As speculation increases over Alexander Isak’s future, Newcastle United are now reportedly racing to sign a former Manchester City player in a £30m deal this summer.
Alexander Isak asks to leave Newcastle
Having been sent home by Eddie Howe before Newcastle’s pre-season game against Celtic last weekend and then left out of the Magpies’ squad for their Asia tour, Isak now reportedly wants to leave St James’ Park. There was an insistence that the Swede had suffered a thigh injury and that was the reason for his pre-season absence and not anything transfer related, but that has since been revealed to be a smokescreen for his desire to depart.
Newcastle’s biggest fear has been realised and they now face an almighty battle to keep hold of their star man. Liverpool could reportedly come calling if they manage to sell Luis Diaz and their interest in Isak has been an open secret all summer long. Meanwhile, clubs in Saudi Arabia are also reportedly plotting a move.
It would, of course, be quite the twist if another club owned by PIF made their move to sign Isak from Newcastle, but whether such a deal takes place remains to be seen.
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As for Newcastle, their attention must once again turn towards the transfer market. The Magpies have endured a tumultuous summer – missing out on a number of targets – and must now ensure that they get deals over the line for the likes of Yoane Wissa before potentially replacing Isak.
Newcastle join Adarabioyo race
One way that those in Tyneside could begin to spend any potential Isak money is by improving their backline. According to Caught Offside, Newcastle have now joined the race to sign Tosin Adarabioyo from Chelsea this summer. The defender is valued at just £30m by the Blues and could be on the move amid interest from the Magpies, Crystal Palace, West Ham United, Napoli and AC Milan.
Minutes
1,409
3,330
Progressive Passes P90
2.68
2.03
Tackles Won P90
0.83
0.65
Aerial Duels Won P90
2.68
3.95
Compared to Dan Burn, Adarabioyo would offer Newcastle an instant upgrade in possession. Meanwhile, the former Manchester City gem would also be an impressive alternative to Giorgio Scalvini.
Newcastle are reportedly interested in the Atalanta man, but with a deal yet to take place, the door has seemingly opened for the likes of Adarabioyo this summer.
Initially rising through the ranks at Man City before establishing himself at Fulham then joining Chelsea, Adarabioyo earned impressive praise from Pep Guardiola in the past.
The Spaniard told reporters: “He is fast, strong in the air, and has the quality to look forward behind the line for the next pass. He definitely has a future in the first team.”
With Liverpool approaching their return to competitive action under unprecedented circumstances, Arne Slot will take pride in what his side has managed to do in the transfer window up until this point.
Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez, among others, will add considerable strength on top of a squad that managed to claim Premier League glory in his debut campaign.
Nevertheless, there is more to come at Anfield, and Newcastle United striker Alexander Isak is the dream target for Liverpool, even if they are more likely to turn their attention towards Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike due to financial demands relating to the former.
Speaking of Ekitike, Fabrizio Romano has confirmed the France Under-21 international wants to come to England in light of interest from the Reds, albeit there are also clubs around Europe and in Saudi Arabia circling.
He stated: “There is movement on Hugo Ekitike, with interest from Saudi, but the priority of the player remains England. And with Newcastle interested in Hugo Ekitike, there is still interest also from more clubs. Because clubs like Liverpool, Chelsea have been calling for the player for weeks, since June, for example, being informed on the situation of Hugo Ekitike.”
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Moving away from the search for attacking prowess, Liverpool could also move for Barcelona’s Fermin Lopez, solidifying the thought that they could look to strengthen the engine room.
Recent developments could point them in that direction, but not in the way supporters would expect, given previous events this window.
Liverpool could be offered Arda Guler in exchange for Alexis Mac Allister
According to reports in Spain, Liverpool could be offered Real Madrid star Arda Guler as the La Liga giants look to sign Alexis Mac Allister, and it is claimed the Argentina international may be tempted by the prospect of working with former Reds midfielder Xabi Alonso.
However, the 26-year-old hasn’t shown any major signs of wanting to change clubs and is said to be ‘happy’ in England, though Los Blancos may throw Turkish sensation Guler into the mix to try and bring down the cost of any potential deal with the Reds valuing their star at £86m.
Alexis Mac Allister in 2024/25 – all competitions
Appearances
49
Goals
7
Assists
6
Arda Guler in 2024/25 – all competitions
Appearances
49
Goals
6
Assists
11
Intriguingly, Guler, who has previously been labelled “tremendous” by Carlo Ancelotti, has outperformed £150,000 per week earner Mac Allister in the field of goal contributions, certifying that he would be able to replicate his creative influence at Anfield.
However, the latter is someone who Arne Slot believes holds a unique standing in the football world, so it is hard to envisage the Dutchman entertaining any notion of a sale under any circumstances.
Tottenham have a potentially golden opportunity to sign another player after sealing a marquee deal for Mohammed Kudus, and amid the drama surrounding their Morgan Gibbs-White move, with chairman Daniel Levy thought to be prioritising a couple of more areas to reinforce.
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Spurs announced the signing of Kudus in a £55 million deal from West Ham late last night, ending the 14-year-long wait for a transfer between the clubs, and the Ghanaian cannot wait to get started.
“It feels great to be here, I’m very happy and can’t wait to start,” he said in an interview with the club’s official channels.
“I’m a very direct winger, strong, very good in taking players on and creating chances, so there is a lot of flair in my game.
Son Heung-min
7.00
James Maddison
6.98
Pedro Porro
6.95
Dominic Solanke
6.84
Dejan Kulusevski
6.83
via WhoScored
“I like to entertain the fans as well. That’s what football is about – it’s putting a memory in the heads of the fans that they have when they go back home, and after the money they’ve spent to buy a ticket. Although there is also a lot of seriousness and competitiveness in the game, I still think it’s a sport I try to enjoy as much as I can and give the fans something to enjoy too. I hope fans are going to really enjoy what I’m going to bring to the team here.”
Kudus was set to be followed by Gibbs-White, following a round of quick-fire talks which accelerated in absolutely rapid fashion.
Nottingham Forest's MorganGibbs-Whitereacts after the match
Surprise reports emerged on Thursday that the Lilywhites were suddenly in advanced negotiations for the England international right after Kudus, and it didn’t take long for Levy to make significant progress, with Spurs prepared to pay his £60 million release clause.
Tottenham were thought to be closing in on a sensational double deal worth £115 million after developments in the last 24 hours, with Levy making a serious statement whilst backing new manager Thomas Frank to the hilt.
However, after a stunning twist, Nottingham Forest are now ready to take legal action against Tottenham after alleged illegal conduct over the England international’s transfer – with the deal considered to be off, at least for now.
Forest are likely unable to put a complete halt to the signing (Rob Dorsett), but it’s now been significantly delayed.
Elsewhere, Spurs are planning to strengthen other areas of midfield, and they have their eyes on an intriguing option.
Douglas Luiz "very keen" to join Tottenham as Juventus green-light exit
According to journalist Graeme Bailey and TBR Football, £138,000-per-week Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz is being actively targeted by Spurs, following the Old Lady’s decision to green-light his exit this summer.
Douglas Luiz at the Club World Cup with Juventus.
The Brazil international has found life difficult in Turin since his switch from Aston Villa last year, and he’s believed to be eyeing a return to the Premier League already, specifically to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Luiz is apparently “very keen” to join Tottenham and his representatives are pushing to get him that desired move, coming after Spurs allegedly held talks with them recently.
However, the former Man City man is just one of a few midfield targets being considered, as Levy apparently wants to sign a holding midfielder and new number six after their ambitious deals for Kudus and Gibbs-White.
Douglas Luiz for Juventus.
The 27-year-old suffered from both injury problems and a subsequent lack of game time under Thiago Motta and Igor Tudor last term, but his final season at Villa Park demonstrates that he’s capable of seriously strengthening Frank’s options.
Luiz bagged 10 goals and 10 assists in 53 total appearances for Unai Emery’s side across 2023/2024, with the South American potentially coming as a dynamic replacement for Yves Bissouma in midfield, who’s attracting reported interest from Fenerbahce.
Glasgow Rangers are now looking to sign a £10m star who Ibrox boss Russell Martin was in talks for just last year, according to a reliable reporter.
Rangers targeting attackers with five Ibrox signings made
The Gers and the 49ers Enterprises have been busy over the last seven days when it comes to bolstering Martin’s squad with new Ibrox signings.
Ahead of Rangers’ Champions League qualifier with Panathinaikos, Lyall Cameron, Max Aarons, Joe Rothwell, Emmanuel Fernandez and Thelo Aasgaard have all been brought in.
More could be on the way as well, with Martin recently sharing the type of profile he wants to bring in at Ibrox ahead of the 2025/26 season.
With new defenders and midfielders already signed, attention appears to be turning to adding to the final third, with the likes of Jamie Vardy mentioned as a striker target in Glasgow.
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New wingers will also be on the radar with Martin currently having just Oscar Cortes, Rabbi Matondo and Ross McCausland as options currently, and by the looks of things, a former target of the Rangers boss is wanted.
Rangers chasing deal for £10m Jesurun Rak-Sakyi
According to reliable reporter Alan Nixon of The Scottish Sun, Rangers are “chasing” a move to sign Jesurun Rak-Sakyi of Crystal Palace.
The 22-year-old has returned to Selhurst Park following a loan spell at Sheffield United last season, with Rangers looking at a temporary or permanent move.
Palace would want £10m to sell Rak-Sakyi, however, ‘Ibrox bosses could also attempt to get him on a permanent deal for a lower fee’.
Interestingly, Martin was in talks to sign the right-winger 12 months ago after taking Southampton to the Premier League, however, a move failed to go through.
Games
36
Goals
7
Assists
2
Minutes played
1,812
Rak-Sakyi would go on to contribute to nine Championship goals for the Blades as they narrowly missed out on promotion with a playoff final defeat to Sunderland.
Now, it looks as if a move to Scotland could be on the cards for the Englishman, making this one to keep an eye on over the coming weeks.
Leeds United have officially confirmed the signing of centre-back Jaka Bijol from Serie A side Udinese to bolster their defensive options in the coming days.
The Slovenia international has arrived at Elland Road after the club agreed a £19m deal with the Italian outfit to bring him over to England this summer.
Bijol will not be the last defender to walk through doors as a new arrival at Thorp Arch before the end of the summer transfer window, though, as they are also looking to bring in a new left-back.
Junior Firpo’s contract in West Yorkshire is set to expire at the end of this month, which means that the Whites need a first-choice option in that position.
Leeds eyeing deal for Ligue 1 left-back
Leeds, knowing that Firpo is on his way out of the club in the coming weeks, are actively pursuing left-back targets to come in and bolster the squad.
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According to LeedsLive, Lille defender Gabriel Gudmundsson is one of the left-backs being eyed up as a target for the Championship champions this summer.
The report claims that they are ‘very’ keen on a swoop for the Sweden international, but that no transfer for the left-footed ace is close at this moment in time.
It adds that Burnley and Everton are also interested in signing the 26-year-old full-back, who has one year left on his deal with Lille, which means that the Whites will have to see off Premier League competition to secure his services.
The outlet does not reveal, however, how much money it would take to sign Gudmundsson, who is valued at around £6m by Transfermarkt, this summer.
Why Leeds should sign Gabriel Gudmundsson
The Whites should push to win the race for his signature ahead of Burnley and Everton because he could arrive at Elland Road as Daniel Farke’s own Ezgjan Alioski.
Alioski
In Marcelo Bielsa’s first season in the Premier League, the Macedonia international started 29 matches and featured in 36 of the 38 league games, playing mainly as a left-back, but also as a left-midfielder.
Gudmundsson has played 74 times as a left-back and 70 times as a left-midfielder in his career to date, which suggests that he has the versatility to play a similar role in the squad to the one that Alioski did for Bielsa.
LOSC Lille's Gabriel Gudmundsson shoots against Liverpool.
The 26-year-old star, who was described as a “fun” player and a “risk-taker” by journalist Joe Donnohue, is a left-back who can provide quality in possession by driving his team up the pitch with passes and dribbles, much like Alioski was for Bielsa.
Pass accuracy
82%
79%
Progressive passes*
4.59
4.83
Progressive carries*
3.58
2.82
Successful take-ons*
1.01
0.40
Shot-creating actions*
1.51
2.60
Non-penalty goals*
0.10
0.07
As you can see in the table above, Gudmundsson offers similar progressive qualities to what the former Whites star offered in his one season in the Premier League at Elland Road.
The Lille star, however, also won 54% of his ground duels and 57% of his aerial duels in Ligue 1, whilst Alioski won 53% of his battles on the deck and 48% of his aerial contests in that top-flight campaign.
This suggests that the Swedish gem could be even more dominant, particularly aerially, than the Macedonia international was for Bielsa in the 2020/21 season, making him a solid option for the team in the Premier League next term.
Therefore, Leeds could land Farke his own version of Alioski, who has the potential to be even better than Bielsa’s dynamic full-back, by signing Gudmundsson this summer, and that is why they must work hard to secure his services.
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Celtic are looking to improve their options in the wide areas during the summer transfer window ahead of the 2025/26 campaign getting underway.
The Hoops are already closing in on their first addition on the flanks, as reporter Anthony Joseph has claimed that the club have agreed a fee of £1.7m to sign FC Nordsjaelland attacker Benjamin Nygren.
The Sweden international, who scored 15 goals in 30 league matches for the Danish club this season, is set to arrive to compete for a place on the right wing, but the club are also looking at a left-sided addition.
Journalist Sacha Tavolieri has claimed that talks are ongoing between Celtic and Michel-Ange Balikwisha over a potential move from Belgian side Royal Antwerp.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha against Porto in the Champions League.
The Belgian reporter added that the 24-year-old winger is keen to make the move to Parkhead this summer, but it remains to be seen whether or not terms will be agreed between all parties to make it happen.
Celtic are looking to bring in a new left-winger after Jota suffered a long-term knee injury in the second half of the 2024/25 campaign, and there are reasons for and against a move for Balikwisha.
The Celtic case for Michel-Ange Balikwisha
One of the reasons why Celtic may want to sign the Belgian forward is because he has the potential to deliver quality as both a scorer and a creator of goals at the top end of the pitch.
The right-footed flanker has produced 29 goals and 17 assists in 141 appearances in all competitions for Royal Antwerp to date, which includes four goals and three assists in ten games during the Pro League play-off round this season.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha for Royal Antwerp.
Balikwisha has shown that he has the potential to make a big impact in the final third at a good level in Belgium’s top-flight, which is why Celtic may feel that he could hit the ground running in Scotland.
At the age of 24, the Belgian forward is also at a good age where he still has time to develop and improve, but is not inexperienced, which could make him an ideal signing.
24/25
3
205
29
23/24
1
49
10
22/23
2
103
14
21/22
2
51
10
As you can see in the table above, though, there are also reasons to be concerned about a potential deal for the winger, as he has missed 63 matches through injury in the last four seasons combined, and this means that the attacker may not be available week-in-week-out.
Balikwisha has also only played more than 17 games in one role, as a left winger, in his career, which does not suggest that he is supremely versatile across the frontline.
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Celtic could, however, land an even better winger signing this summer by moving for Blackburn Rovers dynamo Tyrhys Dolan over a swoop for Balikwisha.
Why Celtic should sign Tyrhys Dolan
The Hoops are reportedly in the running to land the 23-year-old attacker on a free transfer, as his contract at Ewood Park is due to expire at the end of this month.
This means that he would be significantly cheaper than Balikwisha, who has a reported price tag of £5m, and that would allow the Scottish Premiership champions to save money to spend in other areas of the pitch.
Not only would Dolan be a cheaper alternative, the English forward would also arrive as a player who is more likely to be a reliable option for Brendan Rodgers from a fitness perspective, as he has not suffered any notable injuries in his career, as per Transfermarkt.
The 23-year-old ace, who has racked up 210 appearances for Blackburn already, is durable and can be relied upon to be available most weeks as Celtic compete across four competitions, as he has been used to 46-game seasons in the Championship.
Dolan, once hailed as “outstanding” by manager John Eustace, also has the positional flexibility to make him a useful option even when Jota is back fit. He has played 25 games or more in four different positions throughout his career, and is capable of playing on the right or left flank, as an attacking midfielder, and as a centre-forward.
This suggests that he is more likely to be a viable option in other positions than Balikwisha, who is predominantly a left-winger, would be, which is another reason why he could be a more valuable signing for Rodgers moving forward.
Goals
0.17
Top 45%
Shot on target percentage
44%
Top 11%
Non-penalty xG per shot
0.13
Top 22%
Goals per shot
0.12
Top 33%
Goal creating actions
0.48
Top 11%
Defensive actions leading to goal
0.06
Top 2%
Assists
0.17
Top 37%
As you can see in the table above, Dolan also caught the eye with his contributions at the top end of the pitch in the second tier of English football, ranking highly in a host of key attacking metrics.
He ended the campaign with a return of seven goals, seven ‘big chances’ created, and six assists, compared to Balikwisha’s haul of four goals, seven ‘big chances’ created, and three assists.
These statistics, with both his goal and assist numbers as well as his underlying data, suggest that the potential is there for the potential free agent signing to deliver quality as a scorer and a creator of goals for Celtic.
Overall, Dolan would be a better signing for the Scottish giants than Balikwisha because he would arrive at Parkehad for less money, offer more reliability with his fitness, offer more versatility with the positions that he can play, and offer a similar threat in front of goal.
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It is now down to Rodgers to push the board to strike an agreement with Dolan to bring him in on a free transfer instead of pursuing a big-money deal for Balikwisha this summer.
Newcastle United will play football with Alexander Isak at the front next season. It’s a wonderful thought, and it’s very much set to happen, with The Athletic’s David Ornstein stating there’s “no chance” the Sweden striker leaves St. James’ Park this summer.
That’s because the Carabao Cup champions sealed their place in next year’s Champions League on the final game of the Premier League season, clinching fifth place.
However, the future of Callum Wilson is less clear, out of contract at the end of the month, but offered fresh, reduced terms.
Perhaps Newcastle should move to sign a new centre-forward instead, with talks being held for an exciting Premier League star.
Newcastle meet with Premier League striker
As per NUFC Blog, Newcastle met with Rodrigo Muniz’s camp last month to ascertain whether the Fulham forward would be interested in a move to Tyneside this summer.
He would, with the player’s representatives exploring different avenues ahead of a potential summer transfer, heading into the final year of his Cottagers deal (albeit the club have the option to extend terms by an additional 12 months).
It’s thought the prolific Brazilian could cost as much as £50m.
What Rodrigo Muniz would bring to Newcastle
Muniz signed for Fulham from Brazilian club Flamengo, aged 20, in 2021, making remarkable progress across the past two seasons in the Premier League for Marco Silva’s side, having previously completed a difficult loan spell in the Championship with Middlesbrough, scoring twice across 17 fixtures.
But having found his shooting sense with Fulham over the past two years, Silva has hailed him as a “proper quality striker”, with pundit Alan Shearer backing such effusions up by calling him “horrible to play against.”
His potential was perfectly illustrated by a rich burst of form last season in the Premier League, scoring seven goals from as many matches across spring.
This year, Muniz hasn’t been provided the same regularity of minutes, but he’s still managed to bag himself a goal when afforded a chance.
This innate clinical quality is actually something that could see him replace Wilson at St. James’ Park, with his scoring leading FBref to draw him against the Newcastle man during the 2023/24 season, given both retain their attacking fluency even if not featuring week in, week out.
Wilson, reduced to scraps this season due to injury problems, is typically an invariably deadly finisher, scoring 27 goals across 30 Premier League starts over the 2022/23 and 2023/24 campaigns.
Matches (starts)
26 (18)
31 (8)
Goals
9
8
Assists
1
1
Shots (on target)*
2.8 (1.0)
1.3 (0.6)
Big chances missed
4
5
Pass completion
62%
66%
Key passes*
0.7
0.2
Dribbles*
0.2
0.2
Tackles + interceptions*
0.5
0.5
Duels (won)*
4.6 (39%)
3.7 (52%)
He’s a target man, and no mistake. It’s interesting, though, that Muniz has enjoyed such clinical shooting success across the past two years in the English top flight, also demonstrating a tenacious attitude in the duel, if not through his passing, his creativity.
As per FBref, he actually ranked among the top 3% of Premier League forwards this term for non-penalty goals scored per 90 (0.75), so prolific and fluent when afforded the chance to impress.
His failure to earn regular starts at Craven Cottage likely came from his overall game, which may not be kitted out with the completeness of other strikers. But that’s okay; in that way, he can be Howe’s next version of Wilson.
Newcastle striker Callum Wilson
Muniz doesn’t need to bring a protean attacking arsenal to the fold when Isak’s staying put, but his keen-edged shooting could certainly add the perfect dimension to ensure attacking success across the whole campaign, across a variety of fronts.
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The Premier League is widely regarded as the most physical, intense and demanding league across the continent, so it’s always very impressive to see players performing well into their 30s.
Here, we’ve taken a look at the 10 oldest players in the Premier League, with their age taken from their last appearance. Without further ado, here is the list…
Rank
Player
Club
Age
Lukasz Fabianski
West Ham
Ashley Young
Everton
James Milner
Brighton
Jamie Vardy
Leicester
Jonny Evans
Man Utd
Adam Lallana
Southampton
Fraser Forster
Tottenham
Willian
Fulham
Seamus Coleman
Everton
Martin Dubravka
Newcastle
10 Martin Dubravka (Newcastle) 36 years, 1 month
Martin Dubravka has been in and out of Newcastle United team of late, primarily standing in for Nick Pope whenever the Toon No 1 is out injured.
Indeed, he was called upon over the Christmas period with Pope unavailable, with Newcastle securing a sixth consecutive win with the Slovakian between the sticks on his 36th birthday.
Dubravka’s last appearance came against Man City in February 2025.
9 Seamus Coleman (Everton) 36 years, 7 months
Seamus Coleman has been at Everton for 16 years now, though his season was derailed by injuries throughout.
It meant the Irishman only turned out five times for the Toffees in the 2024/25 Premier League, coming on most recently in the final game at Goodison Park against Southampton on 18th May.
8 Willian (Fulham) 36 years, 9 months, 1 day
Willian made his Premier League debut for Chelsea in October 2013 and has remained in the division ever since, aside from brief stints out at Corinthians and Olympiacos. The tricky winger returned to Fulham in January 2025.
His longevity is admirable, having made 327 appearances in England’s top flight with three different clubs as of the end of the 2024/25 campaign.
#
Player
Goals
1
Roberto Firmino
82
2
Gabriel Jesus
76
3
Richarlison
64
=4
Philippe Coutinho
47
=4
Willian
47
6
Gabriel Martinelli
40
=7
Matheus Cunha
29
=7
Juninho
29
=9
Joao Pedro
22
=9
Joelinton
22
7 Fraser Forster (Tottenham) 36 years, 9 months, 12 days
Fraser Forster was summoned to the Tottenham Hotspur first team when Guglielmo Vicario was struck by injury.
It handed the former Southampton and Celtic shot-stopper a brief run of games in December, though Spurs were only successful on one occasion – on a return to St Mary’s.
Now 37, it remains to be seen whether he will appear for Spurs in the new season, having lost his place in the matchday squad towards the end of the campaign.
6 Adam Lallana (Southampton) 36 years, 9 months, 26 days
Adam Lallana’s Premier League career may well be over following Southampton’s relegation in 2025, which isn’t a huge surprise given he may not be granted another move up the pyramid at 37 years of age.
Looking further ahead, Lallana joined up with the England Under-21s in September 2023 as a coach – perhaps indicating his future plans on the touchline.
Trophy
Year
FIFA Club World Cup
2020
Premier League
2020
UEFA Super Cup
2019
Champions League
2019
Johnstone’s Paint Trophy
2010
5 Jonny Evans (Man Utd) 37 years, 4 months
Eyebrows were raised when Manchester United re-signed free agent Jonny Evans in the summer of 2023, but the veteran certainly proved a few naysayers wrong.
The Northern Irishman called time on his second spell in 2025, ending the campaign as the fifth-oldest player in the league.
He would have to turn out for another top-flight club to climb the rankings, perhaps for a promoted club looking for an experienced head.
Trophy
Year
Community Shield
2009, 2011, 2012, 2021
FA Cup
2021, 2024
Premier League
2009, 2011, 2013
FIFA Club World Cup
2009
League Cup
2009, 2010
Johnstone’s Paint Trophy
2010
Champions League
2008
Championship
2007
4 Jamie Vardy (Leicester) 37 years, 4 months
Jamie Vardy bid a fond farewell to Leicester City this season, but despite the Foxes’ relegation, the 37-year-old backed himself to still do a job in the Premier League.
At the conclusion of the season, it was not clear where the striker was headed, but he certainly flew the flag for the veterans of the division, with only three older players appearing.
3 James Milner (Brighton) 39 years, 4 months
James Milner has amassed a remarkable 638 Premier League appearances – only Gareth Barry (653) has collected more.
The former England international has adapted his game to continue operating at the highest level, particularly at Liverpool, where he became an established left-back.
Now at Brighton, Milner has played at left-back, right-back and central midfield for the Seagulls.
He won Liverpool’s gruelling lactate test every pre-season he was at the club, evincing his astounding fitness levels, which no doubt have played a huge role in his longevity.
#
Player
Goals
1
Gareth Barry
653
2
James Milner
638
3
Ryan Giggs
632
4
Frank Lampard
609
5
David James
572
6
Gary Speed
535
7
Emile Heskey
516
8
Mark Schwarzer
514
9
Jamie Carragher
508
10
Phil Neville
505
2 Ashley Young (Everton) 39 years, 10 months
Ashley Young turns 40 in summer 2025, and has been a superb servant to Everton since his switch in 2023.
The former Manchester United winger has experienced a similar career development to Milner in the sense that he converted to full-back in order to continue playing at the highest level.
Young has continued to rack up appearances despite his advancing age, playing primarily at right-back.
Team
Appearances
Goals
Assists
Manchester United
261
19
33
Aston Villa
247
38
53
Watford
110
22
9
Everton
70
2
4
Inter
59
5
9
1 Lukasz Fabianski (West Ham) 40 years, 1 month
It seems crazy to think that Lukasz Fabianski is now in his 40s, having joined English football as a youngster with Arsenal in 2007.
He will be leaving West Ham United after seven years of service in east London, but not before topping the Premier League charts as the competition’s oldest player in 2024/25.
It’s hardly a badge of honour, but it speaks to the Pole’s enduring qualities that he could still hack it at the top level.
Whoever takes over at Glasgow Rangers as the new permanent manager has a massive job to do.
A summer rebuild is required, which means plenty of ins and outs when the transfer window opens next month.
Ianis Hagi, Leon Balogun and Tom Lawrence all departed Ibrox following the expiration of their contracts, freeing up some of the wage bill.
The Light Blues will also need to sell a few players in order to raise some funds. Could Nedim Bajrami be the first to go?
Latest on Nedim Bajrami's future
According to reports in Albania (as per the Glasgow Times), the midfielder has two options on the table about a summer exit away from Rangers.
A club in Serie A is keen on securing his services, while another is from the Bundesliga. The report goes on to say that it is likely Bajrami will depart the club when the summer transfer window opens.
Having paid £3.4m for him just last summer, the board will be keen on recouping the majority of this fee back, especially as he has three years still left on his contract.
A return of nine goal contributions – five goals and four assists – across 44 matches simply wasn’t good enough, and he often went large spells without producing anything meaningful in the final third.
Whoever arrives as the new manager will see Bajrami as an asset who can afford to be sold to fund future signings.
Ben Davies is another player who must be moved on, especially after enjoying a successful season on loan with Birmingham City.
Why Rangers must sell Ben Davies this summer
Davies spent the entire 2024/25 season on loan at Birmingham and was a key component of the side that secured promotion back to the Championship.
He played 44 times for the club, helping them keep 20 clean sheets in League 1, while also winning an impressive 70% of his total duels and making 6.2 clearances per game.
Accurate passes
67.9
Tackles
1.1
Clearances
6.2
Interceptions
0.5
Total duels won
6.3
Possession lost
9.7
Due to these performances, head coach Chris Davies dubbed the centre-back as “exceptional” and it appears as though they are seeking a permanent transfer for the player.
Back at Ibrox, however, it’s fair to say that he didn’t quite live up to the £4m price tag following his arrival. That much is certain.
When compared to his peers in the 2022/23 Champions League, Davies ranked in the bottom 92% for pass completion percentage (79.6%) and in the bottom 80% for tackles (1.04) per 90.
The following season, he lost possession 12.1 times per game in the Premiership, regularly being outmuscled by opposition strikers. It was clear that the Englishman wasn’t going to be a long-term option at the back for the Light Blues.
Starring out on loan has surely put the £27k-per-week defender in the shop window this summer. Now, all that Rangers need is a club to come in and make a decent offer.
One thing is for certain, especially amid the news that the 49ers Enterprises have completed their takeover of the club. Ben Davies should never play for the Gers again.
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Glasgow Rangers have enjoyed the services of several loan players over the years, with the majority being overwhelmingly successful.
Ryan Kent spent the 2018/19 campaign at Ibrox on loan from Liverpool under the watch of Steven Gerrard, and he was excellent at times.
The English forward excited the Ibrox support with his quality at the top end of the pitch, as the forward registered 15 goal contributions – six goals and nine assists.
A few years later, Malik Tillman used his spell at Rangers to seal a move to PSV Eindhoven. The youngster may have struggled at times with the physicality in Scotland, but that didn’t stop him scoring 12 goals and grabbing five assists at Ibrox.
Former Rangers midfielder Malik Tillman.
This theme continued last term when Abdallah Sima, on loan from Brighton, showcased his abilities on the left wing regularly for the Light Blues during his temporary spell, with 16 goals in all competitions.
Vaclav Cerny was the annual loan signing last summer, and he produced better numbers than all of those who preceded him at the club, that’s for sure.
Vaclav Cerny has been one of Rangers’ best signings this season
Philippe Clement secured the services of the winger on loan from Wolfsburg last summer, and it looked like a shrewd move.
He scored five times for the German side in just 25 appearances last term and even netted against Celtic back during his days at Ajax. It may have taken a few weeks for him to get out of second gear, but when he did, the Ibrox faithful were in for a treat.
Indeed, across his 51 matches for Rangers, the Czech forward has scored 18 goals and registered nine assists across all competitions.
Metric
Cerny
Tillman
Sima
Goals
12
10
11
Assists
4
4
2
Big chances created
7
12
2
Key passes per game
2.4
1.6
0.8
Successful dribbles per game
1.5
1.5
1.2
Shots per game
2.9
1.7
2.9
Wonderful numbers, yet it looks as though he will return to his parent club when the season finishes, as it is unlikely Rangers can afford him.
In the January transfer window, Wolfsburg claimed that they would be expecting to recoup the majority of the £8m that they had paid for him should the Gers seek a permanent move.
Even with the 49ers Enterprises closing in on their takeover, a move to sign the winger this summer looks unlikely, especially as a new manager has yet to be appointed.
Rumours are circling that Davide Ancelotti – Carlo’s son – is the frontrunner to take charge at Ibrox ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
Despite the lack of a full-time manager, the club are still looking ahead to the transfer window as they seek to strengthen.
Why Rangers could get bargain deal for League One winger
Rangers are in the market for several attacking players this summer, which has seen them turn to League One in England for potential signings.
Peterborough United winger Kwame Poku has been on the radar since late last year as the club plan ahead for the future.
His contract is set to expire at the end of the campaign, which opens the door for Rangers. Birmingham City are also keen, but the Scottish club have the advantage as they will only have to pay the cross-border compensation fee and this doesn’t apply to English sides.
“Celtic and Rangers have been at most of our games this season, but I don’t believe Kwame will go to Scotland.” Said Barry Fry recently, and it will be interesting to see what happens over the next few weeks.
Much will depend on just who takes over as the new manager of the Gers, but if it is Ancelotti, then Poku may prove to be a solid signing who could make the club forget about Cerny once his loan is over.
Why Kwame Poku can shine under Davide Ancelotti
Carlo Ancelotti may have won everything there has to be won in the game, especially during his time with Real Madrid, but Davide has played a huge role tactically in his second spell at the club.
Judging by the way Madrid have set up, Ancelotti would likely utilise a 4-2-3-1 or a 4-4-3 system, which could work well with those in the squad.
He would certainly start his teams on the foot, enabling the starting XI to attack high up the pitch. Working under his dad, however, will ensure he can be flexible with his playing style, depending on who the opponent is.
An attacking philosophy could suit someone like Poku, who thrives when his team are attacking in the final third.
This season, the Ghana winger has scored 12 goals and contributed 11 assists across just 31 matches for the Posh. Of course, it may be League One, but it still proves how effective he is in the final third, whether it is scoring or generating chances for his teammates, and shows that he could deliver as much as Cerny at Ibrox.
His manager at the Posh has lauded Poku previously for his starring role in their 2024/25 campaign, saying: “The boy is unplayable at the moment, he’s just so good. He deserves all the plaudits and all the credit.”
It looks as though he is now ready to leave the club and a move to Rangers could be perfect as he seeks to take the next step in his development.
Not only will he challenge for domestic trophies, but Poku will get the chance to play in Europe for the first time.
Across 27 games in the English third tier, Poku has averaged 2.4 shots per game, along with recording a goal conversion percentage of 19%, created nine big chances and averages 1.2 key passes per match for his club.
These are impressive statistics regardless of the league he is playing in, and Poku could be an excellent option for Ancelotti to call upon next season, should he become the new manager.
The next few weeks are extremely important for the club. If Ancelotti is the man set to take charge, he will have to be backed significantly.
While he hasn’t managed before, his ability to think on his feet and help power Madrid to plenty of titles has drawn plaudits. Could he do the same at Rangers?
Only time will tell.
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