Tag Futebol

Jurgen Klopp is set to have a complete clear-out at Liverpool over the coming months, with several first-team players out of contract.

James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Naby Keita are all free to leave the Anfield side in the summer and Klopp will have already begun to look for replacements in order to rejuvenate his midfield.

According to journalist Rudy Galetti, Napoli midfielder Piotr Zielinski has emerged as a transfer target for the Anfield side, and this could give the German a licence to finally bin Keita, who has missed the majority of this season with injury problems.

Zielinski is currently starring for Poland at the World Cup, helping them qualify from the group stage for the first time since 1986.

The 28-year-old has been one of Poland’s best performers in Qatar, ranking second in the squad with a Sofascore rating of 7.10/10 and shots on target per match (0.3) while ranking first for key passes made per game (1.7), demonstrating just how important he is to the national side.

The £107k-per-week sensation has also excelled for Napoli this season, leading the side to the top of the Serie A table by registering eight goal contributions while also creating a further nine big chances and an impressive 2.3 key passes per match.

These statistics clearly show not only does he provide a vital attacking threat from the midfield engine room, but his creativity also generates plenty of chances for others and Klopp urgently requires some more dynamism in his midfield.

Former Everton boss Carlo Ancelotti sang the Napoli machine’s praises: “Zielinski is a complete midfielder, he played in all positions with me. He is dynamic and skilled with the ball.”

High praise from one of the most successful coaches in European football and Zielinski may well be a surprise name linked to the club, however, there is plenty he can offer Liverpool.

Klopp may well have to sign a midfielder or two in January to ensure a major rebuilding job doesn’t occur in the summer and with the Serie A outfit valuing the Polish international at around €40m (£34m) back in the summer then the 55-year-old might just test Napoli’s resolve with a January bid.

Journalist Dean Jones has been reacting to the rumours regarding Leeds United and Torino midfielder Sasa Lukic.

The Lowdown: Lukic linked with Leeds

Lukic has been heavily linked with a move to Yorkshire in recent weeks, with the Whites thought to be keeping tabs on the 26-year-old at the World Cup in Qatar.

Leeds are reportedly at the front row alongside AS Roma for Lukic’s services and seemingly need £12.8m to complete a transfer.

The Serbia international, who has been hailed as “outstanding” by journalist Josh Bunting, has started both Group G games so far against Brazil and Cameroon at the finals in Qatar.

The Latest: Jones’ comments

Jones was speaking to GiveMeSport regarding Leeds and Lukic and said that a move to Elland Road wouldn’t come as a surprise, adding that the Serbian is on the radar in Yorkshire.

The journalist stated: “There are little changes going on at Leeds at the moment and it wouldn’t surprise me if they are suddenly pulled towards someone particularly like Lukic for their midfield.

“I think that is probably one that would be on their radar right now.”

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The Verdict: Needed?

Lukic can play as a holding, central or attacking midfielder, so he could prove to be a shrewd prospective signing by Andrea Radrizzani, Victor Orta and Jesse Marsch.

Marc Roca and Tyler Adams have both been relied upon heavily so far this season, while there seems to be question marks over the futures of Adam Forshaw and Mateusz Klich.

Should both of those players move on in 2023, Leeds may need another experienced central midfielder, possibly someone like Lukic.

Aston Villa are seemingly eyeing a January swoop for Borussia Mönchengladbach striker Marcus Thuram, according to recent reports.

What’s the latest?

As per Sky Sports Germany (via Sport Witness), the Midlands outfit are reportedly ready to move for the Frenchman in the coming window after news that the German club are faltering financially.

With the 25-year-old’s contract due to expire in the summer, this represents the final opportunity to garner a fee for their star man, who was reportedly available for €40m (£35m) in the summer of 2021. This fee will surely have diminished now given their ever-worsening financial situation.

With clubs such as Arsenal and Crystal Palace also named as interested parties, Unai Emery will want to act quickly to secure this signing which would prove a sensational coup.

Emery’s new Martinelli

Whilst manager of the Gunners, the Spaniard was involved in plenty of transfers which have gone on to earn success at the Emirates.

One such name who could draw comparisons to this ongoing deal for the Villans is Gabriel Martinelli, who similarly to Thuram, can feature on both the left wing and up front.

The Brazilian youngster seems to now have grown into the player Emery clearly thought he could become, with five goals and two assists already this season.

Both boasting blistering speed and quick feet, Martinelli ranks in the top 18% and Thuram in the top 8% respectively for dribbles completed of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s big five leagues over the last 365 days.

However, what they more importantly share is a keen eye for goal, despite the French forward appearing to be more of a finished article than the 21-year-old was when he brought first arrived in north London.

This is exemplified by his sensational start to the Bundesliga season, where he has already scored 13 goals and registered four assists in 17 games in all competitions.

Not only is he clearly more proficient than Martinelli, but physically he is near-unstoppable. The Parma-born marksman pairs his pace with a 6 foot 3 frame, with French coach Herve Renard seeing fit to label him a “physical monster”.

To tempt him to Villa Park would mark a sensational piece of business, and talent as “phenomenal” as he is – as dubbed by former teammate Denis Zakaria – are sure to take the club to the next level.

They must pounce on this opportunity, as few as lucrative as this will appear again for a long time.

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in a deal to bring Dennis Cirkin back to north London in the January transfer window.

What’s the talk?

That’s according to a report by The Sun, who claim that, despite having sold the left-back to Sunderland as recently as the summer of 2021, Fabio Paratici is now interested in activating a £6m clause to bring the 20-year-old back to north London.

The report goes on to state that Brentford are also tracking the England U20 international, as Thomas Frank believes the full-back could be a long-term replacement for Rico Henry – should the 25-year-old defender leave the Gtech Community Stadium.

Paratici can amend Nuno’s mistake

Considering just how highly rated Cirkin was at Tottenham prior to his sale under the management of Nuno Espirito Santo last year – with Jose Mourinho stating his belief that the 20-year-old was a “kid with a lot of quality” during his time in charge at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium – it is not difficult to see why Paratici would be keen to bring the left-back home.

Indeed, the £1.8m-rated defender highly impressed over his 37 League One appearances in 2021/22, helping his side keep nine clean sheets, providing two assists and creating two big chances, as well as making an average of 1.8 tackles, one interception, 2.5 clearances and winning 58% of his duels per game – playing a key role in the Black Cats’ promotion to the Championship.

The £3.4k-per-week talent has continued this fine form over his nine second-tier fixtures so far this season, having already scored one goal, registered one assist, created one big chance and helped his side keep two clean sheets, in addition to making an average of 1.6 interceptions, 1.4 tackles, 2.7 clearances and winning 5.8 duels – at a success rate of 56% – per game.

These returns have seen the player who Josh Bunting dubbed “immense” average an extremely impressive SofaScore match rating of 6.92, currently ranking him as Tony Mowbray’s ninth-best performer in the Championship – with the defender helping the ninth-placed Mackems get off to a fantastic start to life back in the second-tier.

As such, while it is true that Antonio Conte currently has the options of Ryan Sessegnon and Ivan Perisic at left-wing back, as well as Destiny Udogie joining the club at the end of the season after the completion of his loan spell at Udinese, it is nevertheless clear for all to see that Cirkin would be well worth bringing back to the club for a figure of just £6m.

Indeed, even if the England youth international would not go on to become a first-team regular under the 53-year-old Italian, should he continue his fine form in the Championship this season, Paratici would more than likely be able to move the full-back on for a considerably larger fee than £6m – something that would amend Nuno’s big mistake in moving Cirkin on.

Southampton’s academy has produced untold amounts of talent, many of which were siphoned off to bigger clubs.

It is almost like a circle of life now with how they continue to churn out stars only to have them poached, where they almost always go on to achieve bigger and better things.

One such example is Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who did not go straight to Liverpool, but eventually made his way there as many from St Mary’s often do.

Sold for £15m to Arsenal in 2011, this marked a sensational fee for a 17-year-old.

However, the fact that he had ten goals and ten assists in 43 games for the Saints at that age suggested that he was truly destined for greatness.

Although many might argue he never properly fulfilled his star-bound potential, he achieved some pretty special feats across his career.

He scored 20 times in nearly 200 appearances for the Gunners, ending up with three FA Cups for his troubles.

It was not a sensational return but was certainly solid enough to denote the move as a success.

However, his transfer to Liverpool is what will really leave fans on the south coast somewhat regretting the decision all those years ago to sanction his departure.

The Reds forked out what seemed like an astronomical £35m fee for his services, and although injuries again halted his Anfield career, he has won nearly every trophy available to him now including a Premier League and Champions League.

Again a return of 17 goals and 15 assists is nothing special across 133 appearances, but his trophy cabinet is indicative of a fine player with the quality to contribute to all of these titles.

Journalist and avid Liverpool supporter Ben Webb predicted an “explosive” season for the 29-year-old back in 2019, just before they would go on to win their first league title since 1990.

He certainly was an explosive player, with his ability to pick the ball up and drive from midfield likely the reason he was so sought after.

Whilst he never seemed to recapture his form as a teenager at Southampton, his mere presence in these exceptional sides has meant that he will retire one day wholly satisfied with his extensive list of silverware.

He also featured 35 times for England, scoring seven times, including a famous goal at the Maracana against Brazil.

It is a shame he never did fulfil his touted potential, although for Saints fans it might have added insult to injury, as he has gone on to achieve insane amounts of triumph whilst his former club have been largely marooned in mid-table.

Celtic were left to reflect on what might have been on Wednesday evening, as the Parkhead outfit were held to a 1-1 draw with Shakhtar Donetsk in what was a lively Champions League group stage encounter.

Although Ange Postecoglou’s side were finally able to get a point on the board after having slipped to a 3-0 defeat at home to 14-time champions Real Madrid last week, the overriding feeling will have been one of frustration, with the Hoops once again coming up short in front of goal.

As was the case against Los Blancos, last night’s clash in Warsaw saw the Old Firm side spurn a number of clearcut chances to surge ahead, after the explosive Mykhaylo Mudryk had cancelled out an early own goal from Artem Bondarenko.

Both Daizen Maeda and Giorgos Giakoumakis inexplicably fired wide late on with the Glasgow side having firmly taken control of proceedings, as the ‘visitors’ were ultimately forced to settle for a point against the Ukrainian outfit.

The aftermath of that stalemate has seen skipper Callum McGregor criticised for his “terrible decision” to chase the ball in the build-up to Shakhtar’s equaliser – in the words of Chris Sutton – although one man who also somewhat underwhelmed was usual talisman, Jota.

While the Portuguese magician did offer a typically devastating threat off the flanks, the 23-year-old was arguably far more wasteful in possession than usual, notably squandering possession on 20 occasions in his 90-minute outing – the most of any player on the night.

Arguably the most “infuriating” element of his performance, however – according to journalist Sam Tabuteau – was the former Benfica man’s failure to “pull the trigger” despite having a clear sight on goal, having twice fashioned a brilliant opening for himself.

In two almost identical scenarios, the fleet-footed gem had majestically weaved his way into the opposition box, only to then belatedly decide to shoot after seemingly doing too much to try and deceive the opposition.

While it may be somewhat harsh to criticise a player who has sparkled for the Hoops to date – with 35 goal contributions in just 48 games thus far – the £6.75m-rated man appears to still have a way to go to truly become the finished article.

Tottenham Hotspur negotiations are ‘underway’ as they chase a late move for Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech, according to reports.

The Lowdown: Spurs eye late move…

It’s been a summer to remember for Spurs supporters as their club make a plethora of signings and back manager Antonio Conte after his Champions League qualification last campaign.

The Premier League side have added Ivan Perisic, Fraser Forster, Yves Bissouma, Richarlison, Clement Lenglet, Djed Spence and Destiny Udogie to their squad whilst also completing the permanent signing of defender Cristian Romero recently.

As Deadline Day begins, they have one last chance to add another name or two to the squad and further strengthen Conte’s options, with news emerging on Ziyech.

The Latest: Ziyech negotiations begin…

Indeed, according to reports, it appears that the north Londoners have their sights on Chelsea’s international forward.

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Relevo claim that the Moroccan is attracting late interest from Fabio Paratici and co, with ‘negotiations underway’ to sign Ziyech before the deadline.

Tottenham are allegedly chasing a move for the 29-year-old, and ‘conditions with the player’  are ‘already on track’.

The Verdict: Get it done?

As Conte and Paratici seemingly chase a right-sided winger before the deadline, Ziyech could fit the bill.

The £100,000-per-week star, who has been called a ‘real handful’ on his day by former Leeds striker Noel Whelan, actually attempted Chelsea’s second highest rate of attempts at goal per 90 last season, with only Mason Mount managing a higher number (WhoScored).

Despite starting just 14 league games in 2021/22, he still chipped in with a respectable haul of four goals and three assists in the top flight (WhoScored).

It’s clear that Ziyech can pose a real threat when available and given the opportunity, leaving little surprise Spurs are eyeing a late move.

Wolves are reportedly interested in signing Chelsea’s Ethan Ampadu this summer, and the Wales international could be the ideal man to replace Conor Coady at Molineux.

What’s the word?

According to reports from Italy, a number of Serie A clubs are interested in taking the former Exeter City man on loan, while he has also attracted the interest of Wolves.

However, they suggest that Ampadu is keen on a permanent move away from Stamford Bridge as he seeks regular first-team football, which looks unlikely at Stamford Bridge following the signing of Kalidou Koulibaly and the potential addition of Wesley Fofana.

Ideal Coady heir?

Wolves made the somewhat surprising decision to loan out their captain to Premier League rivals Everton earlier this month, with Bruno Lage seemingly set to favour a four-at-the-back formation this season.

While Nathan Collins has arrived from Wolves, partnering Max Kilman in the heart of Lage’s defence, you could argue that more cover is needed in that position before the transfer window shuts.

Lage does have Willy Boly available too but the Ivorian’s form last season, when he was ranked as one of Wolves’ worst performers in the Premier League, suggests that he won’t be featuring too much this season.

The Portuguese boss also has young options in Yerson Mosquera and Toti, but neither have much Premier League experience, so Ampadu could definitely be a shrewd acquisition when you consider his experience and versatility.

The Welshman, despite being just 21, has been a regular in each of the last two seasons with Sheffield United and Venezia respectively, so will undoubtedly be looking for another season of first-team football.

Ampadu is also capable of playing in defensive midfield, which is where Coady started his career at Liverpool before adopting the centre-back role during his time at Molineux.

The Chelsea youngster, who was dubbed “versatile” by his Wales manager Rob Page, earned a lot of praise from Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom during his time at Bramall Lane.

He said: “The biggest thing with Ethan is his application and his love of the game and his professionalism to be as good as he can be. That’s a real bonus of him if you like, and he’ll fulfil his potential, wherever that may be.

“He’s been used in a number of positions cos he’s got a good brain and he knows the roles. But he’s also keen to find a position that he can become a master in and that’s something I’ve encouraged with Ethan.

“It can be an attribute that you can fill all the gaps. But I think Ethan has aspirations to be a top player at the top teams and at international level, so I think to become a master in one position will help him with that.”

Considering Ampadu is still only young, he could definitely adjust to whatever role Lage wanted to utilise him in, and the Welshman could prove to be the ideal man to replace Coady in Wolves’ squad this summer.

Journalist Josh Bunting has shared his verdict on the news linking Sunderland with a double swoop for strikers Nathan Broadhead and Troy Parrott.

The Lowdown: Need a striker

The Black Cats’ lack of options up front were highlighted on Tuesday night as Ross Stewart was rested for the 2-0 defeat pre-season to Bradford City.

Speaking after the game, Sunderland manager Alex Neil said: “I’m naturally concerned by the fact that we’ve currently got one centre-forward in the building.

“There is a lot of work going on behind the scenes to try to make sure we remedy that. That situation hasn’t changed over the last few weeks.

“I don’t want to do my business on the last day in August – I want to get my business done as quickly as possible. But as I say, the simple fact, unfortunately for us, is that we’re not on control of that.”

The Latest: Bunting’s verdict

According to The Shields Gazette, two forwards that Sunderland have been monitoring are Everton’s Broadhead and Tottenham’s Parrott.

Weighing in on the Wearside club’s striker rumours, Bunting took to Twitter to share his verdict.

The Sunderland-supporting journalist claimed: “If we get Nathan Broadhead I think we need Troy Parrott as well, adds that competition up front and doesn’t only do that it will be key for squad rotation. Really hope we do manage to get both in the door, Parrott is very intelligent with his link up play so that will be key #SAFC”

The Verdict: They’d be good signings

With just one forward remaining at the Stadium of Light, it is imperative that Sunderland bring in at least one extra body to add depth up top this summer.

With the greater physicality and higher standard of the Championship, Neil should be doing all that he can to bring in a couple of additions to the final third.

The likes of Broadhead and Parrott would add two talented youngsters, who have been receiving Premier League-level training on a daily basis, to the Black Cats’ squad. They could use the opportunity to show their parent clubs what they can do when playing first-team football, while for Sunderland they would provide alternative attacking outlets for tactical selections.

Whether these arrivals join on permanent contracts or loan deals is irrelevant; the focus is on securing new strikers ahead of the 2022/23 season at the Stadium of Light.

Crystal Palace look to be closing in on Swansea’s young midfielder Flynn Downes.

What’s the word?

That’s according to Football.London, who notes that Patrick Vieira seems to have beaten out the competition to secure his signature.

Both Wolves and Southampton are referenced as potential suitors, but Palace was the only option.

They had tried to sign him back when he played for Ipswich, noting their long-time interest in the player. Swansea are reportedly demanding £12m for the player.

Vieira will love him

Vieira appears to be crafting quite the versatile midfield, having already secured the signing of Cheick Doucoure, and constantly linked to several other midfielders all with different profiles.

However, with Downes, he is guaranteed a workmanlike midfielder who can graft alongside another of his new signings.

One benefit to signing this Swansea youngster is his reliability, as he featured in 37 Championship games last season. Despite being more of a ball-winning midfielder, he still managed to chip in with a goal and two assists.

This led to his solid SofaScore rating of 6.83, which given the context of his long season and Swansea’s sub-par 15th placed finish, is not bad at all.

Both fans and manager alike have been quick to praise his intelligence and hard work, with Russell Martin claiming: “Flynn was incredible, it’s difficult to single people out, but he does the dirty work perfectly well”, after a man of the match display early in the season.

This dirty work and his overall play is best exemplified in his defensive actions, where he averages 1.3 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 1.1 clearances per game.

Downes is everywhere on the pitch, and in his quest to cover every blade of grass he loves to get stuck into opposition attackers.

With him, Vieira can further bolster his options as the new Premier League season draws near.

After what was a surprisingly impressive season last year, the French boss will want to continue moving forward, and signing young hungry Championship talent is a move proven to work for this club.

He will love it if they can tie down the midfielder and have a repeat of their previous successes.

AND, in other news: Vieira can unearth his next Gallagher as Palace plot bid for “sensational” £20m talent.