Bournemouth have announced Dean Huijsen will join Real Madrid at the end of the season after the Spanish giants activated the sought-after centre-back’s £50m release clause. Liverpool, as well as other Premier League behemoths, have been beaten.

That’s the end of that one, then. Los Blancos really are the scourge of Liverpool’s side. At another point of the backline, Trent Alexander-Arnold has confirmed that he will leave his boyhood club at the end of the season, with the Santiago Bernabeu the all-but-confirmed destination for the ball-playing superstar.

Arne Slot has done an incredible thing this year, dominantly winning the league title after Jurgen Klopp stepped down last summer, especially since Federico Chiesa has been the only first-team addition, and he hasn’t even started in the top flight.

Liverpool may face more bother from Madrid in several other transfer sagas, but more on that later. For now, let’s familiarise ourselves with the vice-captain’s slated replacement, Jeremie Frimpong.

The latest on Jeremie Frimpong to Liverpool

Just as Alexander-Arnold will join Xabi Alonso and Huijsen in a new Real Madrid project, so too will Bayer Leverkusen’s Frimpong make the move to Merseyside this summer.

As per Fabrizio Romano, sporting director Richard Hughes is simply putting the finishing touches on the transfer before an official announcement is made. Such issues pertain to the pay structure of the €35m (£30m) release clause.

For it to collapse now would be a shock. Some fans might reserve judgement on the fleet-footed right-sider, whose speed and attacking quality cannot be questioned but whose defensive security is more contested, but Frimpong, 24, is a shrewd and exciting signing for the club.

Under Alonso’s wing at Leverkusen, the Netherlands international has hit 59 direct contributions from 131 appearances, so it’s no surprise the wing-back has been called a “monster in the final third” by United Stand presenter Beth Tucker.

He’s exactly what Slot needs at right-back, a contrasting profile to Conor Bradley, who will add depth and dynamism to Liverpool’s ranks. Now, FSG are ready to turn to their next top target.

Liverpool turn to new top target

Liverpool want a striker and have also registered their interest in playmaker Florian Wirtz, but according to Caught Offside, FSG have made Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez their top target now that Frimpong is on the cusp of signing.

It adds that the Reds have already held talks with the Cherries over a possible move for the Hungary international, who has been transfer-listed for a price of £45m, with the south coast side making it clear he can leave.

Arsenal, Chelsea and, of course, Real Madrid, have all been named as suitors, but Liverpool have put in the groundwork and made it clear that the 21-year-old is their first-choice pick to strengthen the left flank of Slot’s backline.

What Milos Kerkez would bring to Liverpool

Liverpool might not be signing Huijsen, but they will hope that their persistent efforts over the past several months will hold sway in closing a deal for Kerkez.

Signing the powerful and mobile defender would mean that one of Robertson or Kostas Tsimikas would need to leave, more likely the latter, but maybe it’s the right time for change.

After all, Kerkez has been described as a “machine” of a player by Sky Sports’ Izzy Christensen, who continued to say the “frightening thing is he’s not even reached his peak yet.”

As per Sofascore, Kerkez has scored two goals and laid on five assists for his teammates in the Premier League this season, starting all 36 of the Cherries’ fixtures.

Moreover, he’s kept it crisp with an 80% pass success rate, winning 60% of his ground duels and averaging 2.6 tackles and interceptions per game.

With such an athletic and energetic style, willing to drive forward into dangerous positions and provide creative support to the forwards, Kerkez could be the perfect upgrade on the 31-year-old Robertson, joining Frimpong in an elite new wide duo that could prove the perfect way to continue the Scotland captain and Trent’s legacy.

In 2022, former West Ham United boss Slaven Bilic described the pair as “the best full-backs in modern football,” with their overlapping quality, their playmaking and completeness, supercharging Klopp’s high-octane system.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

It’s hard to imagine there will ever be another pair of full-backs quite like them, with Liverpool’s midfield long characterised by a selfless industriousness that promotes creative success from out wide.

1

Trent Alexander-Arnold

64

2

Andy Robertson

60

3

Leighton Baines

53

4

Graeme Le Saux

44

5

Kieran Trippier

38

With Frimpong’s pace and potency combining with the tireless work rate of Kerkez, there’s no telling how fluid and interchangeable Liverpool’s approach could become next year as they look to defend their Premier League title.

While it would be foolish to expect them to reach the same extraordinary creative heights as their predecessors, the rising stars are talented attacking talents unto themselves, and like Robertson and Alexander-Arnold, they bring different tactical takes to the table.

Kerkez, for example, could channel the spirit of Alexander-Arnold through his distribution, ranking among the top 12% of Premier League full-backs for successful crosses into the penalty area per 90 this term, as per FBref, whereas Frimpong’s desire to burst into the final third himself can be observed through

With Mohamed Salah holding off and playing him through a chink in an opponent’s armour, this could be a masterful combination for Slot to work on this summer.

Liverpool aren’t resting on their laurels this summer. Slot is determined to make sufficient reinforcements after clinching the Premier League title in his first season in charge.

And rightly so. Arsenal, Manchester City and the rest are all going to be desperate to recolour the ribbons next term, but with signings like Frimpong and Kerkez and forward-focused additions still yet to come, there’s plenty to be excited about for those of an Anfield persuasion.

He plays a lot like Wirtz: Liverpool plot huge move to sign £85m "magician"

Liverpool are ready to throw the kitchen sink at a marquee attacking signing this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair May 17, 2025

Manchester City have the opportunity to reach a third successive FA Cup final when they take on Nottingham Forest this afternoon at Wembley.

Pep Guardiola has won this competition twice, but will still be stinging from the defeat to Manchester United in the 2024 final.

Forest defeated City in the Premier League last month, but the Spaniard may have learned from this loss, and his side could reach another final.

They warmed up for the clash with a 2-1 victory over Aston Villa, but a few players weren’t quite at their best. İlkay Gündoğan was one, and he could return to the bench this afternoon.

Why Man City must drop İlkay Gündoğan

Guardiola operated with a 4-1-4-1 system against Villa, and Gundogan was one of the four midfielders tasked with providing opportunities for Kevin De Bruyne.

Despite playing for the full 90 minutes, the midfielder failed to register a single shot on goal, while he failed with his only dribble attempt.

Gundogan also lost possession seven times against the Midlands side and won just one of his three aerial duels.

For the semi-final clash against Forest, Guardiola must revert to a 4-2-3-1. Mateo Kovacic will reprise his role at the heart of the midfield, but for this game, winter signing Nico Gonzalez must be brought into the starting XI.

Why Nico Gonzalez must start for Man City

Gonzalez may have cost the club around £50m back in January, but he is already looking like a potential long-term heir to Rodri.

The midfielder has already featured 12 times for City in all competitions, even scoring against Real Madrid in the Champions League, although it wasn’t enough to see his club make it to the next round.

Across his eight Premier League matches for the club, the 23-year-old has averaged a 93% pass success rate, along with making 1.9 tackles, two clearances, and recovering 3.9 balls per game in the top flight.

Furthermore, the Spaniard wins 1.9 aerial duels per game – a success rate of 59% – while averaging 81.9 touches each match for City. These statistics show just how dependable he is at the heart of the pitch, because he rarely gives the ball away and is strong in his physical duels.

He was praised by football talent scout Jacek Kulig in July 2024, who said: “Nico González – 4 goals in FC Porto’s four friendly games this preseason. Simply superb in the second half of the 23/24. Technique, football IQ, and pure elegance.”

Nico Gonzalez’s stats in the PL for Man City
Metric	Per 90
Passes attempted	77.9
Pass completion percentage	92.9%
Aerial duels won	2.09
Passes into the final third	6.68
Touches	88.33
Via FBref

The move to Manchester hasn’t fazed him, and he now looks like an excellent signing. Settling in throughout the second half of the 2024/25 season appears to be a smart move by Guardiola, as Gonzalez will hit the ground running in August.

Moving back to a 4-2-3-1 system for the FA Cup semi-final could go a long way to seeing City reach yet another final. With Gonzalez and Kovacic at the base of the midfield, the attacking quartet will be given free rein to cause plenty of destruction.

Man City have struck gold on "exceptional" gem worth more than Kerkez

City have hit the jackpot on a current academy graduate who is starring under Guardiola.

By
Ross Kilvington

Apr 26, 2025

Manchester City made a statement in the winter transfer window in a bid to strengthen their squad, bringing in the likes of Nico Gonzalez and Omar Marmoush.

In a way, it worked. While the club were knocked out of the Champions League by Real Madrid in February, they have lost only three domestic games in 2025.

The FA Cup provides the only chance of silverware, and Pep Guardiola will be hoping that winning the competition for the third time can set his side up for a new era starting this summer.

There is still plenty of work to be done this summer. Could Guardiola be targeting a player from a fellow Premier League side?

Man City eye move for Milos Kerkez

Milos Kerkez has emerged as a transfer target for City and a host of other clubs ahead of the summer window.

The left-back has made 36 appearances for Bournemouth this season, recording nine goal contributions in the process. He has even started every single one of the club’s league matches, indicating how important he is to the team.

Assists

5

Accurate passes per game

27.8

Big chances created

6

Key passes per game

0.9

Tackles per game

1.5

Total duels won per game

4.2

Kerkez ranks in the top 11% for crosses into the opposition penalty area and in the top 15% for carries into the final third when compared to peers in the top flight this term.

These statistics have seen the Cherries place a price tag of around £45m on the defender.

City could certainly afford this fee in the summer. The club have also struck gold on an academy starlet who is worth a lot more than the Hungarian full-back – Rico Lewis.

How Man City have hit gold on Rico Lewis

Despite only turning 20 last November, Lewis has already racked up 90 senior appearances under Guardiola, impressing the Spaniard on the right side of the defence.

Indeed, the manager even hailed the Englishman as “exceptional” back in 2023, and he has gone from strength to strength ever since.

One of his key strengths is his passing ability, and when compared to peers across Europe’s top five leagues, the youngster ranks in the top 1% for pass completion percentage (92.1%) and in the top 6% for progressive passes (6.01) per 90.

This shows that he doesn’t just dictate games with his range of passing, but he is able to begin attacks and set the midfielders and forwards up for success with his attack-minded abilities.

As such, his market valuation has grown year-on-year. According to Football Transfers, the defender is now valued at €62.7m (£53.5m).

This value is nearly £10m more than Kerkez at the time of writing, and it may increase even further as the years progress if he can continue to shine on the pitch.

Of course, he plays on the opposite side of the pitch compared to the Bournemouth sensation, but considering City brought him through the academy, they have struck gold on the left-back.

If and when he departs City, they will make an absolute fortune on the Englishman. That much is certain.

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ByDominic Lund Apr 25, 2025

West Bromwich Albion are preparing for another promotion tilt next campaign and have now made contact over the signing of a talented attacker, per reports.

West Brom to rebuild after promotion hunt disappointment

In another Championship season with many twists and turns, the Baggies missed out on a playoff place by four points following a run of two victories in their final ten matches.

Tony Mowbray’s departure led to James Morrison being installed temporarily in the dugout alongside coaching staff Chris Brunt and Boaz Myhill, which is something former boss Tony Pulis would like to see on a permanent basis at the Hawthorns.

Despite the ex-Scotland international’s limited managerial experience, Pulis stated: “They know the ins and outs of the football club. They’ve worked with good people. They’ve had good managers they’ve worked with.

“They’re sensible lads. James has been with Scotland as well, so he’s had the experience of working at an international level. I’d give it to the lads.”

Externally, West Brom are reportedly considering Dave Challinor for the vacancy following his sterling work at Stockport County. Ryan Mason, Steve Cooper and Russell Martin are also in the running at this stage.

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ByKelan Sarson Apr 28, 2025

While the hunt for a successor to Mowbray takes precedence at West Brom, the Baggies’ hierarchy will already have one eye on securing reinforcements this summer to lay the foundation for another promotion push.

Pre-season will soon be around the corner and new recruits will need a suitable bedding-in period before the campaign kicks off in earnest. With that in mind, West Brom have made contact over bringing in a talented attacker to firm up their pool of options in the final third.

West Brom make contact to sign Jamie Donley

According to Birmingham World, West Brom have made contact with Tottenham Hotspur over Jamie Donley in a bid to land the Northern Ireland international on loan ahead of next season. The 20-year-old is viewed as someone who could compete for a starting place alongside Daryl Dike and Josh Maja following his return of eight goals and 11 assists during a successful spell at Leyton Orient.

Why do West Brom want to sign Jamie Donley?

Chances created

62

Shots on target

17

Completed dribbles

28

Successful crosses

28

Possession won in final third

29

Expected Goals total

4.05

Capable of playing anywhere across the front four, Donley has been labelled “outstanding” by Spurs Under-21 boss Wayne Burnett and is highly rated by his parent club despite the prospect of being farmed out on loan once again.

Famously, his halfway-line effort against Manchester City in the FA Cup earlier this year gained worldwide attention as the O’s battled valiantly in a 2-1 defeat to the eventual finalists. Moments like that have led Leyton Orient’s desire to extend his stay in East London, but he may fancy his chances at a higher level and West Brom could be the ideal environment to continue his development.

Regardless of how Tottenham Hotspur fare in the Europa League Final later this month, this summer has to be one of significant change at the club.

To ensure next season isn’t as much of a disaster as this one has been, Daniel Levy and Co need to dig deep and bring in some genuine quality to improve the first team.

However, signing a load of talented players won’t be enough on its own.

On top of adding to the first team and squad, the North Londoners need to get rid of several players, including one who is being eyed up by one of Europe’s biggest clubs.

The players Spurs should sell

Unfortunately, due to the nature of their campaign this season, there are several players Spurs should probably be looking to move on in the summer, such as Richarlison and Yves Bissouma.

Transfer Focus

Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.

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The former has never got even close to justifying the £60m fee he cost the club in 2022, and while there have been the odd moments he’s looked good this year, a return of five goals and two assists just isn’t good enough.

Likewise, Bissouma might occasionally put in a performance that reminds fans why the club signed him in the first place.

Still, there have been far too many games this season in which he’s looked entirely out of his depth, like away to Fulham, when he was hooked at half-time and given a 3/10 match rating by Alasdair Gold.

However, there is another player, one who is actually incredibly talented, who is being eyed by a major European force that the North Londoners should cash in on: Cristian Romero.

Yes, according to a recent report from the Sun, Real Madrid are now sniffing around the World Cup winner once again.

The report has revealed that incoming manager Xabi Alonso is a big fan of the Argentine, and with their defence considered to be their weakest area, the Spanish giants could make a move to sign the former Juventus ace.

The report does not mention a potential price, but according to stories from earlier this month, Spurs value their defender at £60m, a fee think they should accept for him.

Why Spurs should sell Romero

Okay, so the first thing to say is that we do not think Romero is a bad defender, far from it.

However, there are a few genuine reasons as to why it might be smart for Spurs to sell the World Cup winner this summer, with chief among them being his desire.

While there can be no doubt about his intense need to win when it comes to the big games – just look at his performance against Bodo/Glimt – there have been questions over his commitment to the club for some time now.

For example, only last week, a new report from GIVEMESPORT revealed that he is planning to push for a move to La Liga this summer regardless of what happens in the Europa League, and then last month, other reports claimed he had already held discussions with Diego Simeone over a potential move to Atlético Madrid.

Combine this desire to leave with the fact he’s got just two years left on his £165k-per-week deal, and it seems like cashing in on him now before he can drive the price down further seems smart.

Romero’s Spurs career

Appearances

123

Goals

7

Assists

3

Yellow Cards

33

Second Yellows

3

Red Cards

1

Points per Game

1.68

All Stats via Transfermarkt

Moreover, due to injury, the 27-year-old “monster,” as dubbed by journalist Charlie Eccleshare, hasn’t featured that much this season anyway, making just 25 appearances across all competitions and averaging just 1.56 points per game when he has played.

Finally, it looks as if the club would be able to replace him anyway, as they could either go back in for Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi or even hand a considerable amount of game time to the incredibly exciting Luka Vušković, who respected analyst Ben Mattinson described as a “crazy” talent and a “monster of a CB.”

Ultimately, it’s not an ideal situation – far from it – but to make sure they aren’t left burned next year and to give themselves ample time to replace him, Spurs should look to sell Romero this summer.

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Posts ByJack Salveson Holmes May 12, 2025

It’s no secret that Chelsea have been targeting a new striker over the last 12 months, with Enzo Maresca still unable to land the talisman to take the club to the next level.

Nicolas Jackson has been the Italian’s main option at the top end of the pitch, scoring 10 goals in his 30 Premier League appearances throughout 2024/25.

However, there have been doubts over his long-term suitability for the role, especially after receiving a straight red card in the clash against Newcastle United for a deliberate elbow on Sven Botman.

Whilst he scored in the Europa Conference League triumph last night, his terrible first touch when bearing down on goal highlighted the need for new attackers this summer.

With the summer window rapidly approaching, the manager and the hierarchy have wasted no time in lining up potential options to lead the line in their title push throughout 2025/26.

The latest on Chelsea’s hunt for a new striker this summer

Given Chelsea’s recent antics in the transfer market, it’s a surprise to no one that they are likely to be busy once again this summer to bolster Maresca’s ranks.

Viktor Gyokeres, Joao Pedro and Emanuel Emegha are just three names that have been mentioned as potential targets, but no deals have yet been completed for any of the aforementioned targets.

However, they may not need to pursue moves for any of the stars, with the Blues closing in on signing Ipswich Town talisman Liam Delap, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

He claimed on Wednesday that the Blues have taken the lead in the race for his signature, with Manchester United’s chances now decreasing after failing to secure any European football next season. Jacobs also confirmed that the Blues have held positive talks to sign the £30m star.

A move has progressed significantly on Thursday with everything now pointing towards the English talent joining. Fabrizio Romano reported on Thursday evening that he will sign his Chelsea contract in the next 24 hours.

How Delap could repeat Chelsea's Palmer success story

Cole Palmer may have endured somewhat of an uncharacteristic drought in front of goal over the last few months, but he’s still managed to play a vital role in the success endured by Chelsea.

The 23-year-old went 18 games without a goal across all competitions, before slotting home a penalty against league champions Liverpool at Stamford Bridge – securing a huge win in their hunt for a top five finish.

Whilst he’s still not managed to score since that triumph back on the 4th of May, he has provided key moments for some of his teammates, including two assists against Betis in the Conference League final on Wednesday.

His latest contributions have taken him to 69 combined goals and assists in his 91 appearances for the club, after joining the Blues in a £40m deal from Manchester City back in the summer of 2023.

However, Maresca could land his next version of the English star this summer, with a deal to take Delap to West London appearing to be entering its final stages.

The pair both plied their trade together within the Manchester City academy as youngsters, looking to do the same in forward areas once again at the Bridge for the Blues in 2025/26.

Should the 22-year-old reach the levels set by Palmer in West London over recent years, he would be a splendid signing by the board, with his £30m clause potentially being a bargain.

When comparing his stats to those of Palmer this season, Delap has managed to outperfrom him in numerous key areas, offering the manager the focal point he craves in the first-team.

He may have registered fewer combined goals and assists, but has managed a higher goal per shot on target rate, showcasing his clinical edge within the final third.

How Delap compares to Palmer in the PL (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Delap

Palmer

Games played

37

37

Goals & assists

14

23

Shot-on-target accuracy

44%

36%

Goals per shot on target

0.3

0.2

Take-on success

47%

45%

Aerials success rate

43%

22%

Fouls drawn

1.8

1.6

Stats via FBref

He’s also completed more take-ons and drawn more fouls, therefore offering Maresca a more all-round option in the final third – which could take the side to the next level as a result.

Delap has also won more aerial battles than the current Blues star, handing the side the needed focal point in which the manager has desired since his arrival.

With a deal appearing to be edging closer to being completed, the Englishman would be an excellent addition, having the ability to develop further in the years ahead at the Bridge.

£30m in today’s market would be a super price for a striker who’s already proven his talents in England’s top-flight, potentially being the missing piece in Maresca’s Chelsea puzzle and creating a deadly partnership with Palmer once more.

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Posts ByEthan Lamb May 29, 2025

Liverpool’s search for a new striker has reportedly taken a fresh twist, with a new option now emerging who could provide Michael Edwards and FSG an alternative to Hugo Ekitike.

Liverpool linked with Hugo Ekitike move

It’s no secret that Liverpool are ready to spend big this summer, with Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz already all likely on their way Anfield, but none of those will solve Arne Slot’s striker problem. Instead, to do exactly that, Edwards has reportedly set his sights on signing Eintracht Frankfurt’s Ekitike in a deal that Chelsea are also in pursuit of.

The Frenchman enjoyed an excellent season in Germany and will now reportedly cost any potential suitors as much as £84m. Whether Liverpool are ready to match that price tag is undoubtedly the big question. The Premier League champions are already preparing to spend a club-record fee to sign Wirtz whilst also splashing out on Kerkez and Frimpong. Add £84m onto that and Liverpool could find themselves spending more than ever this summer.

Minutes

2,563

1,133

Goals

15

8

Assists

8

2

Expected Goals

21.6

5.8

When looking at the numbers, it becomes clear as to why Frankfurt are demanding such a high price to sell Ekitike. That’s not to say there aren’t some concerns, though.

As impressive as the former Paris Saint-Germain was throughout the season, scoring 15 goals and creating another eight, he significantly underperformed when it comes to expected goals and Liverpool simply cannot afford to splash out on another wasteful finisher after Nunez.

Liverpool now also open talks to sign "fantastic" £50m winger after Wirtz

Liverpool are closing in on Wirtz.

ByTom Cunningham May 30, 2025

For £84m, the Reds must be investing in a clinical striker. With that said, instead of Ekitike, Liverpool could yet target a cheaper alternative this summer who has already got an Anfield goal to his name.

Liverpool considering Goncalo Ramos swoop

According to Sam McGuire for Anfield Watch, FSG and Liverpool are now considering a move to sign Goncalo Ramos from PSG this summer. The Portugal international has often been used from the bench by Luis Enrique in France and may now seek a starting place elsewhere.

Given that he’s likely to be valued at around €65m (£55m) as PSG aim to recoup what they initially paid, Ramos would also be a cheaper option than Ekitike.

Minutes

2,563

1,066

Goals

15

10

Assists

8

3

Expected Goals

21.6

13.6

Whilst Ramos has underperformed on expected goals, he has been better in that regard than Ekitike, who has underperformed by over six goals. It’s also worth noting that, despite playing the equivalent of almost 12 games in Ligue 1, the PSG forward scored 10 goals throughout the campaign.

Dubbed “prolific” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, Liverpool have seen Ramos’ goalscoring prowess for themselves in the past when he netted a penalty in the Anfield leg of PSG’s Champions League win against the Reds in March, whereas he also scored at Anfield for Benfica in 2022.

Chelsea are described as the main contenders to sign a highly-rated Premier League player right now, who apparently likes the “very strong” offer presented to him by Enzo Maresca’s side during talks with his representatives.

Chelsea's transfer plans this summer amid Champions League race

The Blues are currently focused on finishing this season in strong fashion, with the prospect of Champions League football firmly on the table after last weekend’s vital 3-1 win over champions Liverpool.

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ByEmilio Galantini May 8, 2025

A spot in season’s draw will also play a key role in determining BlueCo’s transfer plans ahead of next season, and it is widely expected that they’ll be very active once again when the window reopens for business.

Chelsea are reportedly getting busy already, with a unique window open from June 1 to June 10, prior to their Club World Cup campaign.

Newcastle (away)

May 11th

Man United (home)

May 16th

Nottingham Forest (away)

May 25th

Maresca’s side could make full use of this opportunity to seal squad upgrades before the CWC begins, with Chelsea apparently prioritising the signing of a centre-back, winger and striker.

Defensively, uncertainty surrounds the long-term futures of Trevoh Chalobah, Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile, while some reports even suggest that Chelsea are becoming more open to selling Wesley Fofana given his injury problems.

Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, Ajax sensation Jorrel Hato, Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, Burnley ace Maxine Esteve and even former Chelsea star Antonio Rüdiger have all been mentioned as potential reinforcements for Maresca’s backline recently, but Bournemouth starlet Dean Huijsen is said to be a priority target.

Chelsea present "strong offer" to Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen

That is according to reliable Stamford Bridge reporter Simon Phillips, who reported earlier this week that Huijsen’s agent is pushing for him to join Chelsea.

The “sensational” defender, who commands a £50 million release clause, is also attracting interest from Arsenal and Liverpool after an excellent debut campaign in the Premier League.

However, Phillips has now shared another update on the 20-year-old’s future, with Chelsea presenting Huijsen a “strong offer” to join them. As things stand, the Blues are pushing much more than their rivals for his signature, and it is believed the Spain international has reacted “positively” to their proposal.

“Chelsea are the first and only suitor to officially lay down the project and package to Huijsen and his reps,” wrote Phillips.

“To date, no other suitor has gone as far as doing this. Chelsea are absolutely pushing the most right now and are feeling confident of getting their priority centre back target for the summer.

“Huijsen and his reps have reacted positively to the proposals and project, even his father who has been keen for him to join Liverpool over the other interested parties.

“The Spanish international defender will make his final decision when the season is over, but Chelsea feel they have a very strong offer and project on the table and the overall package as well as the promise of regular first-team football, can sway the decision in their favour.”

The former Juventus starlet is set to be one of the most in-demand defenders of the summer, but Chelsea appear to be making serious headway, as they look to win the highly competitive race for his signature.

Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi-Mikel says a Viktor Gyokeres alternative targeted by Arsenal is “unplayable”, and he really doesn’t want the Gunners to strike a deal for him this summer.

Andrea Berta targeting Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres for Arsenal

A few reports from the last few days have shared information that Arsenal are advancing in talks for Gyokeres, following the Swede’s exceptional haul of 53 goals across all competitions for Sporting this campaign.

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ByEmilio Galantini May 21, 2025

Portuguese newspaper O Jogo even sensationally stated in their Monday headline that Gyokeres is “on his way to Arsenal” after the two clubs agreed a £59 million fee for the player, but this is yet to be backed up by other reliable sources.

What’s crystal clear, though, is the 26-year-old’s status near the top of Berta’s transfer shortlist when it comes to signing a striker before summer deadline day on September 1.

Boavista 0-5 Sporting CP

10.00

Sporting CP 5-1 Estrela de Amadora

10.00

Sporting CP 3-1 Moreirense

9.91

Sporting CP 3-0 AVS Futebol SAD

9.68

Nacional 1-6 Sporting CP

9.52

via WhoScored

Berta is said to be a huge fan of Gyokeres, and the Italian is reportedly pushing hard to win the competitive race for his signature.

That being said, while Gyokeres’ goal record is quite simply mouth-watering, there are other options for Arsenal, should they decide a deal cannot be done for the Sweden international.

One of them could be Napoli outcast Victor Osimhen. The 26-year-old has spent 2024/2025 out on loan at Galatasaray, impressing for the Turkish Süper Lig champions, and he’s likely to be on the move again when the summer window reopens soon.

His contract includes a £63 million release clause, and there have been some reports this year that Arsenal are prepared to pay the required amount to sign Osimhen if they wish to pursue the Nigerian.

John Obi-Mikel hopes Arsenal don't sign Victor Osimhen

Speaking on his Obi-One podcast, ex-Chelsea star Obi-Mikel, given his ties to Arsenal’s London rivals, is certainly hoping Berta doesn’t go in Osimhen’s direction.

A close friend of the striker, Obi-Mikel raved over Osimhen as a centre-forward who guarantees you both goals and trophies – branding him “unplayable”.

“Victor has been on fire, unplayable sometimes. Unplayable. Scoring goals, creating chances, everything he does this season has been absolutely fantastic,” said the pundit.

“So for me, like I’ve said, and I’ve always said: this is a player that wins you trophies. This is a player that puts you in the top 4. This is a player that is reliable. He will get you goals. I don’t want to see him at PSG, I don’t want to see him at Manchester United, I don’t want to see him at Arsenal. He’s tailor-made for us [Chelsea].”

While the release clause grants Arsenal an opportunity to swoop in, it is worth noting that Osimhen will reportedly command huge £250,000-per-week wages, which is an issue with most high-profile players right now, as Premier League sides look to trim down their salary bills and err on the side of PSR caution.

Liverpool will be under no illusions that retaining their newly won Premier League trophy will be a steep hill to climb next season, especially now that Trent Alexander-Arnold has confirmed he will leave when his contract expires in the summer.

However, Arne Slot and his squad will also be determined to break ahead of Manchester United as the most successful outfit in the history of England’s top division.

For sure, the Merseysiders are absorbing a blow in Alexander-Arnold’s departure, with his destination set to be Real Madrid, but Liverpool have overcome adversity countless times before and are gearing up for an exciting summer of spending.

Full-backs and central defenders are both needed at Anfield, but there’s no question that Slot needs a high-level centre-forward to take his project to the next level.

Darwin Nunez, sadly, isn’t cutting the mustard, paling in comparison to predecessors such as Luis Suarez and Bobby Firmino.

Darwin Nunez and the ones before

Nunez’s total transfer fee when leaving Benfica for Liverpool comes to a club-record £85m figure. This is more than Suarez (a £23m addition from Ajax), Firmino (who cost £21m in 2015) and Mohamed Salah (who joined from Roma for £34m) combined.

Sure: inflation, clauses, ifs and buts. The plain truth is that Nunez alighted on Merseyside to much fanfare and has failed to respond to the tactical demands of not one but two coaches, both illustrious Premier League champions.

After the towering achievements of central forwards such as Suarez and Firmino, Nunez always had big shoes to fill, but it’s probably fair to say he’s fallen miserably by the wayside in his efforts to succeed as Liverpool’s focal frontman.

Chance after chance after chance; miss, miss, miss. The Uruguay international has only scored 25 times in the Premier League across 92 appearances, across three years. As per Sofascore, he’s missed 53 big chances.

Darwin Nunez – Premier League Career at Liverpool
Season	Apps (starts)	Minutes	Goals	Assists
24/25	27 (8)	1,039′	5	3
23/24	36 (22)	2,045′	11	8
22/23	29 (19)	1,698′	9	3
Stats via Transfermarkt

Erling Haaland, who arrived in England in the same transfer window as Nunez, has scored 84 goals across 94 Premier League games, missing 82 big chances.

At his best, Nunez is as tenacious as a bloodhound. His unpredictability beguiles the Liverpool supporters, strikes fear into the veins of rival fans. If he doesn’t know what’s coming next, how can his opponents?

Sadly, his methods have produced infrequent results on Merseyside, and it’s a shame to say that Slot’s smoothed-out system has actually pushed Nunez back a few steps, whereas so many others have struck a chord with the Dutchman and reached new levels.

Is it any surprise he’s expected to be among the first out of the door this summer, as per Fabrizio Romano? In fact, sporting director Richard Hughes is already preparing a bid for a new phenom at number nine.

Liverpool preparing bid for new striker

Well, according to Caught Offside, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko has been identified as the man for the job. Though Arsenal are said to be ‘particularly keen’ on the Slovenia international, Liverpool are warming to the idea of signing Sesko as an alternative to Isak.

While Leipzig are holding out for more, suitors have made it clear that they are willing to pay €70m (about £60m) for the 21-year-old but no more.

In fact, the report claims that the suitors, also made up of Chelsea and Manchester United, are actually preparing bids as you read these words.

Why Benjamin Sesko would be perfect for Liverpool

Nunez hasn’t grown into the complete and devastating striker Jurgen Klopp thought he saw in Benfica’s raw, thrash-metal prospect. He certainly hasn’t reached the levels of his countryman, Suarez.

No one expected the 25-year-old to hit such staggering levels, but Slot is searching for a centre-forward who can provide some of the same gusto and guile in the final third, with Suarez one of the trickiest and most dynamic forwards in the business.

Given that Firmino was never really Liverpool’s principal goalscorer and instead a sort of connective conduit who elevated Salah and Sadio Mane, only scoring 111 goals across 362 fixtures (0.31 per game), Sesko could become Liverpool’s most prolific central goalscorer since Suarez, should he make the move to Merseyside this summer.

The Slovenia international is still so young but already boasts an impressive track record in Germany, scoring 39 goals and supplying eight assists for Leipzig across 85 matches, winning this year’s DFL-Supercup.

He’s powerful, pacy and ever-improving, ranking among the top 12% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for successful take-ons per 90, as per FBref, while exceeding his xG (expected goals) haul by 0.14 goals per game.

This basically means he is driving into the danger area with consistency and making excellent use of the opportunities that fall into his path.

Analyst Ben Mattinson has also commented on the rising star’s “ridiculous” ball-striking power, so deadly when accurately channelled.

On top of all this, Sesko has scored 16 times in the Bundesliga this season while only missing 14 big chances. Detractors will point out the several chances that have gone begging this term, but the proof is in the pudding here, and he’s not yet even half-baked.

Suarez is one of the deadliest marksmen of his generation, hailed by Steven Gerrard as “the best I’ve played with.”

Transfer Focus

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Sesko would need to shift quite the haul to reach the same lofty standard, but he’s definitely got the potential to become something special, outstripping Nunez and maybe even rivalling Suarez down the line too.

He'd be amazing with Sesko: Liverpool preparing bid for £51m "superstar"

Liverpool are hoping to make signings across a range of positions this summer.

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By
Angus Sinclair

May 6, 2025