Wolverhampton Wanderers showed just what they are capable of during their 4-2 victory over Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend.

Of course, it was just Spurs, but Vitor Pereira has a talented bunch of players at his disposal and if he could keep them ahead of next season, might a top-half finish be on the cards?

One thing that Pereira will be hoping is Matheus Cunha stays at the Old Gold for their assault up the Premier League table in 2025/26.

Given the interest in him, though, that is looking fairly unlikely.

The latest on Matheus Cunha's future

The Brazilian is enjoying an excellent campaign, summed up with his goal against Spurs on Sunday.

With the Molineux side 3-2 ahead and Spurs pushing for an equaliser in the dying minutes, Cunha netted the clincher that saw the club take home all three points.

In the process of doing so, he ran over to the Wolves crowd and appeared to apologise for his actions over the weekend.

Indeed, the forward landed himself in hot water after an Instagram post, which he later deleted, ended up in him ranting at supporters.

Well, he responded in the best possible way on Sunday by letting his football do the talking. No action will be taken by the club, as confirmed by Pereira post-game at the weekend.

“I didn’t speak to Cunha about the social media post.” the Wolves boss admitted. “I let him do the talking on the pitch. He’s committed, he’s a special player. He needs the energy of love. He went to the pitch not to think of himself, but the team. I understand the fans, but he’s part of our family.”

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Overall, Cunha has scored 16 times and grabbed four assists for the club in 2024/25, so without his goal involvements, they would likely be in the relegation places, such is his importance.

When he signed a new deal, a release clause of £62.5m was inserted, and it looks like it could be activated this summer, especially with Manchester United keen on a move for him.

This money could go a long way to securing a replacement; no doubt about that.

But, is there perhaps someone who has become more important than the former Atlético Madrid star?

Wolves star is now more important than Cunha

Should Cunha leave for big money, Jorgen Strand Larsen will be ready to slip into his shoes and take on the mantle of Wolves’ talisman.

Signed initially on a loan deal, the Norwegian made the deal permanent at a fee worth around £23m in January as certain conditions were met.

Since scoring against Southampton midway through March, Larsen has now found the back of the net in four consecutive Premier League games.

It’s safe to say he’s in the best form of his career at Molineux.

Comparing Cunha and Larsen in the PL this season
Metric	Cunha	Larsen
Goals	14	12
Assists	4	2
Key passes per game	1.7	0.6
Big chances created	12	5
Shots per game	3.3	1.6
Touches per game	53.3	23.3

His 12 goals and three assists are just five goal involvements off Cunha’s mark. With more responsibility, he could turn into a vital player for the Old Gold next term. That’s a certainty.

He ranks second in terms of goals scored in the top flight for Wolves (12), while also ranking second for shots on target (1.1) per game and fourth for big chances created (four), behind Cunha in all these metrics.

Journalist Josh Bunting was impressed with his abilities way back at the start of the season, saying: “His movement off the ball really stands out to me, sharp on the ball.”

The previous few months have certainly proved that the club were right to secure his signature permanently, especially for a fee in the region of £23m.

If he begins next season the way he is ending the current one, Larsen will undoubtedly become the club’s most important focal point.

It's not Andre or Gomes: Wolves may have found their next Matheus Nunes

Wolves could have another high profile sale on the cards this summer…

By
Robbie Walls

Apr 7, 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.

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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 will surely look to capitalise on the fact that the summer window opens early in 2025, which coincides with the Club World Cup. The Blues are participating in the 32-team event at the end of the season, where they will face Mexican side Leon, Brazilian giants Flamengo and Tunisian outfit Esperance de Tunis.

FIFA have added an early start date for the transfer window in the first ten days of June. It seems as though Chelsea will capitalise on that and look to do early transfer business in order to bring new players into Stamford Bridge before the start of the competition.

In fact, they are linked with one attacker who could certainly enhance the quality of the squad.

Latest on Chelsea's search for a forward

If reports are to be believed, then the West Londoners are looking to strengthen in attacking areas before the Club World Cup. One of their primary targets seems to be highly rated Borussia Dortmund winger Jamie Gittens.

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According to a report from TEAMTalk, Enzo Maresca’s side are hoping to lure him to Stamford Bridge in the first window of June. They are thought to be ‘big admirers’ of the 20-year-old and view him as a player with ‘world-class potential’.

In terms of a price for the deal, they could end up paying a fee on the lower end of the scale, considering what attackers go for in the current market.

TEAMTalk suggest Gittens is worth £35m, which makes the Blues view this as an ‘achievable’ deal, heightening confidence that a move could be completed. However, Chelsea could offer Jadon Sancho back to his former club as part of the deal, thus bringing his price down further.

Why Gittens would be a good signing

In what has been a bleak campaign for Dortmund this term, it has been a strong season for former Manchester City academy player Gittens. The 20-year-old, who was born in London, has been one of the standout players in that famous Yellow shirt.

In 45 games across all competitions this season for Dortmund, Gittens has scored 12 times and assisted a further five. That included a fantastic run of form in the Bundesliga at the end of November to the start of January, where he scored and assisted seven goals in as many games.

In the Champions League, Gittens has really impressed. The England under-21 international notched up four goals and one assist in the prestigious competition. Perhaps the most notable of the bunch came against Real Madrid, when he scored at the Santiago Bernabeu, to put his side 2-0 up, although it was a game that they lost 5-2.

Well, Gittens would certainly make a fine replacement for Sancho. The West Londoners have a clause in his loan contract that could make it a permanent move from Manchester United for a £25m fee.

Contrary to popular belief, the England international has not had the worst season in Blue. He has managed three goals and ten assists in the equivalent of 23 full 90-minute games.

There have certainly been key contributions from Sancho, including a stunning late equaliser against the now-relegated Ipswich Town to secure a huge point.

With that being said, there are underlying statistics via FBref that suggest Gittens would make a better option for the Blues than Sancho does.

For example, the Dortmund star averages 0.42 goals and completes 4.07 take-ons per 90 minutes compared to 0.16 goals and 2.43 take-ons completed each game by Sancho.

Goals

0.42

0.16

Shot-creating actions

3.86

3.51

Progressive carries

5.87

5.19

Take-ons completed

4.07

2.43

Tackles and interceptions

2.06

0.65

This is certainly an interesting deal for the Blues. Gittens, described as a “wonderkid” by Statman Dave, looks like he plays with the maturity of someone in their mid-20s, and has come up clutch in big moments this season.

A flair one-vs-one dribbler, Gittens would certainly bring directness to this Chelsea attack, and add another unique element to an already strong group of forwards. For such a fair price, even if they have to lose Sancho, this seems like a good deal.

He'd revive Palmer: Chelsea want to sign one of the best players in the PL

Chelsea are hunting a summer move for a Premier League star who could see Cole Palmer recapture his form.

ByEthan Lamb Apr 30, 2025

Ruben Amorim has a huge task on his hands this summer to try and make himself a success as Manchester United manager, with an overhaul of the squad desperately needed.

Despite their poor form in the Premier League throughout 2024/25, the 40-year-old has the opportunity to end the season on a high given their semi-final status in the Europa League.

Regardless of whether the Red Devils go all the way and win the competition, it can’t deflect from the fact that new signings and departures are needed to restore the club’s former glory.

However, it’s down to Amorim to sell the right players and decide who the key additions are to fill any of the gaps left by their sales to push them back in the right direction.

With the window rapidly approaching, the hierarchy have wasted no time in trying to conduct business, looking to make a quick start in their ambitions of improving the side.

The latest on United’s hunt for summer signings

A striker has been at the top of United’s shopping list in recent weeks, as seen by their pursuit of landing Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap ahead of the summer window.

It was reported at one stage that the 22-year-old was their top target for the centre-forward position, but their hunt appears to have switched to Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta.

The hierarchy have already made contact to sign the Frenchman, looking to land a new talisman, with the 27-year-old being a good option given his tally of 14 league goals in 2024/25.

However, despite their hunt for attackers, a new midfielder is also on the agenda, with Atalanta star Ederson the latest player touted with a switch to Old Trafford.

According to Fabrizio Romano, reporting for GIVEMESPORT, the Red Devils are already in talks over a move for the Brazilian, potentially partnering one of his compatriots at the club should they secure deals for the pair.

Why Ederson would be perfect for Cunha at United

Wolves forward Matheus Cunha appears to be the club’s number one target this summer, that’s if the latest rumours are to be believed over his potential move.

It was confirmed in recent days that the two sides were in talks over a deal that would see Amorim’s men trigger the 25-year-old’s £62.5m release clause in his contract.

Such a deal would improve the options at the manager’s disposal, with his tally of 14 league goals undoubtedly handing United the added attacking threat they’ve craved.

He could be aided in his attempts by Ederson should he, too, move to the Theatre of Dreams, with the 25-year-old having all the tools to provide Cunha with opportunities in attacking areas.

The Brazilian, who’s been labelled as a “monster” by The Mirror’s Ryan Taylor, has starred in possession this campaign, registering a staggering 6.5 progressive passes per 90 – handing Cunha with the ammunition needed in attacking areas.

Ederson’s stats for Atalanta in Serie A (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games played

32

Goals & assists

5

Pass accuracy

87%

Progressive passes

6.5

Passes into final third

5.3

Passes into 18-yard box

1.3

Tackles won

1.5

Interceptions made

1.2

Aerials won

1.3

Stats via FBref

He’s also completed 5.3 passes into the final third at a completion rate of 87%, showcasing his impressive ability with the ball at his feet this year in Serie A.

Out of possession, Ederson has also impressed, winning 1.5 tackles per 90 and making 1.2 interceptions per game, having the ball-winning talents to be the perfect box-to-box option for Amorim.

If the side are to make the leap back up the league table in 2025/26, it’s pivotal that the board backs the manager in his quest to allow him to be a success in the role.

It’s unclear how much deals for Cunha and Ederson would set the hierarchy back in the upcoming window, but the pair are two additions that need to be made to improve the current situation.

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Posts ByEthan Lamb Apr 25, 2025

Newcastle United find themselves well in the hunt for a strong finish to the Premier League season and could look to pounce for a high-profile star on the market, according to a report.

Newcastle United's pursuit of summer signings

The Magpies have Champions League football firmly in their sights under Eddie Howe and will look to finalise their place in next year’s league phase before turning their attention to the summer transfer window.

Turning the spotlight on one of their direct competitors, Newcastle hope to sign James McAtee from Manchester City in the next few months and will take encouragement from the fact he has one year left on his deal at the Etihad Stadium.

Bayer Leverkusen and Borussia Dortmund are also in the hunt for his signature, which may pose a challenge in convincing the England Under-21 international that Tyneside is the place to be ahead of next season.

On the same token, talks have taken place over Newcastle making a move for Douglas Luiz with Juventus sporting director Cristian Giuntoli. The possibility of a swap deal involving Sandro Tonali has also been discussed.

Looking to the future, Heart of Midlothian forward James Wilson is a Magpies target, even if he would likely be viewed as one for the future by chiefs at St James’ Park.

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PSR regulations will need to be met by Newcastle alongside every one of their direct rivals in the Premier League. In turn, that may lead to certain positions being prioritised for strengthening, while others could be left on the backburner.

Regardless, plenty of movement is underway in the North East and recent developments suggest that a marquee arrival could be set for a move to Tyneside.

Newcastle United ready to strike for Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo

According to The Telegraph, Newcastle United are plotting a move for Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo, who has wowed the Magpies’ recruitment team during extensive scouting missions over the last few years.

Howe would jump at the chance to bring in the Cameroon international if his current employers were willing to sell, though the Bees’ demand of over £60 million may provide food for thought once the summer window opens.

Bryan Mbeumo vs Anthony Gordon – Premier League attacking output in 2024/25

Bryan Mbeumo

Goals

18

Assists

6

Chances created

65

Shots on target

36

Completed dribbles

44

Anthony Gordon

Goals

6

Assists

5

Chances created

50

Shots on target

19

Completed dribbles

35

Labelled “fantastic” by Thomas Frank, Mbeumo has enjoyed a fantastic campaign in front of goal, registering 18 goals and seven assists in 38 appearances across all competitions.

His versatility is said to be a major reason behind Howe’s desire to land the winger. However, Newcastle are likely to wait and see what continental competition they end up in before stepping up their interest.

Attacking reinforcements appear to be on the agenda at St James’ Park and Mbeumo would be the ideal candidate to ensure the Magpies build from a position of strength.

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.

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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.

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Newcastle United have now joined the race to sign a “very quick” defender who’s among the “world’s best”, according to a report.

Newcastle's summer transfer plans taking shape

Should Newcastle manage to secure Champions League qualification by finishing in the Premier League’s top five, the 2024-25 campaign is likely to go down as a resounding success, having also ended their 70-year trophy drought by lifting the EFL Cup.

However, the PIF have grand plans for the Magpies, and having enjoyed their first taste of success, they are likely to be even more inspired to compete for more major honours, which means some new additions to the squad could be required this summer.

Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo could be a key target in attack, with the right-winger recently being identified as the ideal option to bolster Eddie Howe’s frontline, while the PIF are now racing to sign Girona’s Yangel Herrera to reinforce the midfield.

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Posts 1 BySean Markus Clifford May 4, 2025

A new centre-back has also been of interest for quite some time, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi a long-standing target, and there has now been a new update on the Tynesiders’ pursuit of a defender.

According to a report from The Sun, Newcastle have now joined the race to sign Bayer Leverkusen defender Jonathan Tah, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer, having announced his intention to leave the German club when his contract expires.

Guehi remains the Magpies’ top target, with the Palace captain set to leave Selhurst Park this summer, but Tah has now been identified as an alternative option, with Howe desperate to bring in a new defender this summer.

There could be stiff competition for the 29-year-old’s signature, however, with Manchester United, Real Madrid, Barcelona and Bayern Munich also keen, in light of his impressive performances for Bayer Leverkusen…

"Very quick" Tah among "world's best" defenders

Leverkusen were unable to retain the Bundesliga title this season, but they did an incredible job to pip Bayern to top spot in the 2023-24 campaign, going the entire season undefeated, and it would be fair to say the German defender impressed Xabi Alonso.

Alonso said: “Jonha is performing at the highest level and I am really happy for him because he deserves all the praise and all the good moments he’s living – that he keeps playing for us and happily for the national team as well. I think he is one of the world’s best defenders.”

Former Germany boss Joachim Low once described the 29-year-old as “very quick”, while he is also very impressive in possession of the ball.

Tah’s availability on a free transfer makes signing him an even more attractive proposition for potential suitors this summer, and it is promising news that Newcastle have now joined the race.

Glasgow Rangers had little to play for but pride and bragging rights when they faced Celtic in the Old Firm derby at Ibrox in the Scottish Premiership on Sunday.

Their city rivals had already wrapped up the league title last weekend, resigning the Gers to another second-placed finish, but Barry Ferguson’s men restored some pride with a 1-1 draw in front of their home fans.

Cyriel Dessers scored the only goal of the opening 45 with a tidy finish just before the half-time break, slotting into the bottom corner with his left foot after Liam Scales failed to complete a tackle on him, before Adam Idah’s second-half equaliser.

The Nigerian forward held the corner flag aloft and basked in the joy of the home support, able to celebrate in view of away supporters, finally, in an Old Firm clash.

It was his 17th goal of the season in the Premiership and the Europa League combined, which is a respectable return but does not tell the full story of his campaign.

Why Rangers could sell Cyriel Dessers

With the summer transfer window on the horizon, Rangers will have some big decisions to make on the players currently in the squad, as they have now failed to win the title in each of the last four seasons.

The Light Blues have to find a way to improve and close the gap to Celtic in the league in order to compete for the title in the 2025/26 campaign, and Dessers is one star who could be a candidate to move on from Ibrox.

During the Sky Sports commentary of the 1-1 draw with Celtic, former Gers midfielder Scott Arfield noted that Dessers is “on his heels” too often when the ball comes forward, which limits how effective the team can be in transition when passes are played down the sides of the defenders.

Appearances

35

32

Goals

16

14

Assists

4

2

Pass accuracy

70%

73%

Duels won per game

2.3

1.9

Ground duel success rate

29%

33%

Aerial duel success rate

40%

32%

As you can see in the table above, the Rangers striker struggles with the physical side of the game, losing the majority of his duels without winning many per game, and is not particularly reliable as a passer.

Dessers has also missed a whopping 59 ‘big chances’ in the Premiership and European competitions combined since the start of last season, which shows that the striker is very wasteful in front of goal to go along with his struggles out of possession.

The 30-year-old forward could, therefore, be sold if the new Rangers manager does not want him to be his first-choice striker, and that could be the case if the latest report is to be believed.

The latest on the Rangers manager search

According to Football Insider, Steven Gerrard has emerged as the leading candidate to take the permanent Rangers job as manager this summer.

The report claims that the English head coach is now the ‘favourite’ to land the role for the second time in his career, having left the club back in 2021.

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It states that the former Aston Villa boss, who is currently out of work, is the favourite to be appointed as the next Rangers manager ahead of Marco Rose, the former RB Leipzig tactician.

Football Insider reveals that the 49ers are expected to play a key role in the appointment and that the 4-3-3 favoured boss is currently at the top of their list of targets for the job.

If the iconic Liverpool midfielder does become the Gers manager for the second time, this could be bad news for Dessers and his future at Ibrox beyond this season.

Why Gerrard's appointment would be bad news for Dessers

The English boss returning for a second go at Ibrox would be bad news for the Nigeria international because of the kind of striker he liked in his first spell at the club.

Only Connor Goldson (182) and James Tavernier (178) made more appearances for Rangers as outfield players under his management than Alfredo Morelos (158), which illustrates how important the Colombian star was for him in Glasgow.

Gerrard, whose reputation was described as “amazing” by former England defender Glen Johnson, won the league title for the Gers in the 2020/21 campaign with the Colombia international as his main man up front.

Morelos, once described as a “real battering-ram” by ex-coach Scot Page, scored 12 goals and provided four assists in his 29 Premiership outings, but it was also the physicality in his performances that made him so influential for the Scottish giants.

Appearances

29

26

Goals

12

11

Assists

4

7

Pass accuracy

80%

80%

Duels won per game

3.7

4.1

Ground duel success rate

42%

41%

Aerial duel success rate

36%

48%

As you can see in the table above, the powerful forward provided a physical presence in the number nine role for Gerrard, winning more duels and winning a higher percentage of his duels than Dessers has in his two seasons at Ibrox.

The current Rangers striker does not have the pace, the raw strength, or the mobility that Morelos consistently displayed under the English boss during that successful period in the club’s history, as evidenced by his struggles in the Premiership this season.

Dessers’ wasteful finishing in all competitions is another reason why Gerrard may not want the Nigerian number nine to lead the line for his team next season, should he be appointed as Ferguson’s successor this summer.

Therefore, the ex-Serie A marksman may not want the legendary former midfielder to get the job because it could spell the end of his career at Ibrox if he wants a forward who is similar to Morelos at Ibrox.

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It is now down to the 49ers and Kevin Thelwell to convince Gerrard to take the job, if he is their favoured candidate, to bring glory back to the club next season and beyond.

At some point this week, Liverpool could be crowned champions of the Premier League, should Arsenal lose at home against Crystal Palace on Wednesday evening or Anfield claim three points against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.

Of course, neither juncture could turn the Reds toward the title, but there’s no doubt in anyone’s mind that the Redmen’s romp toward the finish line has turned into a procession.

The Premier League is lauded by many as the toughest, most competitive and most prevalently entertaining division in the world, and while some would claim that the top flight has lulled this term, Liverpool have capitalised emphatically to defy pre-season predictions and move Arne Slot within touching distance of the crown in his first year.

It’s quite the feat, especially since he entered an outfit dealing with three contractual conundrums which have itched at Liverpool’s campaign all year long.

Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah have penned extensions, but there’s been radio silence from Trent Alexander-Arnold.

However, noise from the media suggests that his move to Real Madrid on a free transfer is a matter of when, not if.

What Liverpool will miss when Alexander-Arnold leaves

Alexander-Arnold scored the winner against Leicester City at the weekend, and his celebration felt like a farewell of sorts, hanging his shirt on the corner flag.

While the most optimistic Liverpool supporters are holding onto hope that the 26-year-old will pen a new deal with his boyhood club, Fabrizio Romano and the rest have confirmed that Trent’s camp and Los Blancos are working toward an agreement on a summer move.

He will be missed. Not only is the emotional connection strong, but Alexander-Arnold is one of the most distinctive players in the game.

The unique advantage that the right-back offers, sparking attacking play with such frightening consistency from an unconventional ball-playing position, has helped Liverpool maintain their place as the Premier League’s most creative team for the past five seasons.

Most Big Chances Created in the Premier League (past 5 years)
Season	1st-place Team(s)	Stat
*24/25	Liverpool	97
23/24	Liverpool	102
22/23	Liverpool & Man City	103
21/22	Liverpool	97
20/21	Liverpool	82
Data via Premier League

Conor Bradley may well get the nod as Slot’s first choice at right-back next season, but Liverpool are going to need to replace Alexander-Arnold’s ball-playing genius somehow.

Liverpool lining up potential Trent replacement

Reports in recent weeks have suggested that Liverpool could make a move for two full-backs, namely Jeremie Frimpong of Bayer Leverkusen and Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina.

Yet, could Slot replace Trent’s creativity from a different area of the pitch instead?

Transfer Focus

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

Well, according to Spanish sources, Liverpool are ready to compete with Manchester United for the signing of Xavi Simons this summer, with the RB Leipzig magician now said to be a ‘top target’ for the Reds.

A transfer fee might prove a sticking point, though, with the Germans looking to bank around €100m (£87m) for the 21-year-old this summer, just one year after buying him from Paris Saint-Germain for a €50m (£43m) fee.

However, if sporting director Richard Hughes can move discussions into a more agreeable zone, this could be a stunning capture for Liverpool.

What Xavi Simons would bring to Liverpool

Don’t worry, we’re not suggesting Simons could take Alexander-Arnold’s berth at full-back. However, the little Dutchman is one of the most exciting attacking midfielders in the business, and he’s still got plenty of development left to complete.

However, the Netherlands international does have a similar sort of ball-playing strength that could be utilised and unleashed to preserve Liverpool’s slick offensive play, maybe even unlocking a new dimension.

Xavi Simons – Bundesliga Stats 24/25
Stats (* per game)	#
Matches (starts)	21 (21)
Goals	9
Assists	5
Pass completion	84%
Big chances created	10
Key passes*	2.2
Dribbles*	1.3
Ball recoveries*	5.1
Tackles + interceptions*	1.5
Duels won*	4.4
Data via Sofascore

He’s a complete midfielder, capable of shifting into flanking positions too. Simons’ 2.2 key pass average this term actually stands taller than Alexander-Arnold’s 1.9 average, further evidence that he has what it takes to thrive at Anfield.

But to emphasise it more clearly, the Dutchman ranks among the top 13% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for passes attempted, the top 19% for shot-creating actions, the top 10% for progressive passes and the top 7% for ball recoveries per 90, as per FBref.

There’s a reason Simons is shaping up to be such a hot commodity with his talent for picking at the seams of opposition defences, something Liverpool could make good use of, especially if Alexander-Arnold leaves.

Simons’ playmaking superiority over the Liverpool man may in part be down to positional placement but it doesn’t detract from his being a high-level “game-changer” with his passing and flair, as has been said by talent scout Jacek Kulig.

It’s exactly the kind of quality that Liverpool will need. Trent has scored 23 goals and racked up 90 assists across his 350 career appearances as a Liverpool player, described as a “genius” by reporter Neil Jones.

Simons may still be young, but his 41 goal involvements across 72 Leipzig games, partnered with the underlying creative metrics that speak in his favour, do suggest that Slot could make good use of his countryman’s qualities, transferring Liverpool’s playmaking hub to a more central area.

It’s possible that Liverpool have accelerated their plans to sign Simons due to the growing sense that Alexander-Arnold is going to leave the club this summer. Maybe, tacitly, those in FSG’s head offices already know the outcome.

With plans already being drawn up for a new centre-forward, it might be worthwhile to sign such a player to sit in behind, jockeying with Dominik Szoboszlai for a regular starting berth and enhancing the overall fluency of the Anfield side.

In any case, it might be good for Slot to steer the creative heartbeat toward the middle of the park, with Simons, who has been described as a “superstar” in the making by analyst Ben Mattinson, capable of anchoring Liverpool’s inventiveness behind the frontline, reorienting toward a more conventional well of supplementation.

Truth is, though, it’s far simpler: the Dutchman is a brilliant young player, one who could do really well in Slot’s Liverpool team.

As big a blow as Trent: Liverpool will rue selling "world-class" star

Trent Alexander-Arnold isn’t the only Liverpool star potentially on the move this summer.

By
Angus Sinclair

Apr 22, 2025

Manchester United are thought to be increasingly confident of completing the signing of a “very quick” defender on a free transfer this summer, according to a new update on Sunday.

Europa League final vital for future Man Utd signings

The Red Devils’ Premier League season is effectively over, and has been for many weeks, following a hugely disappointing performance in the competition.

United can still save their campaign by winning the Europa League later this month, however, with a final meeting with Tottenham on the horizon in Bilbao on May 21st. Ruben Amorim will know the importance of winning the trophy, not only because it will add to the club’s silverware collection, but because it will also secure a place in next season’s Champions League.

Returning to Europe’s biggest club competition will allow the Reds Devils to attract a higher calibre of player this summer, with Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali linked with a summer switch to Old Trafford, which wouldn’t go down well at St James’ Park.

Elsewhere, Wolves forward Matheus Cunha continues to stand out as one of United’s most likely signings before the upcoming window comes to a close, in what has the potential to be a hugely exciting piece of business.

Man Utd confident of signing Jonathan Tah

According to The Sunday Mirror [via United In Focus], Manchester United are now increasingly confident of signing Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Jonathan Tah at the end of the season. The 29-year-old will be available on a free transfer when his contract expires this summer, and he is believed to like the idea of testing himself in the Premier League.

A new centre-back is a must for United in the summer, even though Harry Maguire has enjoyed a good spell of form and Leny Yoro looks like a player with enormous potential. Maguire isn’t getting any younger, and is flawed in terms of a lack of pace, while Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt are injury-prone players.

In Tah, United have a great option to bring in, with the German winning the Bundesliga with Leverkusen last season, as well as making 400 appearances for them in total and winning 35 caps for Germany.

Leverkusen managing director Simon Rolfes has heaped praise on him in the past too: “He’s a young player with a lot of potential. He’s physically strong and very quick. Everything is possible.”

At 29, he admittedly isn’t a young signing for United, but he is still at an age where he could easily remain in and around his peak for the next three or four years.

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Posts ByTom Cunningham May 11, 2025

Added competition in defence is vital for Amorim moving forward, and the fact that Tah is keen on trying his luck in the Premier League acts as a further boost to them getting their man.