All posts by z3u9t.icu

Aston Villa have been ramping up their transfer activity in recent weeks as Unai Emery slowly begins to build a team ahead of the 2024/25 campaign.

It is no secret that in order to comply with the profit and sustainability rules (PSR), Villa have to sell players before June 30.

Douglas Luiz looks set to join Juventus, while Omari Kellyman is closing in on a move to Chelsea and Tim Iroegbunam has left the Midlands to join Everton, bringing in plenty of funds for Emery.

In terms of incomings, Lewis Dobbin has joined from the Toffees, while Ian Maatsen looks set to become a Villa player in the next few days after he passed his medical.

Now, take a breath. The Spaniard is certainly not resting on his laurels, moving quickly to bolster his squad ahead of the Champions League next term, which will see Villa face plenty of quality teams.

Dobbin and Maatsen are both 22 and under, which suggests Emery is building a team not only for the present but for the future too.

The latest player to be linked with a move to Villa also fits in this bracket and could be an ideal signing for the club…

Aston Villa looking to sign new defender

According to reports (via Sport Witness), Villa have made an opening bid of €15m (£12.7m), plus bonuses for Fiorentina right-back Michael Kayode.

This appears to be too low for the Italian side, as they are demanding a transfer fee of around €20m (£17m), plus bonuses on top of that, which is still within Emery’s price range.

It is stated that a new offer from Villa will be expected soon and this time, it should be around the number that Fiorentina are expecting for their highly rated player.

Nicolo Zaniolo

Galatasaray

2023

39

Pierluigi Gollini

Hellas Verona

2016

20

Benny Carbone

Sheffield Wednesday

1999

30

Via Transfermarkt

This could be yet another smart signing by the club, especially considering how much Kayode could improve in the future, thus, potentially making them a substantial profit in the next few years should he shine in the Premier League and in Europe.

Michael Kayode’s season in numbers for Fiorentina

The 19-year-old only made his top flight debut for the club last season, racking up 26 appearances which included a goal and two assists, not bad for his maiden season in Serie A.

Among his teammates, Kayode ranked sixth for accurate passes per game (34.6) in the top flight, sixth for successful dribbles per game (0.8) and second for tackles per game (two), showing plenty of indications that he belongs at the highest level.

The teenager is also excellent when it comes to one-on-one battles, as he won 4.3 total duels per game in Serie A last season – a success rate of 60% – while being dribbled past on just 0.5 occasions per game, demonstrating his physical strength.

He was highly praised by analyst Ben Mattinson for those precise attributes back in October 2023, who said via X: “Keep an eye out for Michael Kayode this season for Fiorentina. An exciting defensive prospect your team may be looking at. A 1v1 & duel monster Every team needs one.”

Kayode has not been fazed by taking on some of the best attacking players Europe has got to offer since making his debut last term, which means he could be a wonderful asset for Emery to have at Villa.

Could the youngster replace Matty Cash? The English-born Polish defender has been linked with a move away from the Midlands in recent weeks.

The latest on Matty Cash's future at Aston Villa

A couple of weeks ago, journalist Jacob Tanswell of the Athletic stated that AC Milan were showing interest in signing Cash this summer.

Emery isn’t going to let the defender go for cheap, however, especially considering he needs as many funds as he can get during the transfer window.

A £30m price tag has been slapped on the former Nottingham Forest player’s head, although this could prove too much for the Serie A side to pay.

Might the Spaniard find any other potential suitors for Cash in the coming weeks? It looks like he could find himself further down the pecking order by the start of next season.

Kayode could be an upgrade on the 26-year-old, no doubt about that.

How Michael Kayode compares to Matty Cash

Emery likes his full-backs to attack down their respective flanks, and it is clear by looking at the stats that Kayode is better suited to this than Cash.

Indeed, the youngster averaged 0.96 successful take-ons per 90 last term for Fiorentina, while also averaging 0.6 key passes per game.

In comparison, Cash averaged just 0.5 successful take-ons last season, while averaging only 0.4 key passes per game in the Premier League for Villa.

Defensively, Kayode won more total duels (4.3 vs 3.6), more interceptions (0.7 vs 0.6) per game and was dribbled past on fewer occasions per game (0.5 vs 1), which shows that not only is the Fiorentina starlet more effective going forwards, but he can defend well from the right side of the defence.

The most important thing for Emery is Kayode is only going to get better, especially being exposed to some quality attackers in the Premier League.

Cash, on the other hand, is unlikely to improve on his current level, which means cashing in on him right now would make the most sense with regard to long-term planning.

Villa will be looking to make an impression in the Champions League next season as opposed to just being their for the fun of it. Progress will also mean more prize money, which in turn could fund more high quality signings.

Smart investment this summer could see this dream turn into a reality and allow the manager to build a team which has the ability of finishing in the top four again next season, despite losing the likes of Luiz in the transfer window.

Aston Villa want to sign UCL winner who could light it up in Europe

It would be a return to Villa Park for the player

ByJoe Nuttall Jun 20, 2024

Arsenal are back. So some would proclaim anyway. Over the last three matches, Mikel Arteta’s side have scored a combined haul of 13 goals.

It’s amazing what happens when Martin Odegaard is in your team, isn’t it? The skipper missed a 12-game period after the first international break of the season and during that run, the Gunners rather fell off a cliff.

A rugged period between October and November’s international break saw Arsenal fail to win a Premier League game and that means they’re now nine points behind league leaders Liverpool, even if they did hold them to a 2-2 draw.

That said, Manchester United on Wednesday evening are likely to provide a far tougher test than the likes of Nottingham Forest and West Ham United.

As it happens, they’re now managed by Ruben Amorim who used to coach the Sporting team that Arsenal so ruthlessly dispatched in the Champions League a week ago.

The last time Arsenal played Manchester United at the Emirates

“Gabriel Jesus, he’s sat down one, and he’s won the game!” The roar from Peter Drury was glorious if you are an Arsenal supporter.

What a game this was back in September 2023. Arteta’s side needed a big win early in the Premier League campaign and that’s precisely what they got, defeating their old rivals 3-1 at the Emirates.

They were made to work incredibly hard for it, however. Marcus Rashford opened the scoring on 27 minutes before Odegaard hit back just a minute later.

We had to wait until injury time for the game to be decided though. That wasn’t before Alejandro Garnacho scored but saw his strike cruelly disallowed, a goal dear old Erik ten Hag probably still suggests was onside to this day.

2.27

xG

0.94

55%

Possession

45%

2

Big chances

1

17

Total shots

10

12

Corner kicks

3

532

Passes

462

11

Tackles

15

55

Ball recoveries

43

30

Ground duels won

27

13

Aerial duels won

13

Alas, the rub of the green was not with the Red Devils on that sunny afternoon. In the 96th minute, the ball fell to mega-money summer arrival Declan Rice at the back home who lashed home via a deflection for his first goal in Arsenal colours.

Off he went, darting away towards the corner flag, engulfed by his teammates. What a moment. The Emirates was bedlam.

The match was then decided in the 101st minute. The hosts broke from a corner through the lesser-spotted Fabio Vieira. He slid in Jesus who cooly sat Diogo Dalot down before sticking the ball past Andre Onana.

Arsenal will hope for a slightly less dramatic affair on Wednesday but they will take three points in any way they come as they look to chase down Liverpool.

Arsenal team and injury news

The North London side may have Odegaard back in the fold but this doesn’t look like a fully fit squad just yet.

The big news we await concerns defensive stalwart Gabriel Magalhaes. The Brazilian took a blow to the face at the London Stadium, an incident that saw him win a penalty for his side.

That being said, he was withdrawn at half-time with Arsenal citing management of the knock he picked up in Lisbon a few days prior.

Mikel Merino and Thomas Partey were both absent from the matchday squad against West Ham and could miss out again. Merino sat out last time owing to a knee injury while Partey’s issue was described as muscular, meaning the £33m and £45m signings are both doubts.

While their involvement remains more uncertain, full-backs Ben White and Takehiro Tomiyasu definitely remain out.

Arsenal's predicted lineup vs Manchester United

With Merino and Partey still doubts for Wednesday evening’s clash, it means a relatively unchanged team is likely to take to the field at the Emirates.

The undisputed number one, David Raya, maintains his place between the sticks and providing Gabriel is fit after Saturday evening’s substitution, will have an unchanged defence in front of him.

Jorginho shone in the win at the former Olympic Stadium and deserves to keep his place next to Declan Rice.

There might be claims for Kai Havertz to be rested but after scoring in consecutive fixtures he starts ahead of Jesus again.

The only change to the starting lineup will see Leandro Trossard drop out. Like Havertz, the Belgian has scored in successive outings but with Gabriel Martinelli waiting in the wings and ready to torment United’s defence with his pace, this feels like an ideal match for the Brazilian.

Saka loves him: Arsenal must unleash amazing star who Man Utd nearly signed

The incredible star is undroppable for Arsenal ahead of their match with Manchester United.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Dec 4, 2024

Seamus Coleman, Nathan Patterson, Ashley Young and Ben Godfrey have all tried to fill the void at right-back within Sean Dyche’s Everton side, but none of the players have managed to hold down the role on a consistent basis.

Scottish youngster Patterson only managed 20 appearances in 2023/24, but missed the majority of the end of the campaign due to a hamstring injury, with his fitness preventing him from a regale role.

Experienced defender Young is merely a short-term fix, with the 38-year-old no doubt coming to the tail end of his playing career, despite being offered a new one-year deal at Goodison just a couple of weeks ago.

Such are the injury problems, centre-back Godfrey has often filled in out of position, doing an admirable job, but not enough to secure a permanent starting role on Merseyside – amid reports that he could be on his way this summer.

Fan-favourite Coleman has been at Goodison since 2009, but like Patterson, the 35-year-old – who made just 15 appearances last term – has struggled with fitness with Dyche needing to invest in a new starting full-back during the off-season.

In recent weeks, Everton have been credited with an interest in one defender who has excelled during the 2023/24 campaign, with his abilities allowing one Toffees player to reach the next level.

Everton interested in signing Coleman replacement

According a report from Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg last month, Everton have registered interest in AZ Alkmaar right-back Yukinari Sugawara, but face competition from multiple other sides in Europe.

The 23-year-old also has admirers from fellow Premier League side Brighton as well as Wolfsburg and Serie A champions Inter Milan, with the Japanese talent having just one year left on his current deal.

Plettenberg also claims that he has a €6m (£5m) valuation that will need to be met this summer, with the Toffees potentially grabbing themselves a bargain.

Given Everton’s current situation in the right-back position, it’s a no-brainer with Dyche needing to pursue a move for the international ace, with Sugawara’s talents allowing striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin to increase his goal tally next season.

Why Sugawara would be perfect for DCL at Everton

Although he’s a defender, Sugawara has impressed with his attacking stats this season – creating endless opportunities in the final third for AZ in the Eredivisie.

The “outstanding” 23-year-old, as described by analyst Ben Mattinson, has registered a total of four goals and seven assists – a tally that led Maarten Martens’ side to a fourth-placed finish, allowing them to compete in the Europa League next season.

Something of an assist machine, the in-demand ace also averaged 0.3 assists per 90, whilst making 6.3 crosses, a figure that current Everton forward Calvert-Lewin would love should Sugawara be able to carry his form over to Merseyside if he is to join the Toffees.

Games

30

Goals + assists

11

Assists per 90

0.3

Passes per 90

70

Progressive passes per 90

5.4

Crosses per 90

6.3

Dyche has often relied on the former Sheffield United striker to provide the goals for his side in recent months, with Calvert-Lewin only able to operate on limited opportunities from his teammates.

The 27-year-old managed to notch up a total of seven Premier League goals in 2023/24, averaging 2.9 shots per game – the most of any player within Dyche’s side.

Games

32

Goals

7

Shots per 90

0.3

Aerials won per 90

70

Aerial success rate

49%

However, it was his aerial ability that impressed most, winning 5.7 aerials per 90, at a success rate of 49%, with his talent in the air a real focus of the Toffees’ playstyle.

His ability in the air, coupled with Sugawara’s desire to attack and whip balls into the box could transform Everton, leading them further clear of any danger and allowing Calvert-Lewin to finally reach his full potential.

Coleman, undoubtedly, has been a beloved servant at Goodison over the years, although now has come for Dyche and co to acquire a worthwhile, youthful replacement.

What Everton's starting XI could look like after £85m+ spending spree

The Toffees will be looking to strengthen this summer despite the looming PSR threats.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 9, 2024

It’s safe to say Nottingham Forest’s recruitment since promotion back to the Premier League in 2022 has been hit and miss, with many players either exceeding or underperforming based on their expectations.

However, that was to be expected, with the Reds making over 30 new additions to the squad, as Evangelos Marinakis demonstrated his ambition for the club in their first top-flight campaign in 23 years.

Players such as Murillo, Morgan Gibbs-White and Callum Hudson-Odoi have all arrived at the City Ground, with the trio evidence of the good business conducted by the hierarchy, especially after they have all been touted with big-money moves away already this summer.

Despite their respective successes in the East Midlands, numerous players have been extremely disappointing, resulting in moves away after short stints on Trentside.

Gustavo Scarpa arrived at the club with huge expectations following his award-winning season in Brazil, but ultimately left the club after just ten appearances, failing to score or assist a single goal.

However, the club also employed one player who simply failed to make his mark for the Reds, with Nuno Espírito Santo making the right call in allowing him to depart the City Ground this summer.

Cheikhou Kouyate’s stats at Nottingham Forest

After arriving on a free transfer from fellow Premier League side Crystal Palace during the summer of 2022, Cheikhou Kouyate was brought in to provide needed Premier League experience to a relatively inexperienced Forest side.

The 34-year-old agreed a two-year deal upon his arrival at the City Ground, with Kouyate looking to have one final stint in the Premier League.

During his first season at the club, the midfielder made 21 appearances in the league – with the Senegal international starting just seven times and scoring a solitary goal during the 2022/23 season.

This season he's taken up a squad role at the club, making just 12 appearances. However, he's found starts even harder to come by with just two during the duration of the 2023/24 campaign, with both coming under former boss Steve Cooper.

With his contract expiring at the end of the month, the club confirmed he would be departing the Reds at the end of his current deal – ending his two-year stint at the City Ground.

Wages

£4.6m

£45k-p/w

Games

36

£128k

Starts

9

£511k

Minutes played

1,288'

£3.6k

Goals

1

£4.6m

How much Cheikhou Kouyate earned at Nottingham Forest

The deal to bring Kouyate to the City Ground saw the club fork out £45k-per-week on the midfielder, with the former Palace man originally one of the club's highest earners after promotion.

During his time at Forest, the 34-year-old, who’s previously been dubbed as “dreadful” by journalist Jacob Steinberg during his time in English football, has pocketed £4.6m in wages – with Kouyate failing to justify any of his hefty weekly earnings during his time at the club.

His weekly wage during his time in the East Midlands is higher than a plethora of key first-team members including the aforementioned Murillo, who only earns £30k-per-week, despite his excellent first season in English football that saw him claim Forest’s Player of the Season award.

Andrew Omobamidele

£35k-p/w

Nicolas Dominguez

£35k-p/w

Danilo

£30k-p/w

Murillo

£30k-p/w

Ryan Yates

£25k-p/w

Anthony Elanga

£25k-p/w

Undoubtedly, at the time the deal to bring the Senegalese midfielder to the City Ground seemed like shrewd business.

However, it's clear to see he's not up to the level required for the Premier League anymore, with Nuno making the right call to cut him loose in their attempts to avoid another PSR breach next season.

Financial Fair Play: What is PSR, how does it work and who's in trouble?

Leicester City have become the latest club charged with an alleged PSR breach, but what could happen next?

ByStephan Georgiou Apr 16, 2024

In an ever more globalised game, and one obsessed with transfer activity, it’s easy to forget that there is perhaps even greater pleasure for supporters at seeing a homegrown talent emerge – not least at a club like Manchester United.

The modern, post-Sir Alex Ferguson era has been a rocky one, but arguably the brightest lights have emerged from Carrington, be it Marcus Rashford under Louis van Gaal, Scott McTominay under Jose Mourinho and Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo under Erik ten Hag.

The debate over whether it was right to move them on or not will continue to rage, but it is telling that three of that notable list of four are no longer part of the first-team ranks at Old Trafford, with Mainoo also now on the periphery under Ruben Amorim.

In an era of PSR and pure profit, academy sales have remarkably almost become incentivised, with the INEOS regime likely to be tempted to sell the 20-year-old sensation should his bit-part role continue.

For all the question marks over his suitability to Amorim’s system, it would be a crying shame if Mainoo were to depart in 2026 or beyond, with the 2024 FA Cup final hero surely deserving of a prime place as the centre-piece of the club’s long-term project.

The only saving grace, thankfully, is that the Stockport-born starlet isn’t the only rising star currently on the books – the Red Devils do at least have another talent on the conveyor belt to turn to.

Why Man Utd’s midfield could be completely overhauled in 2026

It is not hyperbole to suggest that there are question marks surrounding every senior midfielder in Amorim’s side right now, with drastic change likely to occur in that department, be it in January or next summer.

As already alluded too, Mainoo – in the short-term at least – looks destined to move on, amid talk of a loan move, with the ten-cap England international yet to even start a Premier League game this season.

The man he is directly competing with – as suggested by Amorim in the past – is Bruno Fernandes, albeit with the Portuguese genius’ own future up for debate, having come close to joining Saudi side Al Hilal over the summer.

At 31, the former Sporting CP certainly has plenty left in the tank, although he did hint that he will consider his situation again following next year’s World Cup, with his current deal set to expire in the summer of 2027.

Speaking of expiring contracts, there has been little news regarding the future of Casemiro, with the resurgent Brazilian’s current deal coming to a climax in June.

Currently raking in a reported £350k-per-week, the 33-year-old would seemingly have to take a significant pay cut to stay put in Manchester, with United and Amorim in need of a long-term replacement regardless, considering his age.

Manuel Ugarte was meant to be that defensive-minded, ball-winning successor, although the Uruguayan – starter in just two league games in 2025/26 – is also running out of rope at Old Trafford, in what is his second season at the club.

Games (starts)

29 (22)

9 (2)

Goals

1

0

Assists

2

0

Big chances created

3

0

Key passes*

0.3

0.1

Pass accuracy*

89%

86%

Total duels won*

53%

59%

Balls recovered*

4.2

2.2

Dribbled past*

1.3

0.4

Possession lost*

6.2

3.4

Having been given a dressing down by Amorim in front of his teammates following the Europa League final – in which he played no part – the former Sporting man is getting no favouritism right now, far from it, having yet to convince he is of United quality.

The 24-year-old is the de facto third-choice midfielder at present, although that is not a status he has warranted, with club legend Gary Neville putting it best when describing him as “not good enough” after the Manchester derby.

In truth, an in-house replacement is needed, both this season and beyond.

Man Utd’s new Mainoo can replace Ugarte

Ten Hag has become a figure of ridicule for many, but it’s easy to forget the initial progress he had made in the United dugout, setting a sinking ship back on course again following that initial calamity at Brentford.

In February 2023, for instance, United reached their apex under the Dutchman, memorably seeing off Barcelona in the Europa League, while also securing a deserved 2-0 win over Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final.

In the aftermath of that triumph, Ten Hag turned from short-term celebrations to long-term thinking, making a beeline for a 17-year-old Mainoo amid the jubilation, seemingly outlining that the teenager would have a part to play in such scenes later down the line.

While injury ensured it took until November 2023 for a first-team role to truly emerge – after making just three appearances in 2022/23 – Ten Hag’s faith in Mainoo was more than warranted, following his Man of the Match Premier League debut at Goodison.

Almost exactly two years on, and with Everton again the opponent, Amorim might well consider unleashing the next Mainoo-shaped figure into the midfield, in the form of Carrington sensation, Jack Fletcher.

The man who kept the club’s matchday academy record alive against Spurs, having been named on the bench in the absence of Mainoo, Fletcher – son of Darren and brother of fellow youth-team star, Tyler – is inching ever closer to a senior bow, with midfield evidently an area to address for Amorim.

Described as among the “best young players in England”, in the view of analyst and Como scout Ben Mattinson, the left-footed Fletcher looks primed for a left-sided central midfield role, having also been trialled at left-back in recent times in the youth ranks.

In the view of Mattinson, the 18-year-old is “one of the most technical of the lot” in the academy set-up, with his elegance and athleticism also ensuring he has “everything you’d want” from a left-sided number eight.

An England youth international, the former Manchester City starlet has enjoyed a promising 2025/26 thus far with three goals and one assist from ten recorded games, as per Transfermarkt, notably netting in the EFL Trophy defeat to Barnsley, prior to seeing red.

Oakwell was previously the scene for the standout moment of his United journey to date, as the Englishman netted twice to claim a comeback 3-2 win in the same competition last season, including an outrageous, long-range half volley at the death.

Much like there was an appetite for transfers over the summer, there is a real desire among the United faithful to see the next Mainoo, the next McTominay emerge in the coming weeks and months.

In The Pipeline

Football FanCast’s In the Pipeline series aims to uncover the very best youth players in world football.

With Mainoo, unfortunately, on the fringes, and Ugarte simply not up to scratch, Fletcher might well be primed to sneak into the mix as a genuine challenger to Casemiro before too long.

He's "much better" than Sesko: Man Utd pursuing "one of the best CFs in PL"

Manchester United could land a new centre-forward just months after landing Benjamin Sesko.

ByEthan Lamb Nov 21, 2025

Leeds United have been linked with making an out of work manager their next boss and a new update has dropped regarding the situation, amid doubts over Daniel Farke’s future.

The Whites sit 16th in the Premier League table currently, with four defeats in their last five matches in the competition seeing the pressure increase on Farke and Marco Rose linked with replacing him.

That said, Sky Sports‘ Zinny Boswell has recently played down rumours of Farke being relieved of his duties any time soon, although there is a tough run of fixtures on the horizon.

“Leeds have no plans to change their head coach as things stand amid growing discontent among supporters and, after taking 11 points from 11 Premier League games, the club and Farke feel the team are currently on course to achieve their goal of survival.

“Sitting one point above the relegation zone, Leeds have the hardest schedule in the Premier League over the next five matches, according to Opta, with Aston Villa, Chelsea and Liverpool visiting Elland Road as well as trips to Manchester City and Brentford. The fact Farke’s scheduled in for broadcast interviews next week is as strong an indication as any that he will be in the hot seat for at least some of those games and, although it is a daunting run, there is a belief internally that the Elland Road factor is a reason for optimism.”

"Available" Rodgers linked with replacing Farke at Leeds

Now, speaking to Leeds United News, journalist Graeme Bailey has discussed Brendan Rodgers being Leeds’ next boss, saying he could be a strong option something which “piles the pressure” on Farke.

There is plenty to admire about Rodgers as a manager, should he become a genuine option for Leeds, with the 52-year-old winning the FA Cup with Leicester City in 2021 and guiding Celtic to four Scottish Premiership titles, among other trophies.

He is an attack-minded manager famed for playing good football in a 4-3-3 formation, and he has huge experience in the Premier League, even coming close to winning the title with Liverpool back in 2013/14, entertaining the masses and getting the best out of the likes of Luis Suarez and Steven Gerrard.

Farke must drop Ampadu to unleash Leeds star who's like Declan Rice

Daniel Farke could boldly drop Ethan Ampadu by unleashing this Leeds United star in a new role.

ByDan Emery Nov 16, 2025

That said, it doesn’t appear as though 49ers Enterprises are going to rush into a decision with Farke for the time being, but the situation could change if they struggle in these tough upcoming games.

Leeds now eyeing 4-4-2 "quick and dynamic" manager to replace Daniel Farke

Some of the most expensive players in European football just so happen to be some of the youngest. The next generation is officially breaking through, scrambling to take football’s crown in the Premier League, La Liga and across Europe.

CIES have ranked the most valuable teenagers in world football, and some of them also feature in the 2026 Ballon d’Or rankings, with Lamine Yamal next in line to become football royalty. The Barcelona winger finished second behind Ousmane Dembele in the last edition and is highly-tipped to take his crown in 2026.

But he’s not entirely alone in that battle. CIES’ list also includes four Premier League talents, and as English football continues to attract some of the world’s best players, there’s no denying that it could produce its best generation yet.

Lamine Yamal

Barcelona

€349.6m

Estevao Willian

Chelsea

€118.1m

Pau Cubarsi

Barcelona

€112.7m

Franco Mastantuono

Real Madrid

€102.4m

Warren Zaire-Emery

PSG

€92.3m

Ethan Nwaneri

Arsenal

€88.1m

Myles Lewis-Skelly

Arsenal

€84.8m

Geovany Quenda

Sporting CP

€80.2m

Endrick Felipe

Real Madrid

€73.2m

Lucas Bergvall

Tottenham

€68m

10 Lucas Bergvall (Tottenham): €68m

At just 19 years old, Lucas Bergvall is already an important member of Thomas Frank’s squad at Tottenham Hotspur. One of four Premier League players in the top 10, the Swede is valued at as much as €68m. The only way is up for the midfielder and that value, too. Whether that development ends in North London is the big question.

Bergvall has the talent to reach the highest heights in the Premier League – something that has not historically arrived at Spurs. Having already had a taste of trophies when winning the Europa League last season, the teenager will be one to watch in the coming years.

9 Endrick Felipe (Real Madrid): €73.2m

Although Endrick has endured a tough time under Xabi Alonso and is likely to head out on loan in the January transfer window, he remains one of the most impressive teenagers in European football. The Brazilian arrived in Spain for as much as €72m in 2022 and has since maintained that value in the last two years.

Now 19 years old, he simply needs the game time that he won’t be getting any time soon at Real Madrid. Whether that means a move to the Premier League or elsewhere remains to be seen. The likes of West Ham United and Manchester United have already been mentioned as reported suitors in what would be quite the move this winter.

8 Geovany Quenda (Sporting CP): €80.2m

Geovany Quenda’s place on this list comes as no surprise. The impressive winger is already reportedly on his way to Chelsea next summer after the Blues agreed a deal worth a combined £62.4m (€71m) to sign both him and teammate Dario Essugo in advance. Those at Stamford Bridge have made a reputation for sweeping up young players in recent years and Quenda will be next to arrive.

Chelsea should be glad that they got in when they did. According to CIES, the 18-year-old is now valued at as much as €80.2m on his own, let alone with Essugo. Set to combine with the likes of Cole Palmer and others next season, Enzo Maresca will be hoping to see a teenage star realise his potential in full at Stamford Bridge.

7 Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal): €84.2m

An England international and mainstay in the Arsenal squad, it feels absurd that Myles Lewis-Skelly is still just 19 years old. The Gunners’ famous Hale End academy has produced yet another gem and one of the most valued teenagers in European football. Although, it’s difficult to imagine the left-back being anywhere but in North London.

It’s a scary thought that the best is yet to come from Lewis-Skelly, who is already valued at as much as €84.2m by CIES and is set to play a crucial part in Arsenal’s Premier League title ambitions.

6 Ethan Nwaneri (Arsenal): €88.1m

Speaking of Hale End graduates, Ethan Nwaneri has been valued at a staggering €88.1m by CIES – making him the sixth most-valued teenager in European football.

Like Lewis-Skelly, the 18-year-old’s inclusion is no real surprise. The impressive attacker hasn’t been without his injury issues at times, but if any onlooker wants to discover his talent in full, then it’s worth watching his stunning goal against Manchester City last season.

That fact that Nwaneri burst onto the scene just a few years after Bukayo Saka emerged proves just how stacked Arsenal’s academy is with the next generation of stars.

5 Warren Zaire-Emery (PSG): €92.1m

Breaking into a side as dominant as PSG’s is no easy task, but Warren Zaire-Emery featured in 13 of their 15 Champions League games last season as they secured European glory as part of a historic treble.

At 19 years old, the Frenchman is only likely to play a larger part as the years tick by, taking his place alongside the likes of Joao Neves in Luis Enrique’s midfield.

Meanwhile, if anyone wants to take the midfielder off PSG’s hands, then it could cost them as much as €92.1m. Having graduated from the French side’s academy to become one of their most promising stars, his future looks almost certain to lie at the home of the European champions.

4 Franco Mastantuono (Real Madrid): €102.4m

Into three figures, Real Madrid’s Franco Mastuono is worth as much as €102.4m, according to CIES. The talented 18-year-old only arrived at Madrid in the summer in a deal worth around €45m, but is already looking like an excellent signing for the future. Unlike Endrick, he’s been thrown straight into Alonso’s plans and has even earned a number of starts at his new club.

One of the best teenagers that European football has to offer, Real Madrid have undeniably landed another gem at what should prove to be a bargain price in years to come.

3 Pau Cubarsi (Barcelona): €112.7m

The first and only defender on this list, Pau Cubarsi already plays a crucial part in Hansi Flick’s Barcelona side. It speaks volumes that the 18-year-old is often selected over the more experienced Ronald Araujo and that’s reflected in CIES’ €112.7m valuation.

Whilst the La Masia academy has produced some great attacking talents over the years, they’ll be relieved to have unearthed such an impressive defensive gem and someone who should be at the heart of their backline for years to come.

2 Estevao Willian (Chelsea): €118.1m

In years to come, many supporters around European football are going to be wondering how exactly Chelsea won the race for Estevao Willian. Whilst the likes of Florian Wirtz and Xavi Simons have struggled to adjust to life in the Premier League, the Blues’ 18-year-old Brazilian has thrived in the face of endless opportunities at Stamford Bridge.

Although those in West London have missed with a number of young signings, they’ve undoubtedly hit the mark by signing Estevao. Their teenager is destined for greatness and is already valued at €118.1m.

1 Lamine Yamal (Barcelona): €349.6m

It was always going to be him, wasn’t it? Yamal isn’t just the most valued teenager in European football, but he’s one of the most valued players in the world. He is next in line for football’s throne. This generation’s answer to Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo – that’s the level that Barcelona have produced once again.

Even with that pressure on his shoulders, the Spaniard has continued to thrive – becoming the main man at Barcelona in just a couple of years. Still just 18 years old but already outrageously talented, CIES value Yamal at as much as €349.6m – more than double the amount they valued second-place Estevao.

Celtic return to action in the Scottish Premiership on Saturday as they prepare to travel away from Parkhead to take on Hearts in the evening kick-off.

The Hoops have had a two-week break, thanks to the last international window of 2024, and will be hoping to pick up where they left off, having won ten of their 11 matches in the league thus far.

Brendan Rodgers will be hoping that all of his stars return from international duty without any injury issues that could keep them out for the upcoming matches in the Premiership and the Champions League.

He may, therefore, be thankful that his three Japanese gems barely featured for their country, as Kyogo Furuhashi and Reo Hatate made one substitute appearance each, whilst Daizen Maeda featured in both games as a substitute.

The trio were not overworked by Japan in their two matches and will now return to Celtic fresh and ready to compete, and possibly start, against Hearts on Saturday.

Hatate has faced serious competition for his place in the starting XI for the Scottish giants this season, though, with the additions of Arne Engels and Luke McCowan, and the return of Paulo Bernardo, in the summer.

Reo Hatate's form for Celtic

The 26-year-old star has still managed to make the line-up on a regular basis in the Premiership, with nine starts in 11 matches, and that speaks to how much Rodgers trusts him.

Hatate, who was restricted to 16 league outings last term through injury, has prevented McCowan and Bernardo from being regular starters in the top-flight, with Engels and Callum McGregor the usual picks alongside him in the midfield three.

The Japan international has earned his place in the starting XI with dynamic and quality performances in the middle of the park, as he has been able to showcase his ability in possession.

Appearances

11

Goals

3

Big chances created

4

Assists

0

Key passes per game

1.3

As you can see in the table above, Hatate has provided quality as both a scorer and a creator from a midfield position for Celtic in the Premiership, and he has been unfortunate not to register a single assist so far.

His return of zero assists from four ‘big chances’ created and 14 key passes suggests that his teammates have let him down with their wasteful finishing in the final third, as they have not made the most of his creativity.

The midfield whiz has also produced one goal and one assist in four matches in the Champions League for Celtic, starting three of those matches on the European stage, with his goal coming against RB Leipzig earlier this month.

Despite Hatate’s strong form in all competitions this season, Rodgers could go and land an upgrade on the Hoops star by swooping for one of the club’s reported transfer targets – Lennon Miller.

Celtic's interest in Lennon Miller

The Daily Mail recently reported that Celtic are interested in a potential move to sign the Scotland U21 international from Premiership rivals Motherwell when the January transfer window opens for business.

It was claimed that the Hoops and their Glasgow rivals Rangers are both preparing swoops to snap the Scottish starlet up ahead of the second half of the season.

The report added, however, that Premier League giants Liverpool are also keeping tabs on the 18-year-old dynamo and could join the race for his signature. This suggests that Celtic and Rangers could face some serious competition for his services, as Arne Slot’s side are currently top of the English top-flight and could be an attractive destination.

Celtic were dealt a blow by the attraction of a move to Anfield in 2022 when 16-year-old starlet Ben Doak decided to move on from Parkhead to join the Reds for a compensation fee of £600k.

The Bhoys will be hoping that the allure of the Premier League does not hurt them again, as Miller could be an excellent addition to Rodgers’ squad in January.

It was reported by the Daily Mail that Motherwell are set to hold out for a fee of around £4m and Celtic must now splash out to sign him as quickly as possible, to stop Liverpool or Rangers from beating them to his signature.

Transfer Focus

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

Journalist Mark Guidi recently claimed a fee of £3.5m plus add-ons would be a “bargain” for the Hoops and added that the “hot” sensation has the potential to get “hotter” in the future, suggesting that Celtic could then make a big profit further down the line.

Why Lennon Miller would be an upgrade on Reo Hatate

Rodgers should push for the board to snap the Scottish teenager up when the January transfer window opens for business because his performances in the Premiership this season have been nothing short of outstanding.

Miller only turned 18 in August and has already established himself as one of the stars in his position in the league, after playing 25 times as a 17-year-old in the division last season.

As you can see in the clip above, the teenage sensation did showcase his quality against Celtic earlier this year, spinning McGregor and providing a brilliant assist.

He used the 2023/24 campaign to settle into senior football and gain vital experience in the Premiership by playing week-in-week-out for Motherwell, and is now kicking on and thriving.

Appearances

11

11

Goals

2

3

Big chances created

5

4

Key passes per game

2.1

1.3

Tackles + interceptions per game

3.0

1.7

Ball recoveries per game

6.5

3.6

As you can see in the table above, Miller has offered a similar level of quality to Hatate in the final third, as they have both produced seven goals and ‘big chances’ created combined in the Premiership.

However, the Scottish starlet has provided far more to his team out of possession as a defensive and combative presence in the middle of the park, with 9.5 tackles, interceptions, and recoveries per game.

These statistics suggest that Miller would come in at Parkhead as an upgrade on the Japan international, by offering the same qualities at the top end of the pitch whilst being far better off the ball to protect his defence.

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At the age of 18, he is also eight years younger than Hatate and has more time ahead of him to develop and improve, which is why Rodgers must swoop to bring him to Glasgow in January.

Last season, Tottenham Hotspur were made to bemoan defensive injuries. Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven missed extensive periods through injury. As did full-back Destiny Udogie.

Is it any great surprise, therefore, that Ange Postecoglou’s backline looked such a mess? Perhaps not, but the Aussie was still stubborn enough to refuse change.

Thomas Frank certainly seems more flexible with his style of football but one of the first things he has corrected is that leaky backline.

Only three teams, Arsenal (3), Manchester City (6) and Sunderland (6), have shipped fewer goals than Spurs (7) in the top-flight this term.

Yet, are things beginning to unravel in similar circumstances to Ange? Like the club’s former boss, Frank has now suffered his first big injury blow at the back.

Romero limped off during the warm-up of their game with Aston Villa and after initially being selected, was not fit enough to start. Without their captain, the Lilywhites suffered a 2-1 defeat.

Frank won’t fret quite yet, but he must find a way to get more of a tune out of his attack. Big-money summer signing Xavi Simons will play a big part in that.

Why Spurs need to see improvement from Xavi Simons

Even before James Maddison suffered a terrible ACL injury during pre-season, Frank and Co had made efforts to bring Nottingham Forest talisman Morgan Gibbs-White to north London.

We all know how that saga ended but Spurs’ pursuit of a new dynamic number 10 seemed cursed at one point.

It looked for all the world as though they were set to sign Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace. A deal was agreed and he was allegedly on his way to Spurs. Instead, a last-minute U-turn saw him head to boyhood club Arsenal. The solution was Simons.

The Dutchman had been courted by Chelsea but it was the Blues’ London rivals who eventually concluded a deal, snapping him up for £52m, a move that made him Spurs’ fifth-most expensive signing of all time.

This was an exciting acquisition. After all, he did score 11 goals and register eight assists for RB Leipzig in Germany last season.

Sadly, we’re yet to see the best of him in white. He is yet to complete a full 90 minutes in the Premier League and his only goal involvement, an assist against West Ham, came on his English top-flight debut. The Netherlands maestro has not scored or assisted since then.

West Ham (A)

71

1

Brighton (A)

29

0

Wolves (H)

78

0

Leeds (A)

74

0

Aston Villa (H)

79

0

For such a big-money signing, Frank needs to see more from him but it’s not as though he isn’t trying. Perhaps there’s a simple solution to all of this; Spurs need better players in their forward line.

How Spurs can get more out of Xavi Simons

How supporters must long for the days of Harry Kane and a prime Heung-min Son.

The duo aren’t showing any signs of slowing down away from Spurs with Kane simply in the form of his life this campaign, netting 19 times in 11 games for Bayern Munich.

As far as Son is concerned, he’s been lighting up MLS with his displays for LA FC. The South Korean has nine goals and three assists in his first ten outings for the club.

So, to see where the Spurs forward line is now will no doubt make a few fans hide behind the sofa. Combine the loss of Son with injuries to Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski and you have a real patched-together front line.

Dominik Solanke has played just 31 minutes of league football due to injury in 2025/26 while Richarlison has only beaten the goalkeeper once in his last seven Premier League matches.

As for the French youngster, Wilson Odobert, he is yet to score at all across ten games in all competitions.

With such a glut of misfiring players, is it any surprise that Simons has endured a difficult beginning at Spurs?

Assists

0.3

0.3

Chances created

2.1

1.7

Passes attempted

46.2

33

Forward passes

12.2

9.3

Sideways passes

22

15.5

A look at the numbers tells us that the Dutch midfielder is struggling without a fluid forward line. Worryingly, he’s playing fewer passes per 90 minutes than he did last season at Leipzig. That ultimately means he’s creating fewer goalscoring opportunities for his teammates.

He needs the players in front of him to make better runs and there is no better example of that than the aforementioned Odobert.

The former Burnley man, signed for £25m, is still a particularly raw prospect. He’s exciting and fleet-footed but he needs to be doing more to help Simons out.

The big-money summer arrival traditionally operates in the pockets of space on the left-hand side and it’s on the left flank where Odobert tends to operate. The clip below demonstrates precisely what we’re talking about.

Mathys Tel has the ball on the edge of the box and all he needs is for a few defenders to be dragged away by an overlapping run from Odobert to potentially feed Simons in acres of space.

What does the Frenchman do? He surges right into the area where Tel is aiming for, reducing the space and cutting out a chance to get a shot or pass away.

Had Odobert made an overlapping run, he’d have created more room for Spurs’ number 7 and potentially even received the ball himself. As Jamie O’Hara said after the game, he and Tel can be “painful” to watch.

The 20-year-old is a marmite figure. He did a fair bit right against Aston Villa, completing four of his five dribbles but he needs better end product.

He missed an OPTA-defined big chance on Sunday and only completed one key pass. If Odobert can marry his trickery with the ability to make better runs and make himself an option for Simons then things will improve.

Until then, however, it would be better if the Netherlands star operated from the left flank instead or someone like Brennan Johnson operated there.

Without a doubt, Liverpool have enjoyed an incredible summer transfer window, with FSG spending like never before to establish Arne Slot’s dynasty.

The Dutch coach replaced Jurgen Klopp and won the Premier League last season, and he did so having welcomed only Federico Chiesa to Anfield for a £12.5m fee. Well, Chiesa only started one league game all season and is expected to depart in the coming weeks.

However, the Italian’s not the only one facing the exit doors this summer.

Liverpool's transfer plans

As Liverpool kicked off their pre-season tour with a 4-2 defeat to AC Milan, they could not call upon Luis Diaz or Darwin Nunez, with the respective forwards set to be sold.

While Liverpool have already spent £79m on forward Hugo Ekitike this summer (breaking the British transfer record to reel Florian Wirtz over too), there’s more to come.

We all know that Alexander Isak is on Liverpool’s radar, having informed Newcastle United of his desire to explore a transfer to Anfield. He did not travel with the Toon for their pre-season tour.

However, talkSPORT have now revealed that Liverpool have ‘signalled their willingness’ to pay for the Sweden international, who has rejected the Magpies’ proposals of a new contract. That comes amid rival interest from Al Hilal, albeit with Saudi Arabian officials believing that he ‘wants to join Liverpool’.

If Liverpool want Isak, they will likely have to break the British record once again, forking out some £130m.

Why Liverpool still want Alexander Isak

This would be a truly remarkable transfer. And it’s beginning to look more and more probable.

Isak, 25, joined Newcastle from Real Sociedad for £63m in 2022, and he’s now renowned as one of the deadliest goalscorers in the world, hailed by Sweden coach Jon Dahl Tomasson for being “the most complete striker” in the Premier League.

While Liverpool’s acquisition of Ekitike might make it feel like this signing would be redundant, this isn’t the case. The respective forwards are both technically sound, but bring different things to the table and could actually become an unstoppable partnership.

Ekitike, 23, is principally a central striker but is known for his pace and power, capable across a range of positional roles. As per FBref, he ranked among the top 10% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues last year for assists, the top 6% for shot-creating actions, and the top 4% for progressive carries and successful take-ons per 90.

Utilising these attributes, Ekitike could bring out the best in Isak, allowing him to focus more on his incredible goalscoring. There’s no question that the United man surpasses his prospective teammate in ball-striking.

24/25

42 (41)

27

6

23/24

40 (36)

25

2

22/23

27 (18)

10

3

The £120k-per-week Sweden native, moreover, has the wealth of Premier League experience, which could prove vital for Ekitike’s development.

With both players in Slot’s system, the coach can manage workloads and utilise the respective strengths of both to the greater effect of his ambitious Liverpool team. The sum is greater than the individual parts, after all.

Given that both strikers are so dynamic, there’s no reason why they couldn’t cohabit at the front of the ship for Liverpool, especially if Nunez is sold in the coming weeks.

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