Chelsea are “keen on signing” a defender, and there is now a possibility he will join on a free transfer, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano.

Blues looking to upgrade in defence this summer

As we approach the summer transfer window, it is clear the Blues are looking to bring in a new defender, and they have identified a number of targets from within the Premier League, including AFC Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen.

It has been a real breakout season for Huijsen, with the Spaniard now attracting attention from a number of top clubs, and Enzo Maresca’s side are now believed to be the favourites for his signature, having submitted a seven-year contract offer.

Despite having both Reece James and Malo Gusto on the books, there have also been suggestions that Maresca could look to bring in a new right-back this summer, with Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina recently being named as a potential target.

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Chelsea have clearly been impressed by a number of Premier League defenders this season, with Romano recently taking to X to reveal they are “keen on signing” Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who has been on their shortlist “for months”.

Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are also in the race for Guehi, so there could be fierce competition for his signature this summer, with Spurs well-known to have had a £70m bid knocked back previously.

Should none of the interested parties be able to tempt Palace into a sale this summer, there is a possibility the defender remains at Selhurst Park until 2026, at which point he will be able to leave the Eagles on a free transfer upon the expiration of his contract.

"Beast" Guehi could be top signing for Blues

Lauded as a “beast” by journalist Saddick Adams, the 24-year-old has once again been a key component of the Palace side this season, making 41 appearances in all competitions, while displaying his leadership abilities by taking on the role of captain.

The England international has three goals and two assists to his name in the Premier League, underlining his attacking threat, but most importantly, he has continued to impress from a defensive point of view, receiving very high praise from Jamie Redknapp.

Most recently, the Palace captain put in a solid performance to help his side to a 3-0 victory against Aston Villa, with the Eagles booking their place in the FA Cup final against Manchester City next month.

Captaining his side to an FA Cup triumph would be a fitting end to Guehi’s time at Palace, but given that he clearly has the talent to play for a top club, it would be wise to move on this summer.

Leeds United secured their return to the Premier League on Monday and Daniel Farke and 49ers Enterprises are already looking at the summer transfer window.

Leeds back in Premier League after 6-0 win over Stoke City

The Whites enjoyed a dream Easter weekend, beating Oxford United on Good Friday and Stoke City 6-0 on Easter Monday to set up a promotion party at Elland Road.

Farke’s side raced into a 5-0 lead at half time after a record-breaking 20 minute hat-trick from Joel Piroe – the fastest in Leeds United’s history.

Burney’s win at Sheffield United later in the day ensured that Leeds and the Clarets would both be promoted, resulting in wild scenes at Elland Road.

Talking after winning promotion, Farke said: “Don’t scare me with the Premier League right now. All the clubs who were promoted are already relegated before we were promoted. It’s important to enjoy it. This club has had tough times in the last years, it’s important that our supporters celebrate it and embrace it.

“We’re back where we belong. The next step is to make this club an established Premier League club. You can be sure I will work with all my skills to make sure we do this. But this is something for in a few weeks. Right now we celebrate the first step, the most important one, to take this club where it belongs. Let’s see what we can do.”

Points

94

Wins

27

Goals scored

89

Clean sheets

24

Goals conceded

29

Players used

28

Farke and Leeds still have two Championship fixtures remaining as they now look to beat Burnley to the title, but with the summer transfer window just around the corner, the club are already looking at transfer targets.

Leeds looking at transfer targets with Premier League experience

Football Insider journalist Pete O’Rourke shared an exciting Leeds transfer update just hours after the Whites officially won promotion, sharing the club’s plans ahead of the summer market.

He revealed that Leeds ‘are targeting Premier League experience’ ahead of the 2025/26 season, with the Whites specifically looking at a new goalkeeper and striker.

A number of names who tick those boxes have been linked with moves to Yorkshire, including Wolves ‘keeper Sam Johnstone and Brighton & Hove Albion forward Evan Ferguson, who is currently on loan at West Ham.

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Ferguson in particular would excite Leeds fans and already has top-flight experience at just 20 years of age. By the looks of things, it could be a busy summer at Elland Road in regards to new signings, and securing the services of players who know the Premier League will only help the club as they look to remain in the division long term.

Manchester United are now in talks to sign a “world-class” striker, and they could use a first-team star as a makeweight in the negotiations, according to a report.

Man Utd's striker targets

It is becoming increasingly clear that Man United will pursue a new striker in the summer transfer window, given that Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have just six goals between them in the Premier League this season.

The Red Devils have set their sights on a number of the Premier League’s best strikers, recently making contact over Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Matheus Cunha, whose agent is set to fly to England to continue discussions.

Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap is United’s top target, however, with the Englishman potentially set to be available on the cheap in the summer, given that his side are almost certain to be relegated to the Championship.

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Delap may be the priority target from within England, but there have also been reports that Napoli’s Victor Osimhen is at the top of Ruben Amorim’s list, with the Nigerian set to leave the Italian club at the end of the season.

According to a report from Italy (via Sport Witness), Man United are now in talks to seal a deal for Osimhen, who has a €70m (£60m) release clause in his contract, which is only available to clubs outside of Italy.

United are in discussions over a £60m agreement, but Hojlund is expected to be used as a makeweight in negotiations, so it is unclear how much money they will be putting on the table alongside the Dane, who would clear over £4m-a-year off their books in wages.

Juventus are also in the race for Osimhen, but they are unwilling to meet his high wage demands, and the fact the release clause doesn’t apply to Italian clubs could also pose an issue.

"World-class" Osimhen could be huge upgrade on Hojlund

The Nigeria international has been lauded as “world-class” by football writer Matt Barlow, and for good reason, having maintained a fantastic goalscoring record for both Napoli and Galatasaray over the past few seasons.

Hojlund, on the other hand, has struggled in front of goal for quite some time, averaging just 0.38 goals per 90 over the past year, which places him in the 54th percentile, when compared to his positional peers.

It would be a shame to see the 22-year-old exit Old Trafford, given that he is still young, and as pointed out by Amorim, the lack of goals is a collective problem.

However, if using Hojlund in negotiations helps get a deal for Osimhen over the line, Man United should not hesitate.

Celtic clinched their 55th top-flight title when they won the Scottish Premiership with a 5-0 win over Dundee United at Tannadice Park on Saturday.

An own goal from Ryan Strain put the Hoops ahead before Nicolas Kuhn and Adam Idah both netted braces to secure a comprehensive victory for the away side, and one that wrapped up the title.

One player who was not involved in the matchday squad for the crowning moment, however, was Maik Nawrocki, who has fallen out of favour despite a couple of impressive outings recently.

Why Maik Nawrocki's time at Celtic might be over

The Polish defender, signed from Legia Warsaw, has only played two games in the Premiership this season, despite being available for every match, and they both came in March in back-to-back games against Rangers and Hearts.

Maik Nawrocki

Vs Rangers

Vs Hearts

Minutes

90

90

Clearances

7

9

Blocks

0

3

Tackles + interceptions

5

1

Duels won

7/10

8/9

Dribbled past

0x

0x

Pass accuracy

93%

98%

Error led to shot/goal

0

0

Stats via Sofascore

The rarely-seen star stepped up in those matches, as shown in the table above, with dominant defensive displays, whilst also being reliable in possession.

However, he was then an unused substitute in the next two games and was not named on the bench against Dundee United, with Liam Scales preferred as a starter and Auston Trusty preferred on the bench.

Nawrocki has only played 12 Premiership matches in almost two seasons at Parkhead and that may be why his time at the club could be over heading into the summer window, as the defender may want to go and play regular football.

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The 24-year-old ace may not be the only centre-back to move on from Parkhead this year, though, as Celtic must ruthlessly bin Stephen Welsh as well.

Why Celtic should sell Stephen Welsh

Once dubbed “excellent” by Brendan Rodgers, the 25-year-old flop was sent out on loan to Mechelen in Belgium during the January transfer window but he’s done very little to suggest he deserves a future at Parkhead, something the player clearly wants.

Welsh has started 11 matches in the Pro League during the second half of the campaign, and his team are yet to keep a single clean sheet – conceding 25 goals in the process.

Those statistics do not suggest that the Scottish dud is likely to return to Parkhead to challenge for a starting berth next season, given how poor his current team’s defence has been with him in the side as a starter.

His disappointing form is reflected in his current market value of £700k, as per Transfermarkt, which is even lower than Nawrocki’s valuation of £1.7m, despite him having only played two league games this season.

Welsh’s current contract at Celtic does not expire until the summer of 2027. However, the decision to send him out on loan, coupled with his market valuation and his dismal defensive numbers with Mechelen, suggests that he does not have much of a future at Parkhead.

Therefore, the club must ruthlessly bin the central defender by cashing in on him in the upcoming summer transfer window, and Nawrocki may follow him out of the door if he wants to play regularly next term.

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Looking towards the summer transfer window, Aston Villa have now reportedly joined the race to sign a 15-goal striker alongside a number of their Premier League rivals.

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With two Premier League games remaining, Aston Villa still have some hope of qualifying for the Champions League. They need Chelsea, Newcastle United or Manchester City to slip up, but must do their own job to stand a chance.

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They did their bit on Saturday night after seeing off Bournemouth away from home, winning 1-0 thanks to Ollie Watkins’ strike and some heroic defending, despite a late red card for Jacob Ramsey.

Victory at Bournemouth means that Villa have put the pressure firmly on rivals Nottingham Forest, while they are now poised to pounce following Man City’s draw at Southampton and ahead of Chelsea’s trip to Newcastle.

By qualifying for the Champions League, Villa would instantly ease any financial concerns and be in a position to compete for some of Europe’s most interesting talents in the transfer market once again. And that could yet see a Champions League finalist make his way to the Midlands.

Aston Villa join Goncalo Ramos race

According to CaughtOffside, Aston Villa have now joined the hectic race to sign Goncalo Ramos from Paris Saint-Germain this summer. The forward is reportedly open to leaving the French champions in a bid to gain a starting role elsewhere.

Sparking interest from Villa, Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle among others, the Portugal international, who shares an agent with Marco Asensio, isn’t exactly short on suitors.

Amid recent rumours that Chelsea and others are interested in signing Ollie Watkins this summer, Ramos could emerge as an ideal option for those at Villa Park.

Even without consistent starts at PSG, the 23-year-old has showcased his quality by scoring an impressive 15 goals in all competitions following their Champions League semi-final victory over Arsenal in midweek.

After an “outrageous” start to his Portugal career, according to football talent scout Jacek Kulig, Ramos will be desperate to take his international form to club level on a more consistent basis this summer – something that Aston Villa could yet offer him.

Newcastle United failed to make it back-to-back victories in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon with a disappointing 1-1 draw away at Brighton and Hove Albion.

Gaining all three points would have seen Eddie Howe’s Magpies really lay down a marker when it comes to their top five aspirations, but this draw means the tussle between themselves, Chelsea and Nottingham Forest will only intensify more ahead of a thrilling May to follow.

On another day, however, the Tyneside outfit could have returned back home empty-handed, with more heroics from Alexander Isak thankfully bailing the visitors out.

Isak's heroics on the South Coast

It’s hardly a surprise now when Isak’s name flashes up as a goalscorer for the Toon, with the unerringly accurate Newcastle number 14 now up to 27 goals in all competitions after firing home a last-gasp penalty on the South Coast.

The spot-kick beating Bart Verbruggen also means Isak is now on a hefty 23 Premier League strikes, with this total being the most lethal tally a Newcastle player has managed in league action since Alan Shearer’s 22-goal haul during the 2003/04 campaign.

Amazingly, Howe’s men had actually had two penalties overturned via VAR before Isak’s was given, meaning it was crucial that the lethal Swede fired home with confidence, and he did just that to send the away masses into momentary delirium.

Away from his effort from the spot wrongfooting the Seagulls goalkeeper, it was somewhat of a quiet day at the office from Isak in open play, seen in the 25-year-old only registering two efforts on goal and 20 accurate passes, away from his last-gasp moment of quality.

But, any negatives from his overall game were quickly brushed under the carpet after the penalty trickled in.

Whereas, one of Isak’s attacking teammates might well find his starting spot is up for grabs after an entirely unmemorable performance against Fabian Hurzeler’s hosts.

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Expand Collapse The 5/10 Newcastle star who could now be dropped

It’s clear when reading over the match numbers that there were a whole host of underperformers from Newcastle’s perspective.

Indeed, having posted two assists last weekend, Kieran Trippier was nowhere near his rampaging best down the right flank when squandering possession 15 times, whilst Joe Willock struggled too in an attacking capacity when making just 17 accurate passes, also booked for diving.

But, Jacob Murphy would be the biggest letdown for Howe, considering the usually electric number 23 has eight goals and 11 assists next to his name across 32 Premier League outings this season, but offered virtually nothing when bombing forward against the Seagulls.

This would result in Howe putting Murphy out of his misery on the 56th minute mark, with the Magpies boss clearly fed up by the fact the 30-year-old had registered just one effort on Verbruggen’s goal when still on the pitch, among other lacklustre numbers.

Murphy’s performance in numbers

Stat

Murphy

Minutes played

56

Goals scored

0

Assists

0

Touches

30

Accurate passes

17/22 (77%)

Accurate crosses

0/2

Accurate long balls

0/1

Shots

1

Successful dribbles

1/2

Total duels won

1/4

Stats by Sofascore

Frustratingly, Murphy would also tally up no accurate crosses, no accurate long balls and just one successful dribble when attempting to create an opening for the visitors, on top of also failing to be aggressive when needed when winning just one duel from four attempted.

Arguably, the 30-year-old’s replacement in Anthony Gordon offered more from his limited minutes on the Brighton turf, with one of the overturned penalties on the day coming about from the ex-Everton man’s burst of pace, alongside the lively attacker winning four of his own duels.

Northern Echo journalist Scott Wilson would hand out a low 5/10 rating to the former Norwich City winger subsequently stating that his afternoon was defined by a number of promising crossing opportunities being ‘wasted.’

It could well be time for Howe to axe Murphy from his starting lineup to freshen up proceedings, therefore, with the Magpies boss hopeful that both Gordon and Harvey Barnes next to Isak can cause Chelsea all sorts of bother in a huge Premier League clash up next.

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Everton have finally got their head above the water, and David Moyes is planning on strengthening his squad this summer to ensure Bramley Moore has a good chance of tasting more lucrative successes than Goodison Park has been treated to in recent years.

While fans will hope for a flashy new forward, a rock-sold defender with a modern twist, it’s important to remember that a couple of under-the-radar, pragmatic signings will be essential in establishing a balanced and dynamic team.

Central midfield probably needs the least amount of work, but Moyes is planning on signing a former favourite to complete his set.

Everton chasing PL midfielder

According to Wednesday’s edition of MF Dnes – via Sport Witness – Tomas Soucek has major reservations about continuing at West Ham United, given Graham Potter views him as a utility option.

Transfer Focus

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The experienced star is seemingly keen to remain loyal to his current employers, with two years left on his current deal, although he seemingly won’t accept an ‘inferior’ role under the new Potter regime.

This opens the door for Everton, with Moyes taking the Czech midfielder under his wing for the lion’s share of his Premier League career.

However, newly-promoted Leeds United are also keen, so The Friedkin Group will need to act quickly to avoid any embarrassment in securing a shrewd summer signing.

Why Moyes wants Soucek at Everton

Hailed as a “machine” by former West Ham correspondent Tom Clark, Soucek has been a regular feature for West Ham across the 20s, signed by Moyes from Slavia Prague on loan in January 2020 before his signing was wrapped up on a permanent basis for about £19m at the end of that season.

The 30-year-old played a vital role in winning the Conference League and challenging in European competition across three seasons in Moyes’ system, scoring 39 goals across 240 Irons appearances, including seven in the Premier League this term.

In spite of his prolificness and strong presence in the middle of the park, Potter’s not convinced, and it seems like Everton are ready to pounce on this opportunity and sign a replacement for Doucoure, 32, who is indeed out of a deal this summer.

This is probably the right decision, given he’s the club’s top earner at £130k per week. Moreover, the well of goals, Doucoure’s trademark, has dried up, with just three Premier League goals to his name this season.

1.

Martin Peters

355

98

2.

Sir Trevor Booking

514

81

3.

Mark Noble

550

62

4.

Billy Bonds

645

49

5.

Tomas Soucek

240

39

He knows how to find the back of the net, but Soucek, once remarked to be a “revelation” at West Ham by Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher, certainly isn’t a one-trick pony, with his physicality and industriousness forging a complete midfielder, perfect for Moyes’ system.

It’s no surprise the Scottish manager wants his towering 6 foot 3 general back in his fold, and with the likes of Idrissa Gueye getting on a bit, making a summer move makes sense irrespective of the Moyes factor.

West Ham might not be the most exciting team in the Premier League this season but Soucek has retained his threatening presence in the final third nonetheless, with FBref ranking him among the top 5% of centre-midfielders in the division this term for goals scored and the top 1% for touches in the box per 90.

Given that the data-driven site list Doucoure as one of Soucek’s most statistically comparable players, it feels like something of a no-brainer, not least because Moyes knows Soucek well, trusts him.

Moreover, Soucek’s scoring knack from midfield offers shades of Tim Cahill.

Cahill is one of Everton’s most memorable stars of the Premier League era, having scored 56 goals from 226 matches for the Toffees, predominantly from an attacking midfield standpoint.

Despite his smallish stature, Cahill was something of an aerial monster, a further similarity to Soucek, who, albeit, is much taller.

It feels important that Everton address their goalscoring issues with a wider scope this summer, not just bagging a new centre-forward but indeed signing a player such as Soucek who could add a much-needed dimension from deeper, making those effortless runs into dangerous positions to emulate Cahill and add a string to the manager’s tactical bow.

Hailed as one of Europe’s “prolific central midfielders” by esteemed analyst Michael Cox, Soucek has the qualities to step into Cahill’s boots, so to speak, fuelled further by the past connection with Moyes.

The Malian’s offensive sharpness has waned in recent years, and Soucek could be the perfect addition to uphold Moyes’ values at Bramley Moore.

The Czech international has averaged 5.1 successful duels per game, as per Sofascore, and would freshen up the Toffees ranks for sure.

With Potter not all that enamoured, West Ham’s loss will prove to be Everton’s gain.

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Arsenal may not have won the Premier League this season, but Mikel Arteta’s squad still have it all to play for in the Champions League.

Though Paris Saint-Germain left the Emirates Stadium with a slender one-goal advantage in midweek, the Gunners have the quality and confidence to create something special at the Parc des Princes.

Some questionable officiating aside, Arsenal know the crux of their issues this season lies with the failure to provide Arteta with an elite-level striker.

Injuries to Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz in the new year sapped the Londoners’ strength at number nine, calling for an unconventional but curiously effective stopgap in Mikel Merino.

However, Arsenal need a permanent solution, one which could ease the talismanic burden Bukayo Saka wears around his neck.

Bukayo Saka's season in numbers

To be fair, Saka wears the weight of responsibility rather well, having maintained a confident stream of goals and assists through the campaign while producing influential and energetic performances.

But this only draws to attention the yawning hole at number nine, with a prolific centre-forward certain to take the England international’s game to the next level.

Saka, 23, has scored 11 goals and provided 14 assists for Arsenal this season. The three-month hamstring injury picked up in December has proved the biggest blow to his side’s campaign; Saka’s back now, but he’s still not at his sharpest.

Nonetheless, the winger’s return has restored a deeper degree of balance and fluency that must be allowed to bloom into something truly world-class next season, and a more clinical attacking partner than one of Havertz or Jesus will ensure that happens.

As per FBref, Arsenal’s starboy ranks among the top 2% of attacking midfielders and wingers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for assists, the top 1% for goal-creating actions and the top 5% for crosses made per 90.

This man is a striker’s dream, and new sporting director Andrea Berta is ready to reward him with one of the finest centre-forwards out there.

Arsenal in talks to sign top striker

We all know Alexander Isak’s the dream. But Isak is going to cost more than £150m to convince Newcastle United to sell, and this would likely prove beyond any interested party’s means.

Instead, Berta is pushing to seal the signing of Sporting Lisbon’s Viktor Gyokeres. According to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, several talks have already taken place, with the Liga Portugal champions looking for no more than €70m (about £60m) to get a deal done.

Arsenal are confident they can get a deal done, but with Real Madrid, Chelsea and Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United also keen, they will need to act swiftly.

What Viktor Gyokeres would bring to Arsenal

Isak has been described as “the best striker in the Premier League” this season by Sky Sports’ Jamie Carragher, but he’s not the only deadly goalscorer on the market.

In fact, Gyokeres has the complete take on the centre-forward role and could make it his own at the front of Arteta’s system.

The 6 foot two star’s technical quality, physicality and hunger for success have been hallmarks of his journey in Portugal, scoring 95 goals from 98 matches and winning last season’s Liga Portugal title before being crowned the division’s Player of the Year.

This level of surety in the final third is something that Arsenal have lacked across the campaign, and by instating Gyokeres in the focal role, Saka would finally have the reliable outlet from which he could direct his peerless playmaking ability.

24/25 – Sporting

48 (40)

52

12

23/24 – Sporting

50 (47)

43

15

22/23 – Coventry

50 (47)

22

12

21/22 – Coventry

47 (42)

18

5

20/21 – Coventry

19 (7)

3

0

20/21 – Swansea

12 (2)

1

0

Talk about year-on-year growth. Gyokeres, 26, has yet to make his mark in one of Europe’s recognised top-five leagues but his numbers leave little to the imagination in the best way, especially since he’s only missed 43 big chances across his past three league terms, as per Sofascore, scoring 88 times.

Havertz has his strengths, but he’s not clinical. In the Premier League this season, the German has missed 15 big chances, converting nine strikes. The 28-year-old Jesus, meanwhile, has not been available often enough to warrant Arteta’s trust as his first-choice option.

There’s no doubt Saka is among the finest players in world football, but his game is being impeded by the absence of a partner like Gyokeres. With 20 big chances created in the Premier League this season, only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has more – and having played plenty more minutes at that.

Injury pulled from Saka the chance to immortalise his name in the Premier League’s playmaking record books, but the Three Lions sensation’s electric start to the 2024/25 season remains a welcome reminder of the level of player Arsenal have on their hands.

Moreover, it’s an arresting lever Arteta wields in convincing a player of Gyokeres’ ilk that the Emirates project is the best place for him to go from strength to strength and hit the next level in his incredible journey.

Of course, any natural goalscorer would find their game enhanced alongside Arsenal’s main man, but the Sweden star is “the hottest striker in Europe,” according to ESPN’s Mark Ogden, and the partnership might just be something that fixes the issues that have plagued the north London side’s season.

Having come agonisingly close in recent years, this would be a signing to complete the craft and finally establish Arsenal as the continent’s team to beat.

It’s not over yet; Arsenal may yet find themselves fighting for the Champions League trophy after turning it around against PSG, but in any case, Gyokeres would turn a great team into an unstoppable force.

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Despite the injury issues at Arsenal this season, Mikel Arteta has done a tremendous job, leading the side to second in the Premier League and a Champions League semi-final.

Such problems have allowed numerous players to stake their claim as a first-team regular, many of whom have grabbed their opportunity with both hands.

Left-back Myles Lewis-Skelly has emerged out of the academy setup in recent months and nailed down the position as his own despite his tender age.

The 18-year-old has made 31 appearances across all competitions since his debut back in September, going from strength to strength under the guidance of the Spaniard.

He’s been joined in the side by one player who’s managed to star, albeit in a role that he’s never previously featured in during his time in North London.

Mikel Merino’s role as a centre-forward at Arsenal

Central midfielder Mikel Merino joined Arsenal back in the summer from Real Sociedad, looking to cement his place at the heart of the side alongside Declan Rice.

Whilst he started the season in his natural position, the injury crisis at the top end of the pitch saw the Spaniard shift to a centre-forward position – a decision that has worked wonders in recent weeks.

He came off the bench against Leicester City at 0-0, scoring twice in the closing stages, securing the win for Arteta’s men, leading to his regular inclusion as the focal point.

The 28-year-old has since registered four goals and three assists in such a role, with three of his seven efforts coming over the two legs of the Champions League quarter-final with Real Madrid.

Given such a successful transition for Merino, it would be a risk to change the player featuring up front, but Arteta could do just that by utilising another player out of position.

The Arsenal star who could repeat Arteta’s Merino trick

The decisions made by Arteta over the last couple of months have been complete masterstrokes, leading to the success they’ve endured on the pitch.

With such issues plaguing the side in recent times, many would expect the side to limp over the finish line, but they have exceeded all expectations – having the opportunity to end the season by claiming their first European title.

Whilst Merino has done a sensational job at the top end, the boss could repeat such a trick by utilising Ethan Nwaneri as the central striker to balance the workload.

The 18-year-old has enjoyed his own breakthrough this season, notching eight goals in his 32 appearances across all competitions – starring alongside Lewis-Skelly at the Emirates.

Whilst the teenager is primarily a wide player, he has all the tools to star in a central position, potentially taking his career to another level in such a role.

Nwaneri, who’s been labelled “superb” by Jeorge Bird, has registered 2.3 shots per 90 in the Premier League this season, having the skillset to thrive in the final third.

He’s also completed 3.6 dribbles per 90, at a completion rate of 65%, able to drive at the opposition backline when dropping deep, allowing Bukayo Saka to run in behind.

Despite his small frame, he’s managed to win 5.8 duels per 90 this season, subsequently being able to put himself about and make the defender’s job even tougher than it would’ve been by Merino.

Whilst the Spaniard has done an impressive job in the role, the return of Saka has undoubtedly restricted the first-team minutes for Nwaneri, with Arteta needing an alternative to further his development.

A switch to a central position could work for the side, offering another dimension to their attack in their quest for European glory in the next couple of months.

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Ethan Lamb

Apr 17, 2025

Newcastle United are on course to claim Champions League qualification and could now make a statement in the window by completing a deal for a prolific forward, according to a report.

Newcastle see off Chelsea to close in on Champions League

Eddie Howe is within touching distance of hearing the Champions League anthem blare out at St James’ Park once again after leading his side to a vital 2-0 victory over Chelsea on home soil.

Sandro Tonali and Bruno Guimaraes put the seal on a heated contest in the North East, setting up two mouthwatering clashes against Arsenal and Everton as Newcastle bid to complete a return to Europe’s top table.

Regardless of Premier League placement, Howe’s men hold a strong hand when it comes to the summer transfer window. Nevertheless, booking their place in the Champions League could prove to be a major selling point to prospective recruits.

Establishing some early direction on that front, Newcastle have set their sights on Girona midfielder Yangel Herrera and there are reports that a £21 million bid has now been submitted to land his services.

Looking closer to home, the Magpies also have Liverpool’s Harvey Elliott on their radar, though he would be a more expensive arrival as his price tag sits around the £50 million mark.

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Either way, there is plenty of work to be done on Tyneside. Newcastle have shown a healthy level of ambition since PIF became involved with the club, but sustaining themselves among the elite now has to be the priority.

Taking note, Howe and company are now advancing to seal a deal for one of Europe’s most revered strikers ahead of the summer window.

Newcastle advancing in move to sign Victor Boniface

According to Africa Foot, Newcastle are in negotiations over a deal to sign Victor Boniface from Bayer Leverkusen and it is said that the talks in question are advancing, with discussions even taking place with the player’s representatives.

The report claims the Magpies are set to pay a fee of £42.2 million to land the Nigeria international, which could occur sooner rather than later as Howe looks for another forward to accompany Alexander Isak.

Alexander Isak vs Victor Boniface – domestic league statistics

Victor Boniface

Goals

8

Assists

1

Shots on target

18

Chances created

10

Completed dribbles

15

Alexander Isak

Goals

23

Assists

6

Shots on target

44

Chances created

42

Completed dribbles

42

Labelled a “complete player” by Xabi Alonso, Boniface has notched 11 goals in all competitions this term, though has suffered hamstring problems in a campaign where Bayern Munich were able to reclaim the Bundesliga title. Speculation over a five-year deal on Tyneside is beginning to do the rounds. However, it remains to be seen if Newcastle can ratify the details required to pull off a statement signing.

With the summer window now creeping closer, bringing Boniface to the North East would be a marker of their ambition heading into 2025/26.