All posts by z3u9t.icu

Chelsea are apparently willing to bid for a "spectacular" player this summer as chairman Todd Boehly plots to continue the club's lavish spending.

Pochettino faces season-defining next few Chelsea games

Reports have suggested manager Mauricio Pochettino's future at Chelsea could depend on how they perform over their next few matches, especially their crunch EFL Cup final clash with Liverpool at Wembley (Pete O'Rourke).

Journalist shares "key" detail on how Chelsea chiefs could sack Pochettino

Todd Boehly and senior club officials may take action on one condition.

ByEmilio Galantini Feb 7, 2024

The Blues, before their much-needed 3-1 win away to Aston Villa in the FA Cup earlier this week, suffered back-to-back humblings with Liverpool and Wolves putting Pochettino's side to the sword.

This piled pressure on Chelsea's head coach, who has so far failed to build upon the club's near-£400 million summer spending spree last year. Boehly and the club's board have spent over £1 billion in total since Clearlake Capital's takeover in 2022, but that so far hasn't translated to consistently excellent on-field performances.

"We are not good enough [today]," said Pochettino after their defeat to Wolves last weekend.

Lesley Ugochukwu

6.20

Noni Madueke

6.47

Malo Gusto

6.50

Mykhailo Mudryk

6.55

Axel Disasi

6.63

"Myself, also. I’m responsible for this ­situation. What we showed today was not good enough. We didn’t manage the ­situa­tion properly and of course no one can be safe. I don’t want to come here and say I am the best. We’re all responsible.

"The players need to take responsibility like I take responsibility. At the moment we’re not matching the history of the club. That’s true. We need to accept it, be critical but we cannot give up. We’ll work hard to change. If it’s not working in this way, we need to move on and find a different solution."

With the summer window just around the corner, it will be interesting to see if Chelsea dip into the market again to try and solve glaring issues. It is believed they want to strengthen the midfield department further as one example, with news emerging on Barcelona star Frenkie de Jong.

Chelsea willing to bid £85 million for De Jong

The Dutchman is apparently attracting Stamford Bridge interest, and it is believed Chelsea are even willing to bid around £85 million to sign him in the summer.

That is according to journalist Luis Miguelsanz, who wrote as much in an article for Sport this week. De Jong, who is rumoured to be on around £231,000 per week, has been at the centre of contract re-negotiations to disperse his salary over more years at Camp Nou.

However, talks are proving very difficult in what is a complicated situation. If Barcelona are forced to sell their star midfielder, then clubs like PSG and Chelsea are apparently waiting in the wings.

Xavi is in no doubt about the player's quality, though, having called him one of the best midfielders in world football.

"He has been at an extraordinary level for months," Xavi said.

"He gives us a lot. He breaks lines of pressure, he drives forward. He is one of the best midfielders in the world. He's spectacular."

For all the positive strides that Leeds United have made under Daniel Farke this season, it appears likely that the Yorkshire side will have to endure the lottery of the playoffs if they are to secure promotion at the first time of asking, with competition fierce for the places above.

An automatic route back into the Premier League is not out of the question, however, even amid the imperious form of fellow relegated side, Southampton, with a strong start to 2024 having seen the Whites close the gap on high-flyers, Ipswich Town.

To maintain this recent momentum, the Elland Road outfit are likely to require further reinforcements this month in order to strengthen Farke's hand, with one sparkling top-flight talent believed to be on the German's radar.

Leeds want to sign young Premier League sensation

According to a report from Football Insider earlier this week, Leeds are believed to have 'registered their interest' in Liverpool playmaker, Mateusz Musialowski, with the club having been 'making checks' regarding the 20-year-old's availability.

The report revealed that as many as seven clubs had expressed an interest in signing the Polish talent this month, with the Championship side seemingly 'firmly in the race' for a player who is out of contract at the end of the season.

While the Anfield academy ace is yet to secure a first-team appearance under Jurgen Klopp, a move to Elland Road could be the perfect opportunity for this dazzling diamond to showcase his quality at senior level.

Mateusz Musialowski's style of play

Leeds do, of course, already boast their own sparkling youngster in the form of Archie Gray, with the 17-year-old – who has made 30 appearances in all competitions this season – only recently signing a new 'long-term' deal with the club.

The versatile wonderkid – who can feature at right-back or in central midfield – had been the subject of interest from Liverpool, ironically, in recent times, with a fee of £40m having been even been mooted, with that a marker of just what a talent the Englishman truly is.

Leeds could sign Archie Gray 2.0 before the deadline

Leeds could get the best of out this up and coming talent this January.

ByKelan Sarson Jan 22, 2024

In Musialowski, however, Farke could potentially acquire a figure who can go on to even greater heights than Gray, with the Poland U21 international having earned rave reviews amid his performances at youth level to date.

Described as a "Little Messi" by compatriot Jerzy Dudek, as well as being likened to former Chelsea and Belgium hero, Eden Hazard, the 5 foot 9 playmaker has certainly caught the eye in recent years, notably registering eight goals and assists in just 11 games for Liverpool's U21 side this term.

Lauded for his "ridiculous quality" by journalist Lewis Bower last year, the in-demand gem also came to wider attention following a breathtaking solo goal for the Reds back in 2021, even edging out his more senior colleague's to claim the club's Goal of the Month award.

The manner in which the then-teenager weaved his way past a sea of bodies before rifling home a fierce effort on goal made it evident as to why those comparisons with both Messi and Hazard have come about, with Farke no doubt relishing the prospect of having a potential world-beater on his hands.

Managing to make that step up from playing with an academy to thriving at first-team level – as Gray has done effortlessly – is no small feat, yet all the evidence points to Musialowski being able to flourish if afforded a prominent role at Leeds, should a deal be wrapped up this month.

Junior Firpo, in the absence of other left-backs, has stepped up to the mark for Daniel Farke's Leeds United in recent games after his Whites career looked in danger of completely fizzling out at one point.

Firpo has three assists from three after being reinstated into the first team ranks in West Yorkshire, starring against Birmingham City on New Year's Day to show to everyone at Elland Road that he won't just exit the Championship club with a whimper – notching up two assists in a convincing 3-0 home win.

Yet, despite this new lease of life coursing through Firpo's veins encouraging the Leeds fanbase that once got on his back to reevaluate their preconceptions, one transfer development coming out of the Whites could see the ex-Barcelona man's improved game time cut once again.

Leeds looking for a left-back

Linked with the likes of Conor Roberts, Neco Williams and even Ben Davies recently, as per The Athletic it's obvious the problem area Leeds are trying to add depth to this January.

Another name that keeps popping up is West Ham United defender Ben Johnson, who could give Leeds a versatile and adaptable figure that can play anywhere across the defence.

Confirmed to have interest in the Hammers man by Phil Hay, whilst writing for the Athletic this Wednesday, the defender's competence at playing left-back across his time at the London Stadium could have Firpo worrying about his newly found first-team spot.

In detail, Hay wrote: "Johnson is also on the list. The 23-year-old has seen relatively few minutes this season, is on course to be out of contract in the summer and has rejected offers of an extension to his current deal, but Leeds would favour a loan agreement in this window. "

Leeds could land "fantastic" upgrade on Firpo & Spence after Phil Hay reveal

Leeds United could upgrade their defence significantly with this signing, slotting him in alongside an in-form Joe Rodon.

ByKelan Sarson Jan 17, 2024

With TEAMtalk reporting last month that Firpo was talking to former club Real Betis over a possible move back to Spain – before his reintroduction into the starting XI by Farke – this news involving Johnson could see the 27-year-old itch for a move away again.

How Ben Johnson compares to Junior Firpo

Johnson's potential arrival to Elland Road would see Leeds opt for a no-thrills player over the slaloming and exciting nature of Firpo, but a dependable presence who very rarely lets anyone down.

Johnson has come into David Moyes' side when needed without causing any disruption to harmony present at the London Stadium, making 57 Premier League appearances for the Londoners as a useful if unflashy player.

The West Ham number two has arguably excelled playing down the left-hand side when called into action, registering two assists from 22 appearances filling in there.

Described as being a "wonderful professional" by ex-Hammers first team coach Stuart Pearce for his acceptance at being a utility player, he could well be the sort of presence Farke fancies during a promotion push.

Firpo, in stark contrast, struggled when Leeds were in the top-flight – only helping the Whites keep one clean sheet from the 19 times he featured during their disastrous relegation season down to the second tier.

On top of that, the 27-year-old would only help himself to a singular assist from those games with a dire 6.55 Sofascore rating averaged over the pitiful campaign.

With the likes of Archie Gray and Joe Rodon comfortable on the ball and progressing up the field, Johnson's addition could also give the Whites a dogged defender who is unafraid to do the dirty work away from beginning attacking moves.

The 23-year-old trumps Firpo when it comes to undergoing his basic defensive duties according to FBRef, bettering the revitalised Leeds defender in aerials won with Johnson winning 1.48 per 90 minutes over the last year compared to Firpo's 1.01.

Yet, Johnson won't hesitate in helping his team push further up the field if needed with the fringe Hammers defender bettering Firpo surprisingly in progressive carries with 1.97 managed to Firpo's lesser 1.44.

Former West Ham player Frank McAvennie commented on the potential of this deal with Football Insider, stating that the Whites would be gaining a "quality" player who could help steer the West Yorkshire titans to a pivotal promotion.

Proving himself to be an all-rounder at the London Stadium, Farke should go all in for the services of the wantaway 23-year-old with Firpo prone to blowing hot and cold across his topsy-turvy Leeds career to date.

It would be hard to call Chelsea's season anything other than a disaster at present, as with over half of their Premier League games now played, they sit in tenth place and look a million miles off of Champions League qualification.

That said, Mauricio Pochettino has guided his side into the fourth round of the FA Cup and to a League Cup semi-final, although they'll head into the second leg of that tie 1-0 down to Championship outfit Middlesbrough.

There are plenty of problems with the Blues this year, but one of the main ones is their frontline's inability to put away the decent amount of chances they're given.

With this problem practically impossible not to notice, the club have been linked with a number of quality number nines this window, including Brentford's Ivan Toney, although they would be better served going after the latest name touted for a move to west London: Brighton & Hove Albion's Evan Ferguson.

Chelsea transfer news – Evan Ferguson

According to the Evening Standard, Chelsea are on the lookout for a new striker in 2024, and Brighton's Irish sensation Ferguson is one of their targets as they have been 'long-term admirers' of the teenager.

The report has revealed that while the interest from the Blues is genuine, so is the desire of the Seagulls to keep hold of their tremendously exciting talent.

This determination to keep their budding superstar for a bit longer, combined with his new contract that is set to run until summer 2029, means that if the Pensioners are to sign him this year, it'll cost at least £100m, and based on their business with the south coast side in the summer, there is every chance it could end up being more than that.

However, with the alternatives in Victor Osimhen and Toney set to cost just as much, if not more, it might be wiser for Chelsea to sign the much younger Ferguson with the expectation that he could lead the line for over a decade or be sold on for an even bigger fee down the line.

Chelsea can forget about Toney with Ferguson

Now, were Chelsea to end up with the Brentford ace instead of Ferguson, it really wouldn't be the end of the world, as the Englishman's fantastic finishing would practically guarantee that the Blues would climb up the table in the second half of the season – having scored 20 league goals last season.

However, aside from ability, two key factors make a move for the Brighton man, whom Chris Sutton described as being "as ruthless as they come", more appealing.

First, for as fantastic and game-changing as Toney can be, he hasn't played any football since he was banned for betting offences in May, and so to expect him to come in right away and play at his best is probably quite naive.

Second, at 27 years old, he is eight years the Irishman's senior, and while 27 is not old in modern football, he'll have significantly less time to make an impact at Stamford Bridge.

With that said, how do the pair's underlying numbers compare? Well, when comparing the pair's output last season – there is nothing to look at for Toney this year – there is not an awful lot to pick between the two.

While the former Newcastle United striker outdoes his competition in metrics such as goals scored, goals per shot on target, and aerial duels won per 90, he comes out second best in numerous other areas.

Stats per 90

Ferguson

Toney

Goals

0.57

0.61

Non-Penalty Expected Goals + Assists

0.57

0.56

Progressive Passes

1.32

2.41

Progressive Carries

1.04

0.43

Shots on Target

1.61

1.01

Goals per Shot on Target

0.35

0.42

Passing Accuracy

80.0%

59.55

Shot-Creating Actions

2.08

2.01

Goal-Creating Actions

0.19

0.24

Successful Take-Ons

0.75

0.49

Aerial Duels Won

0.85

3.32

All Stats via FBref for the 2022/23 Domestic Season

In comparison, the "complete" Seagulls prospect, as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, comes out on top for non-penalty expected goals and assists, progressive carries, shots on target, passing accuracy, shot-creating actions and successful take-ons per 90.

Chelsea can supercharge Sterling with £103m star who's "better than Haaland"

The 25-year-old could turn the Englishman into the Premier League’s assist king.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jan 12, 2024

At the end of the day, their numbers demonstrate that Chelsea would be dramatically improved with the addition of either striker, but the rustiness that is sure to be there for Toney and the eight-year age gap just makes Ferguson look like the much better long-term bet.

Newcastle United are reportedly set to make further efforts this month to complete the signing of an "elite" player, as they look to get a key piece of transfer business over the line.

Newcastle transfer news

The Magpies need new signings in the January transfer window, in order to breathe new life into their season, with Saturday's late 3-2 defeat at home to Manchester City their latest disappointing result. There are lots of players who have been touted as possible targets for Newcastle, with Kalvin Phillips perhaps the individual looking the most likely to seal a loan move to St James' Park, bringing an end to his spell at Manchester City.

VfB Stuttgart striker Serhou Guirassy is someone who the Magpies are believed to be looking at as a strong addition in attack, with the 27-year-old scoring a remarkable 17 goals in only 14 Bundesliga appearances so far this season and has a relatively cheap release clause.

Meanwhile, there is also a chance that Eddie Howe looks to bolster his defensive options in 2024, which is why the likes of Ousmane Diomande and Goncalo Inacio, both of whom are currently at Sporting CP, have been linked with moves to Newcastle.

Ousmane Diomande to Newcastle latest

According to a report from The Mirror, Newcastle arse set to step up their attempts to sign Ousmane Diomande, with owners PIF meaning business despite being "under the microscope" with FFP.

"Newcastle will step up their scouting of Ousmane Diomande this month in a bid to head off expected stiff competition for the Ivory Coast defender. Diomande, 20, has shot to prominence starring this season for Sporting Lisbon, who top the Portuguese Primeira Liga. He has made 21 appearances this term in Portugal playing recently at the centre of a back three for Sporting but can also play on the right."

The report goes on to add that "Newcastle may have to break their transfer record to land the starlet after previously buying Swedish striker Alexander Isak from Real Sociedad for a record £58million rising to £63m, including add-ons", with Diomande "valued at £70m". With Newcastle's finances "under the microscope", however, they are expected to bid lower than that to begin with, "amid the Premier League Financial Fair Play climate."

If the Magpies could strike a deal for Diomande in 2024, it could prove to be one of their most important pieces of business in some time, given the long-term ceiling that he has as a player. The 20-year-old is already a key figure for Sporting, starting 15 Primeira Liga matches this season and completing 91.2% of his passes, and the table below outlines the positive influence he is having:

Ousmane Diomande's Primeira Liga stats this season Total

Appearances 15 Goals 1 Assists 1 Clearances per game 1.7 Tackles per game 1.5 Pass completion rate 91.2%

The young Frenchman has been hailed as an "elite" player by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, who added that "you rarely see a player with such high ball-playing and pure defender skills", and Newcastle must do all they can to snap him up in January, making him a big signing for years to come.

With West Ham United vying for a European place yet again in the Premier League this season, David Moyes could turn to the January transfer window to cement his side's place in the top six and potentially beyond. The Hammers currently sit as high as sixth and just seven points adrift of the top four in what could be a dream campaign in England's top flight.

Those at the London Stadium will be well aware that there's still a long way to go, but the winter window could suddenly put an even greater positive spin on their season so far if they land their targets. Among those that they're reportedly eyeing is a rival player who knows all about qualifying for European football.

West Ham transfer news

When West Ham lost Declan Rice to Arsenal in the summer, it was easy to worry about just how they'd replace the midfielder and splash the cash gained from his departure. Months later, however, and those fears have been firmly put to bed. The Hammers signed Edson Alvarez and James Ward-Prowse to boost their midfield, before turning their attention to Mohammed Kudus, who has starred further forward. Now, they could repeat their transfer genius by landing a defensive target on the cheap.

West Ham want breakthrough Serie A star with "extraordinary qualities"

A breakthrough star appears to be catching the eye of West Ham United.

ByLuke Randall Jan 1, 2024

According to Football Transfers, West Ham have made contact to sign Eric Dier, who will be allowed to leave Tottenham Hotspur this month. The defender's current contract runs out in the summer, meaning that the Lilywhites are on course to lose him for free if they do not cash in this month. Given that Moyes is reportedly impressed by Dier and sees him as a player similar to summer target Harry Maguire, a deal could certainly be on the cards for West Ham in the transfer window this month.

"Reliable" Dier desperately needs move

Dier's game time shows just how much he needs a Spurs departure. The England international has started just one Premier League game for the Lilywhites this season, even amid injuries to both Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero.

A January switch to West Ham would be coming at the perfect time for both parties. Dier would be staying at the top level in England's top flight, with West Ham competing for a place in the top six, and the Hammers would be getting a player with the experience that could make all the difference in the remainder of the campaign.

It's been some fall from grace for Dier since Ange Postecoglou arrived since he was once at the centre of praise from former boss Antonio Conte. Conte said via The Daily Mail: "What I can tell you is that Eric has improved a lot since I arrived. We are talking about a reliable player, 100 per cent focused in every game. He is not a player who alternates with a big performance then a drop. He is providing great continuity in his role and playing every game. I can also tell you he is a really good guy, with great will, desire to work and improve."

Even despite his struggles under the Aussie manager, there is no question his experience and know-how could add crucial depth and leadership to a Hammers side riding the crest of a wave.

Aston Villa have joined the chase for Rangers star Joe Aribo, alongside other Premier League sides ahead of the summer transfer window, with Johan Lange ready to make his move.

What’s the word?

That’s according to the Sun, who report that Villa have joined Brentford and Crystal Palace in the race for the Nigeria international.

The midfielder could be signed for a bargain price of just £10m this summer due to his Rangers contract expiring at the end of next season, and with no word on an extension, the side could cash in.

Steven Gerrard will love Aribo at Villa

Aribo could be tempted to reunite with former coach Steven Gerrard at Villa in the summer as it was the Englishman who signed the 25-year-old from Charlton and turned him into one of the finest players in Scotland.

If last season was almost a breakout campaign for the player, then this season is where he has matured, leading Rangers to both the Scottish Cup and Europa League finals.

With eight goals and ten assists in all competitions this season, Aribo would be a fine addition to the Villa squad as Gerrard aims to lead them into the European spots next season.

His versatility is also a massive strength, with Gerrard stating that Aribo could “play anywhere” previously then it would be a big advantage for Villa.

The midfielder’s form perhaps tailed off slightly once he returned from the Africa Cup of Nations following the early exit for Nigeria, but there is no doubt when he is on form, he is one of the Ibrox side’s greatest assets.

With Gerrard already bolstering his squad with the permanent deal for Philippe Coutinho last week, the onus will be on to keep adding strength in depth. With many fringe players seemingly heading on their way out of the club, it’s imperative that the manager improves.

Aribo for £10m? It’s a steal.

AND in other news, Lange plotting Villa swoop for “fearless” 87-goal monster, he’s even better than Watkins

Sky Sports have shared comments from Leeds United manager Jesse Marsch on winger Jack Harrison after he went off injured against Chelsea.

The Lowdown: Another night to forget

The Whites fell to a third successive defeat on Wednesday evening in what was another evening to forget at Elland Road.

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Marsch’s side conceded after just four minutes, had another man sent off in Dan James and failed to lay a glove on Thomas Tuchel’s side throughout.

Leeds also lost Harrison in the first half through injury, and it looks as if he could be another senior player to watch on from the sidelines for the final two games of the campaign.

The Latest: Harrison ‘update’

Sky Sports shared Marsch’s post-match interview with Marsch on live TV, relaying his comments on Twitter shortly after.

They asked the Leeds manager for an ‘update’ on Harrison, where he admitted he hoped it wasn’t too bad, however, Marsch added that the winger suffered a ‘contusion’ which ‘limited him from moving’.

Reliable reporter Phil Hay stated that Harrison will have a scan on the problem on Thursday morning.

The Verdict: Bad to worse

Leeds are running out of time and players in their bid to avoid the drop. Stuart Dallas, Luke Ayling, Adam Forshaw, Crysencio Summerville, Tyler Roberts and James are all out for the season through either injury or suspension.

So, should Harrison join that long list of absentees for the final two games, Marsch would be down to the bare bones out wide, with Raphinha also suffering an injury scare on Wednesday evening and was withdrawn late on as a precaution.

It looks as if the Whites need a miracle to avoid relegation, but hopefully, Harrison’s leg issue won’t be too serious and he can still play a part on the pitch against Brighton and Brentford.

In other news: Leeds working on cheap deal for ‘outstanding’ 24 y/o; may replace ‘horrible’ flop. 

Tottenham Hotspur are on the verge of welcoming former Fulham midfielder Joao Palhinha back to London after a round of quick-fire talks on Thursday.

Paratici holds talks with £207k-a-week star's camp about joining Tottenham

The Spurs advisor has reached out to his representatives.

2 ByEmilio Galantini Jul 31, 2025

Spurs first made contact with Palhinha’s camp, which was first reported a while ago, but it didn’t take long at all for the north Londoners to finalise club-to-club talks with Bayern Munich given their excellent business relationship.

Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg shared that the Lilywhites entered concrete talks with Bayern sporting director, Max Eberl, less than a day ago, and it then took just a matter of hours for Thomas Frank’s side to reach a full agreement for Palhinha.

Before supporters could blink, Bayern and Tottenham shook hands on an initial loan deal including an option to buy for around £26 million next summer – which may be seen as excellent business by chairman Daniel Levy.

It comes just one year after the Bundesliga champions signed Palhinha from Fulham for £47 million, with Spurs striking a potential permanent deal for just over half that price if they decide to pay the £26 million required next year.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Palhinha’s £26m clause is also strictly optional, not mandatory – meaning the 30-year-old goes to N17 on a sort of ‘one season trial’ basis. Levy also gave the green-light for Tottenham to cover the midfielder’s full salary, which is reported to be around £166,000-per-week.

This shrewd swoop has brought an end to Tottenham’s search for a new number six, and it likely means that Yves Bissouma could be sold as Frank needs to make room in his squad.

“His total of 152 tackles was more than any other player by a distance and was the standout trait of the Fulham enforcer,” said Sky Sports’ Peter Smith on what Palhinha will bring to Spurs.

“There were 13 yellows in that 2023/24 season, too, underlining the bite he brings to midfield battles. And that would be a welcome addition to Spurs’ play.

“Neither Yves Bissouma, Pape Sarr nor Rodrigo Bentancur are as ruthless at winning the ball back as Palhinha, who also ranked among the top 10 for interceptions during his previous Premier League campaign.”

With Palhinha due for a Tottenham medical shortly, his arrival won’t be the end of Spurs’ transfer ambitions, and they’re still actively pursuing more attackers.

Tottenham talks "underway" to hijack Juventus deal for Randal Kolo Muani

According to Foot Mercato journalist Santi Aouna, PSG forward Randal Kolo Muani is back on their radar.

Reports last month claimed that Spurs were offered the France international by intermediaries this window, and it’s believed the £43 million-rated Kolo Muani was once “very close” to joining in January.

Juventus’ negotiations to re-sign him after a successful loan spell are still dragging on, and Aouna reports that Tottenham talks are “underway” for Kolo Muani, as they bid to hijack the Old Lady’s deal.

The versatile forward bagged 23 goals and 17 assists in all competitions during his best-ever season for Eintracht Frankfurt in 2022/2023, with Kolo Muani also enjoying a real resurgence of form at Juve during the second half of 24/25.

His time at PSG hasn’t lived up to expectations, nor has it justified his £76.4 million transfer fee, but the Premier League could now be beckoning for him.

When Liverpool signed Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt this summer, Arne Slot welcomed a superstar in the making to his ranks.

Aged 23, the Frenchman was described by analyst Ben Mattinson as being “one of the best strikers out there” after his 22-goal and 12-assist campaign, compelling FSG to fork out £79m in July.

However, the name on everyone’s lips still belongs to Newcastle United superstar Alexander Isak.

The Premier League’s most complete number nine informed his club that he wishes to explore a move to Merseyside this summer, having opted against going on the Toon’s pre-season tour.

But will he sign for the Premier League champions?

Liverpool chasing new striker

Liverpool submitted their first official bid for Isak on Friday morning, but Newcastle swiftly knocked it back. Since then, there have been conflicting reports about what comes next, but reporter Ben Jacobs believes the Reds may not return at all over the coming month.

This is in keeping with the narrative. Don’t stress. Isak will only leave St. James’ Park this summer if the Magpies find themselves a suitable replacement, and that’s hardly a certainty.

Should Liverpool fail to secure their quarry, FSG might instead be tempted to target Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez, who has been a top target at Anfield over the past few months.

Manchester United have also shown an interest in the former Manchester City star, who, like Isak, would cost a record sum to bring back to the Premier League; Atletico are looking for something in the region of £125m.

How Julian Alvarez would fit in at Liverpool

Liverpool might have thought that Darwin Nunez would be the heir to his countryman Luis Suarez’s long-vacated throne at Anfield, but it wasn’t to be.

Instead, Alvarez could be the man. The South American has a wealth of experience in the Premier League under Pep Guardiola’s wing, where he became rich with titles.

But having transferred to Atletico Madrid in La Liga one year ago in an £81.5m package, Alvarez has discovered a new level of prolific quality, scoring 29 goals and providing eight assists across 57 matches in all competitions.

As per FBref, he ranked among the top 15% of positional peers across Europe last term for goals scored, and the top 6% for passes attempted, shot-creating actions and progressive carries per 90. This blend of creativity, control and strength underscores his potential as a Suarez-esque forward at Liverpool.

Alvarez’s positional fluidity, moreover, aligns with what Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes are looking for: a dynamic forward with the capacity to work with or cover for Ekitike, who is versatile in his own right.

Centre-forward

167

86

31

Attacking midfield

49

19

15

Right winger

49

12

8

Left winger

7

2

4

His quiet power and physicality suggest he could become a striker for Liverpool who is every bit as good and unforgettable as Suarez, who is one of the greatest goalscorers of his generation, once even hailed by Steven Gerrard as “the best I’ve played with” for his utter dominance in the final third.

Alvarez might have a few floors to scale before reaching peak Suarez levels, but he was called “the best forward in the world” by journalist Roy Nemer last year, who was discussing the Argentine’s meteoric rise.

​​​​​​Isak might be Liverpool’s dream target for the remainder of the transfer window, but if he’s truly unavailable in spite of FSG’s best efforts, Alvarez wouldn’t be a half-bad fallback.

Bigger mistake than Diaz: Liverpool ready to sell Slot's "monster" for £47m

Liverpool sold Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich, and now face the exit of another star player.

2 ByAngus Sinclair Jul 31, 2025