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It has been an interesting summer for Arsenal so far this year, to say the least.

At one point, it looked like Mikel Arteta’s side were falling behind their rivals in the transfer market, only for them to then go out and splash the cash on the likes of Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard.

Additionally, a deal to sign Viktor Gyokeres appears to be nearing its conclusion, and the promising Cristhian Mosquera underwent his medical yesterday afternoon.

However, not every deal has garnered such a positive response, and it would perhaps be an understatement to say that Noni Madueke’s imminent arrival has split the fan base.

Fortunately, if reports are to be believed, the club are already looking at another international ace, someone who would be a better signing than the Englishman.

Arsenal target who'd be better than Madueke

While some of the responses to the move to sign Madueke have been entirely over the top, it’s not hard to see why some might not be overjoyed with it.

Transfer Focus

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

The first point is that, with the final price potentially reaching up to £52m, there is some argument that the North Londoners could be overpaying for a player who didn’t exactly excel last year.

Moreover, he’s yet another player making the now all-too-familiar move from Chelsea to the Emirates, and the second player to do so this summer after Kepa Arrizabalaga.

There is every chance the dynamic winger comes good and proves everyone wrong next season, but as things stand, it’s a somewhat confusing transfer, especially as the club is now looking at someone who’d represent a far better move.

At least that is according to Wednesday’s edition of Corriere della Sera, as relayed by Sport Witness, Arsenal are one of several teams interested in Ademola Lookman.

The report has claimed that the Gunners are going to initiate talks with Atalanta soon with Andrea Berta and Co prepared to pay €50m, which is about £43m to sign him. However, the report notes that a bid is only likely to be accepted if the Italian side receives €60m – £52m.

It could be a complicated and reasonably costly transfer to get over the line, but Lookman would be worth it and represent a far better signing than Madueke.

Why Lookman would be a better signing than Madueke

It might sound simplistic, and that’s because it is, but one of the main reasons Lookman would be a far better signing than Madueke this summer is his output.

For example, in the 23/24 campaign, he scored 17 goals and provided ten assists in 45 appearances, which was an average of a goal involvement every 1.66 games.

Then, last year, he did even better, producing as many goal involvements, but in just 40 appearances, which works out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.48 games.

In stark contrast, the Chelsea ace scored eight goals and provided four assists in 34 appearances during the 2023/24 season, and then scored 11 goals and provided five assists in 46 appearances last season.

In other words, the former PSV Eindhoven star averaged a goal involvement every 2.83 games two years ago, and one every 2.87 games last year.

Appearances

45

34

Minutes

2809′

1593′

Goals

17

8

Assists

10

4

Goal Involvements per Match

0.60

0.35

Minutes per Goal Involvement

104.03′

132.75′

Appearances

40

46

Minutes

2871′

2647′

Goals

20

11

Assists

7

5

Goal Involvements per Match

0.67

0.34

Minutes per Goal Involvement

106.33

165.43′

On top of the output, the former RB Leipzig ace is also far more versatile, being comfortable playing across the frontline and even in attacking midfield, compared to the Englishman, who mainly plays off the right.

Finally, the “world-class” Nigerian international, as dubbed by journalist John Bennett, has also proven he can step up on the biggest stages, as he scored a hat-trick to win Atalanta the Europa League against Bayer Leverkusen in 2024.

Ultimately, Madueke might come good, but Lookman feels like a sure bet, and that is why Arsenal should look to sign him as well this summer.

Arteta's new Xhaka: Arsenal hold talks to sign "monster" £30m CM

The impressive midfielder could add some extra bit to Arsenal this summer.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 17, 2025

Rangers are now believed to have held talks over the signing of a “fantastic” attacking player ahead of next season, in a significant new transfer update.

Rangers chasing exciting signings

Russell Martin will be looking to make a flying start to his spell in charge of the Gers, as they look to wrestle the Scottish Premiership title away from Celtic in 2025/26.

New signings are a must if that is to happen, however, and Rangers continue to be linked with some exciting additions, not least Leicester City icon Jamie Vardy.

The Englishman has played his final game for the Foxes after announcing his decision to leave at the end of last season, and he stands out as an eye-catching option for the Gers, having proven himself at the very highest level over so many years, both in the Premier League and on the international stage with England.

Elsewhere, Rangers are said to be pushing hard to complete the signing of another Leicester player, Conor Coady, while Maccabi Tel Aviv winger Weslley Patati is also seen as a target for Martin’s side.

Rangers hold talks over legendary addition

According to a fresh claim from Football Insider, Rangers have now “held preliminary talks” over the signing of Vardy this summer, with the Scottish giants “accelerating their pursuit” of him.

It is stated that the 38-year-old is the “subject of interest from a number of sides worldwide, including clubs in the United States”, and Martin “feels that the former England international would be a smart signing” for his new club.

At 38, Vardy’s very best days are clearly behind him, but he remains an impressive performer who still possesses plenty of pace and ruthlessness in attacking areas, being hailed as “fantastic” by Claudio Ranieri earlier this year, as well as being lauded by Gary Lineker.

The Leicester legend is one of the best strikers to have ever graced the Premier League, and his passionate style of play, not to mention his ability to wind up opposition players and supporters, could make him an instant hit at Rangers. He holds a net worth of £9m to boot, so if he moved north of the border to play it would be with the intent of winning trophies, not just a final paycheque.

More exciting than Aasgaard: Rangers chasing deal to sign £10m star

Rangers are interested in a deal for a Premier League forward who would be more exciting than Thelo Aasgaard.

ByDan Emery Jul 7, 2025

The Gers may only get a year or two out of Vardy, but if he manages to guide them back to Scottish title glory, he will have done more than enough to justify a short-term stay at Ibrox.

It’s all change at Manchester United so far this summer, with Matheus Cunha signed, Bryan Mbeumo seemingly on his way and now one struggling striker increasingly likely to depart the club.

Man Utd commence attacking overhaul

Starting by triggering Cunha’s £63m release clause, Manchester United’s attacking overhaul is officially underway. The Brazilian is set to hand Ruben Amorim an instant upgrade in his frontline and could slot straight into one of the two attacking midfield roles in his 3-4-2-1 system. He’s unlikely to be the only fresh face in United’s frontline too.

The Red Devils are also pushing to sign Mbeumo from Brentford with reports going as far as to suggest that they’re willing to offer the talented forward a £13m-a-year salary to join. All of a sudden, from a blunt frontline, Amorim could have two options at his disposal who scored over 15 Premier League goals each last season and two options who should finally push United away from the bottom half next season.

Both have earned plenty of praise in recent weeks as they potentially prepare to combine at Old Trafford and that includes from Manchester United legend Gary Neville, who told Sky Sports: “Cunha and Mbeumo have obviously got Premier League experience. They’ve got plenty of games under their belt. [English football] is not new to them and actually they are the right type.

“When I watch Manchester United wide players, they have to be able to get from box-to-box quickly. They have to be able to run, to travel with and without the ball. Mbeumo and, to be fair Cunha, can do that.”

Man Utd submit bid for once-£57m ex-Man City ace who’s desperate for move

He won six Premier League titles at Manchester City.

By
Tom Cunningham

Jun 7, 2025

What those arrivals will mean for one player, however, is a likely departure away from Old Trafford to bring an end to what has been a nightmare spell at the Theatre of Dreams.

Hojlund gives green light to Inter Milan move

According to Saturday’s print edition of Corriere Dello Sport, as relayed by TeamTalk, Rasmus Hojlund has now given the green light to Inter Milan, who are closing in on sealing the Dane’s signature in a €40-45m (£33-£38m) deal.

The struggling forward has looked desperate for a fresh start for at least a year, as have several others in a Manchester United shirt. Unlike some around him, however, Hojlund is seemingly set to get his wish courtesy of Inter Milan.

After scoring 26 goals and creating another six in 95 appearances across the last two years, to say that Hojlund has far from lived up to his £72m price tag would be a major understatement. Many expected the Dane to lead United’s frontline for years to come. As it happens, though, he may have lasted just two years before moving back to Italy.

Given that the struggling forward earns a reported £85,000-a-week at the club, INEOS should be keen to clear his salary from their wage bill to make room for the likes of Cunha and Mbeumo this summer.

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.

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

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.

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.

Will Celtic secure a sixth treble in just nine seasons?

On Easter Sunday, the Celts swatted aside St Johnstone 5-0 at Hampden in the Scottish Cup semi-finals, with Callum McGregor breaking the deadlock and Daizen Maeda bagging a brace, while Adam Idah and Jota were also on target.

Thus, the Hoops will now face Aberdeen in the final on 24 May, also looking to secure a fourth consecutive Scottish Premiership title before then, requiring just a point against Dundee United at Tannadice on Saturday to become champions again.

While Brendan Rodgers’ team continue to dominate on the park, does he have his eye on a new winger in the transfer market?

Celtic seeking to sign a new winger

As reported by Alan Nixon of the Scottish Sun earlier this month, Celtic are ‘eyeing’ a move to sign Stoke City winger Million Manhoef.

The 22-year-old only joined the Potters as recently as January 2024 from Dutch side Vitesse for a reported fee of £3m, but journalist Graeme Bailey believes he is now valued at £10m by Stoke.

So, would this be a good move, and could Manhoef emulate those among Rodgers’ current attacking options?

Why Celtic could be targeting the next Kuhn

Earlier this season, as outlined by Michael Shearer of Breaking the Lines, Nicolas Kühn was ‘poised to become Celtic’s next great attacking player’, starring in the Champions League and unquestionably the best player in Scotland.

However, in more recent times, the German has not been impressing quite so much, as shown in the table below.

Appearances

25

20

Minutes

1,713

1,298

Goals

14

4

Minutes per goal

122

325

Assists

11

3

As the table outlines, Kühn’s form has fallen off a cliff since New Year’s Day, in fact, he’s scored just two goals in 19 outings since bagging a brace against St Mirren on 4 January.

Rodgers stated that Kühn has appeared in the “most games he’s ever played” in a campaign, attributing his drop in form to fatigue, while Robbie Hanratty of the National adds that Kühn hasn’t looked the same since suffering a ‘suspected broken nose’ against Rangers in early January.

Kühn arrived from Rapid Wien for a reported fee of £3m in January last year, now worth £25m, well, according to his agent anyway, with Celtic hoping Manhoef – who is also a diminutive, left-footed right-winger – would experience a similar leap in valuation should he move to Glasgow, so let’s assess how the duo compare.

Appearances

37

46

Minutes

2,524

3,011

Goals

7

18

Assists

4

14

Goals – xG

-2.8

+1.3

Shots on target %

36.8

41.8

Chances created

49

43

Shot-creating actions

103

24

Take-on success %

38%

42.5%

As the table outlines, Kühn does rank higher than Manhoef for the majority of statistics included, albeit this’ll be largely skewed by his performances during the first half of the season.

Also worth considering that, according to Global Football Rankings, the EFL Championship is the 11th strongest league in the world, with the Scottish Premiership ranked 42nd.

Manhoef, to give him credit, does compare favourably, hence why Jacek Kulig from Football Talent Scout labelled him “quality and versatile”, while Dean Jones told Give Me Sport that the Dutchman is “the sort of player that will get fans off their seats.”

Thus, this would appear to be a good deal for Celtic, and they could open negotiations very soon, considering Stoke City’s season will conclude on 3 May.

Frimpong repeat: "Unstoppable" Celtic star could be sold for big profit

Celtic have made a habit of selling their best players for big fees in recent years, Jeremie Frimpong a high-profile example, but who could be next?

ByBen Gray Apr 19, 2025

Just like in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final in 2019-20, this Ranji Trophy fixture provided thrills and spills

Deivarayan Muthu12-Feb-2024Vijay Shankar is on his haunches after completing a hard-run double in Chennai’s stifling heat. His childhood friend – and batting partner – B Indrajith had also rushed across to the other end.Tamil Nadu’s chase of 355 is like Donkey Kong. The C,D, and E stands, which have been thrown open to the public, are filling fast on Monday afternoon at Chepauk. There is still about three weeks to go before MS Dhoni arrives for CSK’s preparatory camp, but the buzz among the crowd for a Ranji Trophy league game is discernible.With R Ashwin and Washington Sundar away on national duty, and Sai Sudharsan out with a niggle, Vijay is the most recognisable face in this Tamil Nadu side. Plus, he shares his name with one of the most popular Tamil actors. When Vijay had walked out of the dressing room after stumps on day three on Sunday, a section of fans began screaming: ” Vijay (brother), selfie please!”Related

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Karnataka's Vyshak conjures reverse-swing to find Ranji success

is actor Vijay’s moniker, which means commander or leader.Vijay obliged the fans’ request with selfies and autographs along with Indrajith on Sunday evening. On Monday, Vijay and Indrajith thrilled the fans again, this time with a 125-run sixth-wicket partnership at a run rate of above four runs an over. They came together when Tamil Nadu were 199 for 5 with Karnataka pushing for victory on a fourth-day surface that was offering sharp turn as well as variable bounce.While Indrajith defended resolutely and protected one end, Vijay showed attacking enterprise and disrupted the lengths of Karnataka’s inexperienced spinners with sweeps and reverse sweeps.

Cliffhanger of a game!
Yet another super clash at Anbuden!

: TNCA #TNvKAR #RanjiTrophy pic.twitter.com/dwCfyzTzKN

— Chennai Super Kings (@ChennaiIPL) February 12, 2024