Arne Slot revealed in his pre-match press conference on Friday morning that he will finally enforce some rotation across Liverpool’s final four Premier League matches of the season.

It’s taken him long enough, but then who can blame the Dutch manager for sticking to his guns, now crowned the division’s champion in his maiden year on English soil?

The business end of the 2024/25 league campaign has been navigated with a confident swagger for those of a Liverpool persuasion, with their team strutting far out ahead of second-place Arsenal, who themselves have held a healthy advantage over the rest of the Champions League hopefuls.

For those looking at the Anfield side from an outside perspective, it might seem like there’s a lot of work that needs to be done: Andy Robertson has faced criticism for his performances, Trent Alexander-Arnold is expected to join Real Madrid on a free transfer this summer and Slot’s frontline hasn’t always fired across every cylinder.

While Mohamed Salah has been a true talisman, posting 33 goals and 23 assists across all competitions, his attacking partners have flattered to deceive at times, with none more culpable than Darwin Nunez.

No road back for Darwin Nunez

Tough season for Nunez. In fact, the 25-year-old has looked so far away from the vision that Slot wants from his striker that his exit is all but confirmed this season, with Liverpool actively planning to cash in while already searching for potential heirs.

Nunez has only returned seven goals this year, and it’s a bleak indictment of his performances that 37 of those 43 matches he has featured in have returned blanks. That is not the form of a club-record Liverpool striker, one whose total payment could reach £85m.

While Slot was quick to dismiss claims that Nunez is being repeatedly benched due to a clause that means his 50th Premier League start would impel Liverpool to pay Benfica an additional £5m sum, the fact remains that the Uruguay international has been used sparingly this season.

In fact, he’s only started once in the top flight since Boxing Day.

Frankly, it’s hard to envisage a world where Nunez lines up as Anfield’s chief centre-forward next season, not after falling heavily by the wayside under Slot’s wing.

Liverpool, for sure, are ready to sign a new forward.

Liverpool ready to sign new forward

Liverpool have identified a new attacking star, and while he might not be an out-and-out frontman, Daizen Maeda has all the qualities to become a valued part of Slot’s frontline.

That’s according to transfer insider Graeme Bailey, making the claim that the 27-year-old, who can play across the frontline, is attracting interest from both Arsenal and Slot’s Reds ahead of the summer transfer window.

Valued at £25m, Maeda has been scouted by Liverpool across the campaign and would certainly be curious at a transfer to Anfield, having been quizzed on a potential transfer away from Scotland in March and responding that it was a “difficult question.”

Daizen Maeda would be perfect for Slot

Discovered by Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou, who signed Maeda from Yokohama F Marinos on an initial loan in December 2021 before the deal was made permanent the following summer, it’s been a profitable few years in Scotland for the Japan international.

Described as an “absolute nuisance” of a forward by pundit Rio Ferdinand, Maeda’s ability to provide danger from every angle is something that differentiates him from most other forwards, having also been noted as a “physical beast” by his former coach John Hutchinson.

This season alone, he’s posted 33 goals and 11 assists across 47 appearances for the Hoops, which curiously means he has outscored Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, who has posted 26 goals this term and is on Liverpool’s list as a potential Nunez replacement, albeit an unlikely signing given he is valued at £150m.

His ability to step up in the Champions League, scoring four times in the competition this season, including against Bayern Munich in the first knockout round, makes a firm comment on his capacity for success at Liverpool, with the physicality to serve as Slot’s next version of Nunez, one who might provide a more clinical output.

While he hasn’t always been the most consistent in front of goal, Maeda is a tireless performer and possesses fleet feet besides.

Matches (starts)

31 (27)

Goals

16

Assists

9

Shots (on targets)*

1.8 (0.6)

Big chances missed

16

Pass completion

83%

Big chances created

10

Key passes*

1.3

Dribbles*

0.7

Tackles + interceptions*

1.7

Duels won*

3.1

Some would point toward Maeda playing in a division of objectively inferior quality, but the fact that he has converted 16 goals and missed as many chances bespeaks his natural goalscoring ability, something that has been hardened under Brendan Rodgers’ wing to be sure.

Nunez, for reference, has scored 25 goals across his three years in the Premier League, rather shockingly missing 53 big chances.

Though Maeda isn’t the natural central striker that Liverpool fans hope to walk through the door this summer, he has clinched 14 goals and four assists from just ten matches as Celtic’s striker.

Slot has already demonstrated his willingness to use such a dynamic profile across different attacking roles through the deployment of Luis Diaz across the campaign, with the Colombian having featured routinely in a central berth to accommodate Cody Gakpo and create an electric sense of fluency.

Transfer Focus

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

Maeda would merely strengthen this exciting thread of attacking players, with the confidence and completeness to effectively step into Nunez’s boots and take Liverpool’s project to the next level.

Slot's own Xabi Alonso: Liverpool learn conditions to sign £80m "machine"

Liverpool would take their midfield to the next level by sealing this ambitious signing.

ByAngus Sinclair May 2, 2025

A Europa League club have held talks over a move to sign a Wolverhampton Wanderers player who Molineux chiefs are ready to sell, and it’s not Matheus Cunha.

Wolves could cash in on Cunha as numerous Premier League clubs circle

Despite signing a contract extension earlier this year, there has still been plenty of talk about Cunha leaving Wolves this summer.

The Brazilian penned new terms until 2029, however, importantly, the new contract to includes a release clause. Cunha, talking in recent weeks, admitted the “need to take the next step” and “fight for titles” in his career, hinting at a Molineux exit.

“I had a lot of offers but I wouldn’t feel well if I had done it (left Wolves). Some things you can’t control but I couldn’t leave the club in the middle of the season, in a difficult situation, in the relegation zone. Now, we’re close to achieving our goal (of staying up). But I’ve made it clear that I need to take the next step. I want to fight for titles, for big things. I have potential.”

There is plenty of interest in Cunha as well, with reports recently saying both Aston Villa and Nottingham Forest are ready to pay a huge £75m to sign the Wolves star over the coming months.

Both Villa and Forest could be able to offer Champions League football ahead of the new season, so Vitor Periera may soon lose his star striker.

£23m Wolves star is going to swiftly become more important than Cunha

Wolves could be set to lose Matheus Cunha this summer…

By
Ross Kilvington

Apr 15, 2025

However, another forward on the books at Molineux, Fabio Silva, could also be about to find a new club. Currently on loan in Spain at Las Palmas, recent reports have claimed that Wolves are ready to sell Silva for £25m.

That would be a loss for the Old Gold, and one club have made their move for the Portuguese attacker.

Wolves may sell Fabio Silva as Eintracht Frankfurt hold talks

According to Sky Sports reporter Florian Plettenberg, Eintracht Frankfurt have held “initial talks” over a move for Wolves forward Silva.

Currently in the Europa League quarter finals, Frankfurt see Silva as a “very interesting option”, although there are more clubs keen on the 22-year-old.

Things haven’t gone to plan for Silva in England after signing for a then record €40m (£33.4m) from FC Porto in 2020.

He’s scored just five goals in 72 Old Gold appearances, whereas on loan at Las Palmas this season, Silva has already netted 10 times.

Therefore, it could make sense for Wolves to cash in on Silva, and who knows, with Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike linked with a move to the Premier League, the Wolves man could be seen as his replacement in Germany.

Real Madrid have reached out to the representatives of an Arsenal star who’s now willing to join them, with Mikel Arteta’s side seemingly facing a serious threat from the La Liga heavyweights.

Arsenal players who are set to leave this summer

Arteta already faces the prospect of many different players leaving the Emirates this summer, and sporting director Andrea Berta will be tasked with reshaping the squad in their absence.

Related Arsenal stepping up pursuit of £58m striker who's now keen on Emirates move

The Gunners have conducted extensive background work on a forward, who may now be leaning towards a move to north London.

Posts 1 ByDominic Lund May 5, 2025

Journalist Pete O’Rourke has claimed that up to 10 players could be leaving Arsenal when the window reopens, and we can already have a pretty good idea of who some might be.

Arsenal’s final Premier League games

Date

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Southampton (away)

May 25th

Kieran Tierney has agreed a pre-contract to join Celtic, with Fabrizio Romano also sharing news this week that Jorginho is set to join Flamengo when his Arsenal contract expires in late June.

Arsenal also appear set to sell Oleksandr Zinchenko, in the event a suitable offer arrives (Graeme Bailey), while both Nuno Tavares and Albert Sami Lokonga will likely be on the chopping block as well, after spending 2024/2025 out on loan.

As things stand, Thomas Partey will depart the Emirates this summer, with Arsenal still yet to reach an agreement with the Ghanaian on fresh terms after opening talks recently.

He’s arguably enjoyed his finest season in north London since joining from Atlético Madrid in 2020, but ESPN reported in late April that Partey needs to take a pay-cut to remain at Arsenal, so it remains to be seen whether the 31-year-old will agree to those conditions.

There is also the matter of Real Madrid and their serious interest in star £190,000-per-week Arsenal defender William Saliba.

Real Madrid hold talks with Arsenal defender William Saliba

Los Blancos have been repeatedly linked with a move for Saliba, as Real are believed to be keen on reinforcing their central defensive options this summer.

According to L’Equipe, as relayed by Get Football News Spain, Real have opened talks with the 24-year-old’s camp and want him to be the “leader” of their new-look backline – either this summer or in 2026.

Saliba is also prepared to quit Arsenal for Real, and has named the Spanish giants as the only side he’d be willing to depart for.

The Gunners will be desperate not to lose one of their most crucial players, though, with Arsenal apparently set to demand as much as £85 million to let him go.

Saliba has formed an exceptional central defensive partnership with Gabriel Magalhaes since the beginning of 2022/2023, and it is a pillar of the club’s recent on-field success.

For their part, Arsenal want to agree a new contract with Saliba to ward off Real, but with his contract expiring in 2027, they’re slowly running out of time. Keeping the France international is quite simply an imperative task for Berta, but Real are posing a very real threat.

The campaign is still a month away from completion, although attention at Manchester United is swiftly turning toward the summer transfer window and the need to bolster Ruben Amorim’s ranks.

While it would be foolish for anyone of a United persuasion to be too optimistic regarding the impact of potential new signings, amid the club’s wretched recruitment record over the last decade or so, it is difficult to argue that this side is in need of major surgery once again.

With departures expected to reach double figures, ahead of next season, there is likely to be something of an overhaul at Old Trafford, with drastic improvement needed amid the Red Devils’ place in the bottom half of the Premier League table.

Much could depend on whether or not Champions League qualification is secured, via Europa League glory, although regardless of what occurs on the continent, it looks as if the INEOS regime are already closing in on the signing of wantaway Wolverhampton Wanderers man, Matheus Cunha.

The latest on Man Utd's move for Cunha

It’s fair to say that Cunha can’t have done much more to catch the eye of those at Old Trafford this season. Indeed, during Wolves’ 2-0 win over United on Boxing Day, the Brazilian was simply sensational for the hosts, having scored directly from a corner, while also teeing up Hwang Hee-chan for the second of the day.

That was followed by the 25-year-old’s impact in Sunday’s 1-0 win for the Old Gold, as it was actually his surging run which earned the free-kick that Pablo Sarabia duly converted.

Now onto 14 league goals for the season, Cunha appears all but certain for a Molineux exit this summer – following prior January interest – having already outlined his desire to “take the next step” in his career.

As widely reported, that ‘next step’ looks set to lead the former Atletico Madrid man to Manchester, with positive talks having been held regarding the forward’s potential contract at the Theatre of Dreams.

That move for the £62.5m sensation could represent the first piece of business in a potentially hectic summer for the Red Devils.

Man Utd readying offer for new midfielder

Alongside that interest in the Wolves ace, it would appear that United are also keeping a close eye on Ipswich Town starlet, Liam Delap, with the Englishman set to be available for £30m amid the Tractor Boys’ impending relegation.

Transfer Focus

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

Elsewhere, meanwhile, reports in Spain have suggested that Amorim and co could also go back in for a long-term target, in the form of Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong, with the Dutchman said to be ‘back on the Red Devils’ radar’.

As per the report, United are ‘willing to present a proposal’ in order to entice the LaLiga giants into a summer sale, with the Premier League said to be ready to ‘test the limits’ of Barca’s resolve.

The 27-year-old was famously linked with the Old Trafford side back in the summer of 2022, during Erik ten Hag’s first window in charge, albeit despite an agreement on a fee, a deal for the former Ajax midfielder couldn’t get over the line amid issues regarding personal terms.

There may be a feeling of De Jong’s chance having come and gone, although United should still jump at the opportunity to land such a statement signing.

How De Jong could fit in at Man Utd

There could well be a fresh look to Amorim’s 3-4-3 set-up next term, with a new goalkeeper and centre-forward seemingly set to be prioritised, while Cunha would likely line up in one of the two number ten berths.

The Wolves talisman has already thrived in a similar system under Amorim’s compatriot, Vitor Pereira, in recent months, with his overall record in England’s top-flight now standing at 39 goals and assists in just 77 games.

What the one-time RB Leipzig man will need, however, is quality service from those around him, hence why bringing De Jong into the fold could be a dream scenario.

Likely to operate as part of the midfield two – potentially alongside Bruno Fernandes or Manuel Ugarte – the Netherlands international is simply a master at progressing play, as emphasised by the fact that he ranks in the top 9% of European midfielders for progressive passes, and the top 16% for progressive carries per 90, as per FBref.

Also ranked in the top 1% for pass completion, the experienced metronome has rightly been lauded as “one of the best midfielders in the world” by former boss, Xavi Hernandez, ensuring he would be a worthy upgrade in Amorim’s ranks.

Frenkie de Jong – compared to European midfielders
Stat	Record (per 90)	Ranking
Non-penalty goals	0.12	Top 25%
Assists	0.12	Top 28%
Shot-creating actions	2.59	Top 36%
Passes attempted	82.09	Top 4%
Pass completion	93.8%	Top 1%
Progressive passes	7.17	Top 9%
Progressive carries	2.09	Top 16%
Passes into final third	9.20	Top 3%
Tackles (in attacking 3rd)	0.49	Top 10%
Stats via FBref

As stated, that forward-thinking ability that De Jong provides would ensure he is the ideal figure to pick out the likes of Cunha ahead of him, as indicated by the fact that he also ranks in the top 3% for passes into the final third, at an average of 9.21 per 90.

What also sets the 5 foot 11 maestro apart is just how effective he is at regaining possession too. As evidenced last season – considering he has only started seven league games this time around – De Jong averaged 2.2 tackles per game, having also recovered the ball 5.9 times per game in LaLiga.

For context, United’s ball-winning monster, Casemiro, has only recovered 3.9 balls per game in the Premier League this term – albeit while enjoying a far superior record with regard to tackles made (3.5).

For De Jong to then have such quality both in and out of possession would ensure he can comfortably cope in a midfield two, with United having the chance to acquire two players entering their peak years, in the form of him and Cunha.

After Cunha: Man Utd in talks to sign a "monster" upgrade on Delap

Man Utd could be set to land another sparkling forward this summer, alongside Matheus Cunha

By
Robbie Walls

Apr 22, 2025

Barcelona vs Real Madrid is La Liga’s showpiece fixture. Over the years, plenty of star players have made their mark for the Catalans or Los Blancos – or both. And for some, they thrived under the pressure of appearing in El Clásico without being asked twice.

Here, we have taken a look back through the history books and found the last 15 players to score on their league El Clásico debut.

Related The Top 11 El Clásico Goalscorers This Century

Who has scored the most often in El Clásico since 2000?

Posts 1 ByBarney Lane May 10, 2025 1 Jude Bellingham (2023/24) 28th October 2023: Barcelona 1-2 Real Madrid

Jude Bellingham announced himself as a Real Madrid hero when his brace defeated Barcelona in Catalonia thanks to a last-minute winner.

Bellingham was appearing in his first El Clásico clash following his move from Borussia Dortmund, with the English midfielder scoring goals for fun in his early Madrid career.

His double against Barca was not only his first Clasico goals, but also saw him reach 10 La Liga goals in 11 matches. He ended with 23 in all competitions, winning the league and the Champions League.

2 Ilkay Gundogan (2023/24) 28th October 2023: Barcelona 1-2 Real Madrid

In that same game in late 2023, Ilkay Gundogan briefly threatened to overshadow Bellingham’s big day when he netted six minutes into his first El Clásico matchup.

Gundogan had joined after leaving Manchester City in the preceding summer, having just led the Citizens to their historic treble.

While the move didn’t work out for the former Germany international, he did briefly have his name up in lights before Bellingham stole his thunder.

3 Ferran Torres (2021/22) 20th March 2022: Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona

Having joined Barca from Manchester City in January 2022, the £55m signing was just two months into his career at Camp Nou.

At the time of the 2021/22 season’s first Clasico, Madrid were flying high at the top of the table, whilst Xavi’s Barcelona were languishing some way behind in third – meaning the hosts were certainly heading into the affair as the favourites.

But nobody could’ve predicted what ensued. The subsequent title winners were thumped 4-0 on their own patch, and Ferran Torres netted the third for his first strike in this fixture.

The fleet-footed wide player drifted in from the left and thundered home Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang’s audacious cut-back to score on his El Clásico debut.

4 Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (2021/22) 20th March 2022: Real Madrid 0-4 Barcelona

Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang netted a brace on his El Clásico debut in the aforementioned thumping Barca dealt Real in early 2022.

Like Torres, the Gabonese forward left the Premier League in favour of a move to the Catalan club and was signed during the winter transfer window that year.

Following a goal-littered four-year stint with Arsenal, Aubameyang opted to begin a new chapter in Spain and found the net 13 times in 24 outings for Barca.

5 Sergio Agüero (2021/22) 24th October 2021: Barcelona 1-2 Real Madrid

Following his departure from Manchester City in the summer of 2021, Sergio Agüero was assigned as Barca’s new centre-forward.

After an injury-stricken start to life back in Spain, the Argentina international was making only his second appearance of the season, coming on as a second-half substitute for his El Clásico debut.

With the hosts 2-0 down, Agüero pulled one back after stroking home Sergiño Dest’s cross in the seventh minute of stoppage time, though it ultimately came too late.

6 David Alaba (2021/22) 24th October 2021: Barcelona 1-2 Real Madrid

Prior to Aguero’s consolation, David Alaba opened the scoring quite brilliantly after powering home a well-struck left-footed effort into the far corner, leaving Marc-André ter Stegen helpless.

It was the Austrian’s first goal for Los Blancos following his arrival from Bayern Munich, which ended a trophy-laden 13-year spell with the Bundesliga giants.

Alaba and his side went on to win La Liga, the Champions League and the Spanish Super Cup that year, so it was not a bad first season in Madrid.

7 Óscar Mingueza (2020/21) 10th April 2021: Real Madrid 2-1 Barcelona

With the visitors 2-0 down 30 minutes from time, La Masia academy graduate Óscar Mingueza pulled one back for Barcelona with a neat finish to give his side a lifeline in this La Liga clash.

Barca midfielder Ilaix Moriba came inches away from completing a remarkable turnaround as his effort struck the woodwork in stoppage time.

Victory for the hosts moved them to the summit of the league table, whilst Ronald Koeman’s team dropped to third, a point behind their bitter rivals.

Mingueza went on to make 66 appearances for his boyhood club before departing for Celta Vigo in 2022.

8 Arturo Vidal (2018/19) 28th October 2018: Barcelona 5-1 Real Madrid

Barcelona completed a demolition job against Real, who were struggling under the stewardship of former Spain boss Julen Lopetegui in the opening stages of the 2018/19 season.

Lopetegui received the sack a day later as Los Blancos languished in 9th, seven points adrift of league leaders Barca.

Former Liverpool duo Philippe Coutinho and Luis Suárez netted to put their side 2-0 up heading into the break, before the Uruguayan forward added a third and fourth in the second half to complete his hat-trick.

And with three minutes of normal time remaining, El Clásico debutant Arturo Vidal headed home a fifth to make matters worse for the visitors.

9 Jesé (2013/14) 26th October 2013: Barcelona 2-1 Real Madrid

Barcelona summer arrival Neymar broke the deadlock in the 19th minute of the first Clasico of the 2013/14 season before Alexis Sánchez netted an exquisite chip 12 minutes from time to extend his side’s lead.

Real Madrid’s Jesé, then 20 years old, scored a stoppage-time consolation goal assisted by Cristiano Ronaldo. Regardless of the result, it will likely remain a joyous memory for the Spaniard, who was playing in his first clash against Barca.

Premier League fans may be familiar with the former Real winger’s brief time with Stoke City, though his sole season with the Potters wasn’t particularly inspiring, scoring just once in 13 outings.

10 Neymar (2013/14) 26th October 2013: Barcelona 2-1 Real Madrid

Unsurprisingly, Neymar, the player who went on to become the world’s most expensive footballer, scored in his first El Clásico.

Having signed following a mega-money transfer from Brazilian outfit Santos, expectations were high upon the forward’s arrival.

He was already a global superstar after lighting up Brazil’s top flight, with many of his skilful montages going viral, so fans waited in anticipation to see how he’d fare against one of the continent’s most feared sides.

In spite of the pressure, Neymar took centre stage and opened the scoring for the Catalan club, striking a low effort into the bottom-right corner.

Neymar went on to score 15 goals that year, laying on as many assists.

It’s been coming. Liverpool have enjoyed the most incredible of campaigns, FSG hitting the jackpot with their appointment of Arne Slot, but in keeping with the yearly routine, the season has produced a bitter pill for the fanbase to swallow.

Last year, it was a tired Jurgen Klopp’s decision to step down after nearly nine illustrious years at the helm. 12 months earlier, Liverpool waved goodbye to Bobby Firmino, with the core of Anfield’s midfield all departing too.

Now, Trent Alexander-Arnold has decided to leave Liverpool at the end of his contract this summer, and while it hasn’t been set in stone, he will sign for Real Madrid on a free transfer.

Why Alexander-Arnold is leaving Liverpool

Alexander-Arnold’s Liverpool journey has been synonymous with the club’s ascension under Klopp’s wing. The German gaffer birthed Trent onto the senior stage, handing him his debut across every competition for the Reds.

He’s won it all, but the 26-year-old’s decision to leave Liverpool and the peak of their (and his) powers is something that many fans aren’t going to be able to accept.

Premier League

257

18

67

Champions League

60

2

13

FA Cup

13

1

3

Carabao Cup

10

0

6

Europa League

5

0

2

Club World Cup

2

0

1

CL Qualifying

2

0

1

Community Shield

2

1

0

UEFA Super Cup

1

0

0

FSG did everything in their power to keep him on the books, reportedly offered him a healthy upgrade on his £180k-per-week contract, showcased an ambitious plan led by Slot, whose tactical grasp Trent has been dazzled by.

In the end, he just wanted to leave.

We could pick at it all day but the truth is that Alexander-Arnold feels he has given two decades of his life to his football club and won the lot. He believes that this is the right time for a change, and Real Madrid usually get what they want.

Sky Sports have even suggested that playing in Los Blancos white is something of a lifelong ambition for the England international, whose sights have likely been set on a move for a few years now, in one way or another.

Sporting director Richard Hughes will take his time in working with Slot and deciding on the best route forward at right-back. For now, though, he is looking to sign another defender nice and swiftly.

Liverpool lining up new defender

The Premier League champions are gearing up for a big summer, and the perfect way to put Alexander-Arnold’s decision in the background would be to win the race for Dean Huijsen.

Bournemouth’s star centre-back has been one of the breakthrough stars of the season, thriving on the South Coast. He has a £50m release clause in his contract and is being pursued by all of England’s heaviest hitters.

Certain reports have suggested Chelsea have the edge but according to Fabrizio Romano, the race is very much on, and Liverpool are in need of a new up-and-coming defensive star.

Why Dean Huijsen could be a bigger talent than Trent

Huijsen hasn’t been in the Premier League for long, but he’s already being head-hunted by the best of the best and this is all down to his performances on the pitch.

How Juventus must regret their decision to sell the 20-year-old to Bournemouth in a £15m deal last summer, for he has featured prominently in a Cherries side chasing Europe, with journalist Henry Winter even noting that he “shackled [Alexander] Isak on ground and in the air” back in January.

Sofascore record that Huijsen has won 61% of his aerial battles in the Premier League this season, also averaging 2.7 tackles and interceptions per game, so it’s clear he’s able to produce the goods against the best of the best with consistency. One analyst has already declared that he’s going to be “world-class” in the coming years.

His latest showstopping game, a 2-1 win over Arsenal away from home, highlighted many of the qualities that have piqued the interest of so many clubs, notably scoring the equalising goal.

It was a statement display, not just the architect of the Emirates fall through his headed goal, but an all-round display that negated much of the Gunners’ attacking play.

A big-game player, dynamic as they come, Huijsen is already demonstrating an ability that could see him slot right into Liverpool’s starting line-up, fostering his talents over the coming years to eventually become an even bigger star than Alexander-Arnold.

With some suggesting that he has everything he needs to become “the ultimate modern-day centre back,” Huijsen could actually rise to an even higher level than Alexander-Arnold, should he make the move to Liverpool.

That’s not actually to detract from the Three Lions star’s skill set: Trent is a one-of-a-kind player, with a celestial range of passing that has been so important across a sustained period of success at Anfield.

But Huijsen, too, is showing himself to be a unique player. As per FBref, he ranks among the top 7% of defenders in the Premier League this season for goal contributions, the top 16% for progressive passes, the top 13% for progressive carries, the top 6% for shot-creating actions and the top 4% for blocks and clearances per 90.

It’s not difficult to see why Liverpool (and all the rest) have a vested interest in securing his services as he steps toward footballing maturity.

Surpassing Alexander-Arnold’s legacy would take quite an effort from a young Spaniard like Huijsen (born in the Netherlands), but the likes of Virgil van Dijk and Mohamed Salah have already arrived as foreigners and established themselves as heroes for the ages.

Huijsen could repeat the trick, outstripping Alexander-Arnold in doing so.

Better than Rogers: Liverpool could see £65m bid accepted for 18-goal star

Liverpool are in the market for new forwards this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 5, 2025

The Wolverhampton Wanderers hierarchy have now held internal talks over signing a “clinical” £15 million player instead of the rumoured move for Jamie Vardy, according to a reliable reporter.

Wolves keen to land a new striker this summer

Thanks to the work that Vitor Pereira has done since arriving at Molineux, Wolves have another season in the Premier League to look forward to. However, despite avoiding relegation, the Midlands side look set to lose star player Matheus Cunha. That is because the Brazilian is reportedly closing in on a move to Manchester United, with the Red Devils now working on a deal that they hope can be wrapped up soon.

Reliable reporter suggests Wolves could sign £30m Chelsea ace this summer

Wolves could have their eyes set on signing a player who looks set to be available for a transfer this summer.

ByBrett Worthington May 1, 2025

That would leave Wolves with Jorgen Strand Larsen, Hee-chan Hwang and Sasa Kalajdzic as their only recognised senior strikers, and it seems Pereira wants to have more options at his disposal. Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin is one option under consideration, as he is set to become a free agent at the end of the campaign, and he’s yet to agree a new contract with the Toffees.

It’s also been reported by Football Insider that the Midlands side are keeping an eye on Phil Harres, who has been performing well for struggling Bundesliga side Holstein Kiel. However, these links have all come after it was claimed that Wolves are keen on signing Jamie Vardy, as he is also set to become a free agent and thus would be a cheap option to add experience and depth.

Wolves hold internal talks over signing Cameron Archer

But a move for Vardy may not be on the cards for Pereira’s side, as according to reporter Ben Jacobs, via Molineux News, Wolves could look to sign Cameron Archer from Southampton instead of Vardy this summer.

Speaking on The Wolfpack podcast, Jacobs revealed that the Premier League side may not be interested in a deal for Vardy after all and instead have held internal discussions over a move for Archer, who is also liked by Leeds United.

As quoted by Molineux News, Jacobs said: “It’s not a deal that Wolves are looking to do (Jamie Vardy). They’ll buy younger. One of the names I’ve heard out there for Leeds and Wolves – it’s more like an internal conversation than necessarily a player Wolves are actively approaching or working on – but they like the profile of Cameron Archer at Southampton.”

Apps

70

Goals

6

Assists

2

Archer, who has been described as “clinical” by football analyst Ben Mattinson, joined the Saints last summer from Aston Villa in a deal worth £15 million, and it’s been a transfer that hasn’t really gone to plan.

The centre-forward has played 31 games in the Premier League this season but has only started 13 of those games. Meanwhile, he has scored just two goals, and they came early in the season in back-to-back defeats against Arsenal and Leicester.

Archer is under contract until 2028, but given Southampton are heading back to the Championship, the striker could be available on the cheap.

Wolves have made contact over the signing of a “brilliant” Manchester United player on a free transfer this summer, according to a new report.

Man Utd circling for Cunha after Wolves win at Old Trafford

Wanderers are sweating over the future of star man Mathues Cunha, with United looking like they are leading the race to sign him at the end of this season. The Brazilian has been such an impressive performer for Wolves, in what has largely been an underwhelming season for too many players, scoring 14 goals in the Premier League and once again shining in the recent 1-0 win at United.

If Cunha does leave Wanderers this summer, a top-quality player needs to come in and replace him, and Chelsea’s Joao Felix has been mentioned as a loan target. The Portuguese hasn’t reached his potential, having won the European Golden Boy award back in 2019, but he could still be an exciting addition.

Aside from Cunha, there could be other exits at Wolves in the coming months, with Tommy Doyle expected to move on to pastures new, in order enjoy more regular playing time. Now, a well-known central defender has been backed to head to Molineux in the next transfer window.

Wolves make contact with Man Utd's Lindelof

According to the latest from Caught Offside, Wolves have “been in contact” with United centre-back Victor Lindelof over a summer move to Molineux. The 30-year-old is expected to leave the Reds Devils on a free transfer at the end of the season, and Wanderers are among a host of clubs who are keen on snapping him up. Fulham, Everton and West Ham are all mentioned in the report, too.

The £120,000-a-week Lindelof could be a shrewd signing by Wolves, even though his best days may arguably be behind him, hence United being willing to lose him on a free. The defender is a hugely experienced figure, making 277 appearances for the Red Devils and winning 71 caps for Sweden, while Fraizer Campbell lauded a performance against Everton last season.

“He was brilliant. He’s not let his man have time or space, [Jack] Harrison, who started on the right fot them, he’s a good player, he could have caused us a lot of problems, he snuffed that out. He did really well. That’s exactly what the manager wants. He wants people he can trust when he picks them, whatever position they play in, to do a job for him. He’s demonstrating that by playing left-back.”

There is a certain gamble Wolves would be taking in signing Lindelof, especially as he has had lots of injury problems at United, but the free aspect of the transfer would take out some of the risk element.

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The Swede can come in and be a strong squad option for Vitor Pereira, putting his experience to good use and adding the much-needed depth that Wanderers crave ahead of what is hopefully a more positive 2025/26 campaign.

Everton are on the brink of change. Real change. Not just the elation of David Moyes returning to the dugout after so many years away; not just the change of ownership, the lift that that brings; not just an upswing in results after the shackles of Sean Dyche’s final failure were taken off.

Real change. These varying parts look like they might all come together and advance Everton forward, away from the bogs of recent seasons and into a new era, into Bramley-Moore Dock.

The Friedkin Group will have a grand vision of a future in European competition, but to achieve this, the Toffees must ensure they hit the mark in the summer transfer market.

Moyes has the skills to reach TFG’s vision of apotheosis, but he will need to be backed, with Everton already looking to make their move on a sought-after England international.

Everton chasing swift signing

Too long have Everton been hesitant in the transfer market, then jump-started in moving for an easy solution in a panic. Moyes’ decision to hold off on all but the astute signing of Charly Alcaraz in January already points toward a shift on that front.

But he and new Director of Football, Angus Kinnear, will be swift when they need to be, and GIVEMESPORT believe that sharpness will be directed toward Angel Gomes, whose deal with LOSC Lille expires next month.

GMS claim that Everton are gearing up to make an official offer for the 24-year-old, though there is an awareness of rival interest from Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United.

What Angel Gomes would bring to Everton

Gomes, who currently earns just £12k per week, would pounce on the chance to move back to his homeland, and while Everton would have lagged behind in such a transfer battle in years past, things are different with Moyes at the helm.

Gomes will consider the Scotsman’s ability to nurture talented midfielders into superstars. Look at Declan Rice, who emerged from West Ham’s academy under Moyes’ wing and went on to dominate in east London, win European gold and then transfer to Arsenal in a £105m deal, where he is now thriving.

Rice’s technical distinction has always been on a different level to his positional peers, with his range of passing something that elevated Moyes’ Hammers system. Now, Gomes can play the same role on Merseyside.

As per FBref, he ranks among the top 5% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for pass completion, the top 19% for passes attempted and the top 12% for progressive passes per 90. So then, you can see he’s got a gift for the technical side of the game.

Injuries have sadly limited Gomes to a bit-part role at Lille this season, and he’s only started ten times in Ligue 1. Still, he’s shown off his balance nonetheless, winning 54% of his ground duels, as per Sofascore.

Deeper analysis from Gomes’ metrics this term, when compared against Rice’s, wouldn’t present the full picture, so let’s peer back at the Lille man’s league data from last year against Rice’s across the current Premier League campaign.

Matches (starts)

33 (31)

31 (29)

Goals

3

0

Assists

7

8

Touches*

57.7

65.1

Pass completion

90%

91%

Big chances created

16

15

Key passes*

1.8

1.5

Dribble success

48%

65%

Ball recoveries*

4.3

4.0

Tackles + interceptions*

2.4

1.4

Ground duels (won)*

2.4 (49%)

2.7 (53%)

As you can see, both players thrive in creative capacities but like to keep it crisp. Basically, they know exactly when to make an ambitious pass but usually retain possession in the most beneficial and fluent manner.

They are also active in recovering possession, denoting athleticism which Moyes’ Everton will need to maintain the expected hard-working standard.

Bring him in. Everton can’t promise European football (yet), but they can promise a breeding ground for talented players who want to progress their careers and reach a higher level.

Praised for his “incredible” performances by French football writer Robin Bairner, Gomes would be wise to pick blue this summer.

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Tottenham Hotspur are looking to finish the season on a high and could land a summer coup involving one of Europe’s highly-rated young defenders, according to a report.

Tottenham Hotspur prepare for Europa League date with destiny

There are no two ways about it; Spurs face arguably the biggest week in their modern existence as Ange Postecoglou prepares his side to take on Manchester United in Wednesday’s UEFA Europa League final.

Financially, the winners of the competition stand to earn £10.95 million for a victory in the final, which has created a unique sense of jeopardy between two of England’s most reputable clubs.

Factor in money accumulated across the course of their run to Bilbao and subsequent qualification for the Champions League, there could be a bounty exceeding £80 million in store for either Tottenham or Manchester United.

However, Spurs may have to navigate the showdown without Pape Matar Sarr after he was taken off during their 2-0 defeat to Aston Villa last Friday.

Speaking about his latest injury scare, Postecoglou stated: “Pape felt something in his back, so we took him off as a bit of a precaution. I don’t think it’s anything too significant, speaking to him afterwards but he just felt something in his back.”

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Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison will miss the final for Tottenham, who know the implications of Wednesday’s final and what it could mean when it comes to attracting potential recruits this summer.

Ultimately, having the Champions League carrot ready to dangle could be a key advantage in the race for talent, though they are now reportedly looking at signing a Paris Saint-Germain star who has earned intriguing recognition.

Tottenham Hotspur looking to sign PSG defender Axel Tape

According to Sports Zone, Tottenham are circling for Paris Saint-Germain defender Axel Tape this summer amid his reported decision to leave the French giants on a free transfer.

Bayer Leverkusen are said to be in ‘pole position’ to sign the 17-year-old, while Bournemouth and Chelsea are also in the hunt to offer a Premier League avenue to the youngster.

Likened to Dean Huijsen by Rising Gems, Tape has made three first-team appearances for Paris Saint-Germain this campaign and primarily features as a central defender.

Daniel Levy is well-known for his penchant to facilitate the arrival of young talent to develop into first-team stars, which is a brief Spurs could look to fill once again should the Bondy-born man arrive in London.

Prodigious figures such as Archie Gray, Lucas Bergvall and Mikey Moore have all been given senior minutes this term, even if the root cause of their frequent involvement has been an injury crisis.

Looking to the future, Tape could be the latest to join a conveyor belt of youthful assets who are only going to multiply in value under Postecoglou’s watch.