Approach made: Nottingham Forest enquire to sign "underrated" £20m forward

Nottingham Forest are now making enquiries over a summer deal for an “underrated” forward, who is expected to have an asking price of around £20m, according to a report.

Nottingham Forest gearing up for European adventure

Having managed to qualify for a European competition for the first time since 1996, Forest may need to improve their squad depth in the upcoming transfer window, and they have now started to identify potential targets in a range of different positions.

Despite missing out on Champions League due to the 1-0 defeat against Chelsea on the final day, the Tricky Trees may still be in a strong position to attract quality players from some top clubs, courtesy of securing qualification for the Europa Conference League.

Target

Current club

Position

Taty Castellanos

Lazio

Striker

Jarell Quansah

Liverpool

Centre-back

Martin Baturina

Dinamo Zagreb

Attacking midfield

Luis Henrique

Marseille

Winger

Adrien Truffert

Rennes

Left-back

With Morgan Gibbs-White being heavily linked with a move away from the City Ground, however, it may be particularly important to bring in new attacking options, who are capable of providing goals and assists on a regular basis.

According to a report from GiveMeSport, Nottingham Forest have a new target in mind who could fit the bill in that regard, having now started to make enquiries about a potential summer deal for SC Freiburg forward Ritsu Doan.

Forest are now stepping up their pursuit of Doan, but there could be competition for his signature from Borussia Dortmund and Eintracht Frankfurt, with the Bundesliga sides known to be admirers.

SC Freiburg'sRitsuDoanin action with Bayern Munich's Serge Gnabry

Frankfurt are currently preparing an offer for the Freiburg star, so the Tricky Trees may have to move quickly if they are to secure his signature, with an offer in the region of £20m likely to be deemed acceptable by the forward’s current employers.

"Underrated" Doan impressing in the Bundesliga

The Japanese winger enjoyed an impressive 2024-25 campaign in Germany, picking up a combined 19 goals and assists in 36 matches in all competitions, during which time he also received praise from football talent scout Jacek Kulig.

Not only that, but the 26-year-old is also willing and able to pitch in defensively, ranking in the 92nd percentile for tackles per 90, and the 95th percentile for clearances over the past year, when compared to other wingers and attacking midfielders.

Nottingham Forest now "want to do" deal for "amazing" £50m Liverpool player

The Tricky Trees are eager to sign a Premier League gem, as they prepare for a European campaign next season.

ByDominic Lund May 26, 2025

As such, Doan could be a bargain signing for Nottingham Forest at just £20m this summer, at which point Nuno Espirito Santo may have to bring in at least one new winger, amid recent reports that Manchester United are now considering a move for Callum Hudson-Odoi.

Man Utd could sign £150k-a-week Aston Villa star if Bruno Fernandes leaves

Manchester United are thought to be eyeing a “fantastic” Premier League player as a replacement for Bruno Fernandes, should the captain leave this summer.

Man Utd desperate to keep hold of Bruno

There hasn’t been much to admire about the Red Devils’ season, with Sunday’s 2-0 defeat at home to West Ham embarrassingly leaving them languishing in 16th place in the Premier League table.

Fernandes has been a shining light for United, however, especially as the campaign has gone on, scoring 19 goals and registering 16 assists in all competitions. He has dragged his side through some games, especially in Europe, with his leadership arguably coming to the fore more impressively than it has in the past.

The Portuguese has worryingly been linked with a move away from Old Trafford this summer, however, which would be a massive blow for Ruben Amorim, who lauded him recently, saying: “When we need him, he’s always there. He can change position. He can bring the ball forward. He can score goals. He can make transitions like he showed today.”

Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal have been mentioned as potential suitors for the 30-year-old, but it would surely be a surprise if he was willing to play at such a lower standard at this peak moment in his career. Still, United will know that they need to keep an eye on possible replacements, should the worst-case scenario happen.

Man Utd eyeing move for "fantastic" Premier League ace

According to a report from Spain, Manchester United have identified Aston Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans as an option to come in for Fernandes this summer. The £150,000-a-week Belgian has stood out as one of Villa’s best players this season, helping them reach the Champions League quarter-finals.

He isn’t the only player mentioned in the update, however, with Newcastle United star Bruno Guimaraes also mentioned as a possible addition for the Red Devils, and an alternative to the Villans ace.

Youri Tielemans

In an ideal world, Fernandes will remain at United for the foreseeable future, ignoring any interest in him, but the Red Devils should still contemplate the signing of Tielemans to make their midfield more formidable.

Man Utd's £85k-per-week flop is quickly becoming their new Martial

Manchester United may have found their new Anthony Martial this season.

2

By
Matt Dawson

May 12, 2025

The 28-year-old has now proven himself as a top player in the Premier League, making 218 appearances in the competition and also scoring the winning goal for Leicester City in the 2021 FA Cup final against Chelsea, while Unai Emery has lauded his abilities as a footballer.

Tielemans would add box-to-box quality to United’s midfield, having the ability to supply end product and also strong defensive work, having bagged 10 goal contributions in the league this season and also averaged 2.4 tackles per game.

£4.5m-per-year manager "emerging" as top Tottenham target to replace Ange

Tottenham Hotspur could soon find themselves on the hunt for a new head coach, with chairman Daniel Levy set to communicate his all-important managerial decision to Ange Postecoglou “this week”.

Ange Postecoglou set to learn Tottenham fate imminently

Reliable club insider Paul O’Keefe has claimed that Levy has already decided whether he’s going to stick or twist with Postecoglou after a very mixed campaign, and the Australian is apparently set to learn his fate imminently.

Tottenham now hold talks over signing "real deal" MLS defender

He’s got a glowing reputation in the States.

1 ByEmilio Galantini Jun 4, 2025

Sky Sports report that Postecoglou’s future will be resolved “this week”, with critics and supporters alike set to find out the result of what must have been a very tough call behind the scenes at Hotspur Way.

The former Celtic boss made history by guiding Spurs to their first European trophy since 1984 and first piece of silverware generally since 2008 by beating Man United 1-0 in the Europa League final, which also gifted the club a spot in next season’s Champions League draw.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

However, Tottenham’s domestic form across 2024/2025 was quite simply unacceptable, with Postecoglou’s side breaking the record for most league defeats recorded by Spurs in a single Premier League season (22).

If they hadn’t secured a narrow victory against Ruben Amorim’s Red Devils in Bilbao, there would be no debate about sacking the tactician, but the raw emotion that comes with ending Tottenham’s trophy-winning hoodoo has given Levy plenty to ponder.

Players have also spoken out in support of Postecoglou – including the likes of Pedro Porro, James Maddison, Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray – making the decision even harder.

If Levy does opt to hand the 59-year-old his P45, £4.5 million-per-year Brentford boss Thomas Frank is tipped as a prime contender for the job.

Brentford managerThomasFrankbefore the matc

Tottenham are said to have held “multiple meetings” with Frank over the role, with journalist Pete O’Rourke now claiming that the Dane has entered pole position to succeed Postecoglou.

Thomas Frank "emerging" as top Tottenham target to replace Postecoglou

Writing for Football Insider, the reporter states Frank is “emerging” as Tottenham’s “number one” managerial target to replace Postecoglou.

The Lilywhites are apparently “increasingly convinced” of the 51-year-old’s credentials to do a job at Spurs and lead them into the Champions League next term, following his excellent job at Brentford on a shoe-string budget compared to more elite Premier League sides.

Frank has just guided the Bees to a solid mid-table finish, despite losing star striker Ivan Toney to Al-Ahli last summer, with the Dane also steering his injury-ravaged Brentford squad clear of relegation in 2023/2024.

Brentford have also registered a net-spend of just £96 million over the last five years, with Frank’s side holding their own in Europe’s most competitive division without having to splash that much on recruitment.

This will undoubtedly be attractive to Levy, and Man City boss Pep Guardiola is on record stating that Frank is “one of the best” managers around.

His appeal is clear, but it is still just a hypothesis as we await the result of Levy’s crunch Postecoglou call.

Everton looking to sign £300k-a-week PL winner with same agent as Pickford

Looking to get their summer business underway, Everton are now reportedly battling to sign a Premier League winner who would instantly become their highest earner.

Everton set to miss out on Liam Delap to Chelsea

Although the summer transfer window is yet to officially get underway, Everton have already reportedly been handed their first rejection courtesy of Liam Delap. The Toffees presented their project to the Ipswich Town star in an attempt to convince him that a step towards David Moyes’ side would suit this stage of his career rather than an instant jump into the Premier League’s top six. As right as that argument could prove to be, however, it was not enough to convince the talented striker.

Set to turn Everton and Manchester United down as well as others in favour of a move to Chelsea this summer, Delap’s decision will disappoint those in Merseyside who would have seen their frontline transformed.

Moyes even confirmed Everton’s interest in Delap earlier this month, telling reporters when asked about Delap: “He spoke to three or four clubs. He’s given us our opportunity to pitch our case. We’re probably a little bit behind the black ball but hopefully, you never know what happens.”

Now, however, the Toffees must turn to alternative options in pursuit of improving Moyes’ frontline this summer. And whilst names such as Gustavo Hamers have already been mentioned, Everton could first push to sign a Premier League-winning attacking addition when the transfer window swings open.

Everton keen on signing Liverpool "monster" who could rival Branthwaite

Everton are lining up a couple of audacious transfer swoops this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 27, 2025

It would be some statement from the Friedkin Group and one that could instantly ease Everton’s Delap woes.

Everton now looking to sign Jack Grealish from Man City

According to The Boot Room, Everton are now battling AC Milan and a host of other clubs to sign Jack Grealish this summer, with Manchester City willing to allow the attacking midfielder to leave on loan in the coming months. Alongside the Toffees and Milan, Aston Villa, Napoli, Newcastle and West Ham are also keen, as are clubs in Saudi Arabia and Qatar.

The former Aston Villa star has won all there is to win at the Etihad, including three Premier League titles, but may look back on his spell at Manchester City with slight frustration, having never truly hit the heights that his £100m price tag suggested he could. Now, after being left out of Pep Guardiola’s squad on the final day of the Premier League season, an exit seems increasingly likely.

That said, even on loan, a deal to sign Grealish may not come cheap. If he completed a summer switch to Everton, for example, then he would instantly become their highest earner by some distance at £300,000-a-week.

Jack Grealish

£300,000

Jordan Pickford

£125,000

Idrissa Gueye

£120,000

James Tarkowski

£100,000

Michael Keane

£80,000

Earning over double what Pickford earns at Everton, the pressure would certainly be on Grealish to perform. In regards to how difficult a deal could be to complete, meanwhile, things are likely to be made that much easier by the fact that the Manchester City man is represented by the same CAA Stellar agency as Jordan Pickford.

Leeds make approach to sign new £20m+ star called "the best" in his league

Leeds United have registered their interest in signing a £20m+ star who has been called “the best” in his league, as per a new transfer report.

Leeds transfer targets ahead of Premier League return

The Whites ended their campaign earlier this month by winning the Championship title on the final day of the season, with Manor Solomon’s injury-time winner against Plymouth Argyle taking Leeds to 100 points.

Daniel Farke and his side don’t have to worry about the playoffs and can instead prepare for a Premier League return, with the 49ers Enterprises looking to splash the cash ahead of the 2025/26 season.

It hasn’t taken long for a number of players to be linked with moves to Elland Road, with Leeds looking to make several signings who have Premier League experience.

Leeds can now sign Rooney-like striker on loan after club's transfer talks

He’s been compared to the former Man Utd striker.

ByCharlie Smith May 15, 2025

In recent days, Leeds have reportedly been moving to sign Southampton right-back Kyle Walker-Peters, who is out of contract with the Saints in the summer.

West Ham United right-back Vladimir Coufal is another who will be available on a free and is being eyed by the Whites, seen as competition for Jayden Bogle following his brilliant first season as a Leeds player.

Further forward, Man City’s James McAtee is wanted by Leeds, however, plenty of other Premier League sides are keen on the attacking midfielder including clubs who can offer European football.

Something the 49ers could potentially use to their advantage is links with Rangers with a takeover close to being completed at Ibrox. Nicolas Raskin, valued at more than £20m, is one player who was linked with swapping Glasgow for Yorkshire last month, and a new update has emerged.

Leeds register interest in signing Rangers star Raskin

According to reports from TEAMtalk, Leeds have seemingly made an approach by registering their interest in signing Raskin from Rangers.

It is stated ‘that a serious bid could be lodged in the coming weeks’, with Aston Villa also keen on the midfielder, however, Rangers are preparing to offer Raskin a new contract to keep him in Scotland.

Rangers Technical Director Nils Koppen recently hailed the 24-year-old, who can play as a holding or box-to-box midfielder, calling him “the best midfielder in Scotland”.

“With his big warrior’s heart, he has made himself enormously popular with our fan base. After his strong performances in the Old Firm against Celtic and in Europe against Manchester United, Tottenham and Fenerbahce, he is seen by our supporters as the best midfielder in Scotland.”

Games

94

Goals

5

Assists

13

Yellow cards

16

Minutes played

6,730

RTBF also praised the midfielder following his debut for Belgium earlier this year. “Nicolas Raskin was fantastic for his debut. If there’s one player who scored points today in the eyes of Rudi Garcia and his staff, it was him… [He] has the ability to play forward and build the game. I can’t see how Rudi Garcia could do without him in the next match.”

Should a move to Elland Road materialise, Raskin could rival Leeds captain Ethan Ampadu, star man Ao Tanaka and Ilia Gruev for a starting spot in the Premier League.

Aston Villa in pole position after talks to sign "powerful" 18 y/o sensation

Although their Champions League fate remains in question, Aston Villa have already reportedly entered talks to sign a rising star who could become a crucial part of Unai Emery’s side for years to come.

Aston Villa's final UCL push

It certainly hasn’t been for the want of trying, but Aston Villa still need help from elsewhere to grab a place in the Premier League’s top five. Emery’s side have lost just one of their last nine league games and enter their trip to Manchester United on Sunday knowing that just one Chelsea slip up against Nottingham Forest or Newcastle United against Everton will leave them with a golden opportunity.

Premier League standings

Points

Goal Difference

Final game

Liverpool (C)

83

45

Crystal Palace (H)

Arsenal

71

34

Southampton (A)

Manchester City

68

26

Fulham (A)

Newcastle United

66

22

Everton (H)

Chelsea

66

20

Nottingham Forest (A)

Aston Villa

66

9

Manchester United (A)

Nottingham Forest

65

13

Chelsea (H)

Anything could still happen in the Champions League race, with the top five the only real remaining drama when the final day arrives. Emery is well aware of just how important it is that his side focus on their own task at hand, too.

The Spaniard told reporters after victory over Spurs on Friday: “I am very happy. Today, we closed out our season here with our supporters trying to transmit our energy. We won, but there is still work to do to have a chance to play in the Champions League. We have to try and keep the inconsistencies down and focus.”

Whether their fate changes their summer ambitions is the big question for Aston Villa, of course. Their PSR concerns are no secret these days, but that hasn’t stopped them from reportedly opening talks to potentially secure an early incoming this summer.

Aston Villa open talks to sign Zepiqueno Redmond

According to Fabrizio Romano, Aston Villa are now in talks to sign Zepiqueno Redmond are in pole position to welcome the 18-year-old Feyenoord sensation to the Midlands this summer. The young forward could be the first striker that Villa sign since losing Jhon Duran in January and may well have finally found their replacement for the Al-Nassr forward.

Villa’s pursuit of Redmond should come as little surprise. The teenager has enjoyed a promising season in the Netherlands, scoring twice for the senior side in their domestic cup, the Toto KNVB Beker, and three more times for Feyenoord’s youth side.

Aston Villa and Emery keen to sign "extraordinary" £73k-p/w Martinez heir

The Villa boss has set his sights on a goalkeeper, who he feels is capable of replacing Emiliano Martinez.

By
Dominic Lund

May 21, 2025

Dubbed “powerful and quick” by U23 scout Antonio Mango, Redmond may not steal the same headlines as others this summer, but there’s no denying that Aston Villa would have a rising star on their hands.

He'd be a nightmare with Sesko: £50m winger is now Arsenal's "dream target"

The club might not have made any official announcements yet, but it feels like the transfer window is finally starting to heat up for Arsenal.

It was just last week that reports emerged about Martin Zubimendi’s medical being scheduled, and then this week, a significant number of reports claiming that the club are in concrete talks for Benjamin Sesko started coming out.

The Slovenian international might still be a little raw, but with 27 goal involvements in 45 appearances for RB Leipzig this season, it’s evident that the 22-year-old striker has an immense amount of talent and potential.

So, fans should be excited that recent reports are now linking the club to a player who’d be an ideal teammate and attacking partner for the 6 foot 5 poacher.

Arsenal in the market to sign new winger

Before getting to the player in question, it’s worth having a look at some of the other stars linked with Arsenal who could be Sesko’s dream teammates, such as Morgan Rogers and Leroy Sané.

Transfer Focus

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

The former might cost a staggering £100m, but with 14 goals and 15 assists to his name in 54 games this season, it’s not hard to see why he’d be an ideal partner for the Leipzig star.

With his contract expiring this month, the Bayern Munich star would be a free signing, but don’t let that fool you, as his tally of 13 goals and six assists in 45 games this term shows that he’d still be a winger to pair up with the Slovenian international.

Bayern Munich's LeroySanescores their third goa

However, there is another player who’d be an even better acquisition: Nico Williams.

Yes, according to a recent report from transfers expert Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have maintained their intense interest in the Athletic Bilbao star.

In fact, alongside London rivals Chelsea, the Italian has revealed that the Spanish international is now the club’s “dream signing.”

However, to make that dream a reality, the North Londoners will have to activate his release clause, which, according to other reports from the last few weeks, stands at about £50m.

Athletic Bilbao'sNicoWilliams

While it wouldn’t be a cheap transfer to get done, it’s one worth pursuing for Arsenal, as Williams is both an incredible talent and someone who’d be a perfect teammate for Sesko.

Why Williams would be perfect for Sesko

There are a couple of reasons why Williams would be such an ideal signing to make alongside Sesko this summer, but the most important one is his output.

Athletic Bilbao'sNicoWilliamscelebrates scoring their third goal

For example, in the 23/24 season, the dynamic winger scored eight goals and provided 18 assists in 37 appearances, totalling 2729 minutes.

Then, this season, he managed to score 11 goals and provide seven assists in 45 appearances, totalling 3130 minutes.

Williams’ recent form

Season

23/24

24/25

Appearances

37

45

Minutes

2729′

3130′

Goals

8

11

Asssists

18

7

Goal Involvements per Match

0.70

0.40

Minutes per Goal Involvement

104.96′

173.88′

All Stats via Transfermarkt

In other words, the Pamplona-born “level-raiser,” as dubbed by data analyst Ben Mattinson, has been able to average a goal involvement every 1.86 games, or 133.15 minutes, across two campaigns.

Now, just imagine how effective the Leipzig forward could be with a winger capable of such output to his left. Not only would he receive a constant string of chances, but his own assist tally could soar with someone that effective at finishing the chances he’s shown himself capable of creating.

Moreover, as the Spaniard is such an undeniable threat, and with Bukayo Saka on the other flank, opposition defenders would have to find ways to stop all three of them, inevitably leading to more space being available for the former Salzburg gem to exploit.

Finally, signing the Bilbao gem just makes sense from a squad-building perspective, as both he and the Slovenian phenom are 22, so in theory, they’d be able to further develop and reach their full potential in tandem, meaning fans could and should expect their numbers to only improve from here on out.

Ultimately, Sesko looks like he’d be a great addition to Arsenal’s attack, but to help get even more out of him and the frontline as a whole, Arteta and Co should also be pushing to sign Williams.

Arsenal's own Wirtz: Berta now eyeing "one of the best 10s in the world"

The incredibly gifted attacking midfielder would add some much-needed dynamism to Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 4, 2025

As bad as Gusto: Chelsea's 4/10 flop must never play for the club again

Chelsea secured the Europa Conference League title last night, becoming the first side to win such a title alongside the Europa League and the Champions League.

Enzo Maresca’s side produced a stunning second-half comeback after being a goal down against Real Betis at the break, ending the game as 4-1 victors in Wrocław.

Goals from Enzo Fernández, Nicolas Jackson, Jadon Sancho and Moises Caicedo secured the triumph for the Blues, topping off what has been an excellent few weeks.

Such a result saw the Italian claim his first trophy after taking the reins last summer, looking to build on such success throughout the 2025/26 campaign.

However, despite the inspirational second-half comeback, numerous players failed to deliver in the European final, putting their place at Stamford Bridge at huge risk.

Chelsea’s poor performers against Real Betis

Winger Noni Madueke once again started for Chelsea last night, but the Englishman was unable to produce a performance to remember – often failing to deliver in the final third.

The 23-year-old only completed 50% of his dribbles and was unable to complete a single cross, with the attacker’s showing in Poland one to forget.

He wasn’t alone in struggling to perform, with right-back Malo Gusto also producing a disastrous showing, subsequently being replaced at the break by Reece James.

The Frenchman had to play in an inverted role, but made a mistake that led to the Spanish side’s opener, whilst failing to win a single one of the tackles he entered.

However, despite the showing from the aforementioned duo, one other first team member failed to deliver in the final, with his outing last night needing to be his last one for the Blues.

The Chelsea dud who must never play for the club again

Despite such a triumph, this summer promises to be a huge one for Chelsea, with incomings and outgoings to be expected at Stamford Bridge over the coming months.

Maresca has some huge decisions to make, including whether to make Jadon Sancho’s deal permanent or pay a £5m fee to send him back to Manchester United.

As for incomings, the likes of Liam Delap, Hugo Ekitiké and Joao Pedro have all been touted with moves to join the Blues, with the manager evidently targeting reinforcements in the final third.

However, regardless of what deals he decides to pursue or approve, he needs to offload centre-back Benoit Badiashile and allow the defender to move on to pastures new.

He joined the club in a £35m deal from Monaco back in 2023, making 53 appearances, with the majority of his showings this season coming in the Conference League.

The 24-year-old started the final against Betis, featuring for 61 minutes before being replaced by academy graduate Levi Colwill, highlighting his lack of impact.

He may have registered 92 touches, but he was disappointing without the ball, losing 100% of the tackles he entered and committing a foul which led to him being carded.

Benoit Badiashile’s stats for Chelsea against Betis

Statistics

Tally

Minutes played

61

Touches

92

Passes completed

81/84 (96%)

Tackles won

0

Fouls committed

1

Interceptions made

1

Aerials won

0

Stats via SofaScore

Badiashile also only made one interception and failed to come out on top in any aerial duels, struggling to produce a display worthy of a European Cup final.

As a result of his showing against the Spanish outfit, he was handed a measly 4/10 match rating by The Standard’s Malik Ouzia – showcasing his lack of positive impact.

With the summer transfer window now just around the corner, it would be a surprise to no one if Badiashile was offloaded during the off-season, ending his spell in West London.

He demonstrated last night that he’s unable to deliver in key moments, with Maresca needing to cut his losses and sell him to allow for added investment in key areas this summer.

Forget Jackson: Maresca has found the new Drogba in 9/10 Chelsea star

Chelsea came from behind to beat Real Betis 4-1 in the Conference League final on Wednesday night

3

By
Joe Nuttall

May 29, 2025

Brazil defender considers exit as Arsenal hold initial talks to sign him

Arsenal are looking to strengthen their squad in almost all areas ahead of another Premier League title challenge next season, but up until now we’ve heard precious little in regard to new defenders on their radar.

Arsenal missed out on Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid

While a new addition to their backline isn’t exactly reported as a key item on Andrea Berta’s agenda, the Gunners did attempt to sign Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth, before his high-profile move to Real Madrid.

Star's agents fume over rejected Arsenal bid amid "constant contact"

The Gunners are in touch all of the time.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 14, 2025

Arsenal were among the elite Premier League clubs attempting to lure the Spaniard, with Liverpool and Chelsea also showing a keen interest before Xabi Alonso’s side ultimately won the race for his signature.

Arsenal transfer spending under Arteta (via Sky Sports)

Money on new signings

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

All three sides were ready to trigger his previous £50 million release clause at one stage, according to Fabrizio Romano, with Arsenal also presenting a formal contract offer to Huijsen’s representatives (Cadena SER).

After missing out on Huijsen, Arsenal’s pursuit of a centre-back appears to have been reduced to Berta’s backburner, with Mikel Arteta already boasting Jakub Kiwior, William Saliba, Riccardo Calafiori and Gabriel all able to play at the heart of his defence.

A recent new deal for the latter also mitigates the immediate need for another centre-back, and even if AC Milan formalise their interest in Kiwior and sign the Poland international, any new defender would potentially need to accept their role as a back-up option behind Gabriel and Saliba.

There are reports of Arsenal holding discussions over 19-year-old Ajax sensation Jorrel Hato, who can play at both left-back and centre-back, and he’d be an ideal alternative to Arteta’s star centre-back duo.

A centre-half doesn’t appear completely off the table, with Lille defender Alexsandro now attracting interest from Berta too.

Arsenal hold initial talks over signing Alexsandro from Lille

The 25-year-old made his first senior appearances for Brazil recently after a fine season in Ligue 1, starting both of their World Cup qualifiers against Ecuador and Paraguay, and Arsenal have taken note of his exploits in 2025.

According to UOL, Arsenal scouts were present to watch him in action against Paraguay, and Alexsandro is considering an exit from Lille this summer, so he could be available for Berta.

What’s more, Arsenal have made initial contact over signing Alexsandro, and are said to be fans of the defender, but face competition from Serie A champions Napoli.

He has a market value of around £26 million as well, but after his excellent 2024/2025 at Lille, the French side could well demand more after losing both Angel Gomes and Jonathan David for free.

Friedkin could spend big: Everton battling to sign £50m+ "King of Lisbon"

With a new era on its way at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, The Friedkin Group and Everton are reportedly looking to sign fresh stars to match their new ground, which could yet see a £50m+ winger arrive.

Everton eyeing attacking reinforcements

It’s not the first time that the Toffees have been linked with attacking additions so far this summer and their plan of attack is clear. Looking to make a statement ahead of their first full season at the helm, Friedkin’s priority, based on recent rumours, is to add much-needed star power to David Moyes’ frontline.

That plan should come as no surprise, either. Whilst Everton improved their attacking numbers last season, they still lacked a consistent threat within their frontline even after Beto’s form picked up under Moyes. And with Dominic Calvert-Lewin still on course to leave the club as a free agent this summer, the Merseyside club must invest up front.

2024/25

42

2023/24

40

2022/23

34

The main factor behind their struggle is clear for all to see. Last season, although improved, was still not a campaign full of goals to savour and only the bottom three managed to score less than Everton.

That stat, alone, may have been enough to send Everton marching towards the transfer market with rumours coming thick and fast as to who could arrive this summer.

Already, names such as Jack Grealish have already threatened to steal the headlines in what would certainly be a statement move by Friedkin. The Premier League-winner is on his way out of Manchester City, having been left out of their Club World Cup squad, and Everton could take full advantage.

He’s not the only name on their radar, however. Reports are also indicating that those in Merseyside have also set their sights on the “king of Lisbon”.

Everton battling to sign Geny Catamo

If not Grealish, then Friedkin could spend big on a talented alternative. According to Caught Offside, Everton are now battling to sign Geny Catamo from Sporting Club this summer. They are reportedly joined by Atletico Madrid, Arsenal, Aston Villa and others in a hectic race to welcome the 24-year-old in the coming months, but the deal won’t come cheap.

Everton fighting Leeds, Burnley and Sunderland for free agent signing

The Toffees are lining up a bargain transfer…

1 BySean Markus Clifford Jun 11, 2025

As reported, Catamo has a release clause worth as much as €60m (£51m) in Portugal and Sporting Club look likely to demand that in full if they are to sell their winger this summer. Of course, that verdict should not come as a surprise, given that the Everton target was dubbed the “King of Lisbon” by scout Jacek Kulig after he scored the winning goal against Benfica last year.

Whether Friedkin and Everton deem Catamo a player who is worth over £50m will be the big question in their pursuit. The winger himself, meanwhile, could yet decide to rescind his crown in Portugal this summer amid several interested parties.

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