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.

Ethan Nwaneri’s stats for Arsenal in the PL (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)	Tally
Games played	22
Goals & assists	5
Pass accuracy	89%
Shots taken	2.3
Successful dribbles	3.6
Dribble success rate	65%
Duels won	5.8
Stats via FotMob

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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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.

After claiming the Premier League title in his first season in charge, Arne Slot arguably faces his toughest test yet as Liverpool manager during the upcoming transfer window.

The Dutchman won the league with multiple games to spare, losing just three matches in the top flight to date – offering a seamless transition after taking the reins from Jürgen Klopp last summer.

However, despite the Reds’ success, key additions are needed in multiple areas of the first-team squad to help bolster the ranks and increase their chances of retaining their title in 2025/26.

It remains to be seen how much money will be handed his way by the club’s hierarchy, with countless names already touted with a move to Anfield in the coming months.

The foundations have already been laid for multiple transfers, with it only a matter of time before the manager lands his first summer addition on Merseyside.

The latest on Liverpool’s hunt for new signings this summer

Defenders have been high up on the club’s shortlist as of late, with Milos Kerkez one of the many players on their list over the last couple of weeks – emerging at the very top if recent reports are to be believed.

It was confirmed earlier this week that the Hungarian was ‘likely’ to make the switch to the club, with Bournemouth demanding a £40m transfer fee to part ways with their left-back.

However, interest has also been shown in players on the opposite side of the pitch, with the club making a move for Monaco right-back Vanderson, according to GOAL.

The report states that the Reds have enquired to sign the Brazilian this summer, with the Ligue 1 outfit demanding a fee in the region of £25m to offload the 23-year-old star.

It also confirms that the staff behind the scenes hold the youngster in high regard, potentially being the perfect replacement for outgoing defender Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Why Liverpool’s £25m target is the perfect Frimpong alternative

Bayer Leverkusen full-back Jeremie Frimpong has emerged as Liverpool’s main target in such an area in recent times, undoubtedly being many supporters’ first choice this summer.

It has been reported in recent days that the Reds have already been plotting a move for the Dutch star, willing to pay his release clause, which is around the £35m mark.

The 24-year-old has been in stellar form in the Bundesliga over the last few months, registering four goals and five assists, helping the club once again secure a Champions League spot.

However, if they are unable to complete a deal for the Dutchman, they should pursue a move for Vanderson, with the Monaco star a superb option for the club going forward.

When comparing his stats to those of Frimpong, the Brazilian has outperformed him in numerous key areas, with his £25m asking price a potential bargain for Slot’s side.

The right-back, who’s been labelled “world-class” by one scout, has registered more progressive passes and completed more of the take-ons he’s attempted – highlighting the impressive nature he possesses with the ball at his feet.

He’s also won more tackles per 90 and made more interceptions per 90 – handing Slot with an added defensive option, but also a key star in attacking areas.

How Vanderson compares to Frimpong in 2024/25

Statistics (per 90)

Vanderson

Frimpong

Games played

27

32

Goals & assists

4

9

Progressive passes

4.5

2

Pass accuracy

78%

76%

Passes into final third

3.3

1.1

Shot-creating actions

2.6

2.5

Tackles won

2.1

0.9

Interceptions made

1.8

0.3

Take-on success

50%

29%

Aerials won

46%

33%

Stats via FBref

His talents don’t stop there, registering more shot-creating actions and winning more aerials than Frimpong – having the tools to be an excellent option should the club pursue a move for his signature.

£25m for such a player would be an absolute bargain in today’s market, offering a cheaper and possibly a better option than the Leverkusen star in their hunt to replace Alexander-Arnold.

It’s a huge task to replace such a player in the coming months, but Vanderson has showcased that he’s more than capable of filling the void – with Slot needing to make the Brazilian his main target.

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Posts ByEthan Lamb May 10, 2025

Nottingham Forest face Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-final at Wembley later this afternoon, looking to book their place in next month’s final.

It is the first time the Reds have reached such a stage since 1991, with a win edging them one step closer to their first FA Cup triumph since way back in 1959.

Nuno Espírito Santo’s men come into the clash off the back of a 2-1 win at Tottenham Hotspur on Monday night, handing them the momentum ahead of the crucial fixture.

However, they face Pep Guardiola’s side, who have dominated the competition in recent years, winning twice and losing in the final once in the last six seasons.

If the Reds are to continue their incredible season and claim another historic victory, they will have to do so without numerous key players who will miss the clash at Wembley this afternoon.

The players who will miss the clash with Man City today

Ola Aina has been missing from the Forest side since the 1-0 win over Manchester United back on the 1st of April, with it unclear if he will return this afternoon.

The Nigerian has been key to the success endured in recent months, with his return greatly welcomed, especially considering the situation Nuno faces in the capital.

Ryan Yates and Neco Williams are both suspended for the meeting at Wembley after both picking up their second yellow cards of the competition in the previous round against Brighton and Hove Albion.

Such suspensions are huge blows given their importance to the side, with the Reds facing a selection crisis at right-back should Aina fail to feature after his injury layoff.

With Williams suspended and Aina still a doubt for the meeting, the manager will have to utilise a player out of position, potentially shifting one first-team member into an unnatural role.

The Forest player who could start right-back against Man City

Forest have used the fewest number of players in the Premier League this season, highlighting the tight-knit squad Nuno has built during his tenure at the City Ground.

The likes of Anthony Elanga, Jota Silva and Williams have all featured in unfamiliar roles – with the latter cementing his place at left-back given his performances in recent months.

However, Nuno faces another situation in which he has to operate with someone out of position this afternoon, potentially dropping Nicolas Dominguez into a right-back role against City.

The Argentine, who’s primarily a central midfielder, has once played at wing-back for the Reds in the defeat against Aston Villa, but a role in the back four could utilise his strengths in a much better capacity.

He struggled to provide the width in attacking areas, whilst often being caught out in behind previously, but should the manager select Elanga in a right-midfield role, it could allow the pair to double up on the opposition wingers if needed.

Dominguez’s Premier League stats from the ongoing campaign make him the ideal choice to fill the void this afternoon, hopefully maintaining his popularity amongst the fanbase with another impressive showing.

He’s managed a huge 2.2 tackles won per 90 – the most of any player in the squad this campaign – whilst also coming out on top in 6.3 duels per 90, subsequently proving his defensive qualities.

Nicolas Dominguez’s stats for Forest in the PL (2024/25)
Statistics (per 90)	Tally
Games played	29
Goals & assists	1
Pass accuracy	88%
Tackles won	2.2
Duels won	6.3
Duel success rate	56%
Interceptions made	1.4
Stats via FotMob

In possession, he’s been just as impressive, completing 88% of his attempted passes, whilst also creating 0.8 chances per 90, allowing the likes of Elanga and Morgan Gibbs-White ahead of him to cause City huge problems.

Whilst the selection problem is far from ideal for the Reds this afternoon, the players have proven time and time again that they are capable of stepping up to the occasion and thriving on the chances handed their way.

Harry Toffolo did just that against Spurs on Monday night, with Dominguez the next man up, potentially playing a key role in any success come the end of the meeting later on this evening.

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At 4.15pm on Saturday afternoon, Arsenal fans were given a pretty large surprise.

With the Gunners gearing up for their Champions League semi-final second leg in Paris on Wednesday, it was expected that Mikel Arteta would rest heavily. He did not.

The likes of Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Declan Rice all featured in the lineup with only two changes made; Jurrien Timber for Ben White and Mikel Merino for Thomas Partey.

While the starting XI was surprising, the end result was perhaps not. After all, the way in which Arsenal dropped points typified their season.

Arteta’s side led Bournemouth 1-0 through Rice but the Cherries fought back in the second half courtesy of some lapse defending. The equaliser came from Antoine Semenyo’s long throw which found Arsenal-linked Dean Huijsen inside the area who headed home.

The second was not great either. From a set play, the ball found Evanilson at the back stick who forced the ball home with what looked to be an elbow. VAR adjudged it to have been a legal play, however.

While it was an off day as far as defending set pieces are concerned, it was another off day for skipper Martin Odegaard.

Martin Odegaard's performance vs Bournemouth

In midweek, Arsenal needed their leaders to stand up.

Rice was once again impressive, driving his side forward whenever he got the chance. Saka also made life difficult for PSG but ultimately couldn’t find a way through. Nonetheless, neither player hid.

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The same could not be said of Odegaard who left the pitch having lost five of his eight duels and having not had a shot.

He coasted through the game with very minimal influence, slowing Arsenal down in transition and ultimately making the side a poorer one.

Well, the visit of Andoni Iraola’s men on Saturday was a time for the Norwegian to right his wrongs, and he began the game in fine groove, playing in Rice for the opening goal of the game.

It was classic Odegaard, jinking past his marker and sliding the ball past the final line of the defence for the club’s record signing to get on the end.

Sadly, that was about as good as it got for the midfielder who was once again slow in transition and indecisive on the edge of the box, refusing to shoot when he got the opportunity to do so.

Club captain, one has to question whether he deserves a place in the team on Wednesday night. Many fans will suggest he doesn’t.

Still, he wasn’t the only big underperformer in the final third for the Gunners.

Leandro Trossard's performance in numbers vs Bournemouth

Arsenal’s attack since Kai Havertz got injured at the back end of the winter has not been firing on all cylinders.

In fact, even since Saka returned, the final third has been a problem for Arteta.

Their failure to strengthen in the January transfer window has certainly come back to haunt Arsenal with Mikel Merino largely used as the makeshift centre forward since his two-goal haul against Leicester.

From that moment onwards, the Spaniard has been excellent, perhaps even better than Leandro Trossard. The Belgian scored 17 goals last term but despite a run of three goals in his last four outings, has struggled in all honesty.

There is a reason Arteta enjoys playing with Merino and Havertz up top and that’s because they can hold the ball up well, acting as a focal point and duel winner.

Despite Trossard’s technical skill, he is not that profile. The Belgium international simply doesn’t offer enough as an outlet and he summed that up not only against PSG, where Arsenal struggled to get out of their own half in the first 20 minutes, but also at the Emirates on Sunday.

The truth is that the former Brighton man, signed for £27m, has served his purpose; this could well be one of his final starts in Arsenal red.

Minutes played

90

Touches

37

Accurate passes

16/19 (84%)

Expected Goals (xG)

0.16

Expected Assists (xA)

0.18

Shots

2

Shots on target

1

Successful dribbles

1/1

Key passes

1

Accurate crosses

0/1

Duels won

5/9

Possession lost

10x

In all honesty, this wasn’t his worst performance of the season but while Odegaard did register an assist, Trossard did little to dig his side out of the hole his team found themselves in.

His best moment came in the first half when he stooped low to meet a header that Kepa Arrizabalaga did well to keep out. That was his only shot on target in the game.

Beyond that, it was a supremely underwhelming display from the 30-year-old, registering 37 touches, which was 11 fewer than goalkeeper David Raya.

He also only won five of his nine duels and gave away the ball on ten occasions, once every 3.7 touches of possession.

While it’s safe to say that no one in Arsenal’s attack really covered themselves in glory, Trossard certainly did little to help this weekend. It says it all that Arsenal look better with a midfielder as their 9, rather than him. Expect the attacker to be back among the subs in Paris in a few days time.

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Now preparing for European football next season, Nottingham Forest have reportedly joined the race to sign a Premier League rival who is valued at around £29m this summer.

Nottingham Forest qualify for Europa League

Although their afternoon centred around the disappointment of a 2-2 draw against Leicester City and Taiwo Awoniyi’s injury last time out, Nottingham Forest still had Europa League qualification to celebrate. No matter what happens in the final two Premier League games, those at the City Ground will be back on the European stage next season, and that in itself is certainly worth applauding.

Owner Evangelos Marinakis sent a similar reminder to fans whilst clarifying his conversation with Nuno Espirito Santo on the pitch following the Leicester game. The Greek owner said in a statement: “Today is a day for celebration, because after 30 years Nottingham Forest is now guaranteed to be competing on the European stage once again – a promise I made to our supporters when we achieved promotion!

Nottingham Forest set to make serious move to sign "special" want-away star

They’re leading the race.

ByTom Cunningham May 14, 2025

“With two more games to go in the Premier League, we must keep believing and keep dreaming, right to the final kick in the final game. We are extremely proud and close to Nuno and the team, and we must all celebrate the historic achievements of this season.

“Everybody – coaching staff, players, supporters and including myself – we were frustrated around the injury of Taiwo and the medical staff’s misjudgment on Taiwo’s ability to continue the game This is natural, this is a demonstration of the passion we feel for our club. Let’s all be grateful, passionate and keep on dreaming!”

Nuno will certainly be hoping to see his side put last weekend behind them when they square off against West Ham United on Sunday. Meanwhile, with European football secured, Marinakis has already reportedly set his sights on signing a midfield rival.

Nottingham Forest racing to sign Pereira

According to TNT Sports Brasil, as relayed by Sport Witness, Nottingham Forest are now racing to sign Andreas Pereira from Fulham this summer and will have to offer around €35m (£29m) to get any deal over the line.

Of course, it’s not the first time that the Brazilian has found himself on Forest’s radar. As per reports, Marinakis and the Midlands club entered talks to sign Pereira last summer only for Fulham to turn their proposal down. With European football to offer these days, however, Forest could now push on and secure their year-long target.

Whether the Cottagers remain reluctant to sell Pereira remains to be seen, though. Manager Marco Silva will certainly be keen to keep the 29-year-old, having previously told reporters when asked about the Fulham star in 2022: “He has been outstanding this season. I know a lot of people had doubts when I decided to sign him but I knew his qualities and his character.

“Even last season we had a conversation about his future, but it wasn’t the right moment for him to join us. He’s a key player on and off the ball and with set pieces. Two assists this afternoon. A top professional who is enjoying himself at the moment in a white shirt.”

Wolverhampton Wanderers will head into the summer transfer window full of confidence that they can secure a top-half finish in the Premier League next season.

Much will depend on Vitor Pereira’s budget, however. Will he be allowed to spend big in order to carry on the momentum gained over the last few months?

There will certainly be a few sales when the window opens as he begins to build his squad.

The key question for the Molineux faithful: Will Matheus Cunha be at the club on the opening day of 2025/26?

Why Matheus Cunha is a wanted man this summer

If it wasn’t for Cunha’s output in the final third this season, Wolves may arguably have been in real danger of relegation.

The Brazilian has been in remarkable form, scoring 15 times in the top flight while chipping in with six assists in the process.

Not only does this account for 41% of the club’s total goals in the league, but he also ranks ninth in the Premier League for goals and assists.

Despite this, Cunha has clashed with supporters on social media following a post he put up on his Instagram.

He even confessed that he wishes to leave in order to challenge for trophies, and if a big offer comes in, the forward may depart.

The forward currently earns £90k-per-week in the Midlands and, should he leave, this would help free up a big chunk of the wage budget for Pereira.

It does look likely he will move on from Wolves. But there is one player the manager should be actively trying to sell, especially considering he is earning more than the club’s talisman at the moment – Goncalo Guedes.

Why Goncalo Guedes must follow Cunha out the door

£35m signing Guedes was given a second chance at the club after returning from a loan spell last summer, but he hasn’t exactly taken the opportunity.

Across 31 games, he has registered ten goal contributions – five goals and five assists – but only two goals have come in the top flight.

He started in the 2-0 defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion, but was subbed off after 59 minutes.

Goncalo Guedes’ stats in the PL this season

Goals

2

Assists

4

Shots per game

0.8

Key passes per game

0.4

Big chances created

2

Successful dribbles per game

0.2

Via Sofascore

During the game, he missed a big chance – notably firing a close-range effort over the far – failed to register a shot on target, failed with his only dribble attempt and won just a solitary duel against the Seagulls.

Due to his lethargic display, Guedes was given a match rating of just 5/10 by Birmingham World with journalist Charlie Haffenden noting that he ‘wasted two big chances in the opening ten minutes’ and was ‘not too involved afterwards’ which just about sums up his time at Molineux.

It’s safe to say that if this was an audition to secure his future at the club, he failed.

The Portuguese forward currently earns the same weekly wage as Cunha which given how differently the pair have performed this season, it is a rather remarkable fact.

Rank

Player

Wage per week

Wage per year

=1

Goncalo Guedes

£90,000

£4,680,000

=1

Pablo Sarabia

£90,000

£4,680,000

=1

Matheus Cunha

£90,000

£4,680,000

4

Nelson Semedo

£80,000

£4,160,000

5

Hee-chan Hwang

£70,000

£3,640,000

With two years left on his current contract, this summer would be the ideal time for Pereira to cash in on the underperforming forward.

If so, he will be able to free up a big part of the wage bill in the process.

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Posts 1 ByKelan Sarson May 12, 2025

Leeds United left it late on the final day of the Championship season but Manor Solomon’s dramatic strike right at the death would secure Daniel Farke’s men the title.

Amazingly, both the Whites and their nearest competitors in Burnley would end their mightily impressive campaigns on 100 points each, but Leeds’ sturdy goal difference would hand the esteemed honours over to Farke and Co, instead of more party celebrations taking place at Turf Moor.

But, as much as the West Yorkshire titans have been able to blow teams away with ease in the second tier, the Premier League is a different kettle of fish altogether.

Therefore, some potential attacking recruits are now being linked with a switch to Elland Road to help navigate the tricky step-up in quality.

Leeds' list of attacking targets

Already, Leeds have been linked with a whole host of new faces up top, with reports suggesting that the newly crowned champions might look to snap up Omari Hutchinson from recently relegated Ipswich Town.

Moreover, other rumours indicate that Leeds are intrigued by the prospect of bringing AZ Alkmaar goal machine Troy Parrott back to England, meaning the striker department would also be given a potential facelift.

Yet, there’s one name that sticks out as a top buy away from both Hutchinson and Parrott, with TBR Football revealing that Farke and Co are looking at a number of targets from Celtic, including Hoops attacking hotshot Nicolas Kuhn.

The Whites have had success when shopping from the Glasgow giants in the past, with Whites legend Mark Viduka once plying for his trade for the Scottish titans before becoming a fan’s favourite at Leeds. So, there’s clearly a proven recipe for success right here.

How Kuhn could be even better than James

If Kuhn can lift his game to be on the same level as Viduka’s – who would score a colossal 72 strikes for Leeds – he would further go down as a more impressive winger than Dan James over time, even with the Welshman fresh off just winning the Whites’ Player of the Year accolade.

James should be commended for how he’s managed to turn around his up-and-down stay at Elland Road, with the ex-Manchester United attacker undoubtedly a top-drawer talent in the EFL having previously struggled in the top-flight.

Indeed, the blistering number seven has tallied up a sizeable 41 goal contributions in league action over the last two seasons, but there will be a concern in the air lingering that the 56-time Wales international isn’t cut out for the bright lights of the Premier League.

Indeed, his best tally for a campaign up a division currently sits at a mere four goals and five assists.

On the flip side, Kuhn has proven again and again for Brendan Rodgers’ men – albeit in a far less strenuous top division in the Scottish Premiership – that he can dazzle defences under immense pressure. He’s even scored in the Champions League.

Staggeringly, across all competitions this campaign, including on Europe’s grandest stage, the German forward has amassed a bumper 34 goals and assists from 47 clashes, with a chance in the Premier League to come a deserved next step for the former RB Leipzig winger.

Kuhn’s numbers this season by competition (24/25)
Competition	Games	Goals	Assists
SPL	29	12	8
Champions League	10	3	1
SFA Cup	4	0	1
League Cup	4	5	4
Sourced by Transfermarkt

In contrast, James accumulated a lesser 21 from ten fewer clashes, meaning he could take a back-seat now down the right flank for the “breathtaking” winger, as he’s been lauded in the past by pundit Marvin Bartley, to take over.

Obviously, it isn’t set in stone that Kuhn will be able to instantly acclimatise to the pressures of the Premier League, but history might well repeat itself here, especially if the Hoops number 10 can prove he belongs at the daunting level like Viduka before him.

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