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Leeds United correspondent Phil Hay has claimed the club could make three more signings this summer.

The Lowdown: Two huge exits

Victor Orta has been a busy man this summer, bringing in Brenden Aaronson, Rasmus Kristensen and Marc Roca at combined cost of just over £52m.

Andrea Radrizzani’s phone has also been ringing, with Leeds looking likely to lose Kalvin Phillips and Raphinha.

Leeds have agreed to an initial £42m fee with Manchester City for Phillips and a £60m-£65m total fee with Chelsea for Raphinha.

The Latest: Hay’s claim

Hay shared a story for The Athletic on Tuesday morning regarding how Leeds will recover from selling Phillips and Raphinha.

He claimed that ‘Phillips and Raphinha moving on could mean a total of six players coming in’ – with ‘a midfielder, a winger and a forward to follow’ to the three already signed.

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The Verdict: Camara, De Ketelaere and Gakpo?

Leeds have been heavily linked with three players in recent weeks who appear to fit Hay’s recent claim.

The Whites have apparently made ‘direct contact’ with the representatives of RB Salzburg midfielder Mohamed Camara and are in talks for PSV winger Cody Gakpo.

Hay has previously admitted that Leeds are also ‘serious’ about signing Club Brugge forward Charles de Ketelaere, so those three could well arrive in Yorkshire, with Leeds potentially using all the funds from pending Phillips and Raphinha sales.

Rangers could potentially have the edge in the race to bring a young striker to Ibrox this summer according to one journalist.

What’s the word?

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Pete O’Rourke suggested that there is hope Giovanni van Bronckhorst can bring Cameron Archer to Rangers this summer.

The respected insider hinted that the Ibrox side’s connection with Aston Villa boss Steven Gerrard could aid them in their bid to sign the 20-year-old, should the Midlands outfit sanction a departure this summer.

Amid reports linking the Old Firm giants with the striker, O’Rourke outlined the role Gerrard could play: “It would definitely give them maybe increased hope that they could agree a deal between both clubs.

“There will be a relationship obviously between Gerrard and Rangers, so maybe he might be more inclined to send Cameron Archer up to Ibrox if it does come down to that, knowing what Rangers can offer the striker as well.”

That connection with their former boss could prove vital in helping to fend off rival interest – notably from Watford – although The Athletic report that the former Liverpool skipper will take a closer look at the academy product this summer, before deciding whether or not to sanction a temporary exit.

GvB will love him

That claim will be music to the ears of manager van Bronckhorst, with the Dutchman seemingly keen on the promising forward, amid the club’s search for new attacking recruits.

With Cedric Itten having joined BSC Young Boys on a permanent deal and with Alfredo Morelos tipped for a departure – with just 12 months left on his current deal – the need to bolster the forward ranks has become a top priority.

In Archer, the Glasgow side have identified a talent who is seemingly only going to get better in the coming years, having begun to earn wider acclaim after a real standout campaign for both club and country.

Having joined Preston North End in a six-month loan deal in January, the £5.4m-rated gem went on to score an impressive seven goals and provide one assist in just 20 Championship outings at Deepdale, with manager Ryan Lowe left in awe by his “abundance of talent”.

The £2.4k-per-week starlet followed up that eye-catching loan stint with a stunning burst of form for the England U21 side, netting four times in just four games for the Three Lions, with such form seeing him dubbed a “goal machine” by Ty Bracey.

Equally, while his role back at his parent club has been limited thus far, the Walsall-born ace has still managed to net a remarkable four goals in just six games for Villa at senior level, notably scoring a terrific header in a 1-1 draw with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge in the Carabao Cup back in September.

It would seem then that the lethal marksman is set to kick on even more if handed regular game time next season, with Van Bronckhorst and co potentially able to offer valuable minutes at a top-level club, as they juggle European and domestic duties.

As for the former Feyenoord boss – who replaced Gerrard in the dugout back in November – having such an exciting weapon in his arsenal such as Archer can only be a positive.

AND in other news, “Rangers will…”: Jordan Campbell drops big transfer update, supporters will be livid…

Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Brice Samba is ‘in talks’ with Lens over a summer move, Sky Sports reporter Dharmesh Sheth has revealed.

The Lowdown: Samba rejects new deal

Steve Cooper’s men secured a return to the Premier League last season, enjoying a memorable campaign that culminated in them beating Huddersfield Town in the Championship playoff final.

Forest had endless heroes throughout the season and Samba was clearly one of them, proving to be the penalty shootout star in the semi-final win over Sheffield United.

Unfortunately, the 28-year-old has since rejected a new deal at the City Ground, suggesting he will move on this summer.

The Latest: Lens move mooted

Taking to Twitter on Monday, Sky Sports reporter Sheth claimed that Samba could join Lens after opening talks, although Forest want to line-up a replacement first:

“Nottingham Forest in talks with Lens over sale of keeper Brice Samba, who wants a return to France. Forest unlikely to finalise move until they have replacement. Talks continue with Manchester United over Dean Henderson.”

The Verdict: Such a big blow

Samba was such an influential presence between the sticks for Forest last season, so there is no denying that this is a massive blow for Cooper ahead of his side’s Premier League return.

The Congolese colossus started 43 league matches in 2021/22, winning three Man of the Match awards from WhoScored, and it is such a shame that he doesn’t want to test himself in arguably the best division in the world.

It is now imperative that Forest sign a perfect replacement, with Manchester United’s Dean Henderson looking the most likely option, in that respect. That could be an ideal move for all concerned as the Englishman seeks more playing time ahead of this year’s World Cup.

In other news, Fabrizio Romano has dropped a key Forest transfer update. Read more here.

West Ham United could be set to make another move for Leeds United winger Raphinha, having failed in their pursuit of the Brazilian back in January.

What’s the word?

As per 90min, the Hammers are believed to be ‘considering’ whether to make another bid for the 25-year-old this summer, with reports back in the winter suggesting that GSB were willing to fork out a club-record fee to prise him from Elland Road, although were ultimately rebuffed by the Yorkshire side.

That doesn’t appear to have put David Moyes and co off as they eye another swoop in the current window, with the latest suggestion being that he could command an asking price of around £45m.

The east Londoners are likely to face fierce competition for his signature, however, with both Arsenal and Tottenham believed to be keen on striking a deal.

He’d be a superstar for West Ham

The arrival of the nine-cap international to the London Stadium would represent a major coup for the club, with the former Rennes man – who signed for Leeds in a £17m deal two years ago – having proven himself something of a “superstar” in recent times, in the words of one journalist.

The £63k-per-week gem – who has also been dubbed “a really special player” by Statman Dave – has lit up the Premier League over the last two years, notably registering 29 goal contributions over the last two seasons combined.

That included 11 goals in the most recent campaign to help drag Jesse Marsch’s side to safety, the £40.5m-rated magician bagging a vital goal from the penalty spot in the dramatic final day victory away at Brentford to secure the visitors’ top-flight safety.

A player of his talents, however, simply doesn’t belong in a relegation dogfight, with West Ham able to offer him the chance to steal the limelight in European competition, even if it is only the Europa Conference League that they will be competing in next term.

Described as a “baller” by teammate Tyler Roberts, Raphinha possesses that rare ability to produce something out of nothing with a sheer moment of genius, with such mercurial talents having often thrived for the Hammers – namely Paolo Di Canio and Dimitri Payet.

Not that he shirks his defensive duties, however, with the 5 foot 9 playmaker ranking in the top 9% for blocks made and the top 21% for interceptions made among those in his position across Europe’s top five leagues, showcasing his willingness to do the dirty work.

That trait will undoubtedly go down well with Moyes and if he can combine that with a regular supply of goals and assists, then the club could well have a real superstar on their hands.

IN other news, West Ham now nearing “first major signing” of the summer, Moyes will be delighted

Wolves are finally on the cusp of signing Sporting CP midfielder Joao Palhinha, having been linked with him countless times in the past six months.

The Lowdown: Palhinha a long-time target

Wanderers are expected to make a number of new signings in the summer transfer window but no player has been tipped to move to Molineux more often than Palhinha.

Links dating all the way back to last June have suggested that Bruno Lage would make a move for the 26-year-old, eyeing him up as Ruben Neves’ natural replacement in Wolves’ midfield.

Now, the deal looks like it is closer than ever to going through, after transfer reporter Pete O’Rourke confirmed earlier this week the midfielder is a ‘long term target’.

The Latest: Transfer set to go through?

According to Correio da Manha on Thursday evening, Palhinha will be a Wolves player next season, with the transfer on the verge of being completed.

An agreement is believed to have been reached over a €20million (£17m) move, with another €5m (£4.2m) in achievable add-ons.

Wolves have already secured their first summer signing in the permanent capture of Hwang Hee-chan, so Palhinha looks set to become addition number two.

[freshpress-quiz id=“398117″]

The Verdict: Perfect Neves replacement

Neves is clearly going to leave a gaping hole in Wolves’ team if he goes, but this update is hugely exciting, with Palhinha appearing to be a tailor-made replacement, having been hailed as a ‘very good’ player by Jorge Jesus.

[freshpress-poll id=“399044″]

Classy with the ball at his feet, the Sporting CP man enjoyed an 87.8% pass completion rate this season in both the Primeira Liga last season and in World Cup qualifying for Portugal, which is actually higher than Neves’ in England.

A hugely impressive average of 4.5 tackles per game at Euro 2020 last summer also proves that he is tenacious off the ball, so Wolves are getting themselves a strong all-round package.

In other news, a transfer insider has made a key Wolves claim. Read more here.

According to Sky Sports injury expert Ben Dinnery, Manchester City could have an agreement in place with Gareth Southgate to make sure that right-back Kyle Walker isn’t too heavily involved whilst on duty with England this month.

The Lowdown: Walker’s injury concerns

The 32-year-old veteran sustained an ankle injury earlier in the season during the Sky Blues’ Champions League quarter-final second leg against Atletico Madrid. Pep Guardiola at one point even confirmed that the £150k-per-week star had been ruled out for the remainder of the season.

Despite these fears, the defender managed to make a comeback and was named on the bench for City’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Aston Villa on the final day of the season, which clinched the Manchester outfit the Premier League title in dramatic style.

It was then revealed by the club’s media team just last week that the Sheffield-born talent had been included in the Three Lions squad for their upcoming Nations League games.

The Latest: Dinnery’s agreement claim

Speaking during an interview with Football Insider, Dinnery revealed that he thinks Southgate will be very sensible when it comes to Walker’s game time. He told correspondent Adam Williams:

“He is a very, very fit player.

“We saw that when he returned in the Champions League semi-final. He had done very little training with the group but he put his body on the line.

“Then, after being ruled out for the season, he made a surprise inclusion on the bench for the final day. The time between then and now will certainly have helped him.

“I’m sure Gareth Southgate will have agreed with clubs that he won’t be pushing players unnecessarily. I can’t see Kyle Walker playing every minute of every game.”

The Verdict: An integral England starter

The City gem first made his England debut under Fabio Capello 11 years ago and has since gone on to become an integral part of the Wembley outfit’s starting XI, having been capped 65 times to provide eight assists across all competitions, as per Transfermarkt.

Walker has been equally as effective in and out of possession for Southgate’s team, where he averages 1.3 tackles and clearances apiece along with 6.5 long balls per game, via WhoScored, showing the impact he can have at both ends of the pitch.

The Three Lions are set to face Germany, Italy, and Hungary in their forthcoming fixtures over the next few weeks as they begin their preparations for the start of the World Cup in November.

In other news… a Manchester City first-team star has been told he is free to leave the club this summer.

Aston Villa are closing in on the permanent signing of goalkeeper Robin Olsen, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

What’s the word?

As per the transfer insider, the Midlands outfit appear keen to exercise the buy option in the Swede’s loan deal, with the 32-year-old having joined the club on a temporary switch from Serie A side AS Roma back in January.

Writing on Twitter about the situation regarding the 56-cap international, Romano revealed that an agreement is close: “Aston Villa are getting closer to find full agreement with AS Roma on Robin Olsen deal. Buy option clause for €3.5m expected to be triggered soon, as Aston Villa want to keep Olsen at the club. Talks in progress, the deal could be completed soon.”

The £1.8m-rated giant had spent the first half of the 2021/22 season on loan at Championship outfit Sheffield United, prior to moving to Villa Park, having also played the role of understudy to Jordan Pickford at Everton the year prior.

Supporters delighted

It may not prove to be quite as exciting as the club’s other summer business – having already snapped up Boubacar Kamara, Diego Carlos and Philippe Coutinho – yet supporters will no doubt be delighted to see the proactive attitude to Steven Gerrard’s squad rebuild, with the former Rangers boss seemingly wanting to get his transfer dealings done swiftly.

With further additions also in the pipeline, amid links to soon-to-be free agent Luis Suarez, the former England skipper appears to be receiving substantial backing in order to put his stamp on the squad, with expectations for next term now likely to have sky-rocketed.

As for Olsen, there may not be too many fireworks over a player who was technically already at the club and had made just a solitary Premier League appearance during his six-month loan stint, although he will no doubt provide quality cover to undisputed first-choice, Emi Martinez.

The 6 foot 5 stopper’s solitary top-flight outing came in that remarkable final-day defeat to eventual champions Manchester City at the Etihad, with the visitors squandering a two-goal to help hand Pep Guardiola’s men the title.

The one-time Malmo man had hardly been culpable for any of City’s excellently crafted goals – nor did he deserve to be on the receiving of an awful, post-match assault from a home supporter – with Villa’s problems this term having largely been among the defence, rather than between the sticks – shipping 54 goals in the most recent campaign.

A veteran at international level, Olsen also provides valuable experience to a dressing room that is beginning to overflow with top-class talent, with his presence in the dressing room potentially set to prove vital next term.

As for supporters, they will likely be glad to see the deal wrapped up quickly, so that the club can prioritise other areas of need.

IN other news, Gerrard can land AVFC’s next Southgate with move for “outstanding” £120k-p/w warrior

Leeds United chiefs have ‘discussed’ signing Blackburn Rovers striker Ben Brereton Diaz this summer, according to The Daily Mail.

The Lowdown: 22 goals

Brereton Diaz, described as the ‘face of Pepsi’ in Chile due to massive marketing campaigns following his international success, enjoyed a fine 2021/22 campaign in the Championship. The 23-year-old played on the left and through the middle, ending the season with 22 goals in 37 league games.

Tony Mowbray has hailed the forward as an ‘extraordinary talent’, and it seems as if the South American is still on Leeds’ radar following links during the January window.

The Latest: Whites talks

The Daily Mail’s Simon Jones shared a Leeds transfer update on Tuesday afternoon, mainly focusing on the club’s interest in FC Salzburg right-back Rasmus Kristensen.

However, the journalist also leaked inside talks regarding Brereton Diaz, stating that Leeds officials, presumably Victor Orta, have held discussions about signing the forward in recent months, as well as Lewis O’Brien from Huddersfield.

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The Verdict: Forward required

A striker is certainly needed for Jesse Marsch’s first full season in charge, with the American relying on Joe Gelhardt for the final games of the recent season.

Star forward Patrick Bamford was limited to just seven league stats due to a number of injuries, so Brereton Diaz could be a shrewd signing following an impressive campaign.

Phil Hay has stated that the Whites would prefer a forward with Premier League experience, something Brereton Diaz doesn’t have, but following his best season in front of goal and offering great versatility, he may well be a smart alternative.

In other news: After Kristensen: Radz & 49ers now ready to write Leeds cheque for ‘really exciting’ midfielder. 

Leeds United could revive their move for Noa Lang after securing Premier League survival. 

The lowdown

Leeds snatched 17th place and safety from Burnley on the final day of the season as they beat Brentford 2-1 and the Clarets lost 2-1 to Newcastle United.

It emerged last August that Leeds were interested in Lang, but he wound up making his loan from Ajax to Club Brugge permanent instead.

And Football Insider reported earlier this month that the Whites have held fresh talks over the potential deal.

Lang is predominantly a left winger but he’s showcased some impressive versatility in the early years of his career, featuring as a second striker, attacking midfielder, central midfielder and right winger too.

He has three years left on the contract he signed last summer with the Jupiler Pro League champions, and is valued at £19.8million by Transfermarkt.

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The latest

Speaking to GiveMeSport on Saturday, journalist Pete O’Rourke said Leeds’ fate in the relegation battle would likely determine whether a move for Lang was realistic.

“A lot depends on where Leeds are next season. If they’re in the Premier League they might have a chance of signing Noa Lang, but if they get relegated to the Championship, it’s not going to happen because he will be looking to play at the highest level as possible.”

Now that they are safe, it follows that they may well ‘have a chance’ of landing the Dutchman.

The verdict

If Lang does join Leeds, it will be intriguing to see where he slots into the side.

He’ll certainly be pushing for a starting spot, having combined nine goals with 15 assists this season and making his debut for the Netherlands, a top ten international side.

Analyst Filip Joos has described him as ‘the best player in the [Belgian] league’, while retired Dutch player Pierre van Hooijdonk likened him to Robin van Persie.

Lang could compete with Jack Harrison for a place on the left-hand side, but The Athletic’s Phil Hay has also raised the possibility that he could replace Barcelona-linked Raphinha.

And there’s even a chance Jesse Marsch might seek to utilise him through the middle, as he did with Rodrigo and Dan James.

His versatility opens up a whole host of possibilities.

In other news, read this journalist’s key Laurens De Bock claim. 

Frank Lampard is reportedly plotting a move for Barcelona star Memphis Depay in order to bolster Everton’s attacking options ahead of next season.

What’s the word?

According to reports from Spanish outlet Sport, the Toffees are among the clubs who are interested in the 28-year-old, with Arsenal and Newcastle United also keen on securing the services of the Dutchman.

His contract expires at the end of next season, and Lampard could be tempted to lure him to Everton as part of a possible summer rebuild.

However, valued at £40.5m by Transfermarkt and with a wage of £158k-p/w, Depay won’t come cheap.

Depay would be a great coup for Everton

Everton narrowly avoided relegation from the Premier League with a stunning 3-2 victory over Crystal Palace on Thursday, but Lampard won’t want to be in that position again, and his squad could be in need of an overhaul during the summer.

Signing Depay would be a solid piece of business, with his first season in Spain seeing him score 13 goals in 37 appearances despite Barcelona experiencing some considerable struggles during the campaign.

With Richarlison (11) and Dominic Calvert-Lewin (five) struggling for goals this season in comparison to 2020/21, it’s clear that a new centre-forward is needed to improve the Toffees’ attack for next term.

Over the course of the 2021/22 season, Depay has generated more shot-creating actions (76) in La Liga than both Richarlison (62) and Calvert-Lewin (26) in the English top flight. The Dutchman is also effective from wide areas, putting in 61 crosses, with the Everton duo only managing 31 between them.

This vast skill set would no doubt please Lampard, and with former Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman describing Depay as a “joy to watch”, Everton could do a lot worse than bringing the former Manchester United forward back to the Premier League.

AND in other news, Everton handed huge injury lift as early Arsenal team news emerges