Celtic have been chasing a striker all window and could now be set to land an experienced goalscorer who has his heart set on a move to Parkhead, according to a report.
Brendan Rodgers responds to Celtic transfer speculation
Brendan Rodgers has been asked plenty of times about transfer speculation this window and the questions aren’t about to stop any time soon, given his side need to secure arrivals to prepare them for a two-legged Champions League playoff against Kairat Almaty.
Speaking after his side saw off Falkirk in the Premier Sports Cup last week, the Irishman stated in his press conference that he is hopeful arrivals will come in sooner rather than later to bolster his squad.
Brendan Rodgers
He said: “Hopefully would be the answer to that. We have right up until, I believe it’s the day before the game, to change our squad so hopefully that can be the case. We hope that we can improve it, and hopefully by then we will do.”
Jahmai Simpson-Pusey’s loan from Manchester City was the last signing Celtic made, albeit West Ham United star Andy Irving is open to joining the Bhoys if he is allowed to leave the London Stadium before the end of the window.
Royal Antwerp star Michel-Ange Balikwisha is also on the Bhoys’ radar and may be a solution out wide. However, it remains to be seen how the Scottish Premiership champions go about strengthening in the forward areas.
Plenty of work remains to be done ahead of the close of play, and Celtic could now be well in contention to land a striker who has seen and done it all across his distinguished career.
Jamie Vardy has his 'heart set' on move to Celtic
According to The Sun, Jamie Vardy has his heart set on a move to Celtic and is reportedly desperate to reunite with Rodgers before the window closes, with the Hoops boss hoping to make a move.
West Ham United, Wrexham and Brentford are also keen on the free agent, who has enlisted the help of a personal trainer to keep fit since his departure from Leicester City.
Deal close: Nottingham Forest in advanced talks to sign Celtic "sensation"
The youngster has already captained his national team.
ByCallum Kemp Aug 17, 2025
The ex-England international believes he can play on for another season or two and will hope to replicate his goalscoring exploits south of the border, where he has netted 244 times across all competitions for club and country.
Last term, he hit the net ten times in 36 appearances, showing he still has plenty left to give in someone’s forward line despite turning 38 at the start of the year.
Now, it remains to be seen if Celtic can push a deal over the line, though the fact Vardy is seemingly relishing a shot at life north of the border will fill supporters with optimism.
Newcastle United are just over one week away from kicking off their 2025/26 Premier League season, facing Aston Villa at Villa Park on Saturday afternoon.
The Magpies fanbase will be hoping for a little more depth to match Eddie Howe’s vision and maintain the trajectory that yielded triumph in last season’s Carabao Cup and a fifth-place league finish, rolling out the carpet for a second Champions League campaign in three years.
Previously, there was an onus on adding quality to the Magpies ranks. Now, there’s an urgent need for quantity as United gear up for the new campaign.
Alexander Isak’s future rumbles like a dark cloud over St. James’ Park, heightening the desperate situation at the front of the ship. After so many missed lunges, the situation is dire, although recent reports suggest talks have been held with Chelsea over the potential transfer of Nicolas Jackson, which could be next on the agenda.
Marc Guehi and Malick Thiaw have also been named as defensive targets, but Howe may yet need to sign a centre-midfielder too.
Why Newcastle need a midfielder
Last month, Newcastle sold the homegrown Sean Longstaff to Leeds United in a £12m move. The 27-year-old was always going to remain behind Howe’s star midfielders, but the engine room has been thinned all the same.
Newcastle midfielder Sean Longstaff
Joe Willock was forced off during Newcastle’s pre-season fixture against Team K League while in South Korea, and though fears of an Achilles injury have been allayed, he will still be sidelined for “a number of weeks,” said Howe.
With these things in mind, it would be worth adding a bit more quality to add to Bruno Guimaraes’ engine room, to be sure.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
And as per the Daily Mail’s Craig Hope, the Magpies are now ‘considering a move’ for Aston Villa’s John McGinn. The former Hibernian man is high on the list of targets as Howe looks to head into the new season with enough depth in the centre.
Unai Emery won’t want to sell his skipper, but PSR could loosen Villa’s resolve, and the temptation of Champions League football might convince the player too.
Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn
Everton were previously interested in a £30m deal this summer, but their acquisition of Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall means Newcastle have a great chance at sealing a shrewd transfer.
What John McGinn would bring to Newcastle
McGinn has completed 285 appearances since leaving Hibs for Aston Villa way back when, scoring 30 goals and supplying 40 assists.
And over the past few years, he’s been one of the most important cogs in Emery’s system, not just the captain but a “very good example” for younger players to follow, as was said by his Spanish manager.
FBref have even recorded that McGinn’s complete range of qualities means he is cut from a similar cloth to Guimaraes, who has been such a stalwart in the centre for Howe’s Newcastle over the past several years.
Looking at the pairs’ respective Premier League campaigns, there’s certainly a likeness.
Premier League 24/25 – Bruno Guimaraes vs John McGinn
Stats (* per game)
Guimaraes
McGinn
Matches (starts)
38 (38)
34 (27)
Goals
5
1
Assists
6
4
Touches*
64.0
34.9
Pass completion
84%
87%
Big chances created
12
6
Key passes*
1.4
0.9
Dribbles (success)*
0.9 (56%)
0.6 (61%)
Ball recoveries*
4.9
2.9
Tackles + interceptions*
3.0
1.4
Duels (won)*
6.4 (52%)
4.1 (55%)
Data via Sofascore
McGinn’s energy and enthusiasm are not easily captured by statistical analysis, though, with his prowess as a “midfield machine”, as was once noted by reporter Ashley Preece, something that comes from his off-the-ball movement, his tenacity and his work ethic.
Another thing about the Scotland international is that his athleticism lends itself to alternative roles down the left flank, which is something that would give Howe an extra dimension and the opportunity to field both players together, with Guimaraes feeding McGinn.
Guimaraes might have more technical mastery, but both players are strong and commanding and confident on the ball, with the Brazilian actually described as being “at the heart of everything good” for the Toon by club legend Alan Shearer.
So too has McGinn’s progress in claret been synonymous with Aston Villa’s period of success.
McGinn has been a staple in the Premier League for many years and would unquestionably bring energy and impetus to Howe’s squad. Given his Guimaraes-like attributes and invaluable leadership skills, getting a deal done pronto feels crucial at this stage.
That curtain-raiser at Villa Park just got a bit more interesting, eh.
He’s an Isak upgrade: Newcastle chasing “one of the best 9s in the world”
Newcastle’s bid for a centre-forward could be set to take another twist…
Former captain believes recent reversals in Australia won’t have any bearing ahead of Tuesday’s World Cup fixture
Shashank Kishore08-Oct-2024
Suzie Bates got New Zealand off to a strong start against India•Getty Images
Suzie Bates, the former New Zealand captain, doesn’t think the side’s 3-0 defeat in Australia before the Women’s T20 World Cup will have any bearing on Tuesday’s fixture between the Trans-Tasman rivals. Both sides are coming off emphatic wins in their opening game with New Zealand defeating India by 58 runs and Australia brushing Sri Lanka side by six wickets.”I think we were still sort of figuring out our best XI,” Bates said of New Zealand’s 3-0 loss. “The make-up of the team and obviously conditions there versus here, spinners versus seam, the balance of the team is slightly different.”But look, we probably didn’t show all our cards, and they probably didn’t show all their cards. At the end of the day, when the teams have already played a game, you kind of know what you’re probably going to be up against and it’s really about the balance of seam and spin.”Related
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Sophie Devine said after their win over India that New Zealand had been planning for that for close to a year. It’s incredible to think about it now that New Zealand came into that game on the back of ten successive T20I losses and yet looked far superior in every facet in conditions that should’ve been more alien to them than India, particularly with the heat and spin factor.However, New Zealand’s spinners led by Eden Carson proved more effective than their Indian counterparts. Carson dismissed the big-hitting Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana up top to trigger an alarming Indian slide. With conditions in Sharjah considerably slower and spinner-friendly than Dubai, New Zealand can call upon Leigh Kasperek and Fran Jonas if required.”Yeah, I think we looked at the schedule and although it changed slightly, we knew India and Australia are in our pool and that we were going to have to try and win at least one of those matches,” Bates said. “Historically, we haven’t been that successful against Australia in recent times, but that first match [against India] I think we knew that we had to put one of our best performances and we were able to do that under a lot of pressure, so that was really pleasing.”But look, like I say we played Australia in Mackay, so I guess there’s already been a lot of thought in how we match up and how we need to take them on. And we know them so well. We play a lot with and against them in other leagues. So, there’s going to be no surprises.”It’s just who can, I guess, put that performance together and in different conditions to what we played in the other night? So, we’re under no illusions that it’s going to be easier than Dubai that the wicket looks a little bit different and we’re going to have to adapt to conditions and maybe adjust the way we go about it.”New Zealand’s win against India was their first in 11 T20Is•Getty Images
Bates expressed satisfaction at the boxes New Zealand were able to tick off in Australia, even though the results weren’t in their favour. Their knowledge of the Australian players and their confidence levels following the India win has put them in a great mind space.”We were fortunate to get three games against them as build-up to this, which probably helped us against India,” she said. “So, look, we’ve played them a lot over the years, not so much recently, but I thought we competed pretty well in those games. And after the start we’ve had at this tournament, I think if we can put that performance that we put together against India, against Australia, we’re going to go really well.”In preparing as exhaustively as they have, New Zealand haven’t forgotten the fun element. On Sunday, a few members of the squad headed to Abu Dhabi to watch the 2024 NBA champions Boston Celtics, and the 2023 champions Denver Nuggets play at the Etihad Arena. Others, like Bates, chose to head over to the beach.”I’ve actually got a slightly blocked ear from swimming at the beach,” Bates said. “Bit of water in the ear. But the girls went to the NBA game, which our media manager organised. So, they had a bit of fun going and watching that, getting away from cricket. I think what’s been really important, this group’s been together so much in the build-up. We’ve worked really hard. But the support staff have been great at making sure we get time off and time away to switch off.”And there’s a lot of free time in that. And I know there’s a lot of cafes exploring and trying to find the best coffee in Dubai. But just, I guess, trying to get away from cricket. When we turn up to training and games, we’re good to go. And everyone has different ways of doing that. Some get out to the beach. Some just watch Netflix in their hotel. But yeah, it’s just that freedom to prepare how you want to prepare.”
Abu Dhabi, for so long one of Pakistan’s “home” venues during their decade-long exile, has been discussed as a potential alternative if required
ESPNcricinfo staff05-Sep-2024
Rawalpindi Stadium, which hosted the two Bangladesh Tests, is having renovation work done•AFP/Getty Images
Ongoing work at stadiums in Pakistan has forced the PCB to consider the possibility of moving one Test of the series against England offshore. Abu Dhabi, for so long one of Pakistan’s “home” venues during their decade-long exile, has been discussed as a potential alternative if required.Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium and the National Stadium in Karachi are undergoing major overhauls. Rawalpindi Stadium, which hosted the two Bangladesh Tests, is also having renovation work done, all in an attempt to be ready in time to host the Champions Trophy in February next year, the first ICC event Pakistan is scheduled to host since 1996.Lahore is not hosting a game until the Champions Trophy and Karachi, which was supposed to host one Test in each of the Bangladesh and England series, is not expected to see action until the first Test against the West Indies in January next year.That has left Pakistan with Multan and Rawalpindi as the only two venues which can stage Tests. It is still likely that these two grounds host all three Tests but there could be concern that hosting two Tests in Rawalpindi could slow down work underway there, potentially impacting on the Champions Trophy.Faisalabad’s Iqbal Cricket Stadium will host the Champions Cup from September 12 to 29, and has seen its prominence as a viable international venue rise of late, but has not hosted a Test since 2006 and is not currently a likely venue for a Test in that series.Another complicating factor concerns a Shanghai Corporation Organisation (SCO) meeting Pakistan is scheduled to host from October 15-16. The heads of several participating nations are slated to arrive in Islamabad for the event, and the security and accommodation demands that entails rules out Rawalpindi as an option for the second Test, which will be played from October 15 to 19.If the series is to be played in Pakistan in its entirety, that realistically means Pindi can, at most, play host to the first and third Tests, with the second taking place in Multan. Multan hosting two Tests has not been ruled out as an option, and because it is the only realistic venue in Pakistan for the second Test, that would necessitate consecutive games in the city: either the first two or the last two.That has left the PCB considering their options, one of which is Abu Dhabi. Dubai and Sharjah will be hosting the T20 Women’s World Cup during that period, itself moved from Bangladesh. Abu Dhabi is hosting an Ireland white-ball series against South Africa that ends on October 7 – the date the first Test is slated to begin. Barring a change of date for the start of the series, that effectively rules out the first Test in the UAE.Whatever option the PCB finally settles upon, the pressure to do so urgently is considerable. Substantial numbers of England fans will arrive for the series, but any logistical arrangements cannot be made until venues are finalised. England head coach Brendon McCullum also pointed out his side needed to know the venues in advance to be able to pick a squad.”We don’t really know [what the final venues],” McCullum said at the press conference on the eve of the third Test against Sri Lanka at the Oval. “But we can’t pick a team until we know where we’re going to play. It would be nice if over the next couple of days, we found out. And then we’ll sit down and make sure we’ve got the right team for the right conditions and the right opposition.”The stadium upgrades coincide with Pakistan’s busiest season at home in decades, with seven Tests, four white-ball internationals, the Champions Trophy and an expanded domestic calendar all vying for space between now and deep into next year. The upgrades, long overdue at several venues, became impossible to put off any more as Pakistan prepare to host next year’s Champions Trophy.
Tottenham Hotspur’s long-awaited trophy finally came at the end of this season, but attention has quickly turned to the 2025/26 campaign, with work needing to be done to sustain the success.
Ange Postecoglou led the Lilywhites to a Europa League triumph, but it wasn’t enough to save his job in North London, as Daniel Levy relieved the Aussie of his duties.
He subsequently appointed Thomas Frank, handing the Dane the responsibility of building on the European victory and making the side a competitive Premier League outfit.
He will need to make a quick start to life at the club to prove the owner made the right decision in opting for a change, potentially coming under huge pressure should he fail to deliver.
However, if he is to be a success in the role, he will need backing within the current transfer window, handing him the platform for success during his first season at the helm.
The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer
Over the last couple of days, Lyon star Georges Mikautadze has emerged as a key target for Spurs, with the club expected to make an offer for the Georgian forward after their relegation to Ligue 2.
Rodrigo Muniz is another player on their radar this window, but will cost a pretty penny during the off-season, as Fulham are demanding £50m for the Brazilian forward.
However, if either of the players are to move to North London, they will need to be provided with opportunities in the final third, with Xavi Simons a player in their sights, according to GIVEMESPORT.
Their report claims that the RB Leipzig star is keen on a move to the Premier League this window, but the German outfit are demanding a fee in the region of £60m to part with their star man.
It also states that the Lilywhites have registered a keen interest in the 22-year-old, who managed to register 10 goals and seven assists in the Bundesliga this campaign, with contact already taking place as the north Londoners have been ‘updated on Simons’ situation by his representatives’.
Why Spurs’ £60m target would be a better signing than Eze
Over the last couple of years, Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze has been constantly on Spurs’ radar, but they’ve never been able to complete a deal for his signature.
Crystal Palace's EberechiEzecelebrates with the trophy after winning the FA Cup
This window remains no different, with Frank already targeting the England international and considering making a move to take the star to North London.
His stock is undoubtedly higher this time around, after netting the winner in the FA Cup final this campaign, securing the Eagles’ first major trophy against Manchester City at Wembley.
However, he does currently have a £68m release clause in his contract, but could face huge pressure to land his services, as North London rivals Arsenal have also entered the race.
As a result, the Lilywhites hierarchy should shift their attention to a move for Simons, with the Dutch international a better option for Frank’s outfit this window.
Xavi Simons celebrates
He would provide the side with a younger and cheaper option, but when comparing the pair’s respective figures from 2024/25, he’s also managed to outperform him in key areas – subsequently making him a higher-quality addition.
Simons, who’s been labelled “exceptional” by OptaJohan, has completed more of the passes he’s attempted, and posted more progressive passes per 90 – handing other attackers at the club the chance to bolster their own tallies.
How Xavi Simons compares to Eberechi Eze in 2024/25
Statistics (per 90)
Simons
Eze
Games played
25
34
Goals scored
10
8
Progressive carries
3.6
2.4
Progressive passes
5.9
3.3
Shot-on-target accuracy
46%
27%
Pass accuracy
79%
74%
Passes into final third
3.3
1.7
Carries into final third
3
1.6
Stats via FBref
The youngster has also starred with his ball-carrying, registering nearly two times more carries into the final third per 90, showcasing his desire to get forward at any given moment.
Given his age, price tag and difference in figures produced, a deal for Simons should be a no-brainer this window, offering Frank the elite-level talent he craves within the final third.
It would be an expensive addition for the hierarchy, but ultimately, it’s one that’s needed if the club are to reach the next level during the Dane’s tenure at the club.
There’s no denying that Eze is a hugely talented player, but it’s evident that there is a tendency for more expensive fees to be touted for English stars, subsequently making Simons the better option this window.
A better signing than Semenyo: Spurs leading race to land £25m sensation
Tottenham Hotspur appear to be making strides in a move to land a new talent for Thomas Frank.
Arsenal have reportedly sealed their first sale of the summer transfer window already, with Andrea Berta and Mikel Arteta waving goodbye to one “high level” player who’s completed a move to Europe.
Arsenal players who are poised to leave this summer
A fair few high-profile members of Arteta’s squad are currently bound for the N5 exit door.
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1 ByEmilio Galantini May 22, 2025
Kieran Tierney’s pending move to Celtic will be a welcome return to Parkhead for the Scotland international, who gets to work under Brendan Rodgers six years after their pair parted company in 2019.
1
Kai Havertz
£280,000
£14,560,000
2
Gabriel Jesus
£265,000
£13,780,000
=3
Declan Rice
£240,000
£12,480,000
=3
Martin Odegaard
£240,000
£12,480,000
5
Thomas Partey
£200,000
£10,400,000
6
Bukayo Saka
£195,000
£10,140,000
7
William Saliba
£190,000
£9,880,000
via Capology
Meanwhile, it is reliably believed that Jorginho is set to join Flamengo once his £110,000-per-week Arsenal contract expires, but the Brazilian side are also exploring a deal to bring him in early, so he can take part in the Club World Cup next month (The Athletic).
Uncertainty continues to surround Thomas Partey’s long-term future with no fresh terms currently agreed as things stand, despite widely reported talks, but Arteta is adamant that he wants the Ghana international to stay.
“Yes,” said Arteta when asked if he wants Partey to extend his contract.
“I think consistency-wise it’s been his best season. The way he’s played, performed, his availability, has been exceptional and he’s a really important player for us.”
The writing appears on the wall for Albert Sambi Lokonga in terms of an exit, with the Belgian spending 2024/2025 on loan at Sevilla. The same can also be said for left-back Nuno Tavares, who’s impressed on a loan-to-buy deal at Lazio.
Nuno Tavares seals exit from Arsenal to Lazio
The Portuguese, despite some injury woes over the second half of the campaign, has racked up nine assists in all competitions and won over the Serie A side’s supporters with some impressive displays.
Nuno Tavares for Lazio.
According to Il Messaggero, via Sport Witness, this form has been enough to convince Lazio to keep him there permanently.
The newspaper claims Lazio have paid £4 million to sign Tavares from Arsenal indefinitely, and the 25-year-old will complete his move to Europe after a regrettable four-year stint at the Emirates where he never quite established himself.
He performed well on various loan spells, with ex-Marseille boss Igor Tudor calling him a “high level” player during his temporary stint in Ligue 1. Arteta also had initial high hopes for him when Edu signed Tavares from Benfica in 2021.
“One of the biggest qualities he has is that he is not fazed at all when is playing,” said Arteta about Tavares. “He was not fazed to make a debut like he did, the risks that he takes, the actions that he puts in place.
“Plus what you can see, his physicality, he is naturally a very gifted athlete. He can run and he can change speed and direction, and technically he is very gifted. But, for me, the most important thing is that he is a defender and he needs to defend first, and then he can provide the rest of his qualities.”
Well, Manchester United are back in action at home to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Sunday afternoon, with Ruben Amorim’s men needing to shift their focus following the chaos of their Europa League exploits.
Unsurprisingly, the former Sporting CP boss has openly admitted that the club’s European commitments are now the priority, not least with it already confirmed that United are set for their worst-ever Premier League points tally.
The need to put all their energy into seeing off Athletic Bilbao next month should not mean that the Old Trafford side simply throw in the towel domestically, however, with now the time to build some momentum to help aid their continental fortunes.
Equally, United will also be keen to avoid losing out to the Molineux side for the second time this season, having notably been undone by a Matheus Cunha-inspired performance as the Old Gold secured a 2-0 win on Boxing Day.
That drab display memorably saw captain Bruno Fernandes dismissed after picking up two yellow cards, with Cunha also scoring directly from a corner to pile the misery on his potential future employers.
Will there be further drama this time around, with Amorim looking set to ring the changes?
Man Utd team news vs Wolves
Speaking after Thursday’s thrilling 5-4 win over Lyon, the Portuguese head coach admitted that it might be time to play “the kids” in the Premier League, with alterations needed after such a gruelling 120 minutes of action in midweek.
Indeed, the 40-year-old went on to state in his pre-match press conference that the likes of Diogo Dalot could be among those to make way, with the United boss suggesting the defender was among those looking “really tired” against the Ligue 1 side.
Amorim appears keen to avoid the “risk of injury” with his first-team stars, albeit with his options set to be boosted with both Victor Lindelof and Noussair Mazraoui set to be available once again, after the pair were forced to leave at half-time due to ‘personal issues’.
Meanwhile, Amorim did suggest that it is “not the best moment or the best season” to unleash academy talents, albeit while pointing to the rise of Ayden Heaven as an example of where throwing a youngster in at the deep end can bear fruit.
As for those who could follow in the footsteps of the likes of Heaven, Chido Obi and Harry Amass, it was noteworthy that Jack Moorhouse, Godwill Kukonki and Jaydan Kamason were all part of the matchday squad in midweek, with the teenage trio still waiting for a first taste of senior action.
Chalkboard
Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.
In the case of Kamason, in particular, the need to take Dalot out of the team could see the young full-back finally make his first-team debut.
How Man Utd can replace Dalot against Wolves
Having claimed the club’s Players’ Player of the Year of the award last season, Dalot’s form has somewhat “fallen off a cliff” this time around – as per one content creator – with the Portuguese full-back having perhaps been hampered by repeatedly being forced to line up on the left flank in the early months of the campaign.
Diogo Dalot
While even his suitability as a wing-back on the right flank can be questioned, the 26-year-old has quietly come good of late, notably teeing up Fernandes for the third goal against Leicester City, while also scoring himself against both Real Sociedad and Lyon at the Theatre of Dreams.
Described as an “elite” talent by Statman Dave, the former Porto starlet is particularly crucial to his compatriot, Amorim, due to his remarkable availability, having started 49 games this season, while missing just one game against Southampton due to suspension.
Diogo Dalot
50
3
5
Alejandro Garnacho
50
10
9
Bruno Fernandes
49
17
18
Noussair Mazraoui
49
0
3
Joshua Zirkzee
48
7
3
Andre Onana
44
0
0
Rasmus Hojlund
44
8
4
Matthijs de Ligt
40
2
0
Whether it is to give Dalot or rest, or merely to see a different option in that role, now is the time for Kamason to be unleashed, with journalist Shaun Connolly suggesting that the 18-year-old is “banging” on the door for a first-team chance.
The promising Englishman notably played every minute of United’s run to the FA Youth Cup semi-final this season, having even netted a crucial, stunning strike in the 3-2 win over Arsenal at the quarter-final stage.
With two goals and six assists to his name in 31 games in 2024/25, as per Transfermarkt, the right-back has showcased his attacking quality for the U18 and U21 sides, with it no surprise that he is now in the mix in Amorim’s ranks.
While Kamason has operated in a back four at youth level, that desire to get forward should ensure he is well suited to operating in a more advanced wing-back berth, with Amorim currently short on options in that role, particularly with Amad Diallo currently sidelined.
There has no doubt been talk of new recruits arriving this summer to help bolster that wing-back department, in particular – with Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong one name to have been mentioned – yet there should also be a willingness to try and solve that issue in-house, by promoting the likes of Kamason.
As such, now is the perfect opportunity for the teenager to show what he can do on the Premier League stage…
Not just Mainoo: Man Utd's "generational" talent now must start every game
The 2025 summer transfer window could be another busy one for Tottenham Hotspur and Ange Postecoglou, with attacking reinforcements potentially on the agenda for Spurs.
Timo Werner extended his loan spell from RB Leipzig for the 2024/25 season, but things haven’t gone to plan for the German in north London.
Used primarily as a left-winger by Postecgolou, Werner has failed to impress back in England and even came in for criticism from the Spurs boss following a Europa League clash with Rangers.
“When you’ve got 18-year-olds [in the squad], it [that performance] is not acceptable to me,” said Postecoglou.
“I said that to Timo, he’s a German international. In the moment we’re in right now – it’s not like we’ve got many options – I need everyone to at least be going out there and trying to give the best of themselves. His performance in the first half wasn’t acceptable.”
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The Brazilian has been linked with an exit.
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Recently, journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed that Spurs have not changed their minds about turning down the chance to sign Werner permanently, with the forward even set to leave parent club RB Leipzig upon his return.
But who could come in as a replacement for Werner? We’ve looked at 10 wide forwards Spurs could target in the summer.
1 Jamie Gittens Borussia Dortmund
The latest Englishman starring abroad is Jamie Gittens of Borussia Dortmund. A U21 international for the Three Lions, Gittens is a former Chelsea and Man City academy ace and has been linked with Spurs in the past.
Previous reports have even claimed that Daniel Levy is willing to offer €100m for Gittens – equivalent to £83m – so it looks as if he is one of the top wide targets in north London.
2 Bryan Mbeumo Brentford
Bryan Mbeumo celebrates for Brentford
Bryan Mbeumo has been a Premier League star for Brentford in recent years, and following the departure of Ivan Toney, he has stepped up as the main man for the Bees.
It does look as if he could be on the move, though, and Tottenham are one of the clubs who have been heavily linked with a move for the Cameroon international.
Mbeumo mainly plays off the right, though, so Postecoglou may need to tinker things if he is to be Werner’s replacement.
3 Tyler Dibling Southampton
With Southampton being relegated to the Championship, Tyler Dibling could be a player in demand this summer after impressing for the Saints.
Still just 19 years of age, Dibling, who is left-footed, can play as an attacking midfielder, winger or centre-forward. Spurs were thought to be in pole position to sign Dibling in January, so it wouldn’t be a shock if they were working on a summer deal behind the scenes.
4 Antoine Semenyo Bournemouth
Antoine Semenyo scores for Bournemouth
Bournemouth have been enjoying an excellent 2024/25 season under Andoni Iraola, with Antoine Semenyo one of the Cherries’ main stars on the south coast.
The Ghana international has impressed playing on both the left and right wings, and was loosely linked with a £50m move to Tottenham towards the end of 2024.
He could be another attacker to keep an eye on should Spurs go down the route of proven Premier League stars.
5 Rayan Cherki Lyon
Rayan Cherki in action for Lyon
If Spurs want to shop abroad for a wide forward to replace Werner, Rayan Cherki of Lyon could be an option.
They were apparently offered Cherki for £20m in January due to Lyon’s financial problems, although there are ‘personality’ concerns regarding the 21-year-old.
There is no denying his talent, though, with Cherki a two-footed and versatile winger who appears to be at the top of his game with a career-high €35m Transfermarkt valuation.
6 Johan Bakayoko PSV Eindhoven
PSV Eindhoven's JohanBakayokoin action
Tottenham may look to revisit their interest in Johan Bakayoko of PSV Eindhoven if they are in the market for a wide forward this summer.
Linked with a move to Spurs in 2023, Fabrizio Romano called Bakayoko an “elite talent”, with the Belgium international going on to impress in recent months.
He scored 14 goals for PSV during the 2023/24 season while registering the same number of assists, he has been at it again in 2024/25 with 11 goals to his name at the time of writing.
7 Barış Alper Yilmaz Galatasaray
Capable of playing anywhere across the front three is Barış Alper Yilmaz of Galatasaray, who has been mooted to make the move to the Premier League in 2025.
A Turkey international, Spurs showed interest in Yilmaz in 2024 when he was dubbed as the next Gareth Bale. The 24-year-old has enjoyed the best goalscoring season of his career in 2024/25, so he may be a wise option to replace the German.
8 Jack Grealish Man City
A left-field shout for Spurs could be to look at somebody like Jack Grealish of Manchester City.
The England international has struggled at various points after his £100m move from Aston Villa, and there were rumours that his representatives are looking for a move away from the Etihad.
Any transfer could come at a fraction of the price City paid, so Spurs may feel they could get the best out of Grealish in north London.
9 Takefusa Kubo Real Sociedad
Real Sociedad's Takefusa Kubo
Japan international Takefusa Kubo has been impressing for Real Sociedad since 2022 and can play on either wing or as an attacking midfielder. The 23-year-old was also linked with Spurs towards the end of 2024 in a potential £50m transfer.
Kubo has already played under Postecoglou during a loan spell with Yokohama F. Marinos, so who knows, the Australian could be keen on a reunion.
10 Antonio Cordero Malaga
Antonio Cordero appears to be a star in the making and looks likely to be on the move in 2025, with his deal set to expire in the summer.
Tottenham have been heavily linked with a move for Cordero and have even held talks over a transfer. However, Newcastle United were thought to be leading Spurs for the 18-year-old, so Levy and co may need to act fast if they want the left-winger.
They became only the third pair to score centuries in the same IPL game
Sampath Bandarupalli10-May-20242:11
McClenaghan praises Sai Sudharsan’s maturity
3 Pairs with hundreds in the same innings in the IPL, including Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan on Friday. Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers became the first pair to achieve this feat against Gujarat Lions in 2016. David Warner and Jonny Bairstow replicated it in 2019 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.210 Partnership runs between Gill and Sudharsan for the first wicket against Chennai Super Kings. It is only the second 200-plus run-stand for the opening wicket in the IPL. Quinton de Kock and KL Rahul also put on 210 while batting full 20 overs against Kolkata Knight Riders in 2022.2 Partnerships in the IPL, higher than the 210 by Gill and Sudharsan against the CSK. The top two are by Kohli and de Villiers – 229 against Gujarat Lions in 2016 and 215 unbeaten against Mumbai Indians in 2015.231 for 3 Gujarat Titans’ total in Ahmedabad is their second-highest in the IPL, behind the 233 against MI in last year’s qualifier. It is also the joint-highest total conceded by CSK in the IPL, equalling the 231 by Kings XI Punjab (now Punjab Kings) in 2014.Two centuries in one IPL innings•ESPNcricinfo Ltd0 150-plus stands conceded by CSK, for any wicket, before Friday. The previous highest against them was a 144-run opening stand by Shane Watson and Ajinkya Rahane for Rajasthan Royals in 2015.It is also the first 150-plus stand for the Titans in the IPL, bettering the 147 between Gill and Sudharsan for the second wicket against Sunrisers in 2023.25 Innings for Sudharsan to complete 1000 runs in the IPL. He is the fastest Indian to the milestone, bettering the record jointly held by Sachin Tendulkar and Ruturaj Gaikwad. Overall, Sudharsan is the joint-third fastest to this landmark, alongside Matthew Hayden, and behind Shaun Marsh (21 innings) and Lendl Simmons (23 innings).100 Runs scored by the GT’s openers between the 9th and 14th overs. These are the second-most runs scored by any team between the 9th and 14th overs in an IPL innings. RCB scored 106 runs in this period against Kings XI Punjab during a 15-over game.4 T20 hundreds for Gill in Ahmedabad, including three in the IPL. Only three other batters have scored four or more T20 tons at a venue – Chris Gayle (5 at Mirpur), Michael Klinger (4 at Bristol) and Virat Kohli (4 at Bengaluru).24y 245d Gill’s age on Friday. He is the youngest captain to score a hundred in the IPL. Sanju Samson was the previous youngest, who scored 119 against Punjab Kings in 2021 at the age of 26 years and 152 days on captaincy debut.19 Innings Gill took to complete 1000 T20 runs at Ahmedabad. He is by far the fastest to complete 1000 runs at a venue in terms of innings played in men’s T20s, bettering the record – 22 innings – held by five players.
Netherlands’ coaching consultant had spent seven days in an induced coma after going into cardiac arrest in the UK in April
Tristan Lavalette29-Oct-2022On the long journey from Sydney to Perth, Ryan Campbell found himself struggling to focus on watching films during his flight.So, instead, he decided to stare at the flight path and his emotions stirred when he realised the plane was flying over Kalgoorlie, Western Australia’s famous gold-mining town where he spent some of his formative years.”There was this calmness that I felt. I’m home,” Campbell, the former Australia wicketkeeper-batter and Netherlands coaching consultant, told ESPNcricinfo.Two days ahead of the T20 World Cup game between Netherlands and Pakistan at Optus Stadium, Campbell returned home to Perth for the first time since April. Back then, Campbell had enjoyed a long-awaited homecoming after two years due to WA’s strict Covid-19 hard border.”It was the first time I saw mum and dad since Covid-19. I saw mates and watched the (AFL team) Dockers play,” Campbell said. “I was fit and healthy.”But just days after he left Perth, Campbell went into cardic arrest in the UK while playing with his two children in a playground. He was given CPR at the scene before spending seven days in an induced coma.Related
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He was given only a seven percent chance of survival, but rallied and has since made a full recovery.”That’s why everyone who had seen me in Perth couldn’t quite believe what happened to me literally just a few days after I left,” Campbell said. “They were all shocked.”Having endured so much, Campbell, who has children aged seven and four, savoured spending time with close mates at a bar shortly after arriving in Perth on Friday. Some of them hadn’t seen him since his near-death experience.”It’s great to be back, almost a bit surreal,” he said. “When we were in Geelong [for the first round], I had a reunion with friends. Guys from Las Vegas, Hong Kong, Perth, Sydney and Melbourne flew in.”It was emotional to see them, emotional for them too. Grown men were in tears and giving me hugs. I’m lucky to have those people around me.”
“Grown men were in tears and giving me hugs. I’m lucky to have those people around me.”Ryan Campbell, the former Australia player and current Netherlands coaching consultant
His mates like to rib him by dubbing him the ‘Prince of Perth’ due to Campbell’s popularity as a flamboyant wicketkeeper-batter. He had also carved an effective opening partnership with Mike Hussey during WA’s heyday in the late 1990s. He was a prominent figure in the local media after he retired from cricket in 2006 before heading abroad.But that moniker might not be a stretch of the truth with Campbell, who played two ODIs in 2002, warmly embraced by several patrons at the popular watering hole.”There were times I didn’t think I would ever be back in Perth,” he said. “I’ve spent five years in the Netherlands and the five before that in Hong Kong, but I’ll always call Perth home. I’m the most proud person of this wonderful state.”Ryan Campbell forged a strong opening partnership with Mike Hussey during Western Australia’s heyday in the late 1990s•Getty ImagesWhile in Perth he’ll also catch up with his parents, having not seen his dad since April. “We’ll talk a lot of rubbish and what’s going on,” he said. “Of course, he’ll have an opinion on the cricket, as he always watches it.”On the Netherlands’ team bus from the airport to hotel, Campbell excitedly pointed out the city’s landmarks to his wide-eyed players who were mostly making their first visit to Perth.”I’m like a proud dad wanting to show off their babies,” he said. “On the bus I was pointing out the stadium and the Swan River. The guys were in love with it already.”Having passed the head coach reins to Ryan Cook, the T20 World Cup is a swansong for Campbell with the Netherlands after almost six years. With his young family entrenched in the Netherlands, with his children speaking fluent Dutch and proudly supporting the Netherlands at the upcoming FIFA World Cup, Campbell was uncertain about his next move.”My family is very settled in Europe. The kids are in school. We’ll only move if there is something set in stone,” Campbell said. “The romantic in me would be keen to coach in Australia but it’s tough to get a job there. If it means in the UK or somewhere else, so be it.”Before then, Campbell is helping steer the Netherlands’ T20 World Cup campaign, which started by them memorably navigating through the first round.After losses to Bangladesh and India in the Super 12s, Campbell’s local knowledge is hoped to help muster a highly competitive effort against a wounded Pakistan, whose semi-final dreams are hanging by a thread.No matter the result, watching his adopted country play at the 60,000-seat Optus Stadium will cap a memorable return to Perth for Campbell.”In my dream of dreams, I would love to see Scorchers fans dressed in orange and throw their support for the Dutch,” he said. “I can’t wait for the guys to play at the stadium in front of the passionate Perth fans. It will be an amazing experience.”