All posts by h716a5.icu

It remains to be seen if Gurbaz, who hurt his knee against Bangladesh, is fit to play

Deivarayan Muthu26-Jun-20242:11

Fleming: How Klaasen plays spin could decide the game

Match detailsAfghanistan vs South Africa
Tarouba, 8.30pm local time
Big picture: Afghanistan look to continue dream runAfghanistan played their first official fixture in 2004 as part of the Asian Cricket Council Trophy, which featured 15 teams. Twenty years later, they have done the unthinkable by making their first World Cup semi-final in the biggest World Cup featuring 20 teams.In just 20 years, they have achieved what many teams might take 50 years to do. Afghanistan have always had the raw talent. They’ve now married it with elite skills and continue to upgrade them, thanks to global T20 exposure.Their captain and lead spinner, Rashid Khan, is arguably the most sought-after T20 player in the world. Noor Ahmad, their second spinner, is a left-arm version of Rashid while Rahmanullah Gurbaz, their opener, can bruise oppositions in the powerplay. Fazalhaq Farooqi is on his way to becoming the next Trent Boult in T20 cricket while Naveen-ul-Haq has had Dwayne Bravo, Afghanistan’s bowling consultant and T20 legend, grooving and celebrating near the boundary with his variations. Eight of Afghanistan’s XI that toppled Bangladesh on Monday in Kingstown were part of IPL 2024.Related

Not just another piece of content, Afghanistan have been a headline-grabbing act

New beginnings promise new endings for un-South Africa

The Rashid phenom: everything, everywhere, all at once

Tarouba venue guide: High-scoring game on even covering of grass with cracks

Tactics board: Rashid, de Kock, Gurbaz-Ibrahim and Maharaj – the key factors

Then, there is Mohammad Nabi, who of course played in Afghanistan’s first official fixture back in 2004. In a year in which his son made his Under-19 World Cup debut for Afghanistan, Nabi, 39, will turn up for Afghanistan in their first World Cup semi-final. Nabi has defeated 45 teams in his career and will now look to add South Africa to that list.Mujeeb Ur Rahman was sidelined from the tournament after playing a solitary game, but Afghanistan, under Bravo’s tactical guidance, have still had enough depth to roll over oppositions. No attack has taken more wickets than Afghanistan’s 57 in this World Cup and their economy rate of 6.35 is second only to South Africa’s 6.10 among the Super-Eight teams.Afghanistan, however, don’t have as much depth in their batting, especially in the middle order. And while Gurbaz and Ibrahim Zadran have struck up four 50-plus partnerships while batting first, their stands while chasing are eight against PNG, zero against West Indies, and 13 against India.So, there’s a strong case for South Africa to make Afghanistan chase, try to separate their openers early, and put the middle order under pressure. Keshav Maharaj, their left-arm fingerspinner, will look to ace his match-up against a right-hander-heavy Afghanistan line-up on a Tarouba surface that may continue to offer variable bounce. Tabraiz Shamsi, the left-arm wristspinner, could also pose a threat with his variations and knowledge of Caribbean conditions, having spent a number of South African winters in the CPL.Though Reeza Hendricks is struggling for form at the top, South Africa have a dynamic middle order with all of Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs and Heinrich Klaasen capable of countering spin, and a vastly experienced David Miller around to finish the innings.South Africa have been on the precipice at several points during the World Cup, but they have somehow hauled themselves back to claim seven successive wins across challenging conditions. They need to win two more to secure their maiden World Cup title. No team has ever won a T20 World Cup unbeaten, so South Africa and India have the chance to rewrite history this time.ESPNcricinfo LtdForm guideAfghanistan WWLLW (last five T20Is, most recent first)
South Africa WWWWWIn the spotlight: Naveen-ul-Haq and Heinrich KlaasenAfghanistan’s spinners need no introduction, so let’s talk about Naveen-ul-Haq. The seamer might not have taken the new ball had Mujeeb been available. But in the absence of Afghanistan’s powerplay spinner, Naveen has stepped up brilliantly to ease the load on Farooqi. His delivery to dismiss Travis Head – slanting in towards leg stump, then swinging and seaming away late to crash into middle – is a genuine contender for the ball of the tournament. With a number of slower balls in his repertoire, Naveen has also been difficult to get away at the death on the Caribbean pitches.Heinrich Klaasen vs Rashid and Co could very well dictate the course of the game. His quasi-pulls and slog-sweeps can disrupt the rhythm of any spinner on any surface. Since the start of 2023, he has struck at 182.12 against spin in T20 cricket. His strike rate is the best among 41 batters who have played at least 40 innings against spin in T20 cricket during this period.Team news: Gurbaz’s fitness under cloudGurbaz had suffered a blow on his knee while keeping wicket in the first over of Afghanistan’s defence against Bangladesh on Monday and immediately left the field with Mohammad Ishaq stepping in as a substitute keeper. Afghanistan didn’t train in Tarouba on the eve of the semi-final, and it remains to be seen if Gurbaz is fit to play. If Gurbaz doesn’t recover in time, Afghanistan might bring in Hazratullah Zazai at the top and perhaps make another change to squeeze Ishaq in as a keeper and middle-order batter.Afghanistan (probable): 1 Ibrahim Zadran, 2 Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk)/Hazratullah Zazai, 3 Azmatullah Omarzai, 4 Gulbadin Naib, 5 Mohammad Nabi, 6 Karim Janat/Mohammad Ishaq (wk), 7 Rashid Khan (capt), 8 Nangeyalia Kharote, 9 Naveen-ul-Haq, 10 Noor Ahmad, Fazalhaq FarooqiKeshav Maharaj will be key for South Africa against a right-hander-heavy Afghanistan side•ICC via Getty ImagesSouth Africa might not run the risk of replacing Hendricks with rookie Ryan Rickelton in a semi-final. Considering the variable bounce and purchase for spinners at Tarouba, Shamsi will also likely keep his place ahead of death-bowling specialist Ottneil Baartman.South Africa (probable): 1 Quinton de Kock (wk), 2 Reeza Hendricks, 3 Aiden Markram (capt), 4 David Miller, 5 Heinrich Klaasen, 6 Tristan Stubbs, 7 Marco Jansen, 8 Keshav Maharaj, 9 Kagiso Rabada, 10 Anrich Nortje, 11 Tabraiz ShamsiPitch and conditions: More variable bounce?The conditions in Tarouba were characterised by variable bounce during the group stage. But Daren Ganga believes that the bounce will be truer on Wednesday after remedial work over the past two weeks. Dew has been often a major factor in the CPL games at this venue. While the overhead conditions will likely be cloudy in Tarouba, the chances of rain are low on Wednesday night.Stats and trivia: Afghanistan’s brittle middle order Afghanistan bowlers have dominated the powerplay in this T20 World Cup, taking 20 wickets at an economy rate of 7.19 during this phase. In comparison, South Africa have managed only ten wickets though their economy rate (5.85) is lower than Afghanistan’s. Afghanistan’s middle-order batters (Nos. 4-7) have the lowest strike rate (102.21) among the Super-Eight teams in this World Cup. Klaasen has scored 27 runs against Rashid off 21 balls while being dismissed once in T20 cricket. The sample size is slightly bigger for Miller vs Rashid, with the match-up in favour of the wristspinner: 50 runs off 42 balls with four dismissals. South Africa and India are the only two Full Members Afghanistan have not beaten in international cricket so far.Quotes”For us, it’s a new challenge and I think that makes us dangerous in the semi-finals as a side with nothing to lose and obviously a lot of pressure on the opposition.”
“Definitely, it’s always great to dream and I think everyone in South Africa dreams of the time when a trophy gets lifted.”

Liverpool love to get their business done nice and early in the transfer window, and that ethos has proved no different this summer.

Whereas last year, an August attempt to sign Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi, who is now set for Arsenal, fell through, this summer FSG are fully settled into their new infrastructure and are attacking the market with menace.

There will be something of a pause over the next days though, with the market slamming shut this evening until next Monday, prematurely opened due to exceptional circumstances because of the Club World Cup.

However, this won’t mean sporting director Richard Hughes will freeze his negotiating, having already signed Jeremie Frimpong to replace Trent Alexander-Arnold and pushing to close deals for Milos Kerkez and Florian Wirtz, both of whom are expected to play for Liverpool next season.

But with the likes of Darwin Nunez, Federico Chiesa and Luis Diaz’s futures uncertain, there’s only so much the Reds can do.

Indeed, with interest fierce for Colombian winger Diaz, Liverpool may need a new star to complement Mohamed Salah on the opposite flank.

Why Liverpool need new forwards

If Liverpool manage to pull off the signing of Wirtz, he would more likely than not take the number ten spot, which would push Dominik Szoboszlai into a deeper, eight-type role.

And if Diaz is sold, with Barcelona and Al-Nassr among the 28-year-old’s admirers, the urgency for a new left-sided forward would only be heightened.

Mohamed Salah, after all, can’t do it all on his own once again next season. The Egyptian King was the leading man through Arne Slot’s successful first season on Merseyside, winning the Premier League.

Mohamed Salah

38

29

18

47

Harry Kane

31

26

10

36

Kylian Mbappe

34

31

3

34

Omar Marmoush

33

22

12

34

Mateo Retegui

36

25

8

33

He might have signed a new two-year contract at the club, but Salah turns 33 in a few days and will need some more support.

That’s why, if Diaz goes, Liverpool are ready to sign one of the most exciting wide forwards playing in English football.

Liverpool chasing new winger

As per Football Insider, Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon is at the top of Liverpool’s shopping list this summer, with FSG warming to the idea of signing a new winger.

Though AC Milan’s Rafael Leao has also been added to the list, it’s Gordon who Liverpool hope to give priority in the event of Diaz’s departure, though Arsenal are believed to be interested too.

Valued at £80m, the England international clearly wouldn’t come cheap, but he was profiled by Liverpool’s chiefs last summer and is of a long-standing interest to the Premier League champions.

What Anthony Gordon would bring to Liverpool

When Gordon transferred from Everton to Newcastle for £45m in January 2023, he was a talented prospect, sure, but perhaps not one who justified such a heavy outlay.

Fast-track to the present, and the 24-year-old’s stock has ballooned almost twofold, having been crowned Newcastle’s 2023/24 Player of the Season after notching 28 goal involvements.

Declaring himself a “nightmare for anyone” he comes up against, Gordon didn’t reach the same heights last season even as his side went from strength to strength, winning the Carabao Cup and restoring their place in the Champions League, but he still contributed toward the team’s success.

Ferocious when striding forward, powerful with his shooting and clever with his passing, Gordon has the full package of qualities at his core, and could find himself reaching a new level in his development, if charged by Salah.

Long renowned as one of the deadliest goalscorers on the continent, Salah has tailored his game to a new level of playmaking over the past few years, with Father Time casting furtive glances his way.

As per FBref, the winger ranked among the top 1% of positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues last term for assists, the top 14% for goal-creating actions and the top 4% for carries into the penalty area, emphasising his peerless ability to drive into dangerous positions and make things happen.

With Gordon overlapping on the alternate flank, finding space of his own, Salah might just find the perfect man to arc his crisp, threaded cross-box passes toward.

Though Liverpool’s main man is getting on a bit, he’s hardly going to fall from a proverbial cliff at the start of the 2025/26 season, especially after reaching such astronomic heights in a new role, intensity reduced, under Slot’s wing.

However, he will need support, and Gordon – essentially a right-footed version of the Reds star – proved across the 2023/24 term that he can produce almighty hauls across both goalscoring and creative metrics to drive his team toward success.

With an athletic style, improvements across the past two years under Howe’s coaching, and indeed a desire to return to Merseyside having been released from Liverpool’s academy aged 11, boyhood Red Gordon would be a credit to Liverpool’s team.

For now, we will have to wait and see what happens with Diaz, but if Saudi suitors pay the big bucks for Liverpool’s experienced star, who better to bring into the fold, giving Salah a new partner to work with, than the Prem-proven Gordon?

Outscored Isak & Ekitike: Liverpool open talks to sign "monster" new Suarez

Liverpool are looking to sign a new striker this summer.

2 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 10, 2025

Selling well has never been Arsenal’s strong point. Their club-record departure currently stands at £35m, a move that saw Folarin Balogun head to Monaco.

In that instance, they did sell well. Balogun had only ever played ten times for the senior team, scoring two goals.

However, beyond that, there really isn’t much to write home about. Mika Biereth, a player who scored 27 goals this term was only sold for £4m, just rubberstamping the ideology that the Gunners don’t sell their assets for very much cash.

Given Arsenal’s need for a centre forward, there may well be a tinge of regret that he’s gone on to perform so well after leaving.

Yet, who will depart this summer? Well, Thomas Partey is one player whose future is still up in the air.

The latest on Thomas Partey's future at Arsenal

News broke on Sunday afternoon that Barcelona are reportedly in talks to sign Partey on a free transfer.

The midfielder’s contract expires in a month’s time and although Arsenal would allegedly like to extend, the Ghanaian has been free to discuss his options with other clubs since January.

It did look as though the former Atletico Madrid star would almost certainly be exiting the Emirates Stadium but Mikel Arteta has only had positives for him in recent months.

Indeed, the Spaniard said late last month: “In terms of consistency, this has been Thomas’s best season. His performances, his availability, it’s all been exceptional.”

Now, that doesn’t particularly sound like the words of someone who’s too keen on seeing Partey depart, does it?

Either way, with Martin Zubimendi allegedly on his way to Arsenal, it wouldn’t be too big a blow if Barcelona did prise him away from the Emirates Stadium.

Another Arsenal star wanted by Barcelona

It’s unlikely too many other senior players will leave the Emirates Stadium behind this summer but Arsenal’s transfer kitty isn’t unlimited and if they are to strengthen out wide and at centre forward, someone may have to leave.

Could that player be Gabriel Martinelli? Given his status as a bit of a fan favourite, it’s unlikely you’d see too many Arsenal fans vote in favour of the Brazilian leaving but that is a distinct possibility with one of Europe’s top clubs eyeing him up.

Transfer Focus

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

Indeed, according to Spanish outlet, SPORT, Barcelona are weighing up a move for the left winger if they cannot conclude a deal for Liverpool star Luis Diaz.

Diaz appears to be their number one priority in attack but Martinelli is another option, much to the frustration of those at Arsenal.

Described as a “talent of the century” once upon a time by ex-Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp, Martinelli’s form has faltered since that 15-goal campaign of 2022/23, but he demonstrated towards the back end of this season why he’s so loved in north London.

The Brazil international most notably scored inside the Bernabeu against Barca’s rivals, Real Madrid, while he also bagged against Ipswich and then in the 2-2 draw with Liverpool.

Still aged 23, there is so much potential left to extract in the forward and Arsenal fans will pray that isn’t at Barcelona.

It’s certainly a different situation to Partey. The Ghana international is beyond his best years, but Martinelli has them in front of them. It would be a huge blow to lose the latter but not so much the former.

2019/20

26

10

3

2020/21

23

2

2

2021/22

36

6

6

2022/23

46

15

7

2023/24

44

8

5

2024/25

51

10

6

Of course, the Gunners have been linked with the likes of Rafael Leao and Nico Williams but Martinelli already knows the Premier League like the back of his hand and you’d be hard pressed to find another winger who works quite as hard as he does.

His end product needs refining, for sure, but much like Saka, he’s always tracking back. He’s the definition of a team player.

Martinelli is simply ready to explode and you can just envisage him doing that in a Barcelona shirt. Just look at Raphinha’s impact after trading the Premier League for LaLiga.

His fellow Brazilian cemented himself as one of the best players in the world this season. Now five years older than Arsenal’s number 11, he scored a ridiculous 34 goals.

It’s unlikely Martinelli will get to that sort of level but it shows the stunning numbers a forward player can reach in that Barca frontline.

Selling him this summer, regardless of any future improvements to the team, is certainly not a good idea. If the Gunners are going to sell any of their wide players, it should probably be Leandro Trossard.

Arsenal beware, you cannot afford to lose such a key component of the team. Partey, on the other hand, feel free to take him, Barca.

He's a lot like Xhaka: Arsenal working hard to sign £43m "duel monster"

The incredible youngster could be a superstar with Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 13, 2025

Nottingham Forest “want to do a deal” for an “amazing” Liverpool player, with the Reds now “willing” to sanction a departure this summer, according to former scout Mick Brown.

Forest set for Europa Conference League campaign

After spending large parts of the season in the top five, Forest will no doubt be disappointed to have missed out on the Champions League, but the 2024-25 campaign still has to go down as a success for Nuno’s side.

The Tricky Trees have sealed a return to Europe for the first time since 1996, and West Ham United’s victory in the 2023 Europa Conference League final suggests Nuno’s men will also be able to be competitive in the competition next season.

However, a European campaign comes with a more congested fixture list, which means it will be important for Nuno to improve his squad depth in the summer transfer window, and there is a desire to bring in a new defender.

Nottingham Forest make contact to sign "gifted" star dubbed the 'new Modric'

He could replace Morgan Gibbs-White.

ByTom Cunningham May 23, 2025

Indeed, according to Brown, in an interview with Football Insider, Nottingham Forest are now interested in signing Liverpool centre-back Jarell Quansah this summer.

The former scout said: “Nottingham Forest are one of the sides interested in Quansah. Whether it’s a permanent move or a loan, they want to do a deal.

“From what I hear, Liverpool and the manager would be willing to let him go on loan, and a loan spell is exactly what he needs.

“At Forest, he’d have to step up and be counted, which would be good for his game. They want to strengthen their squad to prepare for competing in Europe, and he’s on their radar.“

Forest move could be ideal for "amazing" Quansah

The 22-year-old played a role in Liverpool’s Premier League title triumph last season, making 25 appearances in all competitions, but he predominantly deputised for Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, finding it extremely difficult to dislodge the centre-back duo.

As the Warrington-born defender is now at an age where he needs to be playing regular football, it could make sense to leave the Reds this summer, and a move to the City Ground would allow him to continue playing in Europe for a big club.

There are signs the Englishman may have a lot to offer Forest too, having been lauded by teammate Alexis Mac Allister, who said: “He was amazing. The job he did with Virg [Virgil van Dijk] is so important for the team because it gives us that calmness that we need to play football. “Even on the ball he was amazing. Very happy and very glad for him.”

Having also received an endorsement from Arne Slot, Liverpool may be unwilling to cash-in on Quansah for good this summer, but a move is not completely ruled out, with a £50m fee touted.

Chelsea are pressing ahead with a move to sign one marquee player after they reached an agreement for the signing of Liam Delap, with Enzo Maresca’s side showing no hesitation in attacking the market after ending 2024/2025 on a major high.

Chelsea begin busy summer window with Liam Delap signing

Cole Palmer’s magical second-half attacking display helped spare Maresca’s blushes in the Europa Conference League final on Wednesday evening, with Chelsea coming back from behind to smash Real Betis 4-1 in Poland.

Chelsea submit bid to sign £42m Serie A star who's admitted he could leave

The west Londoners are in good spirits after their Conference League triumph.

1 ByEmilio Galantini May 29, 2025

Manuel Pellegrini’s side threatened to end Chelsea’s season on a sour note, but strikes from Enzo Fernández, Nicolas Jackson, Jadon Sancho and Moises Caicedo in the final 25 minutes of the 90 sealed Maresca’s first piece of major silverware since taking over from Mauricio Pochettino last summer.

Chelsea’s top five finish and subsequent qualification for the Champions League, coupled with their win at the Stadion Miejski, means Maresca’s debut season in the dugout can be deemed a real success.

Despite their damp patch midway through 2024/2025, Chelsea roared to the finish line and displayed serious intent during the latter stages of this campaign, winning six of their final nine league games and losing just one as performances took a positive turn.

Now, attention fully turns to the transfer market, with Chelsea expected to be very busy yet again this summer.

They’ll also have a mini-transfer window – open from June 1 to June 10 – to sign new recruits ahead of their Club World Cup campaign. With £97 million worth of prize money on offer if they win the tournament, Chelsea are expected to take it seriously, and it is believed they ideally want two or three of their new signings through the door before the CWC kicks off next month (Simon Phillips).

One target they’ve been seriously pursuing in the last fortnight, Ipswich Town star Delap, also had a host of other offers on the table from Man United, Newcastle and Everton – so competition was rife for his signature.

However, reports this week began emerging that Chelsea’s Champions League status put them in pole position for the Englishman, who bagged 12 league goals for Ipswich last season (talkSPORT).

Now, Chelsea are expected to seal an imminent deal for Delap, as confirmed by trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano.

However, Delap’s arrival at Stamford Bridge may not be the end of their striker search. Chelsea could in fact sign two centre-forwards this summer, according to journalist Simon Phillips, and this is now being echoed by Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg.

Chelsea "pushing" to sign Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike

According to Plettenberg, “underrated” Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike remains a top target for BlueCo, regardless of their agreement with Delap.

The 22-year-old is fresh off the back of an incredible full debut season at Eintracht, having signed permanently from PSG last summer. Ekitike scored 22 goals and racked up 12 assists in 48 appearances across 24/25, leaving little wonder the Bundesliga side will demand a high asking price.

Eintracht want as much as £84 million to sell Ekitike this summer, and if Chelsea are serious about him, they’ll need to splash the cash.

In a period that has seen fans and pundits alike become obsessed with ‘winning the transfer window’, Liverpool – intentionally or not – have bucked the trend, having proven that getting the best out of what you already have at your disposal can be just as fruitful.

Indeed, the Premier League champions have made just one senior signing since snapping up Ryan Gravenberch back in the summer of 2023, albeit with that man Federico Chiesa merely something of an afterthought under Arne Slot, having made just five top-flight outings this season – none of which have come from the start.

While the impending exit of Trent Alexander-Arnold – alongside the need for a new striker and centre-back – will likely see the Reds dip into the transfer market this time around, there should be a sense of caution this summer, amid the need to avoid upsetting the applecart.

The pursuit of a certain Martin Zubimendi last summer should be an example to follow, with the Anfield side deciding not to pursue an alternative to the Spaniard, after the Real Sociedad man turned down the chance to move to England.

The aforementioned Gravenberch – who has since started 35 league games in 2024/25 – has proven to be a more than worthy in-house solution for Slot, with Zubimendi’s rejection perhaps a sliding doors moment for the season.

By all accounts, the Euro 2024 winner will belatedly move to the Premier League this summer, but not to Anfield.

The latest on Martin Zubimendi's future

Jurgen Klopp’s final summer had seen a real overhaul in the midfield department, with four new faces brought into the fold in 2023, amid the departures of the likes of Jordan Henderson, James Milner, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Fabinho.

That quartet were seemingly not deemed to be enough as far as Slot was concerned a year later, with the Merseysiders looking hellbent on bringing Zubimendi to the club, in order to replace Wataru Endo as the starting option in the number six role.

Despite having appeared convinced that the Sociedad star would be keen to leave his boyhood club, the midfield maestro ultimately opted against joining Slot’s ranks, having seemingly “changed his mind”, according to Sky Sports reporter Danyal Khan.

Fast forward less than 12 months, however, and it would seem that the 25-year-old has again had a change of heart, with the Independent’s Miguel Delaney revealing last week that a deal to take the £51m man to Arsenal has already been “wrapped up”.

That has since been followed by a report from transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, with the Italian journalist outlining that Zubimendi has “verbally agreed to sign a long-term deal” with the Gunners, following in the footsteps of compatriot and former club colleague, Mikel Merino.

Liverpool have missed out, although it should well be Zubimendi left with the tinge of regret. While Slot’s men have claimed title glory, the Basque ace, meanwhile, has been part of a side that are currently 12th in LaLiga, amid a deeply disappointing campaign for La Real.

It would appear that things have worked out for the best as far as those at Anfield are concerned, not least with the club boasting a midfield superstar of their own.

The Liverpool star who's worth far more than Zubimendi

The revelation of the campaign, from a Liverpool perspective at least, has been Gravenberch, with club legend Jamie Carragher hailing the Dutchman as “the biggest surprise” of the season, due to his standout form.

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

That said, the man who takes the acclaim as arguably the Premier League’s “outstanding midfielder”, as per Sky Sports’ Dougie Critchley, is his World Cup-winning teammate, Alexis Mac Allister, with the Argentine having again been simply masterful in 2024/25.

Signed for a minimal fee of just £35m from Brighton and Hove Albion in 2023, the playmaker has proven to be something of a bargain over the last two years, having played a central role in the club’s title success.

Indeed, this season has seen Mac Allister rack up five goals and five assists in the top-flight, with his thumping effort against Tottenham Hotspur sparking jubilant celebrations that even measured at 1.7 on the Richter scale, as Liverpool closed in on the title.

Not only the man who can provide that cutting edge in the final third, the midfield metronome has also averaged 1.3 key passes per game, while averaging 3.3 tackles and interceptions per game. In all, the 26-year-old ranks sixth in the division for tackles made this term, with 95.

Games

35

33

Goals

5

2

Assists

5

1

Big chances created

6

1

Key passes*

1.3

0.5

Pass accuracy*

87%

84%

Tackles*

2.7

2.2

Interceptions*

0.6

1.2

Total duels won*

48%

58%

That ability to thrive both in and out of possession is also showcased by how he stacks up against his peers across Europe’s top five leagues, as per FBref. For example, the former Seagulls star ranks in the top 7% for non-penalty goals and the top 6% for shot-creating actions, albeit while also ranking in the top 1% for blocks and the top 8% for tackles made per 90.

Unsurprisingly, such form has seen his valuation soar following that £35m move, with Transfermarkt deeming him to now be worth in the region of €90m (£76m). To put that into perspective, the aforementioned Zubimendi is valued at €60m (£51m) – thus matching his reported release clause.

Zubimendi may be a talent and could certainly thrive under Mikel Arteta’s watch next season. That said, even if he does make a smooth transition to life in the Premier League, Liverpool can rest easy knowing that they already have a far more valuable talent of their own.

He may not yet be of the status of an Alisson, a Virgil van Dijk or a Mo Salah, although on the evidence of 2024/25, in particular, Mac Allister is just as important as any of them.

Fewer touches than Alisson: Slot must axe 5/10 Liverpool dud after Arsenal

Arne Slot must drop this Liverpool dud who was worse than Conor Bradley against Arsenal.

3 ByDan Emery May 11, 2025

Manchester United are believed to be planning an offer to sign an “unplayable” Premier League player in a potential £65m deal this summer, according to a fresh update.

Man Utd defeat highlights need for signings

The Red Devils were beaten 4-3 away to Brentford on Sunday afternoon, as their hugely disappointing league campaign continues, amid their continued search for Europa League glory later this week.

The loss leaves Ruben Amorim’s side still sitting in 15th place in the table, having lost 16 of their matches in the league in 2024/25, highlighting how important it is for new signings in the summer transfer window.

Bournemouth attacker Antoine Semenyo has been linked with a move to United at the end of the season, following an impressive season for the Cherries that has seen him score nine times in the league, also bagging five assists in the competition.

Meanwhile, Lyon youngster Rayan Cherki has been mentioned as a target for the Red Devils, with the 21-year-old thought to be open about the idea of moving to Old Trafford if he is made the leading man in Amorim’s attack.

Man Utd planning offer for £65m Brentford star

According to a new update from Caught Offside, Manchester United are planning to make an offer for Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, looking to snap him up in the summer window. The Bees could be looking for as much as £65m for the Cameroonian, with Tottenham, Arsenal and Newcastle United also interested in him.

Mbeumo has arguably been one of the Premier League’s most dangerous attacking players throughout this season, scoring 18 goals, which is only fewer than Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, Erling Haaland and Chris Wood.

Meanwhile, his importance isn’t lost on Brentford manager Thomas Frank, who heaped praise on him earlier in the season: “Bryan Mbeumo today was unplayable. The way he holds the ball up and links play, like today to Kevin Schade [for the fourth goal] was very impressive.”

Admittedly, Mbeumo takes up the same right-sided attacking role that Amad Diallo likes to play in, so there is a risk of blocking his path, but strong competition is needed all over the pitch.

The 25-year-old is in the perfect place to come in and be a star man from the off at Old Trafford, having already shown that he can take the Premier League by storm, bagging 68 goal contributions (40 goals and 28 assists) in 133 appearances since joining the Bees.

With the likes of Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund all arguably feeling like flawed attacking options currently, it is essential that a couple of genuinely top-level players arrive in that area this summer.

As bad as Shaw: Amorim must axe Man Utd dud after 4/10 Brentford display

Ruben Amorim must ring the changes for Manchester United’s next game.

ByMatt Dawson May 5, 2025

In Mbeumo, United could have a fantastic option who could be a key man for the next five or six years, producing relentless end product and making Amorim’s men a far greater force.

Whatever happens in the Europa League over the next few weeks, those at Manchester United will be fully aware that they are once again approaching a crucial transfer window in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era.

In truth, amid what has been the club’s worst-ever Premier League season, the INEOS regime can’t afford another wrong turn this summer, with new boss Ruben Amorim needing to be handed the appropriate tools in order to revive this sleeping giant.

There had been minimal signs of progress upon the Portuguese’s arrival – namely impressive displays away at both the Etihad and Anfield – although results have spiralled in recent months, with the top-flight now merely an unwanted distraction for those at Old Trafford.

The club’s current standing in the bottom half of the table has showcased that major surgery is needed ahead of next term, with the club reportedly already beginning that operation by ramping up their pursuit of Wolverhampton Wanderers talisman, Matheus Cunha.

That move for the Brazilian sensation certainly won’t be the last move of the summer, if recent reports are anything to go by.

Latest on Man Utd's transfer search

While last summer still appeared to be partly led by then-boss Erik ten Hag, amid the signings of Matthijs de Ligt, Joshua Zirkzee and Noussair Mazraoui, the common theme of the INEOS era has been youth.

Indeed, the Red Devils managed to edge Real Madrid in the race for Lille teenager, Leny Yoro, while the club have since brought in Ayden Heaven and Patrick Dorgu during the January window.

The Old Trafford side have also dipped into the South American market to land Paraguayan starlet, Diego Leon, ahead of 2025/26, with that a move that could be replicated amid their interest in River Plate’s Franco Mastantuono.

Transfer Focus

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

According to Argentine outlet Soy del Millio, offers have reportedly been lodged for the 17-year-old superstar, with United, Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid named as the clubs who have made an approach.

The teenager – who has a €45m (£38m) release clause in his existing deal – would likely represent a signing for the future, however, not least with River insisting that he is set to remain in his homeland until the end of the current league season, which finishes in December.

Whether that is merely a bargaining tool or not remains to be seen, although if INEOS can strike a deal over the coming months, it would certainly be a welcome one.

Why Man Utd could be set to land Di Maria 2.0

From Juan Seba Veron to Carlos Tevez, the Red Devils have no doubt welcomed some high-profile Argentine talents to Manchester in the 21st Century, with the now-veteran Angel Di Maria perhaps one of the more polarising of the lot.

Signed from Real Madrid on a £59.7m deal back in the summer of 2014, the silky left-footer simply never appeared to settle at the Theatre of Dreams, having sealed a hasty exit to PSG just a year later.

At odds with manager Louis van Gaal, the then-number seven could only show flashes of his quality in the red jersey, including his memorable dink against Leicester City in the early stages of the 2014/15 campaign.

As he has showcased elsewhere, Di Maria – who did chalk up 15 goals and assists in just 32 games for United – is an undoubted superstar, as evidenced by his 121 goal involvements in just 190 games in Madrid, alongside 212 goal involvements in just 295 games in Paris.

In many ways, young Mastantuono looks to be the second coming of his compatriot, not least due to his ability to operate on the flanks or in a central role, while waving his wand of a left foot to devastating effect.

Previously described as a “world-class talent” and “one of the most talented players of his age category in South America” by scout Jacek Kulig, the teen playmaker has four goals and two assists to his name in 13 games in 2025 to date, despite his relative youth.

In total, the in-demand talent boasts 12 goal involvements in just 55 games at senior level, with his form across the last year or so seeing him recognised as statistically similar to Di Maria, among those in their position outside of Europe’s top five leagues, as per FBref.

Non-penalty goals

0.16

0.07

Assists

0.21

0.20

Shot-creating actions

5.09

6.00

Progressive passes

8.46

6.26

Progressive carries

3.89

3.26

Successful take-ons

1,56

3.65

Touches in opposition box

5.81

4.82

Progressive passes received

10.59

10.95

Tackles

0.88

2.28

Interceptions

0.42

0.20

That likeness is notably evident with regard to their creative streak, with Mastantuono ranking in the top 12% of his positional peers for progressive passes per 90, while the current Benfica star ranks in the top 2% in that regard.

Equally, the pair are also alike with regard to their record for shot-creating actions per 90, with the younger man ranking in the top 4%, while Di Maria ranks in the top 12% for that same metric.

Such likeness should bode well for the career that Mastantuono can have in the game, and while there may be concerns that he might go the same way as his compatriot at Old Trafford, he surely represents an exciting talent for Amorim to be able to nurture.

Of course, United are in need of ready-made figures who can immediately improve the first-team ranks, although looking to the future is also vital amid INEOS’ long-term project.

Big Garnacho upgrade: Man Utd set to open talks to sign "extraordinary" star

Manchester United are reportedly interested in signing a star who would be a big upgrade on Alejandro Garnacho.

ByDan Emery Apr 29, 2025

Manchester City could face a fight to hold on to one of their key players this summer, with Real Madrid circling as they look to replace the retired Toni Kroos, according to a new report.

Man City in driving seat for Champions League place

After a dismal start to the season, City have shown signs of a resurgence in recent months. While still some way off the standards that delivered recent domestic dominance, Pep Guardiola’s side are now unbeaten in their last six Premier League matches. This improved form, coupled with others’ struggles, has put Champions League qualification firmly in their own hands.

Ahead of the clash with Aston Villa on Tuesday, City midfielder Ilkay Gündogan spoke about the club’s “responsibility” to secure a Champions League spot.

“Our team is made and built to be more than this, it’s built to be a contender for the title every single year,” said the German star. “For various reasons, we haven’t been at our best for a long period of the season. We are where we are right now, and we need to accept the situation.”

He added: “There are minimum targets that have to be achieved at this club, and that’s definitely qualifying for the Champions League next season. We have to do it – it’s our responsibility.”

Man City have found their own Declan Rice in "outstanding" homegrown star

Pep Guardiola might well have his own Declan Rice at Manchester City with this terrific talent.

1 ByKelan Sarson Apr 21, 2025 Real Madrid chase Rodri in summer blow for City

If City secure Champions League football for next season, they may have to enter the competition without one of their most influential players – Ballon d’Or winner Rodri.

The 28-year-old has been a pivotal figure for City since his £63m arrival from Atlético Madrid in 2019 and was awarded football’s biggest individual prize last year for his outstanding performances during the club’s treble-winning campaign.

However, he’s missed much of this season due to injury – an absence that has coincided with a noticeable dip in City’s form.

According to Cadena SER, via Sports Mole, Rodri’s fitness concerns haven’t discouraged Real Madrid from identifying him as their ideal long-term successor to Toni Kroos, who retired at the end of last season. Madrid have struggled to fill the void left by the German maestro, and Cadena SER reports that Los Blancos see Rodri as the “perfect” replacement and “urgently” pursuing a new controller in the centre of the park.

Rodri has earned widespread acclaim for his dominance in midfield, particularly after his Ballon d’Or win, which drew praise from several footballing stars.

“Rodri is the perfect midfielder and there’s no one that plays his position better than he does—there are so many clubs in Europe looking for a world-class holding midfielder, but in the end there’s only him!” Gündogan wrote on social media.

Barcelona starlet Lamine Yamal added: “Receiving this award and having your work recognized is something incredible. Rodri is a fantastic player and an amazing person.”

After Arsenal’s very underwhelming 1-1 draw with Brentford, it’s now all eyes on the Bernabéu for Gooners everywhere.

Last Tuesday, the north Londoners smashed Real Madrid 3-0 in North London, Declan Rice scoring two sublime free-kicks before Mikel Merino lashed home a third; this was their 515th match at the Emirates, and most would agree this was the stadium’s best night.

So now, Mikel Arteta’s team will travel to the Spanish capital seeking to avoid a vintage Real Madrid remontada, but would they stand a better chance if they didn’t have Jakub Kiwior in the backline?

Jakub Kiwior's record deputising for Gabriel

Back on 1 April, during a 2-1 home win over Fulham, Gabriel suffered a serious hamstring tear that required surgery and means he will not feature again this season.

This was a major blow because Gabriel is arguably deserving of Arsenal’s player of the season, having been immense in both boxes throughout the campaign.

So, in the Brazilian’s absence, Kiwior continues to deputise, which fans were concerned about because during the Polish defender’s previous Premier League start, coming at Craven Cottage all the way back on 8 December, his ‘lethargy or lack of awareness’ proved to be a costly error, allowing Raúl Jiménez to open the scoring.

Wins

13

Draws

6

Defeats

0

Goals conceded

13

Clean sheets

9

Nevertheless, Kiwior was actually pretty solid against Real Madrid, with Arteta hailing his performance as “phenomenal”.

That said, did the Gunners let a future upgrade leave in January?

Ex-Arsenal centre-back impressing at Premier League rivals

Back in January, Ayden Heaven departed Arsenal to join Manchester United, for a reported compensation fee of £1.5m.

Heaven joined Arsenal from West Ham as a 14-year-old, his senior debut coming against Preston North End in the EFL Cup, having played a prominent role during the pre-season tour of the United States.

However, frustrated by his lack of first-team opportunities, Heaven decided not to sign a professional contract, instead moving to Manchester United earlier this year.

Well, in the short term, this move paid off, making four appearances before actually suffering a serious foot injury against Leicester, although Rúben Amorim confirmed the injury ‘is not as bad as initially feared’, adding ‘he will play again this season’.

So, let’s have a look at Heaven’s career in numbers so far.

Arsenal

1

Arsenal U21s

26

Arsenal U19s

10

Arsenal U18s

11

Manchester United

4

Man United U21s

1

His early performances for Man United earned rave reviews.

Andy Mitten of United We Stand believes he was Man United’s “best player” at the King Power prior to his injury, proving he’s more than up to the task at Premier League level.

In the meantime, manager Amorim believes he has got “a very good player” on his hands, adding that he is “really comfortable with the ball” and impressively “aggressive” defensively.

James McNicholas and Laurie Whitwell of the Athletic reported that Arsenal did not want to lose the young defender, but were forced into a sale, so would the Gunners actually be better off in the immediate term had they held onto Heaven?

Well, it would certainly give them more defensive options. Kiwior and William Saliba were forced to start yet again on Saturday, and who knows, the teenager may have been poised to feature in the remaining weeks of the season had he stuck around.

Fewer touches than Raya: 5/10 star must never start for Arsenal again

Arsenal laboured to a 1-1 draw with Brentford in the Premier League.

ByMatt Dawson Apr 13, 2025