All posts by z3u9t.icu

Chelsea have been fantastic in the 2024/25 Premier League season, and are flying high under Enzo Maresca. One of the main reasons for this is the fact they have been so ruthless in front of goal. The Blues have a squad filled with attacking firepower, and it is fair to say they have turned up this season.

The West Londoners have scored 37 goals in the top flight, the second-highest behind only Tottenham Hotspur with 39. Furthermore, the Blues have also created the second most big chances, with 61. Liverpool are the only side with more, creating 71.

Now, with the January transfer window approaching, it seems Maresca wants to only add more goals to his side because Chelsea are linked with a new striker.

Chelsea could sign big-name striker in 2025

Going into the January transfer window, rumours are beginning to swirl again concerning Nigeria centre-forward Victor Osimhen. The 25-year-old is currently on loan at Galatasaray from Italian giants Napoli and is enjoying an excellent season in Turkey.

Now, according to reports on the continent, Chelsea are one of the clubs who are willing to exercise the player’s release clause at the turn of the year. The report suggests that the Blues have ‘shown great interest’ in signing Osimhen this winter.

Transfer Focus

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

However, they would not be alone in their hunt for his signature. Premier League rivals Manchester United and French giants Paris Saint-Germain are also showing interest.

Should a deal for the 25-year-old get over the line, he could cost a hefty sum, reported to be around £62m. Although he is on loan in Turkey, there is a break clause in his contract that would see him have the chance to leave and sign permanently for a new club, if they meet the above sum of money.

How Osimhen compares to Nicolas Jackson

In a Chelsea side that is already devastating in front of goal, adding Osimhen to that attack could wreak havoc on the Premier League. The striker is simply deadly and has been fantastic for Galatasaray this term, scoring 12 goals in 15 games in all competitions.

However, the 25-year-old is not only clinical for the Turkish giants. His record for Napoli is outstanding.

In 133 appearances for Gli Azzurri, Osimhen has scored 76 goals, grabbing 18 assists, averaging 0.71 goals and assists per game. In the Scudetto-winning season of 2022/23, he scored 31 times in 39 games.

Should the Blues sign Osimhen this winter, he would be merely adding to the firepower they have in attacking areas. Of course, their first-choice striker is Nicolas Jackson, who has performed superbly under Maresca so far.

In 16 top-flight games in the 2024/25 campaign, the Senegal striker has scored nine times and provided three assists. He has been a consistent goalscorer for his side, not going longer than two games without a Premier League.

Perhaps Jackson’s best game in the top flight this season came against West Ham United away from home. He scored twice and grabbed an assist for Cole Palmer in a 3-0 win against their London rivals.

Having both Osimhen and Jackson at the club as striking options will be great depth. As the stats via FBref show, they are both fantastic players. The Nigerian striker averages 1.07 goals per game in the league this season and 0.33 goals per shot on target. In contrast, the Chelsea number 15 averages 0.64 goals per game and 0.39 goals per shot on target.

Goals

1.07

0.64

Shots on target %

41.2%

52.3%

Shots on target

2.51

1.65

Goals per shot

0.14

0.2

Goals per shot on target

0.33

0.39

Signing Osimhen can only be a good thing for the Blues. Not only would they be signing “one of the best strikers in the world” as labelled by Joao Cancelo, but they’d be bringing in excellent competition for Jackson, which could only make him a better player.

Maresca will have tactical flexibility, with the option to play one or both of the centre-forwards and will always have goals in his side. £62m is a big investment, but there are certainly reasons to believe it is a good way to spend money in January.

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ByConnor Holden Dec 23, 2024

Looking to cement their Champions League place once and for all, Nottingham Forest have now reportedly made contact to sign a Serie A midfielder who knows all about finishing inside the Premier League’s top four.

Nottingham Forest transfer news

Six wins on the bounce and level on points with second place Arsenal in the Premier League, Nottingham Forest are proving to be no flash in the pan as the season enters its second half. It’s even worth noting that up next they have the chance to become the first side to complete the double over Arne Slot’s Liverpool side and remain the only side to defeat the Reds in league action so far this season.

Watch out Wood: Nottingham Forest could land their own Gyokeres in £35m ace

Nottingham Forest could target added attacking reinforcements to bolster their top four hopes.

ByEthan Lamb Jan 8, 2025

Defeat Slot’s side once again and Nuno Espirito Santo’s high-flying Forest will find themselves just three points adrift with the leaders, who will at least have a game in hand to rectify that gap. If the likes of Chris Wood perform at the level they did against Wolverhampton Wanderers in the coming weeks, then the title race may well have a shock participant.

The January transfer window could yet boost their impressive campaign even further too. According to The Daily Mail, Nottingham Forest have made contact to sign Douglas Luiz from Juventus this month in what is likely to be a short-term loan move away from the Serie A giants.

Having struggled since arriving in Turin, Luiz could now receive the opportunity he so desperately needs to return to the Premier League and rediscover his best form. A move to Nottingham Forest wouldn’t be without its controversy, however, given that the Brazilian spent a number of years at Aston Villa and even helped the Villans into the Champions League last season.

"Decisive" Luiz would cement Nottingham Forest's ambitions

Just like he did for Midlands rivals Aston Villa last season, Luiz could seal Forest’s Champions League ambitions by completing a January move and much-needed fresh start away from Juventus – albeit merely a brief loan spell.

Earning a reported £132,000-a-week in Serie A, it will be interesting to see just how much of Luiz’s hefty salary Nottingham Forest are willing to match and how much Juventus will pay, themselves, in order to send their midfielder on loan.

The former Villa man is certainly worth the gamble this month, having still earned plenty of praise throughout a troubled campaign so far. Among those with plenty of positives has been Aston Villa sporting director Monchi, who told reporters as relayed by Tribal Football earlier this month: “He’s playing less than we all expected, but we’re talking about a strong player.

“There are guys who arrive and impose themselves, others who need time. Patience is needed, but Douglas’ qualities are beyond discussion. He will become important for Juve. He’s a playmaker and every ball that comes out of his feet has a meaning: last year he played 90% of the games with us. He was decisive.”

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery will be keen on adding some more quality to his squad following the signing of Borussia Dortmund forward Donyell Malen.

The Midlands side spent £21m on the player, who scored five goals this season for the German giants before sealing his move to Villa.

Emery has now built an excellent side, and he will be aiming to finish in the top four of the Premier League table for the second season in a row, thus qualifying for the Champions League once again.

The club are unbeaten since a Boxing Day defeat to Newcastle, embarking on a run of form that could see them enjoy a special few months ahead.

One player who is shining for the Villa Park outfit this season – and who could be key to their charge for a top-four place – is Morgan Rogers.

The youngster has gone from strength to strength since joining the club a year ago, even making his senior debut for England, playing against Greece and the Republic of Ireland in November.

If he can maintain his current form, Emery will have a chance of going deep in both Europe and the Premier League, while looking to end their major trophy drought by winning the FA Cup.

Morgan Rogers’ season in numbers

When the Englishman joined Villa, it was a transfer with the future in mind. Rogers had enjoyed a productive spell at Middlesbrough, but the consensus was he would have to bide his time and work his way into Emery’s team.

He ended up making 16 appearances in the top flight and Conference League during the second half of last term, scoring three goals in the process. His talent was obvious from the very start.

This positive introduction meant he kept his place in the starting XI ahead of the current season and he has repaid Emery’s faith by emerging as arguably Villa’s most consistent performer.

Indeed, across 27 matches in all competitions, Rogers has scored seven goals and registered five assists, starting all but three of their games throughout the current season.

Among his teammates, Rogers ranks second in the squad for goals and assists (ten), second for shots per game (1.8), third for big chances created (eight), second for key passes per game (1.5) and first for successful dribbles per match (two) in the Premier League.

Metric

Champions League

Premier League

Goals

0

6

Assists

1

4

Big chances created

2

8

Key passes per game

1.8

1.5

Successful dribbles per game

4

2

Impressive across a range of metrics, Rogers offers plenty to this Villa team, either on the left flank or directly behind the main striker.

Emery has a genuine superstar in his midst, which could see the club secure a significant profit on their initial investment in the coming years.

Could Rogers perhaps have competition, however? As a young Villa starlet who has recently been recalled from a loan spell, looks set to remain in the Midlands, despite plenty of clubs taking an interest in signing him.

Louie Barry is someone who, if given a chance, can potentially make a similar impact that Rogers has made over the previous 12 months.

Louie Barry's future at Aston Villa

After spending the first half of the season on loan at Stockport County, scoring 16 goals in the process, Emery recalled the youngster from this temporary spell.

According to reports, both Celtic and Lens made offers for the 21-year-old in recent weeks, but it looks as though the Spaniard has made his mind up on the Englishman.

It has also been reported that the manager is looking to give a new contract to the left-winger before deciding whether he can be an option to count upon between now and the end of the current season.

Whatever his decision, there is clear potential there and if Barry is developed at Villa in the same way that Rogers has, then he could force his way into the team sooner rather than later.

In The Pipeline

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

Is Emery brewing the next Jack Grealish for Villa? It certainly appears so.

Louie Barry can be the next Jack Grealish at Villa Park

The similarities are uncanny between the two. Both tend to play most of their football on the left flank, while the pair have enjoyed loan spells in the EFL during the embryonic stages of their careers.

Before Grealish became a £100m player in 2021, he spent a season on loan at Notts County in 2013/14, going on to register 12 goal contributions across 37 games in League One for the club.

The following season, he made 17 Premier League appearances and a star was born.

During his temporary spell this term with Stockport, Barry was on fire. Not only did he score 16 times for the club, but he also grabbed three assists in League One, created five big chances, averaged one key pass and succeeded with 2.3 dribbles per game.

He drew praise from Sky Sports pundit Michael Dawson during the opening weekend of the season, where he scored a stunning effort against Cambridge United, lauded for his “unbelievable” technique.

Out of his 15 league goals this term, five have come from outside the box, meaning he isn’t one to rely on the ball breaking inside the opposition penalty area.

Turning down offers this month demonstrates how keen Emery is to keep the youngster, especially with his ceiling so high.

Grealish used his spell further down the football league pyramid to enhance his skills and prove that with some game time in the top flight, he could turn into the next big thing to emerge from the club.

Barry has the perfect chance to follow in his footsteps over the next 12 months. If he can make the matchday squad and get the odd minute here and there, it could set him up for an important 2025/26 campaign.

Rogers might be in the form of his life, but he will have to keep one eye on the progress of Barry. That’s a certainty.

Imagine him & Watkins: Emery leading Aston Villa move for "flair player"

Aston Villa are looking to bolster in attack

ByJoe Nuttall Jan 17, 2025

Arsenal are believed to be the main contenders to sign a “special” forward in January, after making an approach to acquire his services, and it is believed that personal terms won’t be an issue either.

Arsenal enter market for new striker after Gabriel Jesus ruptures ACL

Gunners boss Mikel Arteta was dealt some very bad news recently, with in-form striker Gabriel Jesus set to miss the remainder of this Premier League campaign after rupturing his ACL in the FA Cup.

Sky Sports share what source has said about Cunha possibly joining Arsenal

The north Londoners have been reliably linked.

ByEmilio Galantini Jan 23, 2025

This leaves Arteta with Kai Havertz has his only striking option, prompting reports that Arsenal have identified a host of striker targets to potentially bring in before January deadline day on February 3.

RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko, Sporting Lisbon star Viktor Gyokeres, Galatasaray hitman Victor Osimhen, Botafogo forward Igor Jesus and Wolves sensation Matheus Cunha are all reportedly being considered as options by Emirates Stadium transfer chiefs, with the reliable Fabrizio Romano stating last week that Arsenal are making constant calls in their attempts to sign a new number nine.

Wolves (away)

January 25

Man City (home)

February 2

Leicester City (away)

February 15

West Ham (home)

February 22

Nottingham Forest (away)

February 26

“Arsenal are working on the striker position. Mikel Arteta already confirmed that Arsenal are working for a new addition,” said Romano to GiveMeSport.

“And I can tell you that also in the last 24-48 hours, there were many calls from Arsenal to ask about situations of important players around Europe. So Arsenal are exploring opportunities for the striker position, let’s see what they will be able to do. But for sure, Arsenal are looking at that. So work in progress.”

Wolves’ Cunha is believed to be a serious target for Arsenal on their shortlist, but they can only sign the Brazil international on a permanent deal, as they’ve used up both of their domestic loan spaces on Neto and Raheem Sterling.

Some reports suggest that the forward, signed by Wolves from Atlético Madrid for £44 million after an initial loan, could command nearly double that amount to sign this month (Ben Jacobs).

Arsenal in pole position to sign Matheus Cunha from Wolves

Nevertheless, according to GiveMeSport and journalist Dean Jones, Arsenal are the team in pole position to sign Cunha if he does leave Molineux in the coming days.

Chelsea have been named as other suitors for the “special” South American, but it is Arteta’s side currently out in front, coming after they made a “surprise” enquiry over signing Cunha earlier this transfer window.

Personal terms won’t be an issue when it comes to tempting Cunha with a move to the Emirates, after they explored that possibility with the player. The 25-year-old was actually closing in on improved terms with Wolves, but they reached an impasse, with Cunha insistent on a relegation clause.

While these contract talks briefly stalled Arsenal’s move for the former La Liga star, it is now believed they favourites for his signature above the likes of Chelsea, Nottingham Forest, Newcastle United and Tottenham.

Still seeking reinforcements with just three days left in the January transfer window, Wolverhampton Wanderers have now reportedly set their sights on signing an alternative option to Kevin Danso in the first of three late moves.

Wolves transfer news

The Midlands club initially got their transfer window off to the perfect start when they welcomed Emmanuel Agbadou, but have since faced more and more frustration in pursuit of targets. Missing out on the likes of Manu Silva in midfield, Vitor Pereira must still replace Mario Lemina who looks destined for Saudi Arabia before the end of the window.

The midfielder’s likely exit has seen Wolves reportedly turn towards the likes of Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, but it remains to be seen whether they’ll push on and welcome the former Liverpool man back to the Premier League. The same, meanwhile, can be said for Danso.

Their best since Neto: Wolves make move to sign £160k-p/w "magician"

Wolves have never really replaced Neto

ByJoe Nuttall Jan 30, 2025

Having reportedly agreed personal terms with the centre-back, Wolves are yet to thrash out a deal with RC Lens and remain on course to miss out on the central defender and forced to turn towards other options.

According to Alex Crook of talkSPORT, Wolves are now interested in signing Thomas Kristensen and whilst nothing is advanced yet, the 6 foot 6 Udinese man is reportedly on their wishlist as they aim to welcome as many as three additions between now and Monday’s deadline.

Those in the Midlands, one way or another, seem destined to welcome a central defender before the end of the window and Kristensen wouldn’t exactly be a bad option on that front. Standing at a towering 6’5, the Udinese man would hand Pereira the commanding defender that he so desperately needs.

"Dominant" Kristensen would be ideal alternative

Whilst Danso likely remains at the top of their wishlist, it doesn’t look as though Wolves will be successful in their negotiations before Monday’s deadline at this stage. And they’ve got no time to waste deliberating whether to match Lens’ price tag. Instead, they could turn to Kristensen and hand Pereia an instant Agbadou partner.

Progressive Passes per 90

4.40

4.82

Tackles Won per 90

1.21

1.47

Ball Recoveries per 90

3.30

6.35

Aerial Duels Won per 90

3.30

1.47

Looking at the numbers, Kristensen would instantly make up for Agbadou’s aerial weakness whilst the current Wolves defender would continue to thrive in other areas on and off the ball.

Described as “dominant” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, Kristensen is still just 23 years old and a player full of potential that Wolves could realise if he arrives before the deadline.

As the end of the transfer window nears closer and closer, Wolves must make their decision sooner rather than later. Danso seems out of their reach, but Kristensen could yet be there for the taking in what would be a crucial move in the coming days.

Aston Villa and NSWE have made a late approach to a club to sign a player who earns £354,000 a week, according to a new report.

Aston Villa transfer news

This January transfer window has been a busy month for the Villans, as they have brought in three new players, and they are not stopping there. Donyell Malen and Andres Garcia arrived at Villa earlier in this window, and they have now been joined by Marcus Rashford, who has joined on a loan deal until the end of the campaign from Manchester United.

Romano: £80k-p/w ace wants to join Aston Villa with Rashford and Asensio

Defensive reinforcements as well as attacking additions are on Villa’s radar.

ByBrett Worthington Feb 3, 2025

The Englishman looks set to be followed by Marco Asensio, who is also joining on loan for the remainder of the campaign from Paris Saint-Germain, with the French champions also open to the player joining Villa on a permanent basis if they wish to do a deal.

The transfer business doesn’t stop there for the Midlands side, as Fabrizio Romano has reported that Chelsea defender Axel Disasi wants to join Aston Villa after agreeing personal terms with the club. Romano states that Tottenham Hotspur have agreed a loan deal to sign the defender.

However, Disasi is not accepting the move to Spurs because, as mentioned, he’s agreed terms with Villa. But a move to Villa Park appears difficult, as Chelsea have no intention of letting him join Villa, as they are seen as competitors for a place in next season’s Champions League.

Aston Villa make late approach to sign £354k-p/w star

Rashford and Asensio may not be the only forwards arriving at Villa Park in this transfer window, as according to TBR Football’s Graeme Bailey, Aston Villa have asked about Dusan Vlahovic’s situation at Juventus.

Juventus are keen on tying the forward down to a new contract, but talks have been ongoing for more than 12 months, and the discussions have failed to progress. His contract expires in 2026, meaning a sale in 2025 is possible, as Juventus don’t want the player to leave for nothing. This report states Villa, as well as Arsenal and Man United, have made approaches to ask about Vlahovic’s situation on the weekend.

The 25-year-old, who earns €427,308 (£354,000) a week in Turin, has found himself on the bench in recent games, as Randal Kolo Muani has been preferred since joining the Serie A giants. However, Vlahovic has still managed to be in among the goals, netting eight in 19 league games, as well as four in seven Champions League matches.

Apps

28

Goals

13

Assists

2

The Serbian international has scored over 50 goals for Juventus in over 100 games, and it is clear that the Italian giants want to keep hold of the striker. But unless a new deal can be agreed, a move could be on the cards, and Villa may hope they have enough to persuade him to join them over other big Premier League teams. Losing Jhon Duran means Villa are more reliant on Ollie Watkins, so Vlahovic’s arrival would provide great competition and a goal-scoring threat for Emery’s side.

Leeds United and Millwall face off in the FA Cup this Saturday, with both Championship sides looking to make it into the last 16 of the famous cup competition.

In what is sure to be a heated encounter between the two rivals, the Whites will play host to the Lions at Elland Road as Daniel Farke and Alex Neil’s sides clash in Yorkshire.

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1 ByRoss Kilvington May 12, 2025

Both clubs’ main focus will be on winning promotion to the Premier League, with Leeds currently top of the second tier and Millwall having one eye on the playoffs after an impressive run, but an FA Cup run won’t hurt either side.

Leeds v Millwall team news Leeds

Farke looks likely to have a relatively fully fit Leeds squad to pick from on Saturday. The only absentee in recent weeks has been Patrick Bamford, with the striker missing with a hamstring issue.

A number of changes could be on the cards, including goalkeeper Karl Darlow, who came in for Illan Meslier in the last round.

Millwall

Neil recently relayed some positive Millwall injury updates ahead of the trip to Leeds, saying Femi Ameez is back in full training, whereas Josh Coburn is also back on the grass.

However, Ryan Leonard remains sidelined until the end of March and Shaun Hutchinson and Aidomo Emakhu are both making progress but won’t be returning this weekend.

Where to watch Leeds v Millwall on TV

Unfortunately, the match between Leeds and Millwall, scheduled to kick-off at 12:15pm (GMT) on Saturday 8, February, wasn’t selected for live broadcast by the BBC or ITV.

Supporters who aren’t at the game can still follow the action via radio, with BBC Radio Leeds covering the action.

Leeds v Millwall referee

The referee selected to be in the middle to attempt to keep control of the match between Leeds and Millwall is Gavin Ward. Daniel Leach and Alistair Nelson will assist the 54-year-old with Tony Harrington the fourth official.

Interestingly, Ward’s first game officiating Leeds came back in 2009 against Oldham Athletic in the FA Cup and the Whites have won their last five with him in charge, conceding just once during that time.

Despite taking charge of 25 Millwall games, this will be the first FA Cup fixture involving the Lions for Ward.

Games

12

25

Record

8W, 1D, 3L

13W, 5D, 7L

Cards received

24 Yellow, 0 Red

53 Yellow, 1 Red

Cards to opponents

23 Yellow, 2 Red

37 Yellow, 1 Red

Penalties for/against

3/0

2/2

Leeds v Millwall form Leeds

Leeds come into the FA Cup clash in brilliant form, unbeaten in 14 games in all competitions and keeping six clean sheets in succession.

A midweek win at Coventry City saw the Whites stretch their lead at the top of the Championship to five points and in their last match at Elland Road, they hit Cardiff City for seven.

Date

Opponent

Competition

Result

Wed 5th Feb

Coventry (a)

Championship

W 0-2

Sat 1st Feb

Cardiff (h)

Championship

W 7-0

Mon 27th Jan

Burnley (a)

Championship

D 0-0

Wed 22nd Jan

Norwich (h)

Championship

W 2-0

Sun 19th Jan

Sheffield Wednesday (h)

Championship

W 3-0

Millwall

Neil was appointed as Millwall boss at the end of 2024 and his team are now starting to find form at the right time.

Three successive Championship wins in recent weeks have seen Millwall steer way clear of the drop zone, and they’ll have one eye on a playoff spot between now and May.

Date

Opponent

Competition

Result

Sat 1st Feb

QPR (h)

Championship

W 2-1

Tue 28th Jan

Portsmouth (a)

Championship

W 0-1

Sat 25th Jan

Luton (a)

Championship

W 0-1

Tue 21st Jan

Cardiff (h)

Championship

D 2-2

Sat 18th Jan

Hull (h)

Championship

L 0-1

Leeds v Millwall head-to-head

Leeds and Millwall have met on 43 occasions in the past, but never in the FA Cup.

Last time out, Millwall won 1-0 at The Den thanks to a goal from defender Japhet Tanganga, ending a run of three victories on the bounce for the Whites against the Lions.

Leeds wins

19

Draws

5

Millwall wins

19

Everton’s relegation worries in the Premier League are now a distant memory with David Moyes at the helm.

Since his return to the Toffees hot seat, the rejuvenated Merseyside outfit have only lost once in the Premier League, with a fifth victory from eight clashes on the cards if it wasn’t for a late Manchester United turnaround last time out.

Still, with how bleak times were under Sean Dyche, nobody at full-time would grumble too much with a share of the points, as the Scotsman continues to get the best out of players once cast aside by the ex-Burnley boss.

Everton star looks "transformed" under Moyes

The main Toffees man who has seen his career pumped full of new life since Moyes’ return opened the scoring against Ruben Amorim’s hit-and-miss Red Devils, with the revitalised centre-forward in the midst of an unbelievable purple patch of form.

Indeed, the “transformed” Beto – as he’s labelled by football journalist Henry Winter – now has five strikes from his last four Premier League outings, with the Portuguese striker in the right place at the right time to fire home a strike after some lax United attempts to clear the ball away.

This is the case despite Dyche regularly not throwing the imposing 6 foot 4 figure into contests, with all five of his league starts for the season coming under Moyes, as the ex-Udinese man more than continues to justify his fresh manager’s belief in him.

Whilst this is an obvious plus at Goodison Park, this new development could be another nail in the coffin for an injury-prone Toffees face, with an exit from the club growing closer.

Chalkboard

Big-money earner now looks finished after Beto emergence

Everton were in dire need of something fresh in the striker department, with Dyche’s Toffees very much goal-shy and tepid in forward areas when you consider his lowly side only bagged one meagre goal from his final five top-flight outings.

That’s where Beto has thankfully come to the rescue, but it could signal the end for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, therefore, who sees his contract with the Merseyside titans expire this approaching June.

From 14 more Premier League starts this campaign than Beto, the declining 27-year-old only has a weak three strikes next to his name, with this sorry tale of the Everton number nine unfolding for some time now.

Last season, Calvert-Lewin only bagged one more than his counterpart’s ever-growing total across 26 league matches, as his powers in front of goal noticeably began to wane more and more away from focusing in on his consistent spells out of the side owing to injury.

24/25

22

8

3

1

23/24

38

6

8

3

22/23

18

29

2

1

21/22

18

33

5

2

20/21

39

5

21

3

19/20

41

0

15

1

18/19

38

1

8

3

17/18

44

14

8

5

16/17

11

0

1

0

When looking at the table above, it does feel as if Calvert-Lewin has been steadily falling off since his 21-goal season back in the 2020/21 campaign, with a whole host of injury issues impacting the ex-Sheffield United attacker negatively.

Already missing from action for eight games this time around, Moyes and Co can only be patient with their £100k-per-week man for so long, as reports now even begin to surface that Everton are interested in a summer swoop for ex-Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham.

Whilst it’s clear that Calvert-Lewin can be a goal machine, his best days do seem to be behind him now, whilst Beto might well have more in the tank moving forward.

Everton can strike gold on "unsung hero" who's a £50m star in the making

He’s made a positive impression at Goodison Park this season.

ByAngus Sinclair Feb 23, 2025

This season has been littered with issues for Mikel Arteta and his Arsenal troops. There has been very little rest for the coaching staff, let’s put it that way.

Ever since Declan Rice’s nonsensical red card against Brighton early in the season, things have gone from bad to worse for the Gunners.

A tale of woe concerning red cards, strange ones at that, have plagued their season, as too have injuries, particularly in 2025.

Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz are all nursing hamstring problems with the German now out for the season.

He joins Gabriel Jesus (ACL) and Takehiro Tomiyasu (knee) as long-term absentees in the Colney treatment room.

It’s unsurprising that with so many forward players missing Arsenal are struggling to score goals. Across their last three matches, they have scored just twice, both coming from the boot of makeshift centre-forward Mikel Merino.

While it’s true that the forward line is a big issue, the Gunners need to see more from some of the senior players who are still fit. Chief among them is captain Martin Odegaard.

Why Martin Odegaard is struggling this season

When in full flow, it’s safe to say that the Arsenal skipper is one of the most aesthetically pleasing footballers around.

He’s not a loudmouth and in-your-face captain like Roy Keane was but he usually lets his football do the talking. Remember that magical assist against Porto in the Champions League last season?

He leads the press, leads their chance creation and sets the pace of a game. Except, he’s not actually doing that too well this term.

The Norwegian is clearly suffering from his early season injury, an ankle problem sustained during the campaign’s maiden international break that subsequently saw him miss 12 matches for the Gunners.

Since then, the 26-year-old has struggled to impress and you could put some of that down to Saka’s absence since the back end of 2024. The pair usually combine to create most of the team’s chances and without the dazzling winger, Odegaard hasn’t found top gear.

Assists

0.3

0.2

Key passes

3

2.4

Big chances created

0.5

0.4

Accurate crosses

0.9

0.7

Crossing accuracy %

39%

20.4%

Truth be told, the club’s number 11 is a shadow of his former self, having registered fewer key passes and accurate crosses per 90 this season in the Premier League.

To compound Odegaard’s woes, he only has one goal from open play all season, his neat finish against Manchester City in the 5-1 win.

So, what’s next? Well, you’d like to think that form is temporary, class is permanent here. The former Real Madrid wonderkid will no doubt be back but he should now be looking over his shoulder following the emergence of two bright stars in Hale End.

Hale End could threaten Odegaard's long-term future at Arsenal

While, for the time being, there are no long-term concerns regarding Odegaard’s form in red and white, he should be wary that once this Arsenal team has all of their main players back fit, his place in the team should not be a certainty.

In The Pipeline

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

After all, how on earth are you going to leave Ethan Nwaneri out once Saka returns? Answers please, Arteta.

One solution could be to field the talented 17-year-old in a number 10 role, alongside Saka and behind Havertz.

That would leave Odegaard’s role vulnerable but Nwaneri isn’t the only Hale End superstar he may well have to compete with in the forthcoming years.

Step forward, Max Dowman. The teenager is only 15 years of age but has generated remarkable hype. If you haven’t heard of him yet, you will do soon.

He has been hailed as the “most exciting” prospect since Lamine Yamal by talent scout Jacek Kulig and is said to have “one of the greatest footballing brains that’s ever come through Hale End” by Arsenal academy expert Will Balsam.

No pressure, then, but when you watch him play, you’ll realise the hype is real. Dowman has already trained with the first team on multiple occasions and was among the travelling party for the squad’s warm-weather training camp in Dubai. At 15, that’s astonishing.

An attacking midfielder by trade, he’s got the Nwaneri swagger and aura about him, while his ball-carrying and speed already looks like it’s better than Odegaard’s.

#1 Max Dowman

14 years, 8 months, 19 days

#2 Youssoufa Moukoko

14 years, 11 months, 3 days

#3 Rayan Cherki

15 years, 1 month, 2 days

#4 Naci Unuvar

15 years, 3 months, 6 days

#5 Sander Evjen-Brostrom

15 years, 4 months, 9 days

#6 Ryan Gravenberch

15 years, 4 months, 10 days

He only boasts one appearance for the U21s to date but Dowman has regularly dazzled for the U18s this term, scoring five goals and supplying two assists. Those might not be the most incredible numbers but his performance against Manchester United U18s in the FA Youth Cup on Friday evening showcased just how special he is.

During a 3-2 extra-time defeat in the quarter-finals, he scored the club’s second from the penalty spot after winning the foul himself courtesy of some remarkable play.

Dowman picked up the ball inside his own half and drove towards the box, dancing his way past a United defender before being brought down. As analyst Ben Mattinson said, he has ‘the Thanos “fine, I’ll do it myself” gene’ which is essentially the ability to grab the game by the scruff of the neck and take the team on his shoulders.

It’s not cocky, it’s just a realisation that despite his age, he is that good.

Further described as an “insane left-footed 10-type creator” by Mattinson, the teenager is set to have an incredibly bright future in the game and, while it will take a few years for him to become a regular feature in the senior side, Odegaard should be on the lookout.

Both Dowman and Nwaneri, Arsenal’s academy jewels, could be coming for his throne.

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Coasting to the Premier League title at this moment in time, Arne Slot’s Liverpool could also be one trophy down next weekend when they face off against Newcastle United at Wembley in the EFL Cup final.

With the potential for a Champions League success to also be thrown into the mix down the line, it’s very clear that Slot’s first season in the English game has been anything but a learning curve, with the ex-Feyenoord boss taking to the known tricky climate like a duck to water instead.

Still, this approaching summer could be one of upheaval at Anfield, with talk centring in on the Dutchman selling some prized assets in the attacking areas which could include Luis Diaz’s sale.

The latest on Luis Diaz's future at Anfield

Unlike Darwin Nunez who continues to blow hot and cold for the title-chasing Reds, Diaz has been a consistent performer in recent weeks for his star-studded side.

The ex-FC Porto winger could reportedly soon follow the Uruguayan out the door regardless, even as the entertaining 28-year-old now reaches nine goals and four assists in Premier League action this season, off the back of assisting Nunez for a rare top-flight strike against Southampton last time out.

£67m may allegedly be enough for Slot and Co to be tempted into parting ways as the likes of Barcelona line up attempting to pick up the 28-year-old, with the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold also considering his future at the Merseyside giants.

If Liverpool were to lose their slick number seven very shortly then the Reds may well have the ideal replacement already lined up.

Slot's "sensational" Diaz replacement

There is still some time before the transfer window kicks back into gear, but the groundwork already looks to be in place for the Anfield side to try and secure a statement purchase.

As per a fresh report by Sky Sports Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Bayern Munich are willing to let Frenchman Kingsley Coman leave the building this summer, with Liverpool already establishing contact with Bayern having lodged an enquiry.

Described as “one of the best players in Europe when it comes to wingers” by Julian Nagelsmann, he has enjoyed a distinguished career with the Bavarian titans to date.

That included scoring a Champions League-winning header back in 2021 with Coman surely able to confidently slot into his new team and take on the mantle of replacing Diaz in his stride.

After all, the World Cup winner boasts an impressive 131 goal contributions and counting pulling on Bayern red, with the Paris-born forward’s regular explosiveness down the left flank even drawing direct similarities with the Colombian according to FBref’s similar players tool.

Total shots

3.17

2.57

Shot-creating actions

6.22

5.04

Attempted passes

52.71

35.39

Pass completion %

84.1%

84.7%

Progressive passes

4.05

3.83

Progressive carries

4.81

4.50

Successful take-ons

2.76

2.33

Touches in attacking penalty area

6.86

6.81

Progressive passes received

15.95

10.66

Looking at the table above, even whilst the South American has impressed under Slot, Coman betters his counterpart in many different areas of their respective attacking games over the last year, with the Bayern number 11 trumping Diaz when it comes to total shots on goal, shot-creating actions and lots more.

That’s the case despite Coman only starting 11 Bundesliga games this season under Vincent Kompany, meaning he could also be an inspired pick-up as an impact substitute.

Available for a fee around the £29m mark according to reports, this would represent smart business on Liverpool’s end if a deal could be secured, as Slot prepares to enter into his second season at the Anfield helm with a slight new look to his forward areas.

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