when 2026 arrives.

Newcastle eyeing Tochukwu Nnadi move

As reported by TeamTalk, Newcastle are now eyeing a move to sign Tochukwu Nnadi in a deal that would hijack West Ham’s pursuit of the Zulte Waregem midfielder.

The Hammers are reportedly preparing a bid worth €4m (£3.5m) in the January transfer window, but the interest of both Newcastle and Brighton & Hove Albion could yet ruin their plans.

As per TeamTalk, scouts have described the midfielder as “explosive” and someone who is now “Premier League-ready”.

If that is the case, then Newcastle could look to land a bargain deal and end their chase to sign a midfield reinforcement without truly splashing the cash.

It’s been no secret that those at St James’ Park are looking to welcome additions at the heart of Howe’s side. The likes of Kees Smit have emerged as transfer targets as a result. Yet, given the amount of interest in the young Dutchman, Nnadi could yet become a serious option.

For the time being, West Ham remain in the driving seat to secure the 22-year-old, but Newcastle’s position as a Champions League team should give them the edge if they push on and make their move.

As bad as Tonali: £75k-p/w star had his worst game in a Newcastle shirt

Arsenal have been utterly sensational so far this season.

Mikel Arteta’s side are flying in the Champions League, and look near enough unstoppable when it comes to the Premier League.

More impressively, the Gunners tore Tottenham Hotspur to shreds on Sunday afternoon without the man many would consider to have been their best player so far this year: Gabriel Magalhães.

The Brazilian has been sensational in defence and attack, and so fans should be excited about reports linking Arsenal with a star who could be looked at as another version of him.

Arsenal target another Gabriel

With the transfer window just over a month away from opening, it’s not been a surprise to see reports starting to link Arsenal with some brilliant players in recent weeks.

Transfer Focus

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

For example, while the Gunners are fairly well-stacked in the position, Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson has been touted for a £120m switch to the Emirates.

Likewise, despite Leandro Trossard’s impressive form this year, Kenan Yıldız continues to be linked with a move to the Premier League title challengers.

However, while incredibly talented, neither of these players can really be compared to Gabriel, unlike Murillo.

Yes, according to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are one of a few clubs interested in the Brazilian defender.

Alongside the Gunners, the report has revealed that Chelsea and Barcelona are keen to sign the talented centre-back, who Forest value at up to €90m, which is about £79m.

Therefore, it could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, but given his ability and similarities to Gabriel, one Arsenal should be pursuing.

Why Murillo would be another Gabriel

So to start with, there are the more superficial similarities between the pair, such as both being Brazilian centre-backs.

On top of that, there is the fact that when Arsenal signed Gabriel from LOSC Lille in the summer of 2020, he was 22 years old, and if they sign Murillo in the winter window, he’ll be just 23.

However, the comparison goes deeper than that, as, in addition to playing in the same position, the two defenders tend to play in a similar style as well.

For example, while he’s not quite as tall as the Gunners star, the “monstrous” Forest man, as dubbed by journalist Ryan Taylor, is someone who makes the most of his physicality.

Whether it’s in the air or on the ground, the former Corinthians gem is more than happy to go in for a full-throated challenge, which, more often than not, he comes out better off from.

However, don’t let that fool you into thinking the Sao Paulo-born titan is just an old-fashioned defender who can’t compete when it comes to the technical side of the game, as that couldn’t be further from the truth.

Like his compatriot, the 23-year-old is far more accomplished on the ball than most who don’t watch him on a weekly basis would expect.

For example, FBref ranks him in the top 5% of centre-backs in the league for successful take-ons, the top 9% for shot-creating actions, the top 11% for through balls and shot-creating actions from live-ball passes, the top 13% for progressive passes and more, all per 90.

% of Dribblers Tackled

100.0%

Top 2%

Blocks

1.83

Top 3%

Shots from Free Kicks

0.12

Top 5%

Interceptions

2.07

Top 5%

Successful Take-Ons

0.49

Top 5%

SCA (Defensive Action)

0.12

Top 7%

Passes Blocked

0.85

Top 7%

Ball Recoveries

4.87

Top 7%

Shot-Creating Actions

1.46

Top 9%

Tkl+Int

3.65

Top 9%

Goals/Shot

0.25

Top 11%

Goals – xG

+0.09

Top 11%

Non-Penalty Goals – npxG

+0.09

Top 11%

Passes Attempted (Long)

9.99

Top 11%

Through Balls

0.24

Top 11%

SCA (Live-ball Pass)

1.10

Top 11%

SCA (Dead-ball Pass)

0.12

Top 11%

Progressive Passes

4.87

Top 13%

SCA (Shot)

0.12

Top 13%

Tackles (Att 3rd)

0.24

Top 13%

Goals

0.12

Top 15%

When you consider those technical qualities alongside the fact that he helped Forest produce one of the defensive record in the country last season, it’s easy to see why one analyst made the bold claim that he’s “one of the best defenders in the Premier League.”

Ultimately, while he might not be on the exact same level as Gabriel – few defenders are – Murillo is clearly an exceptional player. Therefore, Arsenal would be wise to sign him before one of their rivals gets there first.

Arsenal have signed an "unpredictable" star who's the new Ian Wright

The incredible match-winner could be the difference for Arsenal and Mikel Arteta this season.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 24, 2025

Newcastle United are masters at adapting and overcoming adversity. Hurdles have sprung up and sent Eddie Howe’s side tumbling in recent years, but each time the Magpies get themselves airborne once again.

They must prove this mentality remains intact, having struggled to make things click in the Premier League this season.

One ray of light through this up-and-down period has been Nick Woltemade, who has swerved a number of those hurdles to establish himself as one of the most exciting young forwards in Europe.

Could he be the Toon’s most talented player?

Why Nick Woltemade is thriving at Newcastle

Newcastle signed Woltemade from Stuttgart for a club-record £69m fee in August before Alexander Isak had completed his record-breaking move to Liverpool, signalling in all but confirmation the Swede’s looming departure.

With Yoane Wissa also brought in but sidelined before he could make his bow with a knee injury, Woltemade, 23, has assumed quite the heavy load.

But this hasn’t thwarted him.

The striker has scored six goals from his first 13 matches in black and white. Rangy and seemingly a throwback type of frontman, the German is endowed with much technical grace, with reporter Andy Sixsmith hailing him for “mesmerising” link-up ability.

Woltemade is surpassing expectations at number nine for Newcastle, and he is indeed playing like a man in a contest with Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali for the crown as the club’s best player.

But there’s an up-and-coming prospect who might be the cream of the crop, albeit one who requires work over the next few years.

Newcastle's bigger talent than Woltemade

Newcastle have transformed their first team in the four years under Howe’s wing, but PIF have quietly been assembling a youth force to be reckoned with down the line.

And, right at the top of this pack is Vakhtang Salia, who joined St. James’ Park from Dinamo Tbilisi this summer despite rival interest from European heavyweights such as Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.

Injury has kept the 18-year-old from featuring for the Toon yet, but he played 57 senior matches for his former Georgian side, scoring eight goals and supplying four assists.

Salia hasn’t quite worked out his best position at this nascent stage of his career, but that’s okay. He is fast and has the mark of a clinical player down the line, and in this, he could one day surpass Woltemade.

This is a bold claim to make, but the respective forwards are at wholly different points in their careers, and his “very high work-rate”, as has been said by Genk scout Mikha Gabechava, suggests he has the drive to match his talent with a tenacious approach.

Left winger

27

5

1

Centre-forward

12

2

1

Right winger

1

1

0

Attacking midfield

1

0

0

Because, after all, the Georgia U21 star has been described as “one of the best teenage prospects in the world” by journalist Graeme Bailey, and this without yet proving himself in a top division. The hype is very much real.

The sales of prospects like Yankuba Minteh and Elliot Anderson mark a cautionary tale for the Tynesiders as they look to go from strength to strength once again. Salia’s signature must be held onto, and he must be allowed to develop into a polished Premier League star.

With the right work over the coming years, he could even prove to be a bigger talent than Woltemade.

Newcastle star was set to be sold, now he's one of their "standout" players

This Newcastle star is still performing for Eddie Howe’s side.

ByAngus Sinclair Nov 7, 2025

The atmosphere around Arsenal at the moment is extraordinary.

Mikel Arteta’s side are flying in the Premier League, League Cup and Champions League.

Moreover, they’re doing so amid an injury crisis which has left them with a threadbare attack and without summer signing Viktor Gyokeres.

Fortunately, even with all the injuries, there are several ways Arteta could address the Swede’s absence for the weekend’s game against Sunderland.

Arsenal's Gyokeres solutions

One way Arteta could solve the problem of Gyokeres being out is by moving Leandro Trossard from the wing to the centre.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

The Belgian is in fine form at the moment, having produced seven goal involvements in 13 games, and as Ian Wright points out, is arguably the club’s “best finisher.”

However, in playing the 30-year-old up front, the left-hand side is weakened, especially with Gabriel Martinelli out and Eberechi Eze playing in the middle of the park.

Another solution, and a bold one at that, could be to hand Andre Harriman-Annous his first league start for the club, as while he did not start against Brighton, he impressed.

The 17-year-old was making dangerous runs, picking up pockets of space and demonstrating a higher technical level than many might have been expecting.

However, what is far more likely is for Arteta to start Mikel Merino in the nine.

After all, the Spaniard has shown an impressive finishing ability over the last year or so and popped up with two goals against Slavia Prague during the week.

However, there is another option, one that is a little bolder, but could be particularly effective against Sunderland.

Arteta's surprise solution to Gyokeres' injury

Now, there is a very strong chance that Arteta opts to start Merino on Saturday, but there are a few reasons he should consider handing a rare start up top to Ethan Nwaneri.

The Hale Ender is primarily an attacking midfielder who spent much of last season on the right, earning plenty of praise, including from Arteta, who stated that the teenager “has the ability to take the ball in tight areas and to escape a little bit like Jack Wilshere used to do.” Promising signs, indeed.

That said, he is no stranger to playing as a nine. During his time in the academy, he made eight appearances in the position, scoring nine goals and providing two assists.

Appearances

37

Minutes

1378′

Goals

9

Assists

2

Goal Involvements per Match

0.29

Minutes per Goal Involvement

125.27′

Moreover, in a press conference last season, Arteta said that the youngster “can play as a right winger and there is another position I think he can develop into – No9.”

It’s not hard to see why the manager might think that, as last season saw the academy gem score nine goals and provide two assists in just 1378 minutes, which is the sort of return you would expect from a top centre-forward.

Finally, the reason the “phenomenal” game-changer, as dubbed by former professional Stephen Warnock, could be the perfect choice for this game is his on-the-ball ability.

Unlike Merino, the 18-year-old has shown himself to be a talented dribbler and someone who can beat a defender with the ball at his feet, and as the Black Cats are likely to sit back, that could be incredibly useful.

Ultimately, while the conventional approach would be to start Merino in place of the injured Gyokeres, Arteta might be wise to go with Nwaneri instead.

He's like Saka & Odegaard: Arsenal star is one of the "best in the world"

The incredible international is starting to perform like Saka & Odegaard for Arteta & Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 5, 2025