All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Everton were slipping down a slope last season, headed for trouble with Sean Dyche in the dugout and Farhad Moshiri watching from above.

But David Moyes replaced Dyche, lifted the Toffees up, up, up. The relegation candidates finished 13th in the Premier League, comfortably away from the drop zone. Now, as they leave Goodison Park and step into a new home at the Hill Dickinson, with plenty to look forward to.

Thierno Barry has joined for £27m, replacing Dominic Calvert-Lewin after the striker went by the wayside at the end of his contract. Mark Travers has signed to provide competition for Jordan Pickford; Charly Alcaraz’s buy option has been triggered after his promising loan stint.

However, there’s been something of an exodus on the blue half of Merseyside. Departed players need to be replaced, with the midfield still a priority for Moyes and technical director Angus Kinnear.

Everton searching for midfielders

With Abdoulaye Doucoure having left at the end of his deal, Everton need new midfielders. The latest name to crop up belongs to Douglas Luiz, who, one year after leaving Aston Villa for Juventus in a £42m deal, is being touted for a return to the Premier League.

Reports from Italy claim Everton have actually tabled their opening offer for the Brazilian ace. However, their £26m bid falls below Juventus’ £35m valuation.

However, according to Football Insider, Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher is also of interest to the Merseyside outfit, though he’s worth a pretty penny at £50m and is also attracting intrigue from Newcastle United.

However, given his homegrown status and style of play, which would see him dovetail right into Moyes’ system, this could be a statement signing and a half.

Why Everton want Conor Gallagher

Gallagher left Chelsea for Atletico Madrid in a deal worth £33m last summer, with Enzo Maresca having informed the versatile midfielder he would be consigned to a bit-part role if he remained at Stamford Bridge.

Maresca’s flowing ball-playing style of football precluded Gallagher’s involvement in a prominent role, but Everton don’t need to worry about that: Moyes is rooted in his tactical principles, limited in possession but industrious and organised and direct.

An intense pressing force, Gallagher would slot right in, maybe even more complete than Luiz, the other top midfield target. Hailed as a “machine” by former Chelsea teammate Moises Caicedo, who also noted the 25-year-old “helps me a lot when we need to recover the ball”, it would be money well spent.

Luiz has struggled to adapt in Italy, only starting three Serie A games last season – albeit, this was marred by injury problems. Gallagher, meanwhile, hasn’t been a week-in, week-out starter for Diego Simeone’s Atletico, but he’s proved his worth, ranked among the top 10% of La Liga midfielders last year for ball recoveries and the top 11% for tackles won per 90, as per FBref.

And when looking at his last Premier League campaign, ranked against Luiz’s with Aston Villa, you begin to see that Everton might strike gold by signing the former Blue.

Matches (starts)

37 (37)

35 (35)

Goals

5

9

Assists

7

5

Touches*

70.4

70.1

Pass completion

92%

89%

Big chances created

11

10

Key passes*

1.4

1.5

Dribbles*

1.0

0.7

Ball recoveries*

6.0

5.3

Tackles + interceptions*

3.5

2.4

Duels (won)*

5.7 (50%)

4.2 (51%)

Gallagher is crisper in possession, with more ground-covering energy and defensive sharpness too. Luiz might have outscored him in 2023/24, but he took penalties, with four of his nine strikes above coming from the spot. All seven of Gallagher’s were from open play.

There is little question that either player would have a positive impact on Moyes’ project. Both have shared qualities that align with Moyes’ vision, with the way the Scotsman wants to play.

But Gallagher might be that little bit better, and he would pack a punch that might even steer the Toffees back into the top end of the Premier League table.

He’s Ndiaye 2.0: Everton make contact to sign £22.5m "sensational prospect"

Everton will be hoping they can add to their attacking output this summer

ByJoe Nuttall Jul 18, 2025

Tottenham Hotspur will have to balance the books soon by making key player sales, especially with the plethora of non-locally trained players in their squad, which could result in them having to submit a weakened Champions League squad.

£100k-a-week Tottenham star now wants to join elite manager at another club

Spurs need to sell players due to a key UEFA rule.

ByEmilio Galantini Jul 11, 2025

Due to UEFA rules, Spurs require at least eight ‘locally trained’ players to be named in their 25-man list, and if they cannot meet this quota, then their total of A-list players will be reduced to make up the deficit.

While Morgan Gibbs-White’s potential arrival – which has now been delayed due to legal complications – could have a positive impact on this, given he came through the Wolves academy, their recent signing of Mohammed Kudus means that the north Londoners currently boast around 24 non-locally trained players in their current squad, even if this does include the likes of Manor Solomon, Bryan Gil, Yang-min Hyeok, Luka Vuskovic and Kota Takai.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Taking this into account, The Telegraph reports that Tottenham will need to sell at least one player this summer, and there are plenty of candidates.

Gil and Solomon are very likely to be sold after spending 2024/2025 out on loan at Girona and Leeds United respectively, with the former already confirming his intention to leave N17 in the coming weeks.

“That’s something my agent will tell me where things are going, but they [Spurs] told me, and I told them, that the best thing is for us not to continue being linked to Tottenham,” said Gil to Estadio Deportivo in April.

“They bet on me when I was young, and they’ve treated me fairly well, but if I have to go back there, I’ll focus on giving my best as always. I’m calm because no one can have a bad word to say about me not being professional. Without playing, I’ve always trained well, I’ve done what I had to do, so whatever has to happen, will happen. We’ll see where we are next year.”

Son Heung-min has entered the final 12 months of his contract and may be sold by Spurs, according to recent reports, with Yves Bissouma also attracting interest from Turkey.

However, another option could be injury-plagued striker Richarlison.

Richarlison likely to leave Tottenham as Vasco de Gama phone him

They’re very unlikely to make a substantial fee back off the £60 million they paid Everton to sign the Brazil striker in 2022, but Tottenham’s signings of Gibbs-White and Kudus will only push him further down the attacking pecking order.

Spurs are also still interested in signing Brentford star Yoane Wissa, and if they were to sensationally bring in the Bees star too, it would surely draw the curtain on Richarlison’s north London career.

The 28-year-old, barring a fine purple patch under Ange Postecoglou midway through 2023/2024, has found life very difficult at Spurs overall – with journalist Leonardo Lacerda, via Bolavip, sharing that clubs in Brazil could offer him a route back home.

Lacerda is quoted saying that Vasco de Gama president, Pedrinho, has personally phoned Richarlison to gauge the possibility of a transfer, but the ex-Watford man also has admirers in Saudi Arabia.

“It’s happening! President Pedrinho, accompanied by a member of the Vasco leadership, contacted Richarlison directly through a phone call,” said Lacerda.

“The goal was to get a closer look at the striker’s situation, as he’s unlikely to remain at Tottenham next season. In addition to Vasco, the striker is attracting interest from Fluminense, Flamengo, and Palmeiras. Two Saudi Arabian clubs have also entered the fray—Al Ahli and Al Ittihad.”

With Richarlison emerging as a real man in demand, it is now Levy’s task to set a realistic asking price, with reports suggesting Spurs will let him go for around £20 million.

Tottenham are “now” actively looking at signing an intriguing alternative to West Ham winger Mohammed Kudus, with talks for the Hammers star far from straightforward.

£60m Tottenham man now up for sale, champions preparing bid, Saudi in contact

Spurs are actively looking for buyers.

ByEmilio Galantini Jul 5, 2025

Earlier this week, multiple reports began emerging that Spurs had entered talks for Kudus, with chairman Daniel Levy even reaching out to his east London counterpart, David Sullivan, for discussions over the 24-year-old (GiveMeSport).

These talks have been backed up by trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano as well, who reported that a “positive” approach was made as negotiations get underway between all parties involved on the player and club side.

A very reliable Lilywhites source, insider Paul O’Keefe, even states that Tottenham have already seen an initial £50 million offer rejected for Kudus – which happened midway through June.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

West Ham will reportedly sell for around £60 million (The Guardian), and if Spurs manage to get anywhere in pursuit of the former Ajax star, it would be the first transfer between both clubs since Scott Parker’s switch to north London in 2011.

With just under two months to go before the end of the summer window, Levy and co will not want to haggle for too long, with journalist Pete O’Rourke sharing news on a potentially viable alternative.

Tottenham actively looking at signing OGC Nice forward Evann Guessand

Speaking to Football Insider, O’Rourke claims that man is OGC Nice forward Evann Guessand, who’s fresh off the back of a 13-goal season in all competitions.

Tottenham have been tentatively linked with a move for Guessand this window, but O’Rourke tells Football Insider that Thomas Frank’s side are actively pursuing the versatile Ivory Coast international – who predominantly featured on the right-hand side in Kudus’ position last term.

As well as on both flanks, the 24-year-old can operate as a second striker and even as a centre-forward when required. Tottenham would also need a maximum of just £25 million to strike a deal for Guessand, making this an attractive option for Levy, and O’Rourke says he’d be the ideal signing for Frank’s system as well.

“A lot of Premier League clubs are looking at Guessand,” said O’Rourke.

“He had a very good season for Nice last season, he got 12 goals and seven assists in 33 Ligue 1 games, so he has a good record. He’s got the physical profile that you think would be a success in English football, and can play anywhere across the front line as well.

“There’s been interest from Brighton, West Ham, Wolves and now Tottenham also have an active interest in Guessand.

“Nice are bracing themselves for interest in this upcoming transfer window. For Tottenham, he would be a good signing, he would fit into how Thomas Frank plays.

“The way Guessand can play anywhere across the front line would make him a valuable addition. Nice will be hoping they can keep hold of him after qualifying for the Champions League themselves.

“They’re looking for a big fee, around £20-25million for a player who still has three years left on his contract.

“It’s not an easy deal to do, but it’s no surprise that a lot of Premier League clubs are looking at him.”

Liverpool have announced the signing of Florian Wirtz, issuing an emphatic statement to the Premier League and Europe that Arne Slot’s side are at the top and they are there to stay.

The German international was one of the most sought-after players in the world, with Manchester City, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid all keen, but he chose Merseyside as his destination, with Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes wrapping up the £116m deal this weekend.

The playmaker, who scored during an unforgettable career opening with Bayer Leverkusen, is aiming to win the full gamut of major honours at Anfield, and he certainly has the capacity to do so.

However, all this fanfare around Wirtz has somewhat drowned out the exciting deal for Milos Kerkez, who is all but confirmed as a new member of Slot’s squad.

Why Liverpool signed Milos Kerkez

Liverpool lost Trent Alexander-Arnold at the end of the 2024/25 campaign, the vice-captain running down his contract to sign for Real Madrid on a free transfer.

And now the Reds could be set to lose their other long-serving full-back in Andy Robertson, who, aged 31, has been on the decline and is entering the final year of his contract. La Liga’s Atletico Madrid are currently hoping to bring him over to Spain.

Luckily, Liverpool have already acted to bring in Kerkez, who hasn’t officially signed but is on the verge of leaving Bournemouth for Anfield, with a £40m fee agreed.

Hailed as “an elite player” who notably thrived when pitted against the likes of Mohamed Salah and Bukayo Saka last season, Kerkez is the perfect profile for the role of a modern full-back, balanced, steely in defence and a tireless runner.

He will provide Slot’s high-flying system with a new dimension down the left channel, potentially even proving the perfect partner for another Premier League star on FSG’s radar.

Liverpool line up new winger

According to transfer insider Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are still keen on signing Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon, despite bagging Wirtz already this month.

Valued at £75m, the 24-year-old winger was of a vested interest to the Anfield side last summer, but Newcastle found a different way to navigate around their PSR problems.

However, Liverpool are back in contention now and sporting director Richard Hughes is keeping a close eye on developments, joined by Premier League rivals Arsenal and Chelsea. That said, Bailey is convinced that the England international favours a move to Liverpool over the Londoners, as it is his dream destination.

Bringing Gordon back over to Merseyside would likely be dependent on the future of Luis Diaz, who has been linked with Barcelona and suitors over in the Saudi Pro League.

What Anthony Gordon would bring to Liverpool

Gordon left his home city to sign for Newcastle in a £45m deal back in January 2023, ending his career beginnings with Everton.

Signing a former Toffee would always come laced with a certain contentiousness, but Gordon is actually of a Liverpool persuasion, released from the club’s academy when he was 11 years old.

Athletically dynamic and versatile, Gordon’s best years lie ahead of him, and he would prove the perfect Diaz replacement if the Colombian is indeed sold this summer, having shown his potential across the 2023/24 season when notching 28 goal involvements across all competitions and winning United’s Player of the Year award.

Last season, the return hasn’t been quite so rich, Gordon posting six goals and five assists in the league, but his trademark energy and enthusiasm were very much on show throughout.

Though the Three Lions man didn’t quite reach the same heights last term, he still gave a good account of himself for a Magpies side who qualified for the Champions League and won the Carabao Cup.

Matches (starts)

35 (34)

34 (28)

Goals

11

6

Assists

10

5

Shots (on target)*

2.3 (0.9)

1.7 (0.6)

Pass completion

82%

81%

Key passes*

1.6

1.5

Big chances created

16

6

Dribbles*

1.5

1.1

Ball recoveries*

3.6

2.9

Tackles + interceptions*

1.8

1.1

Duels (won)*

5.3 (49%)

4.4 (52%)

His eye-catching defensive contribution and determination in the duel highlight just how Gordon could not only benefit from Kerkez’s attacking qualities but also aid the Hungarian from a defensive perspective.

Of course, Gordon is hardly a blunt-edged attacking instrument himself, explaining himself to be a “nightmare for anyone” he comes up against, owing to his electric pace and a directness that Liverpool have seen plenty of before through Diaz’s showings.

The wide forward’s ability to stretch lines is truly something to behold. Moreover, Gordon’s running would help create creative space for Kerkez, who finished the 2024/25 league campaign ranked among the top 12% of positional peers in the Premier League for progressive carries and the top 20% for crosses made per 90, as per FBref.

We must, at this point, trust FSG’s judgment. Diaz is clearly one of the best wingers in the world but in Gordon, the perfect heir could be found. Were an ageing Robertson the one partnering him on the flank, fluency might not be in full swing, but given that Liverpool have all but wrapped up a deal for Kerkez, there’s plenty of reason to be excited.

The fact that Gordon wants to join the club only adds substance to the argument to bring him over. Currently off on holiday with Liverpool’s Curtis Jones, you wonder if the subject has been discussed.

As rumours of a move for Alexander Isak linger in the air too, might Slot have a vision of these two forwards combining under the Anfield lights for many years to come?

In any case, Gordon would be a brilliant long-term investment for Liverpool, especially as he will find a fearsome partner in Kerkez supplying him from behind.

Better finisher than Isak: Liverpool in the race to sign £60m "powerhouse"

Liverpool are looking to sign a new centre-forward this summer.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 21, 2025

Newcastle United are in the hunt for a striker this summer and Eddie Howe may be growing in confidence that he can land a proven Premier League marksman, according to a report.

Newcastle United's search for reinforcements

Eddie Howe has become something of a recruitment specialist at St James’ Park, producing an excellent track record that means more additions become hits than not when convinced to move to Tyneside.

Hoping to continue that feat, Keith Wyness reckons Newcastle may sacrifice some stars to expand their potential to spend even with the threat of PSR being a live consideration to ponder.

He stated: “It used to be that when you sold a big player, you had loads of money to spend. Newcastle are going to have to work hard in this window.

“I think there will be some disposals. Sean Longstaff may have to move on, and there will be others going too. Anything that will allow Newcastle to spend as big as they can, they will do.”

That much may be true, but where do Newcastle plan to strengthen their arsenal? According to reports, Manchester City star Jack Grealish could move to Tyneside, potentially adding a sprinkle of European pedigree as the Geordies prepare for a return to the Champions League.

Nottingham Forest now want to sign £8.5m Spaniard if Elanga joins Newcastle

Nottingham Forest have now identified a player who could be seen as a replacement for Anthony Elanga.

ByBrett Worthington Jun 13, 2025

Brentford’s Mikkel Damsgaard is also wanted by Newcastle, demonstrating that they mean business in a summer that could produce a fair amount of incomings and exits in the North East.

Evaluating their forward line, the Geordies now have one of the Premier League’s hottest properties on their radar and confidence is growing over their chances of landing his services.

Newcastle United accelerate move for Joao Pedro

According to The Telegraph, Newcastle are confident they can strike a deal for Brighton & Hove Albion’s Joao Pedro as his future on the South Coast becomes increasingly uncertain.

The Brazilian forward is open to a move to the North East and is admired by Howe and his coaching staff due to a degree of versatility than can see him feature through the middle or on either flank.

Joao Pedro’s Premier League statistics in 2024/25 (Fotmob)

Shots

47

Shots on target

20

Chances created

30

Completed dribbles

29

Aerial duels won

42

Labelled “amazing” by Billy Gilmour, Pedro registered ten goals and seven assists in 30 appearances across all competitions this term as the Seagulls narrowly missed out on a place in Europe.

Internally, there is now a feeling that Newcastle can complete a deal to sign the former Watford striker, though there is still plenty of work to be done before that dream can become a reality.

Alexander Isak is the main man in attack for the Geordies. Nevertheless, Pedro is a force to be reckoned with at full flight and could be another dangerous asset against opposition domestically and on the continent.

Nottingham Forest were one of the standout sides of the Premier League last season. The East Midlands club, under the tutelage of Nuno Espirito Santo, qualified for the UEFA Conference League after they finished seventh in the top flight. For much of the campaign, they were in the race for a Champions League spot.

Unsurprisingly, with all that success, there has been plenty of interest in some of their key players. Anthony Elanga is one man who has been linked with a move away, with reports suggesting a £50m bid from Newcastle United would be enough for the deal to go through.

If that move does happen, Forest will need a replacement and have been linked with a player who is, in many ways, a hybrid between Elanga and right-back Ola Aina.

Nottingham Forest’s latest transfer target

It would certainly be a huge blow if Elanga was to depart the City Ground. The relationship he has formed with Aina down that right-hand side has been formidable. The East Midlands side must get his potential replacement right.

Well, perhaps the man they could bring into the club is AC Milan winger Alexis Saelemaekers. According to a report from TEAMtalk, the club ‘have held talks’ with the Serie A giants over a potential move for the Belgian this summer.

This is a longstanding interest; Forest have reportedly been ‘in contact with the Belgian international’s entourage for over a year’. The two teams are apart in valuation at the moment, with Milan demanding £21m, just over £4m more than what Forest want to pay.

However, the fact that they’ve been interested in the winger for so long might suggest a deal can be completed.

Why Saelemaekers would be a good signing

The versatile Belgian star spent the 2024/25 campaign on loan at Milan’s Serie A rivals Roma. Whilst he struggled with an ankle injury at the beginning of the season, he enjoyed a strong second half to his spell in the Italian capital.

Saelemaekers played 31 games for Roma last season, grabbing an impressive 13 goals and assists in that time. Of those goal involvements, seven goals and three assists came in just 22 Serie A appearances.

One of the standout features about Saelemaekers’ game last season was, without doubt, his versatility. The 25-year-old played on both flanks and as a number 10, seeing success in all of those positions.

This is where the Elanga and Aina hybrid idea comes in. Not only is Saelemaekers able to play as a right-winger, thus replacing Elanga directly, but he can also slot in as a right-back.

As per Transfermarkt, he has played that role 14 times in his career, as well as featuring at right wing-back.

Replacing Elanga next season, if he leaves, will not be easy. The Sweden international was a standout player in Garibaldi Red last term, with six goals and 11 assists in 38 Premier League games, mainly operating on the right-hand side. However, Saelemaekers certainly has the ability to do so.

The similarities between the duo are clear to see. Both are right-footed wingers operating on the right and had a hand in a healthy number of goals.

In fact, both of them averaged 0.61 goal involvements per 90 minutes, as per FBref, with Saelemaekers playing more progressive passes than Elanga each game, with 3.48 to 2.27.

Goals and assists

0.61

0.61

Key passes

1.59

1.8

Progressive passes

3.48

2.27

Shot-creating actions

3.9

3.67

Ball recoveries

4.82

3.2

Saelemaekers can certainly be an apt Elanga replacement, and will be hoping he can form a deadly partnership with Aina, just as the Swede has done. They have played 57 times together, even combining for a goal away to West Ham United in 2022/23, in what ended as a 3-2 loss.

He could also provide cover, or even competition as a flying full-back, for a player Jamie Carragher said “could play for a team who expects to be in the Champions League every season”.

There is no doubt that Saelemaekers could be a fantastic member of the squad at the City Ground. He is a player with reams of “quality” as football talent scout Jacek Kulig said, and with the abilities he possesses, can surely be considered a hybrid of Elanga and Aina, two of Forest’s most important players.

Better than Jesus: Nottingham Forest still targeting "unbelievable" PL star

Nottingham Forest could land an even brighter talent than Igor Jesus by signing this unbelievable attacker.

ByKelan Sarson Jun 5, 2025

Regis Le Bris enjoyed what can only be described as a dream debut season as Sunderland manager.

Many Black Cats bosses have come and gone in quick succession in recent years as promotion to the Premier League has evaded them.

But, in the Frenchman’s case, it was a first-attempt job, with the ex-Lorient head coach now eager to prove himself in England’s elite league after an up-and-down stint in Ligue 1.

He will know that a stern defence will be key if Sunderland stand any chance of beating the punishing drop, with a new defensive brute reportedly now on his shopping list to toughen up the Wearside underdogs.

Sunderland considering move for 6-foot-3 colossus

The Championship playoffs did showcase Sunderland’s excellence in the centre-back department with Daniel Ballard taking his team to Wembley with a last-gasp header versus Coventry City, whilst loan ace Chris Mepham would complete a whopping 12 clearances against Sheffield United in total to shut out the annoyed Blades.

But another centre-back could soon join the building in the form of ex-West Bromwich Albion brute Cedric Kipre. Football outlet Africa Foot states that Le Bris and Co view the Ivorian as a serious option after promotion.

Whilst the 6-foot-3 colossus is well known to EFL fans for his imperious displays with the Baggies, he is just fresh off a season in the French top-flight with Stade De Reims. This venture might well have ended in relegation, but it bodes well for Kipre not finding the Premier League daunting.

How Kipre can be Ballard 2.0 for Sunderland

Regardless of his time out in Ligue 1, his standout showings in the Championship earn enough merit on their own, with his authoritative approach out from the back – matched by his ability to pop up with a crucial header – meaning he could become Ballard 2.0 for Le Bris.

He also shone in spurts for Reims despite relegation, with the headed effort above unfortunately just not enough to keep Samba Diawara’s men afloat.

Away from this unfortunate relegation on his CV, though, Kipre has proven himself in the past as a brave battler in the challenging second tier of English football, with the Baggies left gutted by the 28-year-old’s decision to depart the Hawthorns last summer.

Games played

44

20

Goals scored

2

2

Assists

1

1

Touches*

67.1

47

Accurate passes*

48.9 (87%)

33.2 (88%)

Ball recoveries*

4.3

2.3

Clearances*

3.7

4.0

Total duels won*

4.2

4.6

Clean sheets

14

2

Looking at the table above, Kipre was a rock-solid option for the Carlos Corberan-led Baggies, with a mightily impressive 14 clean sheets notched up from 44 clashes.

Further, the table shows off the similarities between the defensive duo, with both Ballard and Kipre chipping in with three goal contributions each, away from also being able to valiantly battle away with duels, winning a similar number.

Much like Ballard, too, the current Reims number 21 has had to bounce back from plenty of Premier League rejection, with his early career seeing him be let go of by Leicester City.

The Sunderland titan also had to wave goodbye to Arsenal to join the Stadium of Light, but he will now have a shot at top-flight redemption on Wearside next season.

Kipre will also fancy his chances at being a formidable presence for Le Bris’ outsiders, having once been labelled as “one of the best defenders in the division” by the Second Tier podcast when plying his trade in the EFL’s top league.

Now, it’s up to the “fantastic” defender – as he’s also been labelled by football journalist Josh Bunting – to earn his stripes up a league, with Kipre having the potential to be as loved as Ballard if his brick-wall presence allows safety to be secured.

Sunderland can land bigger coup than Henderson by re-signing £40m "wizard"

Sunderland supporters would love if this statement deal were to go through.

ByKelan Sarson Jun 1, 2025

Reliable journalist Paul Joyce has claimed that Everton are interested in sealing a stunning move for a “special” attacking player this summer.

Moyes eyeing big future at Everton

After some grim seasons of late, which have included several relegation battles in the Premier League, there is a feeling of positivity with the Toffees, not least because David Moyes has returned as manager, easily steering them to safety ahead of the move to their new stadium.

The Scot has been forceful about how he is expecting a better future at Everton with him in charge, with the hope being that funds will be made available for important transfer business.

“I think more the feeling [is] that there might be a club which is ­coming back together. Signs that before there was a real break-up, of a sort of love affair with the supporters, the ­players, the club, the owners. So we’re all trying to get back. We’re obviously all looking forward to it. If we can take what we had today to the new stadium, it’ll be something.”

New signings are needed in various areas of the pitch for Everton, not least in attack, with goals coming at a premium at times this season, with 41 goals scored in 37 games. Now, a shock rumour has emerged regarding a potential attacking signing for the Merseysiders.

Everton keen on "special" Liverpool player

According to the reliable Joyce of The Times, Everton “hold an interest” in Liverpool winger Ben Doak, seeing him as an option to bring in this summer.

The 19-year-old has spent this season on loan at Championship side Middlesbrough, with the Reds unable to give him regular playing time, and a permanent move away from Anfield could now be on the cards.

The idea of Everton signing Doak is a mouthwatering prospect, not only because of the stunning nature of taking him from rivals Liverpool, but also due to his long-term potential.

The teenage winger is already a six-cap Scotland international, and he was enjoying a fruitful time loan at Middlesbrough before injury struck in January, bagging 10 goal contributions (three goals and seven assists) in the Championship.

Doak also caught the eye of Jurgen Klopp during their time together at Liverpool, with the German clearly a big admirer of the Scot, saying: “Special boy. Really confident, has something nobody else delivers, really; this kind of dribbling, this kind of straight-forward bravery, all these kinds of things.”

Moyes' next Branthwaite: Everton plotting bid to sign "elite" £17m star

Everton are gearing up for a summer of change in the transfer market.

ByAngus Sinclair May 23, 2025

Forgetting the Liverpool connection, Doak is a hugely exciting footballer who could reach great heights with his pace and unpredictability in the coming years, and while the Reds may be hesitant to sell to their rivals, Everton should look to strike a deal.

Brighton & Hove Albion are now eyeing a move for a “world-class” goalkeeper to replace Bart Verbruggen this summer, according to a report.

Verbruggen attracting interest after impressive performances

Brighton have enjoyed another solid campaign in the Premier League, with a top-half finish looking increasingly likely, and their goalkeeper has caught the eye with some impressive performances.

Most recently, Verbruggen kept a clean sheet in the Seagulls’ 2-0 triumph at Wolverhampton Wanderers, making two saves from inside the box to keep the Old Gold at bay, which earned him a 7.7 SofaScore match rating, the second-highest of any player.

The Netherlands international has also put in some top displays for his national side, making some impressive saves in his side’s UEFA Nations League clash against Spain back in March.

As such, it is little wonder the Dutchman is now starting to attract attention from some of Europe’s top clubs, with a report from The Sun revealing that Real Madrid are now eyeing a shock deal for the shot-stopper this summer.

In the same report, it is detailed that Brighton are now running the rule over top-class replacements for the 22-year-old, with Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher one of the goalkeepers under consideration, having tracked the Irishman for quite some time.

Reports from elsewhere have revealed the Reds have set an asking price of £40m for Kelleher, so the Seagulls will need to be willing to spend big, should they decide to pursue a move for the goalkeeper.

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Of course, Fabian Hurzeler will be hoping to keep hold of Verbruggen beyond the end of the campaign, but it could be difficult to retain the goalkeeper’s services if Real Madrid come calling, and there are signs the Liverpool shot-stopper could be an ideal replacement.

While Alisson has remained Arne Slot’s first-choice option between the sticks, the Irishman has certainly played a role in the Reds’ Premier League title triumph, making 10 appearances while the Brazilian was sidelined due to injury.

During that time, the 26-year-old received very high praise from Andy Robertson, who described his teammate as “world-class”.

Not only that, but the Ireland international ranks highly across some key goalkeeping metrics over the past year.

Statistic

Average per 90

Clean sheet %

50% (99th percentile)

Goals against

1.07 (81st percentile)

Save % (penalty kicks)

100% (98th percentile)

Having proven himself in the Premier League with the champions, Kelleher could be a fantastic replacement for Verbruggen this summer, but Hurzeler will be hoping Madrid cool their interest in his goalkeeper.

Celtic wrapped up their fourth title in as many seasons last weekend when they beat Dundee United 5-0 at Tannadice Park in the Scottish Premiership.

An own goal from Ryan Strain put the Hoops 1-0 up early on in the match, before two goals apiece from Nicolas Kuhn and Adam Idah made sure of the victory.

The Scottish giants now have four matches left to play in the league with little to play for but pride and to extend their points total, as well as using the games to warm up for the SFA Cup final.

Brendan Rodgers’ side are due to face Aberdeen at Hampden Park in the SFA Cup final at the end of this month, knowing that a win would mean that they have completed the domestic treble this season.

It has been a terrific season for the Hoops, who also made it to the play-off round of the Champions League, and some of their signings in the last summer transfer window have contributed to that.

Celtic decided to splash the cash, after Matt O’Riley’s move to Brighton & Hove Albion, with a club-record swoop to sign Arne Engels from Augsburg for a reported fee of £11m.

Why Arne Engels has been a successful signing for Celtic

The Belgian midfielder had only started 13 of his 32 appearances in the Bundesliga for Augsburg in the 2023/24 campaign, which meant that the Hoops were breaking their transfer record to sign a young player who had yet to prove that he could perform consistently as a regular starter.

It was a gamble that has already paid off for the Scottish giants, though, as Engels has enjoyed a terrific debut season at Parkhead, nailing down a place as an influential figure in midfield for Rodgers.

The 21-year-old talent has scored ten goals and provided 12 assists in 48 appearances in all competitions for the Hoops this term, which shows that he has made a big impact at the top end of the pitch.

It is worth adding that eight of those ten goals have come from the penalty spot. Of course, you still have to score from 12 yards, but it does suggest that the midfielder does not carry a huge goal threat from open play.

Starts

22

9

Big chances created

11

3

Key passes per game

1.7

1.8

Assists

5

3

Tackles + interceptions per game

0.8

2.4

Duel success rate

48%

59%

As you can see in the table above, Engels has provided consistent quality as a creator for his teammates with 14 ‘big chances’ created in 31 starts in the Premiership and the Champions League combined, whilst also holding his own in physical duels.

These statistics show that the Belgium international has been a successful signing for Celtic because he has hit the ground running as a star for the Hoops.

However, the Scottish giants could land an even bigger talent than Engels by swooping to sign one of the reported transfer targets ahead of next season.

Celtic's interest in Premiership star

The Scottish Sun recently revealed that Celtic had an offer turned down for Motherwell central midfielder Lennon Miller in the January transfer window.

It was claimed that the Hoops and Italian side Udinese had bids rejected for the Scotland U21 international, who remained at Fir Park for the second half of this season.

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The outlet added that Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise are lining up a swoop for the Scottish starlet in the upcoming summer transfer window, with a fee of £5m said to be on the cards.

Celtic must, now, press ahead with another attempt to sign the Motherwell sensation when the summer window opens for business, because he has the potential to be an even bigger talent than Engels for the Bhoys.

Why Miller is an even bigger talent than Engels

Firstly, Miller is three years younger than the Belgian midfielder, who plays in the same position as him, and has already established himself as a regular starter in the Premiership.

He has started 48 matches in the Scottish top-flight since the start of last season, which shows that the teenage gem already has plenty of experience in the league despite his age.

This also means that he has even more time left ahead of him to develop and improve as a player in comparison to Engels, as he has established himself as a star at first-team level at a much younger age.

Miller’s performances in the Premiership for Motherwell, including his stunning assist against Celtic last season in the clip below, also suggest that he could offer even more than the Belgian ace in the short-term as well.

The Scottish ace, who has been hailed as “ridiculous” by pundit James McFadden, has the quality to offer a similar level of creativity whilst providing more to the team out of possession.

Appearances

31

28

Big chances created

11

10

Key passes per game

1.7

1.6

Assists

5

6

Tackles + interceptions per game

0.8

3.1

Ball recoveries per game

2.5

6.5

Duel success rate

48%

52%

As you can see in the table above, Miller, despite playing for an inferior side at Premiership level, has only created one fewer ‘big chance’ in three fewer appearances.

The Motherwell dynamo has, however, won the ball back far more frequently for his side and come out on top in a higher percentage of his duels with other midfielders.

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Therefore, Celtic could land an even bigger talent than Engels by signing Miller because he has performed as well as the Hoops star in possession, whilst doing more for his team defensively, and is three years younger than him.

It is now down to the club to get a deal over the line for the teenage starlet, who could develop into a star for the Scottish giants next season and for many seasons to come.