Lamine Yamal has reportedly felt discomfort in his pubic area once again after the Champions League game against Paris Saint-Germain. The 18-year-old was sidelined for three weeks due to the same injury and now his participation against Sevilla and his presence in the Spanish national team is doubtful.
Leeds United will host Everton on Monday night as they return to the Premier League for the first time after a two-year absence. Daniel Farke’s side will be looking to get the campaign off to a dream start after a busy summer, where they have made several new additions to their squad.
The Whites have looked to strengthen right across the pitch. They have brought in a new goalkeeper in Lucas Perri, three new defenders, including Jaka Bijol, two midfielders, with one of those Newcastle United academy graduate, Sean Longstaff, and a new centre-forward, Lukas Nmecha, on a free transfer.
However, the Yorkshire side don’t seem to be done there, and are focusing on bringing in more attackers before the window slams shut.
It was reported on Wednesday that England international Dominic Calvert-Lewin will imminently move to Elland Road on a free transfer. He is set to have a medical after leaving Everton in the summer.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
Calvert-Lewin is not the only new attacker who could be on his way to Leeds. According to Beren Cross of The Athletic, they are said to be ‘showing interest’ in signing AC Milan forward Noah Okafor.
There is yet to be an official approach from Leeds for Okafor, according to Cross, but he is a player ‘Leeds are looking at in the final weeks of the window’, and a late move could be on the cards.
It wouldn’t be a deal that breaks the bank, either. Earlier in the window, Milan were reportedly asking for just £13m for the Switzerland international.
The 2024/25 campaign was not necessarily an easy one for Okafor. He struggled to break into the Milan team, with injuries disrupting his campaign, and a January loan move to eventual Scudetto winners Napoli was even less fruitful for him.
In total, the 25-year-old made just 21 appearances across all competitions, four in a Napoli shirt and the rest for the Rossoneri.
In that time, he bagged just one goal, an opening-day equaliser in the 95th minute against Torino.
Yet, the forward has shown great promise earlier in his career. He played four seasons for RB Salzburg in Austria before moving to Milan. In 110 appearances, he scored 34 goals and assisted 23.
Two of those seasons, 2021/22 and 2022/23, saw him register double-figure goal involvements, and the underlying numbers stand out. For example, he created 2.3 chances and 2.1 chances, respectively. That is why football talent scout Jacek Kulig called him an “electric” attacker.
|
Okafor’s final 2 seasons at Salzburg |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Stat (per 90) |
21/22 |
22/23 |
|
Goals and assists |
1.3 |
0.7 |
|
Shots on target |
1.6 |
1.1 |
|
Key passes |
2.3 |
2.1 |
|
Dribbles completed |
1.6 |
1.7 |
|
Tackles and interceptions |
1.2 |
0.7 |
|
Stats from Sofascore |
||
If Okafor does move to Elland Road, he could be the second coming of Wilfried Gnonto. The Italian attacker has had a similar career path to Okafor and offers similar versatility to the Swiss forward.
Gnonto’s numbers across his Leeds career are impressive. The 21-year-old has already racked up over a century of appearances for the club, with 118 to his name. In that time, he’s found the back of the net 22 times and assisted 13 further goals.
The pair have certainly followed a relatively similar career path so far. Like Okafor representing Milan, Gnonto has also been on the books of a Serie A giant from the same city, although he played for Inter’s youth sides.
On top of that, they’ve each played in the Swiss top flight, with the potential new Leeds addition representing FC Basel and Gnonto playing for Zurich. Now, their paths could cross at the same time if the Milan attacker joins Leeds.
Aside from their similar career moves, the players are both versatile attackers. They are able to play on both wings, lead the line as a striker or play in behind another centre-forward, as a number ten or a second striker.
Oh, how Leeds fans would surely love to have the second coming of Gnonto at Elland Road. The Whites’ number 29 has been a key player over the years, so if Okafor can rediscover his best form and replicate Gnonto, it would be a huge bonus.
A dream for Calvert-Lewin: Leeds offer contract terms to sign £24.5m star
Leeds United have reportedly offered contract terms to a star who would be a dream for Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
By
Dan Emery
Aug 14, 2025
It’s officially FPL season and that means absurd forfeits, creative team names and feeling guilty about cheering a late Bruno Fernandes penalty. Come on, we’ve all done it.
After three gameweeks, a clearer picture is beginning to emerge as to who the must-have players could be. Last season, it was Jacob Murphy who emerged as a surprise option, but in the current campaign the likes of Jack Grealish are proving to be worthwhile transfer coups.
There’s still plenty to think about, however, and with two wildcards at your disposal, there’s still time to ensure that your Dad who still thinks Fernando Torres is Liverpool’s No.9 does not win the family league title for a third straight season.
Best gameweek to use FPL wildcard
The international break is here and, more importantly, the summer transfer window has ended. Using your wildcard now could be wise. It would be an understandable urge, but holding fire and implementing a free hit this time around may be the way forward. That way, any slight gamble taken on a now-underperforming player can be solved for at least one week whilst some much-needed points are gained.
The fixtures are also not the most suitable after the international break. In back-to-back weeks, Manchester City face Manchester United and then Arsenal, which could instantly see potential wildcard pick Erling Haaland struggle to leave his usual mark.
More factors to consider are form, injuries and how far players have travelled during the international break. Whilst it may seem tempting to jump the gun and welcome Alexander Isak into your side, for example, the last thing you want is to spend £10.4m on a player who is unlikely to start until he is deemed ready to go after missing pre-season.
So, when is the best time to wildcard? Well, gameweek six stands out. By that point, it will be clear whether a new signing can hit the ground running or if they are even in a starting role. Any lasting effects of the international break will also be known by this point and the fixtures become more routine for the likes of Haaland and Man City, while Arsenal also have an easier swing coming in October.
Joao Pedro
26
Erling Haaland
24
Hugo Ekitike
22
Richarlison
19
Chris Wood
17
After getting Haaland into your side that week, it would be an ideal time to captain the Norwegian against newly-promoted Burnley at the Etihad.
Best wildcard picks in FPL
By holding out until matchday six, several impressive options should emerge – including Isak. By that point, he should be ready to go and in a Liverpool side that already includes Florian Wirtz, Mohamed Salah and Hugo Ekitike no less. The Swede is almost a guarantee for goals and is far cheaper than Haaland or new teammate Salah, who cost £14.1m and £14.5m respectively.
Mohamed Salah
£14.5m
Erling Haaland
£14.1m
Alexander Isak
£10.4m
Cole Palmer
£10.5m
Bukayo Saka
£10m
To partner the Premier League’s record signing, getting Joao Pedro in is a must at this stage. At £7.6m, he is a bargain buy and should now start most games under Enzo Maresca following Liam Delap’s injury.
Having Ekitike, Haaland and Pedro together – albeit whilst sacrificing Isak and/or Salah – gives you three of the hottest players in the league right now and would leave room for a strong midfield.
Elsewhere, Xavi Simons at £7m is also one to watch as a player who scored 11 goals and assisted eight more for RB Leipzig last season before recently joining Tottenham. The arrival of several fresh faces in North London has thrown up some interesting FPL decisions to make, but Thomas Frank and Daniel Levy did not spend £52m on a benchwarmer, so his minutes should be secure once he settles, perhaps at the cost of Brennan Johnson.
If you’re searching for a differential, new Crystal Palace signing Yeremy Pino (£6.0m) looked fantastic off the bench in his Gameweek 3 debut, and the injuries to Ismaila Sarr and Adam Wharton mean he is almost certain to start most matches from here on out.
In defence, at least one Arsenal defender becomes a must as their fixtures turn from Gameweek 7 onwards, with Gabriel at £6.1m the safest for minutes while Jurrien Timber and Riccardo Calafiori – both £5.6m – offer a goal threat.
Continuing that theme, the obvious pick in goal is David Raya, but keep an eye on Marco Bizot at Aston Villa, who now appears to be Unai Emery’s favoured choice at just £4.5m.
It’s no secret that Newcastle United have been casting their net wide this summer.
In a window shaped by Financial Fair Play constraints and lingering uncertainty around the futures of key attackers, the club’s recruitment team is under pressure to unearth value and vision in equal measure.
Even with a midfield trio of Bruno Guimarães, Sandro Tonali and Joelinton, Newcastle still lack a true creator – someone who can connect midfield to attack, unlock defences, and provide the unexpected.
While Eddie Howe’s midfield has often leaned on structure and industry, typified by Sean Longstaff, it has lacked the spontaneous, technical spark of a true number ten.
With ambitions of European consistency and attacking evolution, the Magpies appear to be monitoring a player who might just fill that void.
A player, some believe, who has echoes of one of St James’ Park’s most dazzling and divisive cult heroes.
Newcastle looking at new attacking midfielder
TBR Football report that Newcastle United are seriously tracking Bilal El Khannouss, the 21-year-old Moroccan international who joined Leicester City last year in a £21m switch from Genk.
Despite Leicester’s relegation from the Premier League, El Khannouss was one of the few creative bright sparks in a disjointed side – with Pep Guardiola even praising his performance during a 2-0 defeat to Manchester City.
A technically gifted, versatile attacking midfielder who can also operate off the left, El Khannouss contributed two goals and three assists in 32 Premier League appearances, solid numbers considering the Foxes’ overall struggles.
Still under contract at Leicester until 2028, he is expected to move this summer, with several top-flight clubs circling.
Tottenham and Arsenal are both keen, while Crystal Palace have also registered interest.
Abroad, the likes of RB Leipzig, Monaco, Atalanta, Valencia and Eintracht Frankfurt are all keeping close tabs.
Graeme Bailey, Chief Correspondent at TBR Football, called El Khannouss “a fascinating player – very similar to Rayan Cherki in terms of talent. Many clubs rate him as one of the finest technicians of his generation.”
Analyst Ben Mattinson also labelled him “a sensational prospect,” praising his ability to influence the game across multiple zones.
A modern echo of Ben Arfa
For many Newcastle fans, Hatem Ben Arfa remains one of the most naturally gifted footballers to wear the shirt in the last two decades.
An enigma with close control and flair, he could humiliate defenders, bend the narrative of a match in his favour, and bring the stadium to life with a single flick or feint.
His mazy solo goals – like the ones against Bolton and Blackburn – live long in Geordie folklore.
But with genius came inconsistency. Ben Arfa often clashed with managers, lacked tactical discipline, and was eventually moved on despite his cult status.
In contrast, El Khannouss offers a more modern, structured version of the same creative promise.
According to data from FBref, he ranks in the 98th percentile for successful take-on percentage (56.7%), and in the 79th percentile for progressive passes per 90 (5.28) among positionally similar players in Europe’s top five leagues, signs of a player confident in carrying and distributing the ball under pressure.
He’s also gritty defensively: in the 91st percentile for tackles per 90 (2.06), and 98th percentile for midfield third tackles.
It’s a rare blend: creativity and craft paired with commitment out of possession.
He won’t make highlight reels as often, but his game is built to thrive in today’s Premier League: tactically aware, comfortable between the lines, and productive in transition.
Where Ben Arfa relied on moments of brilliance, El Khannouss’ game is about sustained influence.
His 170.06 progressive passing yards per 90 (90th percentile) and 88th percentile for midfield third touches (27.02) suggest a player comfortable dictating tempo.
There’s also maturity to El Khannouss that bodes well. With 22 senior caps for Morocco, including an appearance at the 2022 World Cup, he’s already tested himself against elite opposition.
At 21, he’s younger than Ben Arfa was when he joined Newcastle, but arguably more tactically complete.
If Newcastle were to secure his signature, it would signal a shift. Not just in terms of style, but in identity. A willingness to take risks on creative players again, but with a tighter structure and clearer development path than in the days of Ben Arfa.
For all of Newcastle’s recent success under Howe, they’ve often missed a chaos agent since the departure of Allan Saint-Maximin.
El Khannouss, if he fulfils his potential, could be that player, but with the consistency and control that Ben Arfa never quite managed.
At St James’ Park, there’s a growing sense that this Moroccan might just be the evolution, not imitation, of their former French maverick.
Newcastle expect to agree deal to sign "remarkable" £50m Sesko alternative
Newcastle United shift focus from RB Leipzig Star to Brentford’s leading striker
ByWill Miller Jul 29, 2025
Tottenham are working on other targets amid the ongoing transfer saga surrounding Nottingham Forest star Morgan Gibbs-White.
Thomas Frank will be hoping for a conclusion to the drama fairly soon, given the England international was scheduled to undergo a Hotspur Way medical eight days ago before Forest ultimately blocked the transfer.
Player's camp in talks with Tottenham, Frank convinced he'd join Spurs
The Dane is personally confident they can secure his signature.
2
By
Emilio Galantini
Jul 18, 2025
They’ve written a letter to both Spurs and the player’s agent threatening legal action, following what they deem to be an unlawful approach for the 25-year-old, and this has put an unceremonious halt to Gibbs-White’s north London switch (Sky Sports).
Nevertheless, Tottenham remain hopeful they’ll eventually get the green-light to make Gibbs-White their fourth signing of the summer after Mathys Tel, Kota Takai and Mohammed Kudus (Fabrizio Romano), even if Forest insist he’s not going anywhere (Sky Sports).
|
Tottenham’s best-performing regulars in the Premier League – 2024/2025 |
Average match rating |
|---|---|
|
Son Heung-min |
7.00 |
|
James Maddison |
6.98 |
|
Pedro Porro |
6.95 |
|
Dominic Solanke |
6.84 |
|
Dejan Kulusevski |
6.83 |
|
via WhoScored |
|
Chairman Daniel Levy was ready to trigger Gibbs-White’s ‘confidential’ £60 million release clause before Forest stepped in, and they’re not looking for a ‘quick resolution’.
“It’s going to be interesting to see how it plays out from here,” said BBC Radio Nottingham’s Colin Fray.
“Most thought it would be ironed out and the transfer go through. Not many were expecting him back at training and here he is. That is another twist in the story.
“Forest have set their stall out that they aren’t looking for a quick resolution. They want to keep him.”
Amid this messy situation, the Lilywhites do have other plans they’re looking to see through before deadline day on September 1.
Tottenham reportedly want a new holding midfielder and number six. Talks have reportedly been held with Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha’s representatives, according to journalist Graeme Bailey, and it is believed by some that Juventus ace Douglas Luiz is keen on a move to Spurs – just one year after his switch to Turin from Aston Villa.
As well as this, a new centre-back is on the agenda, and Ukraine international Illia Zabarnyi is re-emerging as a top target.
As per Sky Sports reporter Gianluca Di Marzio, via his official website, Tottenham are actively trying for Zabarnyi, despite his eagerness to join European champions PSG.
Di Marzio also reports that Tottenham are ready to pay north of £60 million for Zabarnyi, the amount “requested” by Bournemouth, if they’re given encouragement that the 22-year-old will forego a switch to France in favour of N17.
PSG have seen multiple bids rejected for Zabarnyi, worth up to £52 million, and they’re yet to return with an improved offer. Given Spurs are prepared to go higher and meet Zabarnyi’s asking price, this could open the door for Frank’s side, but it will hinge on the player’s own decision.
The defender has been a rock at the heart of Bournemouth’s defence and played a key role in their chase for European football last season.
“He is probably the most underrated player,” said pundit Jamie Redknapp.
“I also spoke with Ukrainian legend Andriy Shevchenko, and he mentioned that Illia has everything it takes to reach the next level. Everyone is talking about Dean Huijsen. Yes, he is a fantastic young player, but Zabarnyi plays very aggressively in defense as well. I was genuinely impressed by him. He shows remarkable calmness on the pitch.”
Chelsea are the champions of the world. Before the final against Paris Saint-Germain, rivals all across England and beyond laughed at the thought of Enzo Maresca beating this unbeatable super-team.
But beat them Chelsea did, in fact dismantling the Parisians 3-0 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. PSG, having won the Champions League, Ligue 1 and the Coupe de France, were firm favourites, but they were brushed aside by an incisive and energetic Blues side.
Not a bad maiden campaign, all told, for Maresca, whose side will now rest ahead of a new term which promises so much.
Who was it, then, who inspired the Londoners to victory? Who else?
Cole Palmer, once again on the biggest stage, stood up when his team needed a talisman.
Crowned the Player of the Tournament after notching three goals and two assists across six matches – all of which came in the knockout stage – Palmer has proved that class is permanent with some stunning showings.
His first-half brace against Luis Enrique’s side was dispatched in typically cool fashion, with all that was could running through the Three Lions superstar.
Palmer, 23, is unquestionably Chelsea’s main man, also assisting Chelsea’s conclusive strike.
We’ve seen many times Palmer’s ability to channel some level of performance possible only through the boots of a select few geniuses across the globe, but there’s another who has the potential to become something special for the Stamford Bridge side, and he showed as much against PSG.
In fact, he’s demonstrating the properties which suggest he could be Maresca’s own version of one Didier Drogba.
Chelsea signed a certain Joao Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion in a £60m deal a few weeks ago, and it’s been quite the whirlwind start to this new chapter of his career.
Aged 23, Pedro is one of the most talented developing forwards in Europe, and Chelsea must feel they have hit the jackpot already, with his confident efforts in the United States certainly emitting a Drogba-esque sense.
He collected and converted Palmer’s pass with a deft dink to put the scoreline beyond PSG’s reach, a goal that Drogba in his pomp would have been proud of. It was audacious, just as the Ivorian was throughout much of his time in west London.
As a result of his efforts in the final, The London Standard awarded him with an 8/10 match rating, praising his tenacity and intelligent running to outfox the opposing backline.
|
Joao Pedro’s Club World Cup Campaign |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Match Stats |
Palmeiras |
Fluminense |
PSG |
|
Minutes played |
36′ |
60′ |
67′ |
|
Goals |
0 |
2 |
1 |
|
Assists |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Touches |
23 |
25 |
35 |
|
Shots (on target) |
2 (1) |
3 (2) |
1 (1) |
|
Accurate passes |
11/13 (85%) |
7/12 (58%) |
12/18 (67%) |
|
Key passes |
2 |
0 |
1 |
|
Dribbles |
2/2 |
0/1 |
1/5 |
|
Tackles + interceptions |
0 |
1 |
2 |
|
Duels won |
3/6 |
3/9 |
3/12 |
|
Data via Sofascore |
|||
Clinical, energetic and willing to get stuck in, Pedro has already showcased his blend of artful quality, his sharp technicality, and indeed a focus on the defensive side of the game that is reminiscent of Drogba in his Chelsea prime.
Luiz Felipe Scolari once called the Ivorian striker “one of the best in the world” during his time at Chelsea, owing to his big-game ability, work rate and robust passing game.
Pedro’s got a long way to go before he establishes a reputation of similar proportions as a Blue, but he’s off to a flyer, embodying many of those aforementioned virtues across the past week or so.
Chelsea have earned themselves a well-deserved rest ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. Maresca, indeed, has bagged two pieces of silverware and a spot in next year’s Champions League proper.
We’ve had a taste of Pedro’s quality in the final third, and though big-money strikers haven’t always made it work in Blue, this combative and complete Brazilian might just prove to be a reincarnation of Drogba.
£80m Gittens upgrade: Chelsea have looked at signing "one of the PL's best"
Chelsea are hoping to make several more signings in the summer transfer market.
By
Angus Sinclair
Jul 13, 2025
Arsenal have a massive season ahead of them.
After all, they finished second in the Premier League for the third time on the bounce last season, and there is only so much time Mikel Arteta will have to bring the glory days back to the Emirates.
The good news is that the board seem intent on giving him all the help they can in the transfer window this summer, with a host of brilliant players already touted for a move to N5, like Eberechi Eze.
However, if recent reports are to be believed, Arsenal are now closing in on a deal to sign an international star who would be an even more exciting addition to the team than the Englishman.
It was last week that stories linking Arsenal to Eze began to appear, but it was over the weekend that things supposedly accelerated in a meaningful way.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
According to reports from Monday, the Gunners had held talks with the Crystal Palace star’s camp, and, according to Fabrizio Romano, he’s now more than open to a move to the Emirates.
The 27-year-old has a release clause in his current deal widely reported to be worth around £68m, but even at that price, he could still be worth going all out for.
Yet, it appears as if the North Londoners are now making serious progress in their attempts to sign someone who’d be an even more exciting addition: Viktor Gyokeres.
According to a recent report from Belgium, Arsenal are now in “advanced talks” with Sporting CP over the Swedish international, and feel like they are near the “final line” of the deal.
Moreover, it has been revealed that the club and player have already agreed personal terms.
A potential price is not mentioned in the report, but stories from earlier this week claimed that a fee in the region of £69m could be enough to seal the deal.
It’s a lot of money to spend on one player, but given Gyokeres’ recent record, it could prove to be more than worth it, and he could end up being a far more exciting signing than Eze.
While there are so many different things to enjoy in football, from a well-timed tackle to a wonderful ball over the top, there is one thing that excites fans more than anything else: goals.
When it really comes down to it, what supporters want to see above all else is their team putting the ball in the back of the net, and when it comes to that, there seem to be few, if any, better than Gyokeres.
It’s this reason why his arrival would be more thrilling than Eze’s, as he’s been a lean, mean goalscoring machine over the last two years.
|
Gyokeres’ recent form |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Season |
23/24 |
24/25 |
|
Appearances |
50 |
52 |
|
Minutes |
4169′ |
4248′ |
|
Goals |
43 |
54 |
|
Assists |
15 |
13 |
|
Goal Involvements per Match |
1.16 |
1.28 |
|
Minutes per Goal Involvement |
71.87′ |
63.40′ |
|
All Stats via Transfermarkt |
||
For example, in his first campaign with Sporting, the “ball-striking monster,” as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, scored 43 goals and provided 15 assists in 50 appearances, totalling 4169 minutes, which comes out to an average of 1.16 goal involvements every game, or one every 71.87 minutes.
Then, somehow, he managed to do even better last season, scoring 54 goals and providing 13 assists in 52 appearances, totalling 4248 minutes, which comes out to a simply sensational average of 1.28 goal involvements per game, or one every 63.40 minutes.
In contrast, Eze has scored 48 goals and provided 28 assists in the 167 appearances he’s made for Crystal Palace since joining them in 2020.
Ultimately, it is a little simplistic, but sometimes football can be an extraordinarily simple game, and based on the sheer weight of goals he’s scored in recent seasons, we can’t imagine many, if any, players being a more exciting signing for Arsenal than Gyokeres would be.
£60m Madueke upgrade: Arsenal eyeing "one of the fastest players in the PL"
Arsenal could sign a winger who’s one of the fastest players in the Premier League.
By
Jack Salveson Holmes
Jul 2, 2025
The question remains for those of a Leeds United persuasion – can Joel Piroe cut it in the Premier League?
The hope will be that the Dutchman can replicate the heroics of Patrick Bamford in 2020/21, with the Englishman notably firing in 17 top-flight goals under Marcelo Bielsa, having netted 16 times during the club’s promotion push the year prior.
In the case of Piroe, the former Swansea City man ended the most recent campaign with 19 goals to his name, having hit 14 Championship goals the previous season, with that coming despite not being a “natural number nine”, as per pundit Clinton Morrison.
Whether or not the Dutchman can thrive amid the step up remains to be seen, although what is evident – as Morrison pointed to – is that further reinforcements will be needed, particularly if young Mateo Joseph is to depart.
Having seen the last six promoted sides slip straight back into the second tier, Daniel Farke and co will need Premier League-proven options to avoid a similar fate, with the search for new faces seemingly already underway.
Latest on Leeds's search for a striker
Report back in May indicated that a surprise target had emerged in the form of Everton’s Beto, with the former Udinese man ending 2024/25 with eight league goals to his name, after netting just three times the previous season.
Elsewhere, there have also been suggestions that Farke could look to secure a bargain deal for departing Leicester City hero, Jamie Vardy, with the 38-year-old looking for a new home amid his expiring contract.
That duo don’t appear to be the only Premier League options that the Yorkshire side are considering, however, with The Athletic’s Beren Cross outlining that the club are also showing an interest in Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
According to Cross, Leeds are said to have made enquiries about signing the Brazilian, with club sources said to have ‘acknowledged’ that interest, albeit while hinting that there are more likely candidates to arrive at Elland Road this summer.
Even so, with just a year left to run on his existing deal at Craven Cottage – with the option of a 12-month extension – the 24-year-old would represent a viable option, with Newcastle United also in the running for his signature.
While perhaps not the glamour name that supporters will be craving, it’s worth noting that there is an element of Erling Haaland about Muniz…
How Muniz compares to Erling Haaland
In another universe, perhaps the Manchester City man would have been plying his trade in Yorkshire, with the club having famously made an attempt to sign the Leeds-born sensation back in 2017.
Unfortunately, Leeds have had to witness the Norwegian go on to shine elsewhere, notably firing in 121 goals in just 142 games at the Etihad, after previously netting 86 times in 89 games for Borussia Dortmund.
Muniz, it must be said, doesn’t come close to reaching those levels, although – as per FBref – the Fulham star is said to be a stylistically and statistically similar player to Haaland, among those in their position in Europe’s top five leagues – as well as in the Premier League.
Indeed, the top two most similar players to Muniz in the top-flight in 2024/25 were Beto and Haaland, with there evidently a particular type of striker that Farke and his recruitment team are chasing.
That likeness between Muniz and Haaland, in particular, is notably evidenced by just how clinical they are in front of goal, with the former ranking in the top 3% of top-flight strikers for non-penalty goals per 90, having scored eight goals last season from just eight starts. The Man City man, meanwhile, ranks in the top 8% in that regard.
Jack Hinshelwood
0.28
Chris Wood
0.26
Jorgen Strand Larsen
0.26
Richarlison
0.24
Jhon Duran
0.23
James Maddison
0.23
Marc Cucurella
0.21
Yoane Wissa
0.21
Rodrigo Muniz
0.21
Equally too is that much-needed single-minded or perhaps selfish streak that both possess, with Muniz ranking in the top 10% for total shots per 90, while his prolific counterpart ranks in top 12% for that same metric.
With the one-time Middlesbrough loanee also ranking in the top 10% for aerial duels, it showcases just what an imposing focal point he is, much like the 6 foot 4 Haaland, having rightly been lauded as a “handful” by analyst Ben Mattinson.
Also hailed by Mattinson for his “seriously impressive” 2023/24 season, in which he scored nine league goals from only 18 starts, Muniz could be the clinical figure that Leeds are in need of, with a more consistent run of games the only thing that has perhaps held him back in west London.
A reported £50m asking price might be a significant stumbling block, although if Leeds are looking to find their own version of the machine-like Haaland, then Muniz could well be the man.
49ers spend £90m: AI predicts 5 players Leeds United will sign this summer
It’s set to be a busy few months at Elland Road.
2 ByCharlie Smith Jun 7, 2025
Chelsea are in pursuit of more signings after Liam Delap as we fast approach the Club World Cup, with BlueCo now running out of time to register new players before that potentially lucrative tournament begins.
Chelsea eye left-winger after Jadon Sancho return to Man United
Following the £30 million deal which sees Delap swap Portman Road for Stamford Bridge, Enzo Maresca and co have shown absolutely zero sign of slowing down in the transfer market.
Chelsea propose "multi-player package deal" in talks for £85m forward
The Blues have held discussions.
ByEmilio Galantini Jun 6, 2025
Instead, the Blues have continued to press on for other targets with serious gusto, holding talks with AC Milan over a move for goalkeeper Mike Maignan and reportedly chasing Ajax defender Jorrel Hato.
Maignan has apparently told Milan he wants to join Chelsea, as per Sky Sports and other reliable media sources, while journalist Simon Phillips reports that Hato is equally keen to join Maresca’s side and personal terms shouldn’t be an issue.
Ipswich Town 2-0 Chelsea
8.08
Bournemouth 1-2 Ipswich Town
8.05
Ipswich Town 2-2 Aston Villa
8.04
Ipswich Town 1-2 Southampton
7.83
Fulham 2-2 Ipswich Town
7.55
via WhoScored
If either man is to be registered before the CWC kicks off, Chelsea will need to hurry, as they now have just three days to get them on the books at Cobham.
BlueCo are also believed to be targeting a new left-winger, especially after they couldn’t agree terms with Jadon Sancho on a permanent stay in west London. The £300,000-per-week forward is returning to Man United, and Chelsea will pay a £5 million penalty fee to dodge his obligation to buy.
Sancho’s exit, combined with Mykhailo Mudryk’s on-field ban after his failed drugs test, has exacerbated Maresca’s need for another wide option – and they have plenty of options on their shortlist.
Borussia Dortmund’s Jamie Gittens and Athletic Bilbao’s Nico Williams sit chief among them, according to reports this week, but they’ve been offered plenty of alternatives.
Chelsea offered Bayern Munich duo Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman
As per intriguing information from SPTC, Bayern Munich duo Serge Gnabry and Kingsley Coman have actually been put forward to them.
On a combined £581,000-per-week in Bavaria, Gnabry and Coman, despite their past performances, appear to have fallen down Vincent Kompany’s pecking order and are not in the Belgian’s long-term plans.
It is believed both Gnabry and Coman were offered out to Chelsea, as representatives of the pair seek potential new clubs, but Maresca’s side decided not to move forward with a deal for either.
“Obviously it looks like we have since decided to push more on Jamie Gittens than any others,” wrote reporter Phillips.
“Rafa Leao was also mentioned earlier in the Spring but nothing has moved on that.
“And we’ve also heard that Bayern Munich have offered both Kingsley Coman and Serge Gnabry around to many clubs, including Chelsea. Leroy Sané has also been spoken about at Chelsea due to him becoming a free agent this summer. However, our sources don’t expect us to move on any of those three.
“Chelsea are looking to bring a new left-winger as well as a hybrid attacking midfielder who can play a number of positions. Xavi Simons is a name that was mentioned to me by a good source again today, and obviously there is the noise on Mohammed Kudus now as well as Chelsea’s serious interest in Morgan Rogers and Eberechi Eze.”
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.
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 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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