Everton may cancel Branthwaite loan deal

Everton are reportedly looking to terminate Jarrad Branthwaite’s loan deal at PSV Eindhoven. 

The Lowdown: Branthwaite’s move to PSV

Back in July, the Toffees defender joined the Dutch club on a season-long loan deal.

Since then, the Englishman has made 11 senior appearances for PSV across all competitions but has only started four games.

But despite being only a few months into his season-long loan spell, it appears that the defender could be set to see his time in the Netherlands come to an early end.

The Latest: Everton to terminate Branthwaite loan

According to a recent report from Football Insider, Everton have spoken to PSV about terminating Branthwaite’s loan deal in January after having discussions behind the scenes.

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The report adds that no decision has yet been made and there is still a possibility that Branthwaite could stay on at PSV for the rest of the season, as the Dutch club have increasingly warmed to the centre-back following some early struggles.

The Verdict: An extra option for Lampard

Despite his lack of regular playing time in the Eredivisie, the 20-year-old has still been able to show what he’s capable of on the pitch.

For example, in addition to having the highest passing accuracy percentage (89.6%) at the club, Branthwaite has also racked up the third-highest number of clearances (24) at PSV.

 

In terms of a potential early return to Everton, the fact that Frank Lampard already has the likes of Conor Coady, James Tarkowski, Ben Godfrey, Michael Keane, Yerry Mina and Mason Holgate as his disposal makes it hard to see why he would want Branthwaite back in the mix, even if Mina leaves the club.

In our view, if the defender is likely to be getting more time on the pitch at PSV, Everton should keep him where he is and let him continue his development.

Manchester United: Journalist shares exciting Cody Gakpo update

Journalist Dean Jones has now shared an exciting Man United transfer update involving Netherlands international star Cody Gakpo.

The Lowdown: Gakpo dazzles in Qatar…

Before his country’s World Cup elimination at the hands of Argentina, the 23-year-old was dazzling under former Red Devils boss Louis van Gaal.

Gakpo scored three goals in five appearances for the Netherlands in Qatar with the PSV Eindhoven ace proving why he is such a hot commodity in football right now.

The attacker also highlighted why Man United and manager Erik ten Hag are so eager to bring him to the Premier League with reporter Jones now sharing a very promising update on their pursuit.

The Latest: Jones shares exciting Gakpo to Man United update…

Speaking to GiveMeSport, the journalist claims United are hopeful of signing Gakpo in January and the player will be pushed forwards now.

He explained:

“Gakpo is going to be pushed forwards now and there is actually hope they could land him for around the £40million mark, from what I’m hearing.

“It also sounds like Rashford will be considered as a centre forward more frequently too, so that probably makes Gakpo’s versatility appealing.”

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The Verdict: Get it done…

Gakpo’s form in Qatar only brings more attention to his rising pedigree with the Dutch star also racking up an incredible nine goals and 12 assists in just 14 Eredivisie appearances so far this season.

Old Trafford chiefs have been eyeing a move for some time but it now appears the ‘sensational’ player’s possible move to Manchester is gaining more and more traction going by Jones’ latest update.

QPR struck gold with Kenneth Paal signing

QPR appear to have struck gold when signing Kenneth Paal on a free transfer in the summer, as the left-back’s value has rocketed since his move to Loftus Road.

The Hoops announced the signing of Paal on a three-year deal in June after he agreed a mutual termination of his contract with Dutch side PEC Zwolle, with the defender signing on an £8k-per-week contract with the west London outfit.

The 25-year-old, who progressed through PSV Eindhoven’s academy, had enjoyed an impressive spell with Zwolle, contributing three goals and seven assists in 106 appearances, so it was perhaps always going to be a smart piece of business by the English Championship club to bring him in on a free.

He has certainly proved his worth at Loftus Road so far this season, notching one goal and four assists in 21 appearances and averaging a strong 6.97 rating from WhoScored for his performances.

Only Ilias Chair and Chris Willock have earned higher average ratings from QPR’s squad, while Paal also ranks in the top five players for tackles, interceptions and clearances for the R’s, which emphasises how important he has become to the west London outfit.

After impressing on his first appearance under Neil Critchley at the weekend, providing the assist for Jimmy Dunne’s goal in the 1-0 win over Preston North End, it seems clear that Paal will continue to be crucial to the Hoops under their new manager.

Should QPR decide to sell the 25-year-old in the near future, they look likely to make a significant profit on the Surinam international, as his Transfermarkt value has rocketed since his arrival at Loftus Road.

When he came to west London, the website valued him at only €700k. His valuation now stands at an impressive €2m, which represents an incredible 186% increase in just six months.

It also sees him ranked as the 10th-most valuable player at Loftus Road, so QPR chief executive Lee Hoos deserves a huge amount of praise for bringing him in on a free transfer during the summer, as it has proven to be a masterstroke from both a financial and footballing perspective.

Man Utd eyeing up Youssoufa Moukoko

Manchester United are one of a number of clubs who are keen on signing Borussia Dortmund youngster Youssoufa Moukoko, according to reliable journalist Ben Jacobs.

The Lowdown: Moukoko shines at Dortmund

The 18-year-old is already making a name for himself in Germany, despite his tender years, with 14 Bundesliga appearances already coming his way this season.

In that time, Moukoko has scored six goals and also chipped in with three assists for good measure, shining alongside fellow prodigious talent Jude Bellingham.

The Nike-sponsored prodigy is out of contract at the end of the season, however, and there looks set to be a scramble for his signature.

The Latest: United keen on move

Speaking to Give Me Sport, Jacobs claimed that United are one of the clubs interested in signing Moukoko:

“Manchester United are one of those. They’ve tracked him for quite some time. They haven’t entered into any kind of advanced talks yet.

“Liverpool and Spurs are ones to watch and don’t rule out a move to La Liga and Barcelona either. Barcelona’s position is very much that they’re working on the player’s side to try and persuade him not to sign a new contract in the hope they’ll get him for free.

“As soon as transfer fees come into it, it wouldn’t surprise me if they back off the race. So, lots of suitors here.”

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The Verdict: Big talent for the future

At 18, Moukoko is clearly still a footballer learning his trade, but he has a massive ceiling and could be an exciting addition to Erik ten Hag’s United squad.

To already be a regular for one of Europe’s biggest clubs is a testament to his quality and he has even been hailed as ‘amazing’ and the ‘biggest talent in the world’ by Erling Haaland in the past, which speaks volumes.

The lure of United could be great for Moukoko, especially with Ten Hag turning their fortunes around, and he could be part of a long-term attack that also features the likes of Antony, Alejandro Garnacho and Marcus Rashford.

Journo hints at January exit for LFC target

Liverpool have been boosted by journalist Jan Aage’s Fjortoft’s claim that Jude Bellingham could potentially leave Borussia Dortmund in January.

The Lowdown: Bellingham tipped for Summer move

The Englishman is one of the top young players in the world at the moment, already become a key man for both Dortmund and England, making five appearances at the 2022 World Cup.

Bellingham is considered Liverpool’s main transfer target in the summer transfer window, with the Bundesliga giants willing to sell once it comes around as the Reds, Manchester City and Real Madrid queue up for a bidding war come June (Sky Sports).

However, a potential change in the saga has now emerged – one that could excite supporters who are desperate for immediate midfield reinforcements.

The Latest: January exit possible?

Writing on Twitter, Fjortoft revealed some new information – Dortmund could become ‘weak’ to the idea of selling this month, should a €150million (£132.5m) bid arrive.

“No signs suggesting that Dortmund will let him go this winter. An insider telling me though… For 150 million Euro they could get weak.”

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The Verdict: Too good to be true

In truth, the likelihood is that Bellingham will stay put at Dortmund for the remainder of this season, with such a huge offer unlikely to arrive so soon, especially from Liverpool.

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Should the chance arise to snap him up early, the Reds simply must try to get a move over the line, however, considering he is one of the most exciting footballers of his generation.

FSG are often criticised for their refusal to spend big, though, and it feels more likely that a cheaper midfielder may come in in January, if at all, before a big-money summer move for Bellingham.

Celtic could ditch Juranovic for McPherson

Celtic’s latest Old Firm derby stalemate saw World Cup star Josip Juranovic endure a grim return to club action, with the Croatia international having produced an unusually shaky display after entering the fray early in the first half.

The 27-year-old had been called into action following an injury to usual left-back Greg Taylor inside the opening 20 minutes, although the former Legia Warsaw man looked distinctly uncomfortable in that role, having “nearly cost” his side at Ibrox, as per The Athletic’s Owen Brown.

The attacking right-back – who did feature on the left of the defence on 13 occasions last term – was no doubt culpable for Ryan Kent’s equaliser after being caught out of position in the build-up to the goal, having also been far too easily outmuscled by the lively Fashion Sakala.

The latter man had given Juranovic something of a “torching” – in the words of journalist Jonny McFarlane – as the Hoops defender was simply unable to deal with the winger’s sheer pace and directness down the flanks.

Such were his woes, former Bhoys striker Scott McDonald noted that it looked as if the £16k-per-week man was “still in Qatar”, while another former Paradise hero – Chris Sutton – stated that the 27-cap dud had been “awful” and “terrible” on the day.

Following what was “possibly one of his worst performances for Celtic” – according to Glasgow Live’s Matthew Fulton – it looks as if Juranovic could well be leaving on something of a sour note, amid rampant reports that some of Europe’s top clubs are chasing his signature.

On the basis of that latest outing, Postecoglou should have no qualms about ditching the highly-coveted asset this month, particularly with the title-winning coach already having a potential replacement within his ranks.

The former Yokohama F. Marinos boss could well turn to promising full-back Ben McPherson if the Glasgow side are to allow Juranovic to depart in the near future, with the 18-year-old currently shining in the youth ranks.

The promising Scotsman has scored once and registered one assist in 18 appearances in all competitions so far this term, having solidified his place at right-back for the club’s ‘B’ team of late.

The teenager was also part of the U19 side that defeated RB Leipzig in the UEFA Youth League earlier this season, with that exciting crop of youngsters having been lauded as “terrific” by youth boss Stephen McManus.

Such form was recently rewarded with a new contract extension, with the Scotland youth international having committed himself to the club until 2025, showcasing just how highly thought of he is by those at Paradise.

A player who has “worked tremendously hard” – according to McManus – McPherson could well be the next figure to force his way into the first-team reckoning, with the impending exit of Monday’s derby day villain, Juranovic, potentially set to open the door for a chance at senior level.

Barcelona interested in Benjamin Pavard

Barcelona are interested in a move for Bayern Munich defender Benjamin Pavard, who could depart the club in the summer, according to Fabrizio Romano.

What’s the word?

The 2018 World Cup winner could leave Bayern following claims he has been left frustrated behind the scenes, and his contract runs out in 18 months’ time.

Romano claims Barcelona are interested in the defender as they look to increase their quality at full-back. Jules Kounde has often played on the flanks this term, but his natural position is typically in the centre.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano revealed that Barcelona are targeting the Frenchman with a view to a move.

He said: “We can confirm that Benjamin Pavard from Bayern is one of the names Barcelona are considering.

“He is a player appreciated, the relationship with his agent is excellent.

“From what I understand, there is a very good chance that Pavard will leave Bayern in the summer despite the statements of Bayern in public.”

A top-class addition

Despite his recent troubles at Bayern, Pavard is a quality defender with bags of experience at the top level.

He ranks in the top 2% of top-level full-backs for passes, progressive passes and interceptions, highlighting his strong ability on the ball, making him ideal for Xavi’s pass-leading side.

With Alejandro Balde or Jordi Alba operating as an attacking full-back on the left, having an option who is good on the ball and strong defensively on the opposite side is crucial, and his signing could even allow Kounde to return to the centre.

If a financially viable deal can be struck, he could be an excellent addition to the Barcelona squad for years to come.

However, one thing to possibly watch out for is his behaviour as he was dubbed a “toxic mole” for supposed leaks with France.

Arsenal: Arteta interested in Vlahovic

Arsenal are interested in a deal to bring Dusan Vlahovic to the Premier League in the summer transfer window.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to a report by Italian media outlet Calciomercato.it, who claim that, after being heavily linked with the centre-forward prior to his move to Juventus back in January of 2022, Mikel Arteta is once again interested in the Serbia international, with the Spaniard believed to be keen to bring the 22-year-old to The Emirates at the end of the current campaign.

However, the report goes on to suggest that Arsenal are not alone in their pursuit of the striker, with Manchester United, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain also believed to be keeping a close eye on the situation of the forward – who the Bianconeri are thought to value at a figure in the region of €115m (£102m) to €120m (£106m).

Edu must move

Considering just how impressive Vlahovic has been in Italy in recent campaigns, the argument that the 22-year-old would be an unreal signing for the Islington outfit is an easy one to make.

Indeed, over his 36 Serie A appearances last season, the £80m-rated hitman was in breathtaking form, scoring an astonishing 24 goals, registering three assists and creating five big chances for his teammates, in addition to taking an average of 3.3 shots – 1.5 of which hit the target – making 0.8 key passes and completing 0.9 dribbles per game.

These returns saw the former Fiorentina attacker average a rather remarkable Sofascore match rating of 7.23, not only ranking him as Juve’s third-best performer in the league but also as the 17th-best player in the top flight of Italian football as a whole.

It has been a similar story over his ten league outings in the current campaign, with the £222k-per-week talent having already bagged six goals and provided one assist, as well as taking an average of 3.1 shots – 1.2 of which have been on target – making 1.1 key passes and completing 0.5 dribbles per match.

These metrics have seen the Serb who journalist Raj Chohan dubbed “unreal” and Carlo Garganese labelled a “monster” average a simply sensational Sofascore match rating of 7.15, not only ranking him as his club’s joint seventh-best performer in the division but also as the 31st-best player in Serie A as a whole.

As such, with Vlahovic undeniably being a centre-forward who knows how to hit the back of the net on an incredibly regular basis, should Arteta wish to maintain Arsenal’s position towards the top of the Premier League table in the seasons ahead, it would indeed appear wise for Edu to do everything he can to beat the likes of United, Chelsea and PSG to Vlahovic next summer.

Indeed, the devastating forward could just be an unreal addition to their ranks as the Londoners go in search of their first title triumph since 2004.

Rangers could sign Raskin after Cantwell

Glasgow Rangers are reportedly ‘serious’ about bringing Nicolas Raskin to Ibrox ‘in the next few days’.

The Lowdown: Cantwell in?

Rangers reporter for The Athletic Jordan Campbell shared on Friday morning that the Gers are ‘close’ to completing the signing of Todd Cantwell from Norwich City, with an ‘agreement in place’ with the club and personal terms ‘sorted’.

He does not look to be the last signing that they will bring through the doors before the end of this month, with ‘talks ongoing’ over Swansea City winger Morgan Whittaker and Michael Beale confirming they have ‘one or two’ new players in the pipeline.

The Latest: ‘Serious’ about Raskin

Taking to Twitter, Rangers insider The 4th Official, who regularly breaks news on their social media channels, says that the Gers are ‘serious’ about signing Raskin from Standard Liege ‘in the next few days’:

“Rangers are serious about getting Nicolas Raskin at the club in the next few days. This is according to several sources I spoke with including one at Rangers and one Belgian source.”

The Verdict: Get it done

After getting Cantwell and potentially Whittaker through the doors, Beale and the board should not stop there in terms of incomings, and should look to sign Raskin at all costs.

Hailed as ‘monstrous’ and a ‘leader’ by his manager Ronny Deila, he has played nearly 100 matches in the Belgian top-flight by the age of just 21, scoring five goals and supplying another 13 assists (Transfermarkt).

Journalist Bob Faesen has also noted how ‘technically gifted‘ Raskin is, while singling him out for his work-rate and saying that he can play in any position in midfield.

Nonetheless, both Cantwell and Raskin could form an exciting and formidable new partnership in the middle of the park, and could take the Light Blues to another level as they look to chase down bitter rivals Celtic in the Scottish Premiership.

Arsenal want Raphinha at all costs

Arsenal want to sign FC Barcelona winger Raphinha at all costs, according to Spanish outlet Sport.

The Lowdown: Missing out on Mudryk

The Gunners and Mikel Arteta appear to be keen on adding to their attacking ranks this month with a move for a wide forward.

Mykhailo Mudryk seemed to be the club’s top January target, however, London rivals Chelsea came in and secured a €100m deal for the 22-year-old.

Sporting director Edu Gaspar appears to have a list of alternative targets, though, with speculation emerging on Raphinha and Bayer Levrkusen’s Moussa Diaby.

The Latest: Raphinha news

Spanish outlet Sport shared a story on Wednesday regarding Arsenal and Raphinha, claiming that the club insist on signing the Brazilian this month.

The report adds that contact has already been made with the player’s representatives, however, Raphinha, who is sponsored by Adidas, is not clear about leaving the Nou Camp as he wants to fight for a position in Xavi Hernandez’s side.

The Verdict: Things can change…

Although a transfer looks unlikely at this stage due to the player’s stance on remaining in Spain, it could still be one to keep an eye on in the final weeks of the window.

Arsenal learned first-hand how a transfer can turn on its head with their pursuit of Mudryk, and reports last month stated that Barcelona are considering selling the winger.

Therefore, if the Spanish giants no longer want the 26-year-old, hailed as a ‘magician’ by former Leeds team-mate Dan James, then perhaps a move to the Emirates could materialise.

He proved himself in the Premier League with Leeds last season, contributing to 14 goals in 35 games, so he could be a smart addition in 2023, if the club can persuade the winger over a potential move.

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