All posts by n8rngtd.top

Nottingham Forest are now looking to capitalise on a European’s club’s horror situation and sign a “true icon” for just £21 million, according to a recent report.

Nottingham Forest in talks to sign two new players

The Reds are now closing in on the signing of Igor Jesus from Brazilian side Botafogo in a deal believed to be worth £10 million, but the forward could soon be joined by fellow new arrivals. According to ESPN Brazil, Forest have opened talks to sign winger Pepe from FC Porto.

The Portuguese side are looking to get around £12 million for the 28-year-old this summer, and Forest’s interest in Pepe comes as Newcastle United continue to circle around Anthony Elanga.

The Magpies have been keen on the former Man United man for a while now, and they decided to formalise that interest with a £45 million bid last week, which was rejected straight away.

As well as looking at potential replacements for Elanga, Nuno also wants to strengthen other areas of his team, as they have to deal with European football next season. Despite Ola Aina impressing a lot last season, the Reds have now made a £5 million bid to sign Pablo Maffeo from Mallorca.

The Premier League side are pushing to find an agreement with his club, and they have already agreed personal terms with the defender.

Nottingham Forest could land a better signing than Weah in £21m "mosquito"

Nuno Espirito Santo is looking to sign a Brazilian winger

By
Ross Kilvington

Jun 29, 2025

The list of potential new arrivals doesn’t stop there for Forest and Nuno, as they are now among the teams interested in a new striker.

Forest to capitalise on Lyon situation with Mikautadze move

According to TEAMtalk, Nottingham Forest are among the teams in a race to sign striker Georges Mikautadze from French side Olympique Lyon.

The 24-year-old only joined the French giants last summer, but given their relegation to Ligue 2, which is under appeal, and their financial situation, he could be one of many players that is allowed to leave in this transfer window.

TEAMtalk reports that as well as Forest, AS Roma and Eintracht Frankfurt are also keen on a deal for the Georgia international, who is valued at €25 million by Lyon, which is roughly £21.4 million.

Some good form during a loan spell with FC Metz made Mikautadze one to watch going into the European Championships last summer, where he earned a share of the golden boot with three goals for an exciting Georgia side.

Lyon swooped in as a result, and he then scored 11 times in 34 Ligue 1 games last term, as well as a further four goals in the Europa League.

Should Mikautadze, who has been dubbed a “true icon” by scout Jacek Kulig, join Forest in this transfer window, he would be up against Chris Wood, Taiwo Awoniyi and likely Igor Jesus for a starting spot, so it would not be a surprise to see Awoniyi search for a move elsewhere if a deal goes through.

Still on the hunt for an Andre Onana upgrade, Manchester United have now reportedly submitted an opening offer worth £13m to sign a Champions League-winning shot-stopper.

Man Utd's goalkeeper search still ongoing

Having already reinforced their attacking options with the arrival of Matheus Cunha and with negotiations ongoing to sign Bryan Mbeumo, Manchester United have turned their focus towards their goalkeeper department.

Onana’s position as Old Trafford’s No.1 has seemed at risk since his debut season and the former Inter Milan man could finally be forced to relinquish his role if United get their wish this summer.

To that end, a number of names have been mentioned as potential options, with the most prominent of which being Emiliano Martinez.

The World Cup winner reportedly prefers a move to Manchester United over Barcelona and could be on his way out of Aston Villa amid their PSR concerns this month.

Meanwhile, what would help speed things up in the goalkeeper department is if AS Monaco complete their move to sign Onana. The Ligue 1 side are reportedly interested in signing the Cameroon international in an unexpected move this summer.

By showing Onana the door, it would almost be a guarantee that Manchester United will welcome another goalkeeper this summer. It would just be a matter of who. As much as Aston Villa will be concerned about their PSR situation, they’ll no doubt be desperate to avoid selling one of Unai Emery’s star players to a Premier League rival this summer and that may leave INEOS scrambling for other options.

If the Villans successfully fend off any interest from United, then the Red Devils could yet reportedly welcome a two-time Champions League winner in the coming months.

Man Utd submit first Andriy Lunin bid

According to reports in Spain, Manchester United submitted a bid worth €15m (£13m) to sign Andriy Lunin from Real Madrid but have since had that offer rejected by the Spanish giants. A deal is still there to be made, however, even if the Red Devils must increase their offer.

Having rejected the £13m offer, Real Madrid are reportedly demanding around €25m (£21m) to sell Lunin this summer in what should be seen as an affordable price for those at Old Trafford to match.

Whilst the Ukraine international deserves credit for how he stepped up for Thibaut Courtois at times last season, there remain question marks over his ability to become a permanent No.1 elsewhere.

It is Lunin’s ability on the ball that stands out rather than his shot-stopping skills according to Ben Mattinson, however. The analyst was full of praise for the Madrid man, dubbing his ball-playing ability “great” albeit whilst also describing the goalkeeper as a “top shot stopper”.

Amorim keen: Bayern Munich now open to selling Man Utd target for just £30m

Ruben Amorim wants to sign him this summer.

1

By
Henry Jackson

Jun 22, 2025

Although the jury is still out on Lunin, it’s clear that United must replace Onana this summer and doing so by signing a two-time Champions League winner could be the way to do exactly that.

Crystal Palace are now in talks over signing a 32-year-old international on a free transfer, according to a recent report.

Crystal Palace stepping up transfer plans

The Eagles have been waiting for clarification on their participation in the Europa League for next season, and with reports now emerging that they could be allowed in the competition, the club are likely to go ahead with their transfer business.

"I've been told" – Crystal Palace could receive "reliable" Newcastle player in Guehi swap

The Eagles could get a player in return.

By
Tom Cunningham

Jun 11, 2025

It’s already been reported in the early parts of this transfer window that Palace have made an approach to sign Ousmane Diomande from Sporting. The Portuguese side want £40 million for his services, and his arrival could be seen as a replacement for Marc Guehi, who is continuing to be linked with a move to Newcastle United.

In fact, Andrew Musgrove has now revealed that Palace could be open to the idea of letting Guehi leave as long as they get Matt Target in a swap deal. That is because Ben Chillwell has returned to Chelsea, and the Eagles want another option behind Tyrick Mitchell, with some cash coming their way as well.

They are not the only defenders the club are looking at, as it’s also been reported by The Sun that Oliver Glasner is pushing the South Londoners to sign Strahinja Pavlovic from AC Milan. Glasner is a big fan, and while Milan value the Serbian at £40 million, Palace may look to start the bidding at around the £25 million mark.

Crystal Palace now in talks to sign goalkeeper Walter Benitez

It appears that Glasner wants to strengthen the spine of his team, as according to reporter Uriel Lugt, relayed by Ben Jacobs, Crystal Palace are also in talks to sign goalkeeper Walter Benitez.

The 32-year-old has been at Dutch side PSV Eindhoven since July 2022, but he is now coming to the end of his contract this month, and the Eagles are looking to swoop in and sign him on a free.

Benitez has been a regular in the PSV side since joining the club and, in the last two seasons, has been a key performer in the club winning the Eredivisie, the Dutch Cup and the Dutch Super Cup. In the 2024/25 season, Benitez, who has been capped by Argentina, kept nine clean sheets in 34 league games.

His potential arrival at Selhurst Park would see him go up against Dean Henderson for the number one spot. That is because Matt Turner’s loan spell at Palace has now come to an end after playing just four games for the club, which all came in the cup competitions.

Despite being older, Benitez may be seen as an upgrade to Turner, as his experience and track record of winning and playing in Europe is something that Glasner will want to have more of in his squad as they look ahead to the 2025/26 season.

Manchester City are looking ahead to another season of Champions League football next campaign and could now aim to beat rivals Manchester United to a talented midfield addition, according to a report.

Man City looking to challenge for Premier League title in 25/26

Pep Guardiola will be more aware than anyone that his side need to improve on what ended as a trophyless season just gone. However, they will have a chance to bounce back swiftly at the Club World Cup next month.

Chelsea and Manchester City provide Premier League representation at the United States-based tournament, which could carry a bounty worth nearly £100 million for the competition winners.

Chairman Khaldoon Al Mubarak has promised an aggressive recruitment drive will be underway at the Etihad Stadium following a first campaign without silverware since 2017, serving as a warning to top-flight competitors.

He stated: “It’s a lot of lessons learned. I can assure you, this club will do everything possible to come back to the standards that we know we all can achieve.”

Talks have been held over a deal that could see Wolverhampton Wanderers left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri move to Manchester City, with the Algeria international high on their left-back shortlist heading into the window.

Man City make offer for "insane" £50m star who's "said yes" to Etihad move

The Blues are now stepping up their pursuit of a midfielder, with the deal “almost done” on the player’s side.

By
Dominic Lund

May 29, 2025

In addition, AC Milan midfielder Tijjani Reijnders could be a Citizen before the Club World Cup, indicating the priority is to bring through a swift stream of arrivals to replace outgoing figures such as Kevin De Bruyne before the competition begins.

Now, Manchester City have set their sights on beating Manchester United to another operator in the engine room as they aim to go from strength to strength.

Man City making £42m offer to sign Atalanta midfielder Ederson

According to reports in Italy via Sport Witness, Manchester City are offering around £42 million for Atalanta midfielder Ederson, and he is said to be at the top of Guardiola’s summer shortlist.

Hugo Viana has been assigned the specific task of bringing the Brazil international to the Etihad Stadium, while the Serie A outfit have reportedly lined up Celtic’s Arne Engels as a replacement should a deal go through.

Manchester United have been in the race to sign Ederson and have made contact over a swoop for the midfielder, who has also been linked with reigning Premier League champions Liverpool in recent weeks.

Labelled “powerful” by Tiago Nunes, the 24-year-old won 161 tackles over the course of the campaign on league duty, lending credence to his reputation as a dogged operator in the engine room.

With Rodri back and Mateo Kovacic also capable of playing in a holding role, it remains to be seen where Ederson would fit in at Manchester City if a deal were to come to fruition in the summer window, but it looks as if it will be one to watch.

As Sunderland prepare for life back in the Premier League, they have suffered a blow this week with news emerging of Jobe Bellingham’s pending exit, but the Black Cats are acting quickly and have already found a Premier League talent to replace him, according to a recent report.

Bellingham set for Borussia Dortmund move

Since arriving at the Stadium of Light in July 2023, Bellingham has been a breath of fresh air for the Black Cats. While the midfielder didn’t manage to score as many goals in the 2024/25 campaign as he did in the 2023/24 season, his overall performances were very consistent and helped Sunderland seal a return to football’s biggest league.

Sunderland now set to sell "excellent" 19 y/o for £9m less than they wanted

He is now reportedly in advanced talks over a move away.

By
Henry Jackson

Jun 3, 2025

Despite that accomplishment, Bellingham has been weighing up his future in the last couple of weeks. The 19-year-old is under contract until 2028, but there has been significant interest in a possible transfer this summer, particularly from Germany.

Eintracht Frankfurt and RB Leipzig were two teams who made a move to sign Bellingham, but the young Englishman has decided to follow in the footsteps of his brother and make a move to Borussia Dortmund. Bellingham wants to join Dortmund, and now, according to Keith Downie, Sunderland are in advanced negotiations and are set to sell the midfielder for £25 million.

Sunderland want to sign £3m Wolves ace as Bellingham replacement

So as the Black Cats work on selling Bellingham to Dortmund, the club’s hierarchy already have a player in mind when it comes to replacing him. According to TEAMtalk, Sunderland are interested in signing Tommy Doyle from Wolves this summer.

The report states that the Black Cats want to strengthen the spine of their team as they prepare for life back in the top flight, and Doyle has been earmarked as a potential arrival. Sunderland tried to sign the 23-year-old on loan back in the January transfer window, but ultimately failed.

Now they want to try again, but this time on a permanent basis, as Doyle has been told by Wolves that he is free to leave the club. The midfielder has fallen out of favour under Vitor Pereira, failing to make five of the last nine Premier League matchday squads.

Wolves have put a £3 million price tag on Doyle’s head, but the Black Cats are not the only team chasing the former Man City man, as Sheffield United, whom Sunderland beat in the play-off final, are also interested in a deal, as well as Wrexham, who are playing in the second tier next season.

But Sunderland may hold an advantage – Doyle has the same agent as current Sunderland defender Luke O’Nien, who has been key for the club for a number of seasons now, perhaps smoothing negotiations along.

Indeed, it is claimed that Sunderland are in the box seat to sign Doyle, who was dubbed “unbelievable” by former Wolves boss Gary O’Neil. He’s played over 50 games in the Premier League, so his mixture of top flight experience and youthful exuberance could go a long way to replacing a departing superstar.

After what was a dire season for Manchester City, they ruined their chance to end it all on a high note on Saturday. Pep Guardiola’s side travelled to Wembley for the FA Cup final with Crystal Palace, but came out second best, much to the dismay of their manager come full time.

They will hope to right their wrongs just a few weeks on when the East Mancunian outfit travel to the United States of America for the Club World Cup, where they will compete for the competition for the first time in its 32-team format. Moroccan side Wydad AC, UAE outfit Al Ain FC, and Italian giants Juventus are their three group stage opponents.

One player who will play a huge role in any success over the next few weeks is Josko Gvardiol.

Gvardiol’s importance for City

There are not many players in the City squad whose form is as important to their success as Croatia international Gvardiol. The 23-year-old was described as a player who “does stuff very few can” by football analyst Umir, who also said the defender has been “brilliant” going forward this term.

There have been just four games in which Gvardiol has not appeared this term, further highlighting his importance to Guardiola’s side. In total, he has played 51 times across all competitions, including all but one in the Premier League.

One of the biggest benefits of the former RB Leipzig is his versatility. A centre-back by trade, he has featured more often than not at left-back for the Citizens this term, which has been important for Guardiola amid injuries and a lack of options.

The other thing that the 23-year-old offers to this City side is goals. He had found the back of the net six times this term, which has been bettered by just five players at City.

The fact that he is such a rich source of goals shows just how important the left-back is to Guardiola.

Interestingly, City are linked with a player who could join the club and become just as important to Guardiola as Gvardiol has this term.

Man City's search for a defender

If a report from Fabrizio Romano earlier this week is to be believed, then City are plotting a move for Newcastle United right-back Tino Livramento.

The 22-year-old is ‘under consideration’ at the Etihad Stadium, with City looking to sign a new right-back. A price tag is not clear at this time, but he cost the Magpies £40m including add-ons almost two years ago.

Described as a “superstar” by Newcastle content creator Kendall Rowan, Livramento has played an important role for Eddie Howe, in a side pushing for a second-place finish this season. That would see them leapfrog City in the Premier League.

The London-born right-back, who is a product of Chelsea’s academy, has played 44 games in all competitions this campaign for the Magpies. Perhaps one of the biggest worries for City is the fact that he has just one assist, which came in a 3-0 win away to Leicester City.

Like Gvardiol, Livramento is a versatile player. This term, he has featured at right-back, left-back and even as a wing-back for Howe’s side.

Admittedly, he has made 29 appearances on his favoured right side, but with another 12 coming on the left, it shows dependable versatility.

In fact, the similarities between the two players do not stop there. The underlying numbers on FBref highlight how alike they are, too. For example, the Newcastle star averages 0.78 key passes per 90 minutes, compared to 0.73 each game for Gvardiol.

There is evidence to suggest that Livramento could be City’s best defensive signing since Gvardiol. Vitor Reis was one of two defensive signings in January, but he is unproven and has played just three first-team games.

Fellow winter addition Abdukodir Khusanov did well to bounce back from a nightmare start to his City career, following his error on debut against Chelsea, but is also largely unproven at Premier League level, despite glimpses of promise shown.

Matheus Nunes, a midfielder by trade, has been playing right-back this term but “doesn’t know how to defend”, according to Man City content creator Steven Mcinerney.

This could be a wonderful signing for City. There is no doubt about just how important Livramento can be under Guardiola, given his attacking capabilities and how reliable he is defensively. He could certainly be their best signing since Gvardiol, given the lack of experience or struggles those made since have experienced.

If he can replicate anywhere near the impact Gvardiol has had at the Etihad Stadium, this is a signing that City fans can surely get excited about.

Arsenal and Liverpool are both ready to pay up to £50 million for a “quick” Premier League star who PSG have held talks over signing, according to a report this week.

Arsenal lose Champions League semi-final tie against PSG

Mikel Arteta watched on from the sidelines as his side succumbed to a crushing defeat at the Parc des Princes – a loss which ended Arsenal’s hopes of winning a first-ever Champions League crown.

Arsenal: Berta wants £119k-per-week PSG star after failed Atletico deal

Berta attempted to sign him for the La Liga side.

By
Emilio Galantini

May 7, 2025

Arsenal’s 5-1 dismantling of Real Madrid in the last round had a lot of tails up around the Emirates Stadium, and the prospect of Champions League glory was made very real by their statement two-legged display against the 15-time European champions.

However, this year’s standout team in PSG, who many are backing to win the competition, ultimately outclassed Arsenal over two semi-final clashes where Arteta’s side weren’t quite ruthless enough in the final third.

The Ligue 1 champions have now booked their place in this year’s Champions League final against Inter Milan, with Arteta making a humble statement to the media in the aftermath of their 2-1 loss on Wednesday.

“I can take a lot of positives, and I’m very proud of the team,” said Arteta after Arsenal’s defeat to PSG.

“We have to arrive in the competition at this stage with a full squad, fully available, in the best condition. We haven’t got that, so let’s put that aside. It’s still the team that I’ve seen today against, probably one of the best, if not the best team in Europe. It gives me so much pride, but at the same time, I’m so upset, so annoyed that we didn’t manage to do it. And two things that are on us, probably not together. Another thing is that, obviously, the opponent at this level has the quality to deliver like Donnarumma has done today again.”

With Arsenal’s European adventure now officially over, attention is set to switch to the summer transfer window, and how new sporting director Andrea Berta will react to the Gunners’ disappointing 2024/2025 campaign.

Berta has been tipped to spend around £300 million on seven major signings (GiveMeSport), and one of them could be a new right-winger to alternate with Bukayo Saka.

Arsenal ready to pay up to £50 million for West Ham star Mohammed Kudus

Arsenal are believed to remain keen on Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane as an option to give Saka competition on that side, but West Ham United star Mohammed Kudus is also attracting their attention.

According to The Boot Room and journalist Graeme Bailey, Arsenal and Liverpool are prepared to pay up to £50 million for Kudus, but have no intention of going anywhere near the Ghanaian’s £85 million release clause.

West Ham are apparently holding out for his exit clause to be paid in full, but neither side is willing to go that high.

Graham Potter’s men do hold some hope of an auction for Kudus, though, with other reports from Africa recently claiming that PSG have already held talks with the 24-year-old’s camp, as the Ligue 1 champions seek to bolster their own attacking options.

Teammate Aaron Cresswell is on record praising Kudus’ “quick” speed, branding him a “top” player, even if Ajax’s former sensation hasn’t enjoyed the best 24/25 campaign.

Kudus also bagged a stunning goal against Arsenal in the EFL Cup last season, so Arteta is fully aware of the winger’s quality when at his devastating best.

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is now ready to cash in on a £150,000-a-week player who is happy to leave the club, according to a new report.

Aston Villa face Man Utd in two separate transfer battles

As the Premier League enters the month of May, transfer business is expected to heat up, and at Villa Park, there is an expectation there is going to be a lot of coming and going, as there has been ever since Emery joined the club.

Aston Villa's "little warrior" out on loan could be their next Asensio

Aston Villa have a star out on loan who could be a dream replacement for Marco Asensio.

By
Dan Emery

Apr 30, 2025

The transfer window has yet to open, and already the Villans find themselves in two separate battles with Manchester United. The first is for goalkeeper Joan Garcia, who currently plays for Espanyol.

The shot-stopper has impressed in La Liga, and he is now wanted by both Premier League teams, as they have their eyes on strengthening their goalkeeper department. Villa are looking to win the race for Garcia by acting fast, and they are willing to trigger his release clause, which stands at £21 million. United are not out of the race though, as they have made contact with the player’s representatives over a deal to come to Old Trafford.

The second battle Villa face against United is signing teenager Christian Kofane from Albacete Balompié. The 18-year-old is wanted by Villa, United and Newcastle United, as well as many other top teams across Europe. His recent form in front of goal has put him further in the spotlight, and once again, he is a player who has a release clause, but this time a low one, as he would cost as little as £4.2 million.

Emery ready to wave goodbye to Emi Martinez

Winning the race to sign Garcia may be more significant for the Villans, as according to TBR Football, Emery now wants to sell goalkeeper Emi Martinez, who is ready to leave the Premier League club.

The report states that Saudi Pro League clubs are ready to make a move for Martinez, who won the World Cup with Argentina back in 2022. It goes on to add that Villa are interested in doing business over a possible sale, despite the fact that he is still under contract until 2029. Meanwhile, Martinez is also interested in a move away from Villa Park, after joining the club in September 2020.

The 32-year-old, who earns a weekly wage of £150,000 at Villa Park, has become one of the strongest keepers in the Premier League as well as European football. But the fact that Villa have shown an interest in Garcia could mean they see now as the ideal time for the club to cash in and bring in a younger replacement.

This season has been a slight struggle for Villa and Martinez in terms of keeping out the goals, as they have conceded 45 goals so far in the league with Martinez in goal, and the Argentine has kept just five clean sheets, which is lower than the nine he kept last season.

Aston Villa could win the race for an “incredible” £100m forward, whose club may now be willing to cash-in this summer, according to a report.

Villa's summer transfer plans

It was a valiant effort against Paris Saint-Germain on Tuesday night, with Villa overturning a two-goal deficit to win 3-2 on the night, but the result wasn’t enough for Unai Emery’s side to progress to the Champions League semi-finals.

Having had their first taste of Champions League football in quite some time, however, Villa will be eager to have more special nights in Europe in the future, and they could go even deeper in the competition if they strengthen their squad this summer.

After selling Jhon Duran to Al-Nassr back in January, the Villans are keen on bringing in a new striker, and they are now ready to spend £75m on Wolverhampton Wanderers star Matheus Cunha.

Aston Villa working to seal deal for £12.5m player keen on Villa Park move

The Villans are working on a move for a midfielder, who is interested in a move to Villa Park.

By
Dominic Lund

Apr 15, 2025

Not only are Emery’s side pursuing an out-and-out striker, but they are also keen to bolster their wide options, and they remain in a strong position to complete the permanent signing of Marcus Rashford.

According to a report from GiveMeSport, Aston Villa could also win the race for Manchester City winger Jack Grealish, with Pep Guardiola’s side giving indications they could be willing to cash-in on the Englishman this summer.

The 29-year-old joined City in a £100m deal back in August 2021, but he has fallen down the pecking order at the Etihad Stadium, which could open the door for a return to Villa Park.

However, there is widespread interest in Grealish’s signature, with Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United also in the picture, while Serie A giants AC Milan headline the interest from abroad.

"Incredible" Grealish may need to leave City

The former Villa man probably has no regrets about joining Man City, given that he played a major role in their treble-winning 2022-23 campaign, but there are signs he may need to leave this summer for the good of his career.

Theo Walcott has particularly scrutinised the impact Guardiola’s coaching methods have had on the “incredible” winger’s ability to express himself on the pitch.

The Birmingham-born forward has amassed just two goal contributions in the Premier League this season, although he has impressed on some other key metrics over the past year, most notably ranking in the top 1% for progressive carries, when compared to his positional peers.

A move back to Villa Park could be exactly what Grealish needs to reignite his career, and Emery should definitely consider making a move, should he be available for a suitable fee.

Burnley are now in a transfer battle with Leeds United as they both want to sign a “unique” Ipswich Town star, according to a recent report.

Burnley begin transfer plans as they eye midfield reinforcements

The Clarets only confirmed their promotion to the Premier League on Monday evening, but already Scott Parker and club chiefs are working on transfer business ahead of the summer transfer window opening.

Burnley want to sign Fulham ace who previously won promotion under Parker

Burnley are now looking to sign a player who has worked with their manager before.

By
Brett Worthington

Apr 24, 2025

It’s been claimed by EFL pundit Lee Hendrie that Jonjo Shelvey will likely not be at Turf Moor next season. The midfielder’s contract expires at the end of the campaign, and it is likely that he will not be offered a new deal, according to Hendrie.

That might be because Burnley already have his replacement in mind, as according to Give Me Sport, the Clarets are now interested in signing Harrison Reed from Fulham, a player who Parker knows well from his time working at Craven Cottage.

Fulham are said to be looking to strengthen their midfield this summer, and Reed could be allowed to leave should they receive the right offer. This has alerted Burnley, who are looking to strike a deal as the Clarets try to bring Premier League experience to their team.

Burnley in transfer battle for Ipswich star Hirst

But it is not just the midfield that the Clarets are looking to strengthen, as according to journalist Pete O’Rourke, Burnley are interested in signing George Hirst from Ipswich this summer.

O’Rourke states that as well as the Lancashire side holding an interest in Hirst, Championship rivals Leeds are also keen on securing a deal for the striker, as the Tractor Boys look set to return to the second tier in English football.

However, while both sides can offer Premier League football, Ipswich are not willing to let Hirst just leave, as O’Rourke states that the Tractor Boys are desperately looking to tie the striker down to a new contract to ward off the interest, with Liam Delap expected to leave Portman Road this summer.

Hirst currently earns £27,500 a week at Ipswich, so the interested parties may have to stump up a significant increase to better whatever his current employers are offering.

The 26-year-old, who has been dubbed “unique” by Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna, has had to be very patient this season, starting just three of the 21 Premier League games he’s played. Hirst has scored two goals in the process, his latest coming in the 4-2 defeat to Nottingham Forest in March.

The Scotland international is still under contract until 2027, so Ipswich still have time on their hands, but Burnley and Leeds can both offer the forward another chance of playing in the Premier League, and this may be too hard for Hirst to turn down.