All posts by h716a5.icu

Leeds United have now made an approach to sign a “true gladiator”, who could replace Junior Firpo, according to reporter Ben Jacobs.

Leeds eyeing new defenders amid Firpo uncertainty

Firpo’s Elland Road future has been up in the air for quite some time, and the left-back is now looking increasingly likely to be heading for the exit door this summer, with Real Betis recently submitting a proposal to re-sign their former player.

The Dominican Republic international is out of contract at the end of this month, and Daniel Farke’s side have now started running the rule over potential replacements, with widespread reports suggesting Aston Villa left-back Alex Moreno is of interest.

With Firpo set to leave for nothing, however, there may be a desire to bring in a replacement on a free transfer, and Jacobs has now taken to X to reveal the Whites have now made contact over a deal to sign a new target.

Indeed, according to the GiveMeSport correspondent, Leeds have now made an approach for Atletico Madrid defender Reinildo, who is set to be available on a free transfer upon the expiration of his contract after the upcoming Club World Cup.

There may be competition for the left-back’s signature from within the Premier League, however, with Sunderland and Nottingham Forest making proposals of their own, while the defender also has “options” from Turkey and Saudi Arabia.

"True gladiator" Reinildo has experience at the highest level

The Mozambique international was a bit-part player for Atletico Madrid in the 2024-25 campaign, making 19 La Liga appearances and often being left on the bench, but he is experienced at the top level, having tested himself in the Champions League and Europa League.

Once lauded as a “true gladiator” by scout Jacek Kulig, the 31-year-old’s experience could be useful in helping Leeds avoid the drop next season, but there are some doubts over whether he would be an upgrade on Firpo.

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2 ByDominic Lund Jun 11, 2025

In fact, the 28-year-old has even outperformed Reinildo across some key metrics for defenders over the past year, despite being more well-known for his ability on the front foot, having picked up 14 goal contributions in the Championship last season.

Average per 90

Reinildo

Junior Firpo

Tackles

2.13

2.27

Clearances

2.82

3.51

Aerials won

0.89

2.10

As such, despite Reinildo’s top-level experience, the evidence doesn’t suggest that he would be a real upgrade on Firpo, and it may be worth Farke giving his current left-back a second chance to prove himself in the Premier League, should a move to Betis fail to materialise.

Fulham are the club pushing the hardest to sign an “outstanding” midfielder, with Marco Silva set to be backed in the summer transfer window, according to a report.

Cottagers set to back Silva amid uncertain future

Having been at Craven Cottage for just under four years, Silva is now among the longest-serving managers in the Premier League, but there is widespread interest in the Portuguese coach, with Juventus becoming the latest club to express an interest.

With Tottenham Hotspur and clubs from the Saudi Pro League also keen on the 47-year-old, it could be difficult for the board to retain his services, but they have now displayed a willingness to back the manager in the summer transfer window.

That is according to a report from TEAMtalk, which states Silva has been promised money to improve his squad, while also revealing the Cottagers have now set their sights on a new midfielder.

Fulham are said to be the club pushing the hardest to sign Mainz attacking midfielder Nadiem Amiri, who is set to leave the German club this summer, having attracted widespread interest from the Premier League.

New target: Fulham now ready to pounce for 23-goal striker available for £0

The Cottagers have joined the race for a forward, who is set to be available on a free transfer this summer.

ByDominic Lund Jun 3, 2025

Amiri has already turned down a move to Leeds United, while Crystal Palace have identified him as a potential target, but the west Londoners appear to be more determined to get a move over the line.

A deal would not break the bank either, with the 28-year-old expected to be allowed to leave for a fee of around £15m, and he could be brought in to replace Tom Cairney, amid interest from Wrexham, while fellow midfielder Harrison Reed is also set to depart.

"Outstanding" Amiri enjoyed impressive 2024-25 campaign

The Mainz star has been particularly impressive going forward as of late, picking up seven goals and five assists in 30 Bundesliga outings, and his displays at club level have led to a return to the German national side.

Upon selecting the central midfielder, manager Julian Nagelsmann said: “Nadiem is having an outstanding season. He’s a very good example of how you can take a step back to push your career forward.”

The German maestro had been uninvolved with his national side since 2020, but fought hard to regain his place, saying: “After I received a call from Julian Nagelsmann on Tuesday, I was in tears. It was my dream for so long to be able to play for the national team again. I worked hard, trying to improve every day”

Not only does Amiri have international experience, but he also has 10 Champions League appearances to his name, which could stand him in good stead to be a success at Craven Cottage, and a fee of £15m seems like a bargain for a player of his quality.

Ask Arsenal fans what it is they need this summer, and the most common answer you’ll get is a striker.

No players hit double digits for Premier League goals in Mikel Arteta’s squad this season, whereas Arne Slot had three players manage the feat, with Mohamed Salah racking up an unreal 29.

Such an evident weakness in the squad has seen the club linked with a host of incredible strikers over the last few months, and while Alexander Isak is undoubtedly at the top of most supporters’ wishlists, his supposed £150m price tag now looks secure as ever following Newcastle United’s qualification for the Champions League on Sunday.

However, while the Swede may be out of reach, recent reports have linked the Gunners with another exciting centre-forward who has won comparisons to him, a centre-forward who’d be a significant Kai Havertz upgrade.

Arsenal's striker search

While it might not always feel like it, there are quite a few strikers who could be on the market this summer, and plenty of them have been touted for moves to Arsenal, such as Viktor Gyokeres and Joao Pedro.

Transfer Focus

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

The former has long been linked with the Gunners and could finally be available for close to £63m in the coming weeks, which might just be a steal considering he’s racked up a sublime haul of 54 goals and 13 assists in 52 games for Sporting CP this season.

On the other hand, Pedro might be a harder transfer to justify, as while his tally of ten goals and seven assists in 30 games is impressive, his supposed £100m price tag feels exorbitant.

Fortunately, another striker has now been linked with the North Londoners, someone compared to the incredible Isak: Nick Woltemade.

According to a recent report from Caught Offside, Arsenal are one of a handful of clubs incredibly keen on the German forward.

The report claims that Arsenal and Serie A champions Napoli have already made contact with VfB regarding the talented goalscorer, while the likes of Atlético Madrid and West Ham United are currently keeping tabs on the situation.

On top of getting ahead of the competition, the North Londoners would have to stump up around €50m to secure the 23-year-old’s signature, which is about £42m.

It might not be the big-name signing some fans want, but on top of the comparisons to Newcastle’s superstar striker, Woltemade would be an upgrade on Havertz.

How Woltemade compares to Isak & Havertz

Before we take a look at how Woltemade stacks up against Havertz, the man he could replace at Arsenal, it’s worth examining this comparison to Isak and where it has come from.

In this instance, it stems from FBref, which looks at players in similar positions in Europe’s top five leagues, the Champions League and Europa League, before creating a list of the ten most comparable players.

By doing this, it has been concluded that the Swedish international is the second most similar forward to the German across the last 365 days.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.70

0.70

Progressive Passes

2.89

2.88

Shots on Target

1.28

1.34

Switches

0.11

0.10

Goal-Creating Actions

0.55

0.46

Successful Take-Ons %

43.7%

46.2%

The best way to see how this is worked out is by taking a look at the underlying metrics in which the pair rank closely, including but not limited to non-penalty expected goals plus assists, shots on target, switches, progressive passes, goal-taking actions and more, all per 90.

With his similarities to the Toon star cleared up, how does he stack up against the Gunners’ number 29?

Well, when it comes to their raw output, which is ultimately what matters most for a striker, it is the “exceptional” Stuttgart star, as dubbed by U23 scout Antonio Mango, who comes out on top.

For example, in 33 appearances, totalling 2039 minutes this term, the Bremen-born poacher scored 17 goals and provided three assists, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.65 games, or every 101.95 minutes.

In contrast, the former Chelsea ace has scored 15 goals and provided five assists in 36 appearances, totalling 2809 minutes, which comes out to an average of a goal involvement every 1.8 games, or every 140.45 minutes.

Ultimately, Havertz could still be an incredibly useful player next season, but as things stand, Woltemade looks to the superior striker, and therefore, Arsenal should do what they can to sign him this summer.

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ByJack Salveson Holmes May 27, 2025

Whilst Birmingham City’s unbelievable attacking arsenal undoubtedly helped them to stroll to the League One title with 81 goals being scored, the defenders also more than played their part in the Blues’ title-winning success when shutting out some dangerous third-tier attackers.

Chris Davies’ men would boast the sternest defence in the division come the end of their near flawless 46-game campaign, with only 31 strikes being shipped in total courtesy of Christoph Klarer at the back showing off their imposing nature.

Still, the reawakened giants won’t be resting on their laurels moving back up to the Championship, with signings all over the pitch rumoured to join the impressive St Andrew’s ranks.

Birmingham's growing list of transfer targets

Davies’ side won’t be content with simply making up the numbers next season after promotion, knowing full well that chairman Tom Wagner will again give the Blues adequate funds to spend on some top buys.

Birmingham have already been linked with major moves for former star Che Adams alongside League One superstar Kwame Poku to enhance their potent forward areas. Further, a move for Irish shot-stopper Mark Travers has also been rumoured.

But, the ever-growing list of statement targets doesn’t stop there, with journalist Alan Nixon now reporting that the newly promoted side could go back in for the much-admired Harry Darling who Birmingham have previously had on their shopping list.

Davies and Co might well be able to land the experienced Swansea City centre-back for nothing, considering his deal with the Welsh side expires very soon, but fellow promoted outfit Wrexham are also allegedly sniffing around for the 25-year-old.

Amazingly, if a deal was to get over the line, Birmingham would be able to land an instant upgrade on Hannover 96 powerhouse Phil Neumann who is also set to join the Blues this summer from the Bundesliga, meaning competition for places in the heart of defence would be extremely fierce.

How Darling would be an upgrade on Neumann

Winning both Neumann and Darling in quick succession would make sense, with the likes of Grant Hanley exiting St. Andrew’s at the expiry of his contract, alongside Dion Sanderson’s future at the club being up in the air after a loan stint at Blackburn Rovers.

But, if it was a toss-up between the two new potential centre-backs as to who would partner a formidable Klarer moving forward, Darling could well get the nod over the 6 foot 3 German when picking apart their impressive 2024/25 numbers below.

Games played

39

32

43

Goals scored

5

2

1

Assists

3

1

3

Touches*

74.5

64.4

91.8

Accurate passes*

53.9 (88%)

38.9 (83%)

68.4 (88%)

Ball recoveries*

3.9

4.3

3.5

Clearances*

5.0

5.2

5.6

Total duels won*

4.9

4.3

7.5

Clean sheets

12

10

18

Straight off the bat, Darling already possesses a lot of experience of the English game to his advantage, with 108 career games under his belt in the difficult Championship.

On top of that, the soon-to-be free agent has also averaged a better pass accuracy per league clash this season in the second tier than Neumann has managed in the German top-flight, alongside also bettering the Hannover number five when it comes to winning duels.

Klarer has shown in abundance for Birmingham that he can be equal parts classy yet attritional too, meaning the “heroic” Swans centre-back – as he was once labelled by former manager Luke Williams – and the Austrian enforcer could soon be a match made in heaven in the heart of the Blues defence.

Of course, Neumann would still be pushing for a starting spot here, but if Birmingham can win such a distinguished performer at the level on a free transfer, it’s a move they simply must pursue.

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ByKelan Sarson May 8, 2025

And so, Manchester United are Bilbao-bound again. The Europa League final awaits…

Having cruised to a surprise 3-0 win away from home last week at San Mames, the Red Devils endured a typically nervous start on what should have been a routine night at Old Trafford, with Mikel Jauregizar’s first-half stunner sparking renewed hope for a depleted Athletic Club side.

The away side’s dominance continued in the early knockings of the second period, with United looking set to potentially pay for their inability to kill the tie sooner, with Alejandro having spurned a gilt-edged chance before the break.

Thankfully for Ruben Amorim, the Portuguese rolled the dice with his 60-minute substitutions and the right number came up, with the introduction of Mason Mount, in particular, helping to reinvigorate the misfiring hosts.

Two stunning strikes from the Englishman – which marked his first goals at the Theatre of Dreams in any competition – bookended further efforts for both Casemiro and Rasmus Hojlund, with the Premier League side romping to a 7-1 aggregate scoreline in the end.

It was a night that began in shaky fashion, but this one was all about the finishers – in truth, it was the night that Mount finally came to the party.

Mason Mount's magic Man Utd moment

What a week it has been for the former Chelsea man. Handed his first start since his return from injury against Brentford at the weekend, the 26-year-old duly popped up with the opener at the Gtech, before again delivering the goods this time around.

In truth, Amorim’s repeated praise for the injury-hit playmaker has looked more like blind faith than anything else in recent months, with Mount seemingly heading the way of a litany of failed signings before him. Indeed, two goals and only one assist in 41 games before Thursday night’s encounter made for grim reading.

And yet, is there life in this £55m man? On the evidence of last night, there certainly is, with the forgotten talent sparking United’s in-game comeback with a delightful cruyff-turn and curler into the far corner.

As journalist Samuel Luckhurst noted, there were shades of Federico Macheda’s famous Aston Villa effort about that equaliser, although Mount went on to emulate a far more notable name in David Beckham at the death, having lofted the ball into the empty net from range.

Amid a largely wretched two seasons in Manchester, the Champions League winner has hardly come close to reaching the heights of his fellow number seven, although this electric cameo – hopefully – can be the start of something brighter.

In the short term, perhaps the Cobham graduate has etched his name into Amorim’s showpiece starting lineup. The same is also true of Amad Diallo.

Man Utd star now "has to start the final"

They say absence makes the heart grow fonder, and well, that is certainly true in the case of Amad.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

The shining light of Amorim’s early tenure, the Ivorian was cruelly struck down by injury in mid-February, having at that stage looked almost certain to miss the remainder of the campaign.

Having since defied the odds to work his way back to fitness, the 22-year-old has simply picked up where he left off earlier this year, as indicated by his stunning strike off the bench against the Bees on Sunday.

GK

Andre Onana

RCB

Matthijs de Ligt

CB

Harry Maguire

LCB

Leny Yoro

RWB

Noussair Mazraoui

CM

Bruno Fernandes

CM

Casemiro

LWB

Patrick Dorgu

RAM

Amad

LAM

Mason Mount

ST

Rasmus Hojlund

Again called upon as an impact player on Thursday night, the former Atalanta starlet quickly showcased why he now “has to start the final”, according to Luckhurst, after putting in a dazzling 30-minute showing.

Involved in the initial build-up to Mount’s first of the night, having surged down the left flank, the diminutive speedster was particularly crucial in teeing up Hojlund late on, having skipped his way into the penalty area before picking out the goal-shy Dane from the byline.

As he showcased amid that assist, Amad is simply a relentless and electric presence down that right flank. At one stage, he evaded his man with a sensational turn on the halfway line, albeit with teenager Harry Amass unable to convert at the end of that fine sweeping move, following another key intervention from Mount in between.

In all, that 8/10 showing – as per Luckhurst – from the dynamic left-footer saw him successfully complete 100% of his attempted dribbles and win 100% of his total duels, taking no time at all to get up to the speed of the game.

That standout cameo may suggest that Amad – and Mount too – could well be vital in helping to change the game in the final against Tottenham Hotspur, although Thursday served as a reminder as to why he simply must be in the starting XI, be it as a wing-back or a number ten.

With options now there for Amorim to call upon, as his squad edges back to full fitness, perhaps United may well finally peak at just the right time. Bring on Bilbao!

Man Utd could land a bigger talent than Amad in "unplayable" £60m star

Watch out Amad… Man Utd are looking to sign another standout attacker this summer

ByRobbie Walls May 8, 2025

Chelsea are now favourites to sign a £148m star ahead of Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr, despite the latter’s bottomless financial power, and talks have already been over a move for the player.

Chelsea transfer plans amid tight Champions League race

Enzo Maresca and co face off against top-five rivals Newcastle United in the Premier League this afternoon, knowing a win at St James’ Park will give them an almighty boost in their chase for Champions League qualification.

£65m forward who Atletico Madrid are pushing for wants to join Chelsea

Diego Simeone’s side really want him.

ByEmilio Galantini May 10, 2025

Both Chelsea and Newcastle are neck-and-neck in the table, level on both points and goal difference, with nothing separating either side – so this will be a very tough one to call for onlookers.

Eddie Howe’s men boast the home advantage, but Chelsea will be in good spirits after an excellent run of form and their win over English champions Liverpool last weekend. It is a truly mouth-watering clash, and one which even has the power to have an effect on Chelsea’s summer transfer plans this summer.

Newcastle (away)

May 11th

Man United (home)

May 16th

Nottingham Forest (away)

May 25th

This is because qualification for the Champions League is intertwined with the club’s recruitment drive, as per Maresca himself in a recent press conference, and a top-five finish is seen as vital when it comes to Chelsea’s aims for the window.

According to reports, Chelsea are aiming to sign a new winger among their chief priorities, and BlueCo already have their eyes on a host of targets.

Talks have already been held over a move for Borussia Dortmund sensation Jamie Gittens, according to Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, while reports this week also indicate that Man United winger Alejandro Garnacho is still a target for Chelsea as well.

As well as the aforementioned duo, links to AC Milan star Rafael Leao continue to be fairly strong.

Chelsea ahead of Al-Nassr in race for Rafael Leao after initial talks

The Portugal international’s contract includes a £148 million release clause, which is active for around 10 days in July, but clubs are likely to negotiate a price lower than this pretty seismic figure.

As per CaughtOffside, Chelsea have held initial talks over signing Leao, and despite interest from Al-Nassr, the Blues have an advantage over them. The outlet reports that Leao wants to stay in Europe, which puts them ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo’s side, and as things stand, Chelsea are the “most advanced” when it comes to any kind of agreement for his signature.

Arsenal are in the mix as well, but they view the winger as more of an alternative to Athletic Bilbao starlet Nico Williams.

Leao has been a star player for Milan since joining them from Lille, with former Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham branding the forward an “unstoppable” force on his day.

“Leao is a very important player for us,” said Abraham to Italian media.

“I don’t think he knows how good he is. He can win games on his own, on his day, he is unstoppable. We have to fill him with confidence and bring him on our path.”

The decision for Liverpool to extend the contract of star centre-back Virgil van Dijk is one that has delighted supporters, undoubtedly so given his importance to Arne Slot.

He joined the Reds for a mammoth £75m back in January 2018, providing a leading presence at the heart of the defence – allowing the side to enjoy success in the Premier League.

The Dutchman has featured in every minute of their league season to date, allowing the club to be within touching distance of claiming a record-equalling 20th league triumph.

His extension takes him to the summer of 2027, having another two years to try and win even more trophies at Anfield, cementing his place as one of the best defenders to ever play the beautiful game.

However, he could be joined by one player in the backline in 2025/26, with Slot and the hierarchy both working together to complete a deal for an in-demand talent.

The latest on Liverpool’s pursuit to land Dean Huijsen this summer

In recent weeks, reports have emerged linking Liverpool with a move to land Bournemouth centre-back Dean Huijsen during the summer transfer window.

It was stated that the Reds’ hierarchy have already met the Spaniard’s representatives over a potential switch to Anfield, but they aren’t alone in their pursuit of the 20-year-old.

Chelsea, Real Madrid, Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United have all also been credited with an interest in the youngster, who has a £50m release clause in his current deal at the Vitality.

However, despite the ambitions of landing Huijsen, another defensive name has emerged on their shortlist, in the form of Nottingham Forest talent Murillo.

According to CaughtOffside, the Reds hold a firm interest in his signature, but would have to pay a fee in the region of £70m for his services given the Reds’ potential top-five status come the end of the season.

Why Murillo would be a better signing than Huijsen

There’s no denying that Bournemouth star Huijsen will be at the top of many Liverpool fans’ list of targets this summer, offering Slot another dimension at the heart of his defence.

His form on the south coast has seen the Cherries battle for a place in Europe next season, leading to rumours around his future away from the club in the near future.

Given his release clause, it’s highly likely he will depart Andoni Iraola’s outfit this summer, but the Reds need to swerve a deal for his services and prioritise a move for Murillo instead.

Whilst the Brazilian would cost an additional £20m compared to the Spaniard, it’s a cost worth taking, having a much higher ceiling to thrive at the top of European football.

When comparing the pair’s respective stats from the ongoing season, the Forest star has massively outperformed Huijsen in numerous key areas – further highlighting the talent he possesses.

Murillo, who’s been labelled “one of the best defenders in the Premier League” by one analyst, has kept more clean sheets, whilst also winning more of the tackles he’s entered to date.

He’s also posted a higher tally of blocks made per 90, alongside more clearances made and aerials won – showcasing the defensive ability he possesses, subsequently playing a huge role in Forest’s success.

Games played

32

27

Clean sheets

15

7

Tackles won

1.5

1.1

Blocks made

2.1

1.4

Clearances made

7.2

6.9

Take-ons completed

79%

40%

Aerials won

66%

59%

The Brazilian has also starred with the ball at his feet, completing more of the take-ons he’s attempted, often catching the eye with his dazzling efforts.

Whilst £70m may be a huge sum for another defender, it’s a fee that is certainly worth it given the performances produced in 2024/25 – potentially being in the league’s Team of the Year.

It would take a lot of convincing to take him out of Forest’s side, given the success they’ve endured this season, but the prospect of moving to Anfield could be one that may tempt Murillo into a huge switch.

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ByEthan Lamb Apr 23, 2025

Manchester United have now made contact over a deal for an “incredible” striker, who would be keen on a move to the Premier League this summer, according to Sky Sports reporter Patrick Berger.

Man Utd pursuing new striker for Amorim

Man United suffered yet another setback in their last Premier League outing, suffering a 4-1 defeat away at Newcastle United to remain 14th in the table with just six games left to play, and they were very poor at both ends of the pitch.

Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund both squandered one big chance at St. James’ Park, which once again underlined the need for Ruben Amorim to bring in a new striker this summer, and several targets have now been identified.

Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap is believed to be chief among them, with the Englishman set to be available for just £30m this summer, given that his side are almost certain to be relegated from the Premier League.

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ByDominic Lund Apr 15, 2025

Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike are also on the shortlist, with the Red Devils considering options from abroad, and another Bundesliga striker has also recently entered the frame.

According to an update from Sky Sports reporter Berger on X, Man United have now made initial contact over a deal for Bayer Leverkusen striker Patrik Schick, although the move is still in the early stages, with nothing concrete so far.

Leverkusen would be looking to receive €25m – €30m (£21m – £26m) for Schick, making him an affordable option for United, and there are some signs he would be keen on the move, given that the Premier League is said to be his “preferred destination”.

Ideally, Amorim would be looking to bring in a younger striker, but the 29-year-old is viewed as an “interesting” option.

Schick enjoying another impressive Bundesliga campaign

The Czech striker has spent the majority of his career in Germany, chalking up 70 goals and 13 assists in 138 Bundesliga outings, and the current campaign is on course to be one of his most prolific to date.

With 17 league goals to his name, there are clear signs the Leverkusen star is now entering his prime, and he has averaged a remarkable 0.87 non-penalty goals per 90 over the past year, placing him in the top 1% of all strikers in a top five European league.

Not only that, but the forward has been lauded as “incredible” by members of the media in the past, indicating that he could be a real upgrade on Hojlund and Zirkzee, who have fallen way below expectations this season.

That said, it would be a gamble to sign Schick, given that he is unproven in the Premier League, and Delap should remain United’s top striker target.

Only the most unbelievable of relegation escapes would suffice if Ipswich Town are to survive in the Premier League past this season, with the Tractor Boys now looking dead set on an instant return to the Championship.

A mammoth 12 points now separates the Suffolk strugglers from 17th placed Wolverhampton Wanderers, who managed to sneak away from the relegation zone even further when beating Kieran McKenna’s lowly men 2-1 last time out.

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ByStephan Georgiou Apr 3, 2025

Despite all the obvious negativity that’s hanging in the air at Portman Road, there have been some positive performers during Ipswich’s fleeting top-flight voyage, with left-back star Leif Davis managing to stand out.

Davis' Premier League heroics

The ex-Leeds United defender would have entered into the promised land of the Premier League eager to prove himself, having torn the EFL to shreds with sensational attacking displays season after season.

After all, during his side’s automatic promotion heroics up to the top division, Davis would amass a staggering 21 assists and two goals from 43 clashes, meaning he could potentially take the next step-up in his stride.

Whilst his numbers haven’t quite been as jaw-dropping in the elite league, Davis has shown bursts of his sublime quality in his new and tricky surroundings, with this well-executed volley pulled off against Leicester City one of four goal contributions he’s managed to tally up in the league for his relegation-doomed outfit.

There could well be some parties sniffing around for the Newcastle-born full-back’s services come this summer, therefore, with reports even wildly suggesting that Juventus are taking a look at the assist machine as a fresh option down the left.

Sinking back down to the second tier will bring about waves of uncertainty, but McKenna doesn’t need to be overly worried about what happens down the left-flank next campaign, with a new Davis-style defender already emerging at Portman Road.

McKenna's next Davis in the making

Even with a bruising relegation looking likely to take place, Ipswich should be well equipped enough to mount an instant promotion charge based on the talent at McKenna’s disposal.

That should be the case even if Davis does depart, with former West Bromwich Albion man Conor Townsend already proving to Tractor Boys supporters that he can be equally sharp in the attacking areas when assisting Liam Delap for this breakaway strike away at AFC Bournemouth.

Whilst he isn’t a spring chicken anymore at 32 years of age, the reserve full-back has still managed to fill in competently in Davis’ absence over the last couple of top-flight encounters, with six duels also successfully won against the Old Gold despite the crushing final scoreline.

Moving away from his top-flight output, however, and Townsend could be the real deal for McKenna’s men back down in the Championship, with the Ipswich number 22 a consistent top performer for the Baggies when last strutting his stuff at the level.

23/24

46

0

5

22/23

48

3

3

21/22

44

0

2

20/21

27

0

2

19/20

30

1

1

18/19

18

0

2

Always consistently available for selection at the Hawthorns, Townsend would bow out of his time in the West Midlands with 15 assists next to his name from 213 games.

Coming close to promotion last time out in the division with the Baggies too, the 32-year-old will be raring to succeed with the Tractor Boys if selected more regularly down a league, with the potential there for the £15k-per-week defender to pick up even more goals and assists surrounding by some exceptional personnel for the EFL.

Indeed, even Davis himself has admitted that Townsend has been keeping him on his toes of late, after branding the experienced full-back as an “incredible player”, with an “incredible left foot”. That has since been followed by further praise from Dara O’Shea, who highlighted the veteran’s “amazing” recent displays down the left flank.

Already heralded as being an “important” figure by his manager when initially signing in gifting Ipswich more depth, this importance to the cause could shine through even more if he’s handed the first-team reins after Davis ups and leaves.

McKenna could be brewing his next Hutchinson in “special” Ipswich star

Kieran McKenna could get more out of this Ipswich Town ace in the Championship.

ByKelan Sarson Apr 7, 2025

Mikel Merino was the hero yet again for Arsenal, picking up a goal and an assist as the Premier League leaders saw off a stubborn Brentford side 2-0 at the Emirates to restore their five-point advantage over second-placed Manchester City. The Spain international, still playing as Mikel Arteta's makeshift striker, scored a fine header early on to open the scoring and then set up substitute Bukayo Saka in the closing stages to wrap up a crucial win for the Gunners.

Arteta took the opportunity to make some changes following Sunday's draw at Chelsea, with Noni Madueke, Martin Odegaard and Ben White coming in for Saka, Eberechi Eze and Jurrien Timber. And it was Madueke and White who combined superbly to set up Merino for the opening goal, with the Spaniard smartly heading home the former's cross at the near post.

Gabriel Martinelli had a chance to double Arsenal's lead before half-time but fired over, while at the other end David Raya produced a wonderful point blank save to tip Kevin Schade's header onto the crossbar. 

Arsenal had to endure some nervy moments in the second half as Brentford looked for a leveller, but they made sure of the win late on when Saka – who had replaced Madueke – finished off Merino's pass to restore Arsenal's five-point advantage at the top of the table.

GOAL rates Arsenal's players from Emirates Stadium…

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David Raya (8/10):

Outstanding save to tip Schade's point-blank header onto the bar and his handling was good throughout.

Ben White (8/10):

Back in the starting XI and reminded everyone just how good he is in the first half. Excellent down the right, linked up really well with Madueke. Lovely assist for Merino's early goal.

Cristhian Mosquera (6/10):

Arsenal's latest injury victim. Forced off before half-time after an awkward landing.

Piero Hincapie (7/10):

Solid enough. Coped pretty well with the pace and direct style of the Brentford attack.

Riccardo Calafiori (7/10):

A typically strong showing, popping up all over the pitch. Did well defensively and almost scored late on.

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Martin Zubimendi (7/10):

Calm and steady as always. Just kept things ticking over nicely.

Declan Rice (7/10):

Made some driving runs into the box and was so close to providing a great assist for Madueke before Henry's last ditch block. Limped off late on with what Arsenal will hope was cramp.

Martin Odegaard (6/10):

Positive signs on his first start since his return. Heavily involved, linked up well down the right and looked fit. Important minutes as he looks to get back to his top level.

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Noni Madueke (7/10):

Really lively when on the ball in the first half and caused Henry so many problems. Lovely flick to release White in the build up to the early goal. Set-piece delivery needs work though. Faded after half-time.

Mikel Merino (8/10):

Brilliant centre-forward play to open the scoring. The run and header were superb. Good display, covered so much ground and added an assist for Saka late on.

Gabriel Martinelli (6/10):

Fired one shot over in the first half. Willing runner, but was on the fringes of things before being replaced by Eze.

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Jurrien Timber (7/10):

Replaced the injured Mosquera at centre-back in the first half. Solid.

Bukayo Saka (7/10):

Made sure of the points in stoppage time from Merino's pass. 

Eberechi Eze (6/10):

Saw quite a bit of the ball, but Brentford dealt with him well.

Viktor Gyokeres (N/A):

On for the closing stages.

Mikel Arteta (7/10):

Made some changes to give some players a rest. Unlucky that Mosquera picked up an injury which forced Timber on early.