Leeds United have now “fully approved” the signing of an “explosive” attacking player this summer, according to a key update from journalist Sacha Tavolieri.
Leeds submit enquiry to ramp up attacking signings
The Whites are still working hard on potential incoming transfer business, with the opening weekend of the new Premier League season edging closer all the time.
Feyenoord forward Igor Paixao has emerged as a priority target in the past month or so, with Leeds said to have submitted an enquiry regarding the signing of the 25-year-old. Talks have now also taken place over a summer switch to Elland Road for the £34m-rated ace.
Elsewhere, Royal Antwerp goalkeeper Senne Lammens has been linked with a move to the Whites this summer, being seen as an alternative option to Lucas Perri, as they look to bring in an upgrade on the mistake-prone Illan Meslier.
Former Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff has already completed his move to Leeds, and Hoffenheim’s Anton Stach has been backed to join him in the middle of the park, too.
Leeds have "fully approved" Paixao signing
Now, according to Tavolieri on X, Leeds are closer to completing the signing of Paixao than ever, with his switch to Elland Road now “fully approved” by 49ers Enterprises.
At this point, it would be a big surprise if Paixao wasn’t a Whites player come the beginning of the 2025/26 season, with significant progress made with this latest update.
The Brazilian has the ability to be such an influential signing for Leeds, bringing quality and threat in the final third, having bagged 26 goal contributions (16 goals and 10 assists) in 34 Eredivisie appearances last season.
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While at his best on the left wing, Paixao is also a strong option on the right flank and in a central attacking role, making him a versatile option, and scout Jacek Kulig has hailed him as an “explosive” talent, likening him to a younger Raheem Sterling.
Paixao is at the perfect point in his career to hit the ground running at Leeds, possessing plenty of experience but also being young enough to improve further.
If he can take his Eredivisie form with him to the Premier League, it would go a long way to helping the Whites avoid relegation back to the Championship.
Manchester City had a catastrophic 2024/25 campaign. Pep Guardiola’s side went trophyless, finishing third in the Premier League and losing the FA Cup final against Crystal Palace. It was far from the dominance they have shown under the legendary Spanish manager over the past few years.
Naturally, it has been a busy summer transfer window already for the East Mancunian outfit. The Citizens have dipped into the market four times to strengthen in all areas of the pitch and improve their fortunes ahead of next term.
Manchester City manager PepGuardiolabefore the match
Indeed, Goal noted the prices for three of their four signings so far, with Marcus Bettinelli joining from Chelsea for an undisclosed fee. Rayan Cherki cost £34m from Lyon, Tijani Reijnders was £46m from AC Milan, and Rayan Ait-Nouri joined from Wolverhampton Wanderers for £31m.
Those four are options for Guardiola’s side going into the first three games of the Premier League season. They start off with a trip to Ait-Nouri’s old hunting ground at Molineux, before hosting Tottenham Hotspur and travelling down to Brighton and Hove Albion for the final game of August.
But, what might the rest of City’s side look like ahead of their first game of the season against Wolves and beyond? Well, here’s a look at what their dream squad could look like in 2025/26 if everything goes according to plan.
The goalkeepers Ederson stays as City's number 1
City made one signing in the goalkeeper department already, with Bettinelli joining from West London giants Chelsea. He joins Ederson and Stefan Ortega as shot-stopping options for Guardiola next season.
Brazil international Ederson was the first choice last season, and conceded 26 goals in as many Premier League games, keeping ten clean sheets along the way. He did struggle with injuries at times and was sidelined for eight games in total.
One of the real upsides to Ederson is his ability with the ball at his feet. This is perhaps best showcased by the fact that he assisted four goals, including this sublime ball to Erling Haaland against Chelsea, which was well finished by the striker.
As for Ortega, the 32-year-old played 13 Premier League games, but conceded 18 goals in that time. In the Champions League, he kept a clean sheet in both appearances last term. He is certainly an excellent number two for Guardiola to have at his disposal.
Full list of goalkeepers – Ederson, Stefan Ortega, Marcus Bettinelli.
The defenders New full-back options for Pep on both sides
If there is one area of the pitch that City are certainly not short of options, it is in defence. They have incredible versatility, with Josko Gvardiol being the best example. He predominantly played as a left-back last season and chipped in with six goals across all competitions, as per Transfermarkt. In reality, he is more naturally a centre-back.
He is one of three main options at left-back for City, with Ait-Nouri also offering an excellent attacking outlet. He contributed four goals and seven assists for the Old Gold last season. Nico O’Reilly is a less experienced option, but he excelled last season, too. Naturally a number 10, he managed five goals and two assists in all competitions.
On the right flank, City have recently been linked with Denzel Dumfries by one Spanish outlet. He is said to have a £21.5m release clause, with City currently deciding whether ‘to take a chance’ on the Dutchman. His contributions in the Champions League semi-final last season, across both legs, were memorable.
With Kyle Walker now officially a Burnley player, Matheus Nunes and Rico Lewis are the only other right-backs at the club. Both like to invert into midfield, which is no surprise for Nunes, given he is, by trade, a midfielder.
At centre-back, City have not made any new inclusions since the January window, where they signed Abdukodir Khusanov and Vitor Reis.
Ruben Dias played 44 times last season and Manuel Akajani 40, suggesting they are the first-choice options for Guardiola. However, he still has the experience of John Stones and Nathan Ake to call upon.
Full list of right-backs – Denzel Dumfries, Matheus Nunes, Rico Lewis
Full list of centre-backs – RCB (Manuel Akanji, Abdukodir Khusanov, Vitor Reis, Jahmai Simpson-Pusey); LCB (Ruben Dias, John Stones, Nathan Ake)
Full list of left-backs – Josko Gvardiol, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Nico O’Reilly
The midfield Rodri's return and KDB's replacement
The huge news in the centre of the park for City recently is that Rodri is back from his long-term injury. The current Ballon d’Or holder misses several months of the season, making just eight appearances. His involvement, or lack thereof, was noticeable in City’s torrid campaign.
City’s new addition in midfield this summer is Reijnders, who featured three times in the Club World Cup, with Nico Gonzalez, a January addition, also an option for the East Mancunians. He was dubbed a “mini Rodri” earlier in the season by his manager.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
There is plenty of experience in the middle of midfield, too. Treble-winning captain Ilkay Gundogan is remaining at the club this summer. He played 54 times in 2024/25, two more than new club captain Bernardo Silva.
City also have Mateo Kovacic to call upon, who played a huge role last season in Rodri’s absence. Kalvin Phillips is still at the club, but after spending the last one and a half seasons out on loan, it doesn’t seem likely he will stay.
In the number 10 spot, this is where things get interesting for City. Kevin De Bruyne has now, of course, departed the club, joining Napoli, meaning someone has to step up in his absence, not at all an easy thing to do.
Perhaps that will be Phil Foden. The England international was not at his best this season, contributing to 13 goals and seven assists in 49 appearances. However, there is no doubt about his quality. This is a former PFA Player of the Year we are talking about. He could be the guy City are looking for to step up in De Bruyne’s absence this season.
Alternatively, City had been linked with Morgan Gibbs-White. Football Insider claimed the player ‘has agreed personal terms’ ahead of a possible move but he’s now on his way to Spurs instead
The 25-year-old was sensational for Forest last season, scoring seven times and grabbing ten assists in just 34 league games. That included a superb headed effort against Leicester City.
With Gibbs-White seemingly off the table, Foden is not the only option Guardiola has in the number 10 role. Youngsters Oscar Bobb and Claudio Echeverri, who made his debut in the FA Cup final, are also attacking midfielders he could call upon. The future of James McAtee, who scored seven times last season, is up in the air.
Full list of central midfielders – Rodri, Tijani Reijnders, Nico Gonzalez, Bernardo Silva, Ilkay Gundogan, Mateo Kovacic.
Full list of attacking midfielders – Phil Foden, Oscar Bobb, Claudio Echeverri, James McAtee
The attackers Versatility and a new look front 3
One of the best things about this City team is the versatility they possess, and that is personified throughout the attack. Number nine, Erling Haaland, is the player who can only play in one role. Of course, when you have someone of his quality up front, that is no problem. He scored 34 goals in 48 games last season.
Omar Marmoush, however, is an incredibly versatile player. Another January signing, the Egyptian attacker can play on either flank, as a centre-forward or a second striker. He played 25 games for the Citizens in 2024/25, scoring eight times and assisting three.
On the right-hand side, City fans can surely get excited about watching Rayan Cherki. The 21-year-old Frenchman is an electric attacker who can play as a number 10 or on the right wing. Last season for City and Lyon, he contributed to 13 goals and 21 assists in 48 games.
Just look at his underlying numbers on FBref from the last 365 days. He averaged 8.88 progressive passes and 6.8 shot-creating actions per game. Both of those numbers place him in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers.
Goals and assists
0.95
97th
Progressive passes
8.88
99th
Key passes
3.69
99th
Shot-creating actions
6.8
99th
Take-ons completed
2.5
90th
Brazilian Savinho is another option on the right-hand side for Guardiola. He managed to score three goals and registered an impressive 13 assists in all competitions, and can also play on the left-hand side if need be.
Speaking of the opposite flank, Real Madrid star Rodrygo, described as a “future icon” by football talent scout Jacek Kulig, could be on his way to the Etihad Stadium. TBR Football recently confirmed that the Brazilian’s representatives ‘have now been in discussions’ with City over a move.
It would not come cheap, with one Spanish outlet suggesting Los Blancos would want upwards of £77m for their winger. In 2024/25, he scored 14 goals and assisted 11, including six Champions League goals, bringing his tally for the competition up to 25.
Jeremy Doku is another option for City on the left. A brilliant one-vs-one winger, he contributed to 17 goals last season and adds a unique element to Guardiola’s attack. Jack Grealish would also be someone who can slot in on the left-hand side, but he fell out of favour at City and seems set to leave the club.
Full list of strikers – Erling Haaland, Omar Marmoush.
Full list of wingers – Rayan Cherki, Savinho, Rodrygo, Jeremy Doku.
Bigger talent than Reijnders: Pep driving Man City move for £43m sensation
Following the arrival of Tijjani Reijnders, Man City still want to bolster their midfield options, reportedly interested in making a £43m signing.
After announcing the arrival of Simon Adingra to add yet another impressive talent to their ranks, Sunderland have reportedly turned their attention towards an experienced goalkeeper this summer.
Adingra: Sunderland project is "really exciting"
Ask even the most optimistic Sunderland fan whether they expected the Black Cats to spend big this summer and the answer is almost certain to be a resounding no. Those at the Stadium of Light have entered the Premier League ready to lay down a statement, however, and become the first in six promoted sides to avoid the drop at the first time of asking. And the arrival of Adingra should play a large part in that.
The former Brighton & Hove Albion winger told Sunderland’s official website after sealing a move worth an initial £20.5m with add-ons: “It’s a pleasure to be here, and I cannot wait to get started. The Club and the project are really exciting.
“I spoke with everyone and their interest in me made the decision easy – I wanted to be part of Sunderland’s future. Playing in the Premier League has been a dream of mine since I was a kid, so to continue doing that is incredible. It’s a big challenge ahead – we’ll be facing top players and strong opponents – but I’m ready for it.”
After losing his starting place under Fabian Hurzler at Brighton last season, some may be quick to forget just how talented Adingra is, but he’ll be keen to send some timely reminders next season.
Sunderland set to sign another new star, £18m fee agreed and medical booked
The Black Cats have wasted no time.
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As impressive as the winger’s arrival is, though, the Black Cats are still not done in the summer transfer window. Reports are now suggesting that they’ve turned their attention towards a fresh shot-stopper.
Sunderland join race to sign £20m Ramsdale
According to GiveMeSport, Sunderland have now joined the race to sign Aaron Ramsdale, who has asked to leave relegated Southampton this summer. The goalkeeper reportedly has a release clause worth just £20m following the Saints’ relegation, handing those in Wearside the opportunity to swoop in should they please.
Southampton's AaronRamsdalelooks dejected after the match
Signing an upgrade on current No.1 Anthony Patterson has been on Sunderland’s wishlist all summer. Reports even went as far as to suggest that the Black Cats were closing in on an agreement to sign Djordje Petrovic earlier this month. But with that deal yet to get over the line, the door has swung open for Ramsdale to hand Regis Le Bris a fresh alternative.
Starts
30
31
Clean Sheets
3
10
Saves P90
4
3.55
Save Percentage
67.6%
78.9%
It’s a difficult choice for Sunderland. Whilst Petrovic enjoyed an excellent campaign on loan at Strasbourg, who finished as high as eighth in Ligue 1, Ramsdale was often doing his best to help Southampton avoid major humiliation. And the numbers reflect that in many ways.
Rightly praised as “excellent” by Joe Hart at St Mary’s last season, Ramsdale could finally end his trend of frustrating relegations by swapping Southampton for Sunderland this summer.
Liverpool have been focusing their efforts to improve their forward line on three central targets in recent weeks, but Fabrizio Romano has revealed the one they are “working” on a deal for.
Florian Plettenberg revealed this week Alexander Isak, Victor Osimhen and Hugo Ekitike are “three concrete options” for Liverpool this summer after sporting director Richard Hughes completed checks on all of the forwards.
Isak is seemingly the dream target for both Liverpool and probable title rivals Arsenal, although Newcastle United are set to demand £150m for his signature in a bid to ward off suitors this summer.
Ekitike meanwhile has been quite publcily priced at £85m, while Osimhen could leave Napoli for around £64m after an impressive loan spell at Galatasaray.
Galatasaray's VictorOsimhencelebrates after the match
Darwin Nunez is expected to depart Anfield this summer, with interest from Italian sides and the Saudi Pro League, although talks over a move to Napoli have reportedly slowed in recent days due to Liverpool’s demands.
Arne Slot made no secret of his desire for Nunez to step his game up last season, revealing he was unhappy with his work rate after a miss in the 2-2 draw against Aston Villa: “A miss that I can accept. What is harder to accept, his behaviour after the chance. That miss is got too much in his head where he is the usual Darwin that works his a** off.”
Fabrizio Romano: Liverpool "could" offer swap deal to sign £40m+ England star
The Reds are still seeking reinforcements.
ByTom Cunningham Jun 30, 2025
The Dutchman, together with Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes, are seemingly determined to land a new number nine before the new campaign gets underway, and Romano has revealed the one they are currently going for.
Liverpool "working" on deal for Ekitike
Speaking on his YouTube channel on Monday evening, Romano revealed Liverpool are discussing a deal for Eintracht Frankfurt sensation Ekitike, though it does depend on what happens with Nunez.
Ekitike has scored 26 times in 64 appearances during his two years in Frankfurt, but really stepped up to an elite level in 2024/25, registering 22 goals and 12 assists in all competitions.
The young Frenchman could be lethal in Liverpool’s new look front line, as explained by scout/writer Counter Pressers on X: “Hugo Ekitike with Florian Wirtz behind him would be unstoppable. After years of watching Darwin Nunez, we deserve to watch someone of Ekitike’s technical level.”
Indeed, the 23 year-old seems to have more nuance to his game than Liverpool’s struggling star, averaging more passes at a higher completion rate and more dribbles than the former Benfica man, all while scoring more goals too.
0.48
Non-penalty goals per 90
0.34
0.29
Assists per 90
0.17
22.90
Passes per 90
18.41
75.3%
Pass completion
69.1%
1.9
Succesful take-ons per 90
0.68
The former PSG starlet could transform Liverpool’s status as champions into total domestic dominance if his relationship with Wirtz hits the ground running.
Pep Guardiola is pushing Manchester City to offer one of his current players in exchange for a Real Madrid star, according to a recent report.
Cherki looking to create his own Man City legacy
The Blues have been very busy in the early part of this transfer window, bringing in four new players. They have added Marcus Bettinelli to their squad as another goalkeeper option, along with Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolves, Tijjani Reijnders from AC Milan and Rayan Cherki from Lyon.
Olympique Lyonnais' RayanCherkiapplauds fans
City have seen Kevin de Bruyne leave the club and join Napoli this summer, and therefore, signing someone with Cherki’s creativity was crucial. However, the French attacking midfielder has stressed he is “not De Bruyne”, and he is keen to “write my own story” at the Etihad.
“I’m not Kevin De Bruyne; he is the legend. I’m here to help the team and to write my own story. I hope to win all the time with the team.
“When you see Rodri, he won the Ballon d’Or here – it’s clear that with Manchester City it’s possible, and I am here for this.
Man City now "close" to completing signing of "crazy" 15 y/o attacking gem
He is a player with a massive future.
ByHenry Jackson Jun 13, 2025
“When I spoke with Pep, he wanted me – he was very, very clear. Pep told me, ‘when you have the ball, you are free’, which is very good for me because it’s my first quality to help the team.
“The system, the club, the city is very good. I want to win, and I think Manchester City wants to win it all.”
Pep wants Rodrygo to join Man City overhaul
Cherki may not be the last of the new attackers arriving at the Etihad in this transfer window, as according to a report from Spain, Pep wants Man City to offer Jack Grealish to Real Madrid in exchange for Rodrygo.
Grealish has been left out of City’s Club World Cup squad, as his time at the club appears to be coming to an end. Guardiola is keen for the Englishman to get another big move and sees him as someone who can help bring Rodrygo’s price down, which currently stands at £84 million.
However, this report does state that Real Madrid are not interested in signing Grealish, and Xabi Alonso has already made it clear to the Brazilian forward that he is a key part of his plans going forward.
Rodrygo
Grealish
Apps
30
20
Starts
22
7
Goals
6
1
xG
4.0
1.1
Goals per 90
0.28
0.12
Assists
6
1
xAG
3.0
1.8
Assists per 90
0.23
0.12
Progressive carries
113
69
Grealish, who earns £300,000 a week at City, is already wanted by teams such as Newcastle United and Aston Villa, with the Magpies said to be the ones leading the race to secure his transfer.
Last season, Grealish played just 20 times in the Premier League, scoring one goal and registering one assist in the process. Meanwhile, Rodrygo, who has been dubbed a “magician” by Statman Dave, scored six goals as well as assisting a further six in 30 La Liga games.
It will be interesting to see how the summer transfer window unfolds for Celtic ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, as Brendan Rodgers enters his third season back at Parkhead.
The Northern Irish head coach has failed to land the treble, falling short with two out of three trophies in both of his two seasons, since returning to Glasgow in the summer of 2023.
He may want to push for most domestic success, as well as pushing on in the Champions League, and big signings could contribute to that, including the addition of Kieran Tierney.
The Scotland international is the only confirmed incoming of the window for the Hoops so far, as the left-back will officially sign for the club at the start of next month after his contract at Arsenal expires.
It has been six years since Tierney left the Scottish Premiership giants to sign for the Gunners in a reported £25m deal, and now he is returning for nothing.
Whilst the experienced defender is coming in as a high-profile signing for Celtic, the club have had success in plucking out lesser-known gems, including from the lower leagues in England, with Matt O’Riley a recent example of that.
How Celtic hit the jackpot with Matt O'Riley
The English-born central midfielder was playing for MK Dons in the 2021/22 campaign and had racked up seven goals and five assists in 26 appearances in League One heading into the January transfer window.
Despite the fact that he was playing in the third tier of football in England, Celtic were willing to gamble on his talent and reportedly spent £1.5m to sign him from MK Dons in January 2022.
The left-footed magician hit the ground running with four goals and three assists in 16 appearances in the Premiership during the second half of that season under Ange Postecoglou.
O’Riley followed that up with a return of three goals and 12 assists in 38 appearances in the division in the 2022/23 campaign, before really hitting his stride in Rodgers’ first year back in Glasgow.
Sofascore rating
7.91
1st
Goals
18
1st
Assists
13
1st
Big chances created
14
1st
Key passes per game
2.5
1st
As you can see in the table above, the Denmark international was incredibly influential for the Northern Irish head coach with his contributions at the top end of the pitch from a central midfield position in the Premiership.
O’Riley was the team’s biggest threat as both a scorer and a creator of goals in the league, with 31 combined goals and assists, which led to a move to Brighton & Hove Albion for a fee of more than £25m.
Overall, Celtic hit the jackpot with O’Riley, as evidenced by his performances and the huge profit they made on his services, because the club were willing to gamble on a talent from the lower leagues in England.
Celtic's interest in League One starlet
The Scottish giants could repeat that masterclass in the current summer transfer window amid their reported interest in a star who played in League One in the 2024/25 campaign.
GIVEMESPORT reported at the end of last month that Celtic are one of a staggering 26 clubs interested in a deal to sign Kwame Poku when his contract at Peterborough United expires at the end of June.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The outlet named the Hoops and Rangers as suitors for the Ghana international and noted that they would not have to pay as much in compensation as English clubs would due to UEFA’s cross-border compensation rules.
Championship side Birmingham, who won League One with a whopping 111 points, have already made an offer, via Zoom, to the player’s representatives, though, which means that Celtic could need to move quickly to snap him up.
Kwame Poku for Peteborough.
If the Premiership champions can win the race to land the left-footed star, though, then they could repeat the blinder that they played with Matt O’Riley.
Why Kwame Poku would be a Matt O'Riley repeat
As aforementioned, Celtic hit the jackpot with the Danish midfielder because they were willing to gamble on his form in League One in England translating well to the top tier in Scotland.
O’Riley, as Poku would be, also arrived as a young player with time ahead of him to grow and develop, which was illustrated by the way he grew into becoming a superstar at Parkhead in his final season under Rodgers.
At the age of 23, Poku still has plenty of time left to improve as a player and could be a long-term signing for the Hoops, with a view to them making a significant profit on him in the future.
In fact, Peterborough owner Darragh MacAnthony believes that he has the potential to be worth £30m: “He’s top drawer. He has everything, a great technique, pace and physicality. He will be a Premier League star in the future and that next move will probably cost £30m.”
Do his performances back up that hype from the Posh owner, though? Poku’s output in the final third in the last two League One seasons suggests that they do.
Appearances
37
27
Goals
11
12
Big chances missed
11
3
Big chances created
10
9
Key passes per game
1.5
1.2
Assists
7
8
As you can see in the table above, the Celtic transfer target has been an incredibly productive forward in the third tier as a right winger for Peterborough, delivering 23 assists and creating 19 ‘big chances’.
The Posh magician, who was hailed as “unplayable” by manager Darren Ferguson, has the potential to be an influential figure at the top end of the pitch for the Hoops because he has the ability to provide goals and assists at an impressive rate.
Celtic manager BrendanRodgersbefore the match
Whether he will go on to be worth £30m is up for debate but that is the potential that he has, as evidenced by MacAnthony’s comments and his statistics in League One, and that is why it would be a worthwhile gamble by the club.
Celtic have shown that they will take a risk on young players, like O’Riley, and that is why they should repeat that masterclass by pushing to win the race for this third tier starlet.
After Bain: Rodgers must ruthlessly axe Celtic flop who's a "bit soft"
Celtic must ruthlessly move on from this flop after they already let go of Scott Bain.
Set to return for his second spell behind the scenes at Tottenham Hotspur, Fabio Paratici has reportedly set his sights on signing a Premier League-winning defender this summer.
Tottenham eyeing back-to-back wins
After defeating Bodo/Glimt to take one step into the Europa League final in midweek, Tottenham now have the chance to secure back-to-back victories in all competitions for the first time since beating Manchester United and then Ipswich Town at the end of February. In a London derby no less, Ange Postecoglou has the opportunity to keep his side in the winning habit ahead of a vital second leg in the Europa League next week.
Tottenham in contact with "quick" target as Paratici plots first move back
Paratici has reportedly reached an agreement to return.
ByTom Cunningham May 3, 2025
The Australian spoke about Tottenham’s visit to the London Stadium in his pre-match press conference whilst confirming a number of injury doubts, telling reporters: “Dom is not too bad. He is still a bit sore from last night, but we don’t think it’s anything serious. Obviously, [Solanke is] a doubt for weekend. Madders, we’re a bit more concerned about.
Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou applauds fans after the match
“He was heading for a scan [on Friday]. We’re just wait to hear that outcome. Sonny is working hard. He’s out on the grass every day. We’ll see how he’s going by [next] Thursday.”
With next week’s Europa League trip in mind, it seems unlikely that any risks will be taken by Spurs even as a London derby awaits. Aside from bragging rights over their rivals, the North London club have nothing to play for as they head into their final four Premier League games in a season to forget domestically.
It’s become clearer every weeks that Spurs must welcome a number of reinforcements this summer if they are to turn thing around under Postecoglou and the return of Paratici should certainly help on that front. If reports are anything to go by too, the sporting director is wasting no time before setting his sights on key targets.
Tottenham chasing Eric Garcia deal
According to reports in Spain, Spurs now wants to sign Eric Garcia in what could be a cut-price deal given Barcelona’s financial struggles and also Paratici’s first capture back in the helm.
The former Manchester City defender has endured a mixed spell back in Spain, which included a loan spell at Girona, and could now be on his way back to the Premier League. Spurs aren’t the only side interested, however. They reportedly face competition from Girona, Real Sociedad, Real Betis and Como ahead of the summer transfer window – potentially leaving Garcia with a decision to make.
FC Barcelona'sEricGarciascores their fourth goal
Of course, the Spaniard already knows exactly what it takes to perform at the highest level in England’s top flight after he became a Premier League champion at Manchester City. And although the Tottenham challenge would throw up different obstacles, that experience would likely go a long way in North London.
It was during his time at The Etihad that Garcia earned impressive praise from manager Pep Guardiola, who told reporters: “Incredibly clear guy, and he’s able to lead the line. He’s so clever. Played incredible attention of that and played well. He’s going to play a lot of minutes,”
Will Leeds United be able to consolidate themselves as a Premier League-worthy outfit next season after finally breaking free of the Championship’s grip?
It will certainly be easier said than done, however, considering all three promoted teams that went up at Leeds’ expense at the end of the 2023/24 campaign are all tumbling straight back down to the EFL’s top league after a short-lived top-flight stay.
Moreover, Daniel Farke himself has a sketchy track record in the Premier League, having picked up just six career wins at the tricky level, leading to speculation surrounding his future at Elland Road that he could be let go of despite successfully guiding the Whites up to the big-time.
To help in their mission to stay afloat, one of Leeds’ tactics in the summer transfer window could be to poach some of the Championship’s cream of the crop.
Who Leeds could sign this summer
Before looking to bring in some of the EFL’s very best, it might be a case that the Whites look at strengthening courtesy of some Premier League players.
Inevitably, rumours linking Kalvin Phillips with a return have been lingering in the background over the last few months, while last week, West Ham midfielder Tomas Soucek has reportedly become a target for the club.
Tomas Soucek for West Ham
But, who else is on their radar?
Well, heading into the 2024/25 campaign, they were persistently linked with Sheffield United playmaker Gustavo Hamer.
Leeds would, of course, snap up Jayden Bogle from the Blades, but this other switch wouldn’t go ahead, with the ex-Coventry City attacker then going on to win the coveted prize of Championship’s Player of the Season at the EFL awards this weekend for his efforts under Chris Wilder’s wing.
Gaining such recognition could well reignite the promoted side’s interest, with Hamer now having to fight it out for a place in the Premier League next season via the playoffs.
It’s a move pundit Lee Hendrie thinks has legs too, telling Football League World: “Obviously (Leeds) were interested (in Hamer), and particularly if the Blades don’t go up, I think that is going to be the key factor, isn’t it? He’s a very good player, and he has had a lot of clubs that were sniffing around him, even before going to Sheffield United. He’s proven that he has got that x-factor, one of the better players in the Championship arguably, in that position, anyway.”
Why Hamer would be a major upgrade on Aaronson
Described as an “unbelievable” player by former teammate Oli McBurnie, signing Hamer could finally see Brenden Aaronson pushed to one side in Farke’s starting lineups.
Aaronson should be commended for slotting back into the Whites set-up this season after his time at Elland Road had become sour but that doesn’t mean an upgrade shouldn’t be sought once their Premier League return is here.
The 24-year-old was loaned out to Union Berlin for all of the 2023/24 season right after his side’s demise down to the EFL, only for the number 11 to notch up nine goals and two assists from 44 Championship appearances the following campaign back among the first-team fold.
Unfortunately for the rejuvenated USA international, he has endured a poor personal end to the season even as his side sit pretty in the league’s top two, with a mere two goal contributions falling his way in the Championship in 2025.
Whereas, Hamer – as seen via his sumptuous free-kick against Coventry back in March – has been a constant menace all campaign long for Wilder and Co, with four of his impressive 16 goal contributions in league action coming during United’s last six contests.
Championship games played
163
44
Premier League games played
36
36
Champ goals
26
9
Champ assists
31
2
PL goals
4
1
PL assists
7
3
Shades of a certain Pablo Hernandez – a goalscoring and creative midfielder, Hamer certainly blows Aaronson out of the water with his standout Premier League output.
While goals certainly haven’t been hard to come by for Leeds in 2024/25, he would be a welcome addition to Farke’s ranks if a move whirred back into motion, with Hamer more than comfortable as a number ten option to usurp his ex-Red Bull Salzburg counterpart.
Also equally as lively down the left where he’s predominantly starred this season at Bramall Lane, Hamer would potentially give Farke a whole host of options in attack ahead of the step-up in quality, with this signing one that would undoubtedly boost Leeds in their fight for instant survival.
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One title-winning manager is reportedly in love with the prospect of a potential move to Tottenham Hotspur, something which chairman Daniel Levy realises, as the under-pressure Ange Postecoglou faces a very uncertain future at the club.
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Regardless of Spurs’ campaign in the Europa League, it is reliably believed that Levy could still part company with Postecoglou at the end of the season (Matt Law).
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Tottenham are just one game away from equalling their highest number of defeats in a single Premier League season, and with a tough trip to Anfield on the horizon, Postecoglou is staring down the barrel of that unwanted record on his resume.
Liverpool could finally be crowned champions by defeating Spurs on Merseyside this weekend, so odds are that Arne Slot’s men will throw the kitchen sink at a vulnerable Lilywhites side who’ve also lost four out of their last five top flight matches.
Liverpool (away)
April 27th
West Ham (away)
May 3rd
Crystal Palace (home)
May 10th
Aston Villa (away)
May 18th
Brighton (home)
May 25th
Postecoglou’s saving grace after a dismal domestic campaign lies in Europe, where the Australian has a chance to make history by guiding Spurs to their first piece of major silverware since their League Cup triumph in 2008, under Juande Ramos.
However, with victory in the competition not even a guarantee that Postecoglou keeps his job for next season, attention is beginning to turn to who could replace the former Celtic boss in N17.
Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, Fulham’s Marco Silva, Crystal Palace’s Oliver Glasner and Brentford’s Thomas Frank have all been linked in the last few weeks, while Fabrizio Romano has reported Inter Milan boss Simone Inzaghi is liked by Tottenham.
The Mail also claimed earlier this week that Burnley boss Scott Parker has some fans inside Spurs as well, but perhaps the most exciting appointment would be a return for ex-fan favourite Mauricio Pochettino.
The Argentine enjoyed a successful spell at the Tottenham helm from 2014-2019, which included an unprecedented run to the Champions League final in 2019, and you can argue the north Londoners haven’t enjoyed consistency akin to Pochettino’s tenure since he departed.
Mauricio Pochettino would "love" to return to Tottenham
Now manager of the USA national team, as they prepare to co-host the 2026 World Cup, journalist Graeme Bailey has reported for The Boot Room that Pochettino hasn’t quite settled into his first international role.
MauricioPochettinocoach of U.S. during the match
Alternatively, if he were to leave the States, Pochettino would “love” to re-join Tottenham, and Levy is said to be “aware” of this. The 53-year-old would also be Levy’s first choice to replace Postecoglou, given their already-close relationship and communication.
After a string of lacklustre results with the USA, Pochettino is also said to be under pressure, and he is very much in Levy’s thought process as a potential replacement for Postecoglou.
The former Southampton, Chelsea and PSG boss won a Ligue 1 title with the latter, and he appears to currently be one of three trophy-winning managers under consideration by Spurs – the other two being Glasner and Inzaghi.
Crystal Palace have now made contact over a move for an “aggressive” defender, who could be available for just £5m, according to a report.
Palace eyeing defender amid Marc Guehi uncertainty
Marc Guehi’s contract is set to expire in the summer of 2026, which means the upcoming transfer window will be Palace’s last chance to cash-in on the defender, and a number of Premier League clubs are in the race for his signature.
Crystal Palace's MarcGuehicelebrates after the match
Chelsea are determined to win the race for Guehi, although the Blues may face competition from Tottenham Hotspur, who had a £70m bid knocked back in January, while Liverpool have also held talks over a potential deal.
As such, Oliver Glasner is likely to be tasked with bringing in a replacement this summer, and a number of targets have been identified, with IF Elfsborg’s Terry Yegbe recently becoming the latest player to be shortlisted.
Crystal Palace’s upcoming Premier League fixtures
Date
Manchester City (a)
April 12th
Newcastle United (a)
April 16th
AFC Bournemouth (h)
April 19th
Arsenal (a)
April 23rd
Nottingham Forest (h)
May 5th
The Eagles are leading the race for Yegbe, while they also hold an interest in Manchester United’s Victor Lindelof, who is set to be available on a free transfer at the end of the season.
As we approach the summer transfer window, Palace are not short on centre-back targets, and a report from Argentina (via The Hard Tackle) has revealed they have now made contact over a deal for Independiente De Avellaneda’s Kevin Lomonaco.
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Lomonaco could be a low-cost addition to Glasner’s squad, given that he is valued at just €6m (£5m), and the south Londoners are keen on securing his signature, although they may face competition.
London rivals West Ham United have also made an approach for the 23-year-old, with the race for his signature starting to heat up ahead of the summer transfer window.
"Aggressive" Lomonaco impressing in Argentina
There are some signs the centre-back could be an exciting acquisition for Palace, given that he has received high praise from an Argentine football expert.
The “aggressive” defender is an imposing figure at a colossal 6 foot 4, which he clearly uses to his advantage in aerial situations, but it is also important that he seems to be good with his feet, which is important for any modern-day centre-back.
It would, of course, be a gamble to sign Lomonaco, given that he is unproven outside Argentina, but at just £5m, it could be a risk worth taking for Palace, who are in need of a replacement for Guehi.