Maddison upgrade: Spurs chasing "mind-boggling" £40m star after Paz blow

Tottenham Hotspur’s transfer strategy this summer has been nothing short of chaotic, and yet strangely ambitious.

For a club that finished 17th in the Premier League last season but secured Champions League football thanks to their Europa League triumph over Manchester United, the need to strengthen has never been more urgent.

Their early business included the £60m acquisition of Mohamed Kudus from West Ham, an exciting attacking player who provides versatility across the forward line.

But departures and missed opportunities have left significant gaps.

Fan favourite Son Heung-min departed for LAFC after a decade of service in North London, while the club’s most creative midfielder, James Maddison, suffered a devastating ACL injury in pre-season against Newcastle.

Their attempts to fill the void have, so far, been met with frustration.

The latest on Spurs' hunt to find a Maddison replacement

A £60m pursuit of Eberechi Eze collapsed when Arsenal hijacked the deal. A move for Morgan Gibbs-White ran into legal complications.

A €70m (£65m) package for Como star Nico Paz was swiftly rebuffed, with the Argentine making clear his intentions to return to Real Madrid in the near future.

Spurs have even looked at Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, but his £100m price tag puts him out of reach.

All of this has forced Tottenham to look elsewhere.

Transfer Focus

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

Their search has now led them towards a player long admired in England, one who has already proved himself in the Premier League, but whose reputation has recently been clouded by off-field controversy.

According to reports in the Daily Mail, Spurs are now weighing up a move for Lucas Paquetá, the Brazilian playmaker currently at West Ham United.

Aston Villa are also monitoring his situation, but Tottenham’s need for a creative spark is arguably more urgent. Different reports suggest he could go for around £40m.

Paquetá has endured a turbulent year, but his quality has never been in question.

Former teammate Declan Rice once described him as “mind-boggling”, while he’s also been described as “one of the best 10s in the world” by one data analyst, a reminder of the immense technical ability he brings.

The central midfielder’s form dipped after he became the subject of a betting breach investigation in August 2023.

He continued to play, scoring West Ham’s only goal in their recent 5-1 defeat to Chelsea, but his confidence and consistency were visibly affected by the allegations.

Now that he has been cleared of all charges in 2025, the expectation is that he can finally put the matter behind him and re-establish himself at the top level.

Assessing Paquetá vs Maddison

For Spurs, the appeal is clear. With Maddison sidelined for the season, there is no natural replacement in the squad capable of offering the same vision and incisive passing.

Paquetá, with his flair and ability to turn games in an instant, represents a player in a similar mould.

He may not have matched Maddison’s output in recent seasons, but the tools are there – and in the right environment, he could thrive.

Tottenham Hotspur'sJamesMaddisonreacts

Paquetá’s numbers at West Ham illustrate both his strengths and his limitations.

At 27, he is approaching the prime of his career. He has 55 caps for Brazil and joined West Ham from Lyon in 2022, making 33 Premier League appearances last season with four goals.

The raw statistics do not scream world-class productivity, but they do reveal a midfielder with a valuable mix of creativity and defensive work.

Matches

19

7

Wins

11

0

Goals Scored Per Match

1.8

0.7

Goals Conceded Per Match

1.5

2.4

Points Per Match

1.9

0.4

According to FBref, he ranks in the 74th percentile for shot-creating actions per 90 (2.89), the 79th percentile for progressive passes (6.16 per 90), and the 84th percentile for touches in the attacking penalty area (2.18 per 90).

These metrics underline his ability to link play between midfield and attack, progressing the ball into dangerous areas.

Lucas Paqueta looks dejected for West Ham

His defensive contributions are also notable, with 2.51 tackles per 90 (75th percentile) and an impressive 1.91 aerial duels won per 90 (89th percentile), making him more than just a luxury player.

When compared directly to Maddison, however, there are contrasts. The England international has been one of Spurs’ key players since arriving from Leicester in 2023, with 16 goals and 21 assists in 75 games.

Regrettably, his injury record is a concern. He missed 13 games in 2023/24 and 11 last season – but his impact when fit is undeniable.

Statistically, Maddison outperforms Paquetá in almost every attacking metric: 4.73 shot-creating actions per 90 (to Paquetá’s 3.10), 8.16 progressive passes per 90 (Paquetá’s 5.87), and 0.85 shots on target per 90 (Paquetá’s 0.11).

Even his pass completion rate (81.3%) edges the Brazilian’s 77.3%.

This raises a key question: would Spurs be settling for a downgrade? On paper, Paquetá does not replicate Maddison’s efficiency in front of goal or his ability to sustain attacks through consistent ball progression.

West Ham's Lucas Paqueta against Liverpool.

Yet the Brazilian brings different qualities – a more physical presence, stronger defensive contributions, and the versatility to operate across midfield roles. In that regard, he is a big upgrade.

His 227.8 progressive passing distance per 90 minutes is only slightly behind Maddison’s 250.1, suggesting he can still drive the ball forward effectively.

What truly matters is context. At West Ham, Paquetá has often been tasked with working within a rigid system where creativity can be stifled.

In a more attacking, possession-based setup at Tottenham, his ability to combine with Kudus and Richarlison could unlock a new level of performance.

For Spurs, the decision is not about finding a perfect Maddison clone. It is about ensuring they are not left without a creative heartbeat in midfield for an entire season.

Paquetá may be inconsistent, but he remains capable of brilliance.

If Thomas Frank can provide the structure and confidence that he lacked at West Ham, Tottenham could have a player who, like Maddison, is able to decide games single-handedly.

New Dembele: Spurs make move to sign "one of the best playmakers in Europe"

Spurs are looking to finalise one or two big moves before the deadline closes.

1 ByMatt Dawson Aug 25, 2025

Liverpool move collapses as 20 y/o Edwards target chooses huge Saudi contract

Liverpool’s attempts to sign an “incredible” player in the summer transfer window have now collapsed, according to a new update.

New Liverpool kit and squad numbers confirmed

The Reds are edging closer to beginning the defence of their Premier League title, starting with a home clash against a dangerous Bournemouth side on August 15th.

Liverpool will do so in their new Adidas kit, having officially started a 10-year deal with them on Friday, following a stint being sponsored by Nike. Supporters are clearly excited about the strip, getting to see their heroes donning it in the coming weeks.

Not only that, but the Reds’ squad numbers for the 2025/26 season have also been confirmed, with star signing Florian Wirtz being given the legendary No.7 shirt worn by the likes of Kevin Keegan, Kenny Dalglish and Luis Suarez, as well as the recently departed Luis Diaz.

Liverpool’s club shop have made a lovely gesture by including the late Diogo Jota in the squad list, too, following his tragic passing last month, as Arne Slot and his players prepare for an emotional campaign without the Portuguese attacker.

Liverpool's move for "incredible" defender collapses

Away from kit news, transfer updates continue to arrive, with The Boot Room claiming that Liverpool’s potential move for Nantes centre-back Nathan Zeze has collapsed.

FSG were willing to pay the £21.5m asking price to sign the defender as a replacement for Jarell Quansah, but he has accepted a huge offer with Saudi based Neom Sports Club instead.

Journalist Graeme Bailey shed further light on the situation, saying: “Neom are making waves following their promotion, but this deal has caught many in Europe by surprise. He is a player on the brink of the France senior squad, who could have moved to England or Spain, but he has opted for Saudi. Although not huge in terms of finances, this is a very big deal for the Saudi Pro League.”

Nathan Zeze in action for Nantes

A new centre-back is needed for Liverpool this summer, with Quansah’s move to Leverkusen leaving Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konate and Joe Gomez as the only genuine options, with the latter pair plagued by injuries during their respective careers.

Zeze could have been a strong young addition, with the 20-year-old pushing to be a fixture in France’s senior setup, but Neom have proved to be too good to turn down in a financial sense.

Bigger mistake than Diaz: Liverpool ready to sell Slot's "monster" for £47m

Liverpool sold Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich, and now face the exit of another star player.

2 ByAngus Sinclair Jul 31, 2025

Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi has always felt like the ideal centre-back signing for Liverpool this summer, though, and they should continue to pursue him.

Liverpool launch enquiry for £53m Leverkusen star they scouted with Wirtz

With Liverpool’s summer of spending potentially set to reach new levels, Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards have reportedly returned to the Bundesliga in pursuit of defensive reinforcement.

Liverpool given fresh encouragement in Isak saga

Liverpool have never been the Premier League’s big spenders. Instead, they achieved much of their success under Jurgen Klopp by getting the best out of talents such as Andy Robertson, Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane, who all arrived for what proved to be undeniable bargains.

Even when Virgil van Dijk, Fabinho and Alisson Becker arrived to truly transform the Reds back into English champions, it didn’t happen without the sacrifice of Philippe Coutinho. And the summer that they did hold the Premier League crown, Anfield chiefs opted for a quiet summer before losing their crown to Manchester City.

Liverpool hijack Arsenal deal for attacker with medical already held

The Gunners reached a verbal agreement weeks ago.

ByEmilio Galantini Jul 30, 2025

With Hughes and Edwards now out to make a statement, however, things have changed. First through the door was Jeremie Frimpong, then came their first blockbuster move, breaking the British transfer record to beat Man City and Bayern Munich to Florian Wirtz. But they weren’t done there.

Since then, both Milos Kerkez and Hugo Ekitike have arrived to take Liverpool’s spending close to the £300m-mark. Once again, however, they are still not done there.

After Alexander Isak dropped the bombshell news that he wants to leave Newcastle United this summer, Liverpool have turned their attention towards the Swede who has now reportedly gone missing from the Magpies’ training in hopes of pushing through a departure.

Following Luis Diaz’s Bayern Munich move, which will reportedly see Liverpool pocket around £65.5m, the Premier League champions now look destined to return to the transfer market yet again this summer.

Liverpool launch first Piero Hincapie move

According to The Boot Room’s Graeme Bailey, Liverpool have now launched their opening enquiry to sign Piero Hincapie. The talented defender looked to be on his way to Atletico Madrid earlier this summer, only for the Spaniards to refuse to meet his £53m release clause.

Now, it’s Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Liverpool who have set their sights on the Bayer Leverkusen man. Unlike earlier deals for Frimpong and Wirtz, however, clubs have reportedly been told that Hincapie is not for sale this summer, despite scouting the defender throughout last season on the same trips they watched Wirtz.

Whether Liverpool can change Leverkusen’s stance is the big question. They’ve already signed two of their key men, so a third in one summer would certainly be an interesting move. But Hincapie is certainly worth chasing.

Minutes

2,670

2,560

Progressive Passes

152

115

Ball Recoveries

105

98

Successful Aerial Duels

65

74

Dubbed a “great player” by former Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso, Hincapie would be the perfect replacement for Ibrahima Konate, who is on course to leave Liverpool as a free agent next year, and already knows both Frimpong and Wirtz well.

Romano: Man Utd now in contact over move for 23 y/o star on main shortlist

Manchester United are beginning to lay their transfer priorities on the table and have stepped up their interest in a key target at Old Trafford, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Man Utd finalise Bryan Mbeumo deal

There have been weeks of speculation surrounding Bryan Mbeumo’s move to Manchester United from Brentford. However, he has now arrived at Carrington and is set to seal a transfer to the Theatre of Dreams imminently.

The Cameroon star is set to bolster Ruben Amorim’s attack for a fee that could reach £71 million, inclusive of add-ons, and Romano has delivered the decisive news that he will officially join the Red Devils in time for the Premier League Summer Series.

In light of Liam Delap and Joao Pedro coming in at Chelsea, Manchester United have also turned their attention to Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson after missing out on Hugo Ekitike and Viktor Gyokeres.

Despite his £100 million valuation, Jason Wilcox is keen to cut a deal at a more affordable figure if the Senegal international is permitted to leave Stamford Bridge permanently.

Man Utd now set to intensify move for 6'5 "menace" after 3 years of talks

He could arrive after Bryan Mbeumo…

2 ByTom Cunningham Jul 19, 2025

Modern-day transfers take a different form when it comes to their structure. Manchester United are reported to have agreed personal terms with Valencia midfielder Javier Guerra. Still, it remains to be seen whether they can reach a club-to-club arrangement on a fee.

Entering a transitional period following a poor showing last year, the Red Devils will look to offload several fringe players to ensure they can recruit new personnel without violating PSR regulations.

Truly, it feels like there is nobody off-limits bar a select few, so it will come as no surprise to hear Amorim is keen on adding competition to an area that has proved problematic in recent years.

Romano: Man Utd make contact regarding Senne Lammens

According to world-renowned transfer reporter Romano, Manchester United have made “initial contact” to be informed on Royal Antwerp goalkeeper Senne Lammens’ situation, and the 23-year-old is said to be on their “main” shortlist if Amorim chooses to change tact between the sticks.

Aston Villa stopper Emiliano Martinez is another name being closely watched, albeit any move for the Argentina international would come at a greater financial cost.

Putting Andre Onana’s future in doubt, Lammens kept 10 clean sheets in 44 appearances last term across all competitions, conceding 56 goals.

Senne Lammens for Royal Antwerp.

Labelled “exciting” by Football Talent Scout – Jacek Kulig, the 23-year-old maintained a save percentage of 81.9% over the last 365 days relative to his peers and is a rising star who could be a future number one at Old Trafford for years to come.

However, you get the feeling any deal would be reliant on Onana moving elsewhere, which may create a waiting game for all concerned.

Everton make contact to beat Man Utd in race for "strong" South American

Following the arrival of Mark Travers, Everton have reportedly made their first move to sign a South American star ahead of Premier League rivals Manchester United.

Travers "extremely proud" to be an Everton player

Becoming Everton’s third signing of the summer following the earlier arrival of Carlos Alcaraz and Thierno Barry, Travers is likely to act as a replacement for Asmir Begovic and Joao Virginia by becoming David Moyes’ new No.2 behind Jordan Pickford. Whilst the Irishman won’t steal the same headlines as Barry and Alcaraz, the depth that he will add should prove important in its own right.

Speaking for the first time since putting pen to paper, the former Bournemouth shot-stopper said: “I’m extremely proud and excited to be an Everton player. Coming in, you can feel how big this club is and the history that comes with it. You really feel that with the fanbase, the new stadium now as well and the direction the Club is going in.

“It’s a fresh start for me to come up here and try a new chapter in my career. It’s a really exciting time to be part of this massive football club and I just can’t wait to get going.”

Travers was also full of praise for Pickford, who he will be deputising, saying: “Jordan [Pickford] is an outstanding goalkeeper for Club and country. I’m looking forward to competing with everyone here and being a Premier League player.”

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David Moyes wants to add some more attacking quality at Everton this summer.

ByAngus Sinclair Jul 15, 2025

That said, the goalkeeper may have more than just Pickford to compete against. According to recent reports, the Toffees could yet welcome another goalkeeper before the summer transfer window comes to an end.

Everton make contact to sign John Victor

As reported by O Dia and relayed by Goodison News, Everton have now made their first enquiry to sign John Victor from Botafogo this summer. The Brazilian goalkeeper has also attracted interest from both Aston Villa and Manchester United, but Everton will be hoping to send a statement to their rivals by securing his signature.

Whilst another goalkeeper after Travers could hand Moyes an unnecessary headache, Victor proved his worth at the Club World Cup this summer as part of a Botafogo side who defeated Paris Saint-Germain before eventually exiting the competition at the last 16 stage.

Botafogo'sJohnVictormakes a save against Palmeiras' Bruno Fuchs

Praised for his “strong underlying shot-stopping metrics” by The Athletic, Victor would instantly hand Travers a problem at The Hill Dickinson Stadium as both goalkeepers compete for a place behind Pickford.

Whether the Friedkin Group push on with their move to sign the Brazilian is the big question. They’ve already signed Travers and there are other priorities within Moyes’ squad as the Premier League season closes in.

Although squad depth is key, the Toffees may be better off looking to welcome midfield additions rather than another goalkeeper this summer, despite how talented Victor is.

Eze will love him: £40m PL striker would now "love" to sign for Arsenal

What was looking like a rather dull summer for Arsenal fans just a week or so ago has since burst into life.

Kepa Arrizabalaga might be the only signing to have been officially announced as things stand, but that doesn’t look likely to remain the case.

The paperwork for Brentford star Christian Norgaard has reportedly been signed, and Martin Zubimendi is expected to be unveiled before the end of the week.

On top of that, Mikel Arteta looks to finally be getting some attacking stars in, with Eberechi Eze looking like a likely addition, and now reports linking the club to someone who’d be the perfect teammate for him.

Arsenal target dream Eze teammate

While the start of the window was dominated by stories linking Arsenal to one of Benjamin Sesko or Viktor Gyokeres, Eze has now taken centre stage.

Transfer Focus

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

Stories touting him for a move to the Emirates started to gain traction midway through last week, but then really gained momentum in recent days, with some claiming that Arteta had been involved in positive talks with him over the weekend.

Then, in yet more good news, some of the most recent reports have stated that the Englishman is now “desperate” to join the Gunners.

That desire to move to N5 might only increase now that the North Londoners have also been linked with someone who’d be the perfect teammate for him: Ollie Watkins.

That is according to insider Team news and ticks, who, on the latest episode of The Inside Foreward podcast, revealed that Arsenal have once again made contact with the Aston Villa player.

They claim that even though the Englishman is not currently the club’s priority striker signing, he is high up on the list, and that, as a boyhood fan, he would personally “love to play” for them.

In terms of the money involved, other stories from this summer indicate that a fee of around £40m could be enough to tempt the Claret and Blue into selling.

At that price, this potential transfer feels like a no-brainer, especially as he’d be an incredible teammate for Eze.

Why Watkins would be perfect for Eze

Unsurprisingly, the first and without a doubt the most significant reason Eze would love playing alongside Watkins at Arsenal, or anywhere for that matter, is his output.

For example, since the start of the 23/24 season, the often unplayable “nightmare,” as dubbed by Conor Coady, has scored a staggering 44 goals and provided 29 assists in 107 appearances in all competitions, totalling 7901 minutes.

In other words, the former Exeter City gem has averaged a goal involvement every 1.46 games, or one every 108.23 minutes, which really has to be considered world-class.

Appearances

53

54

Minutes

4323′

3578′

Goals

27

17

Assists

15

14

Goal Involvements per Match

0.79

0.57

Minutes per Goal Involvement

102.92′

115.41′

Now, just imagine how much better Eze’s already impressive numbers of 25 goal involvements in 43 games last season would be next year if he were playing just behind a striker as effective as the Villa ace.

Moreover, another reason the Palace star could love playing alongside the 29-year-old is that they are both now England internationals.

Therefore, they could have the chance to further develop their partnership at both the domestic and international levels, which in turn could help them secure more game time under Thomas Tuchel.

Ultimately, the best players in world football want to play alongside the best, and based on his performances for Villa in recent years, we expect Eze would be thrilled to start alongside Watkins at Arsenal.

Therefore, Andrea Berta and Co should be doing all they can to sign both of them this summer.

Saka will love him: £68m "superstar" is now "desperate" to sign for Arsenal

Arsenal could sign Bukayo Saka’s dream teammate this summer.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 3, 2025

Shades of Haaland: Spurs submit bid for "one of the best STs in the PL"

The supporters of Tottenham Hotspur will undoubtedly have a sense of excitement building among the fanbase, as they start a new era in the 2025/26 campaign.

Thomas Frank is set to lead the side in North London, hoping to build on the Europa League triumph they achieved at the end of the previous season.

Many may have seen the dismissal of Ange Postecoglou as harsh given the European success, but his side’s lack of quality in the Premier League led to his departure.

The Dane will be looking to avoid suffering a similar fate, needing to strike a balance between success in the league whilst also being competitive in the Champions League.

However, if the new boss is to be a success during his maiden campaign in the role, he will undoubtedly need backing from the hierarchy within the transfer window.

The latest on Spurs’ hunt for new additions this summer

In the last couple of days, Spurs have made their opening offer to West Ham United for the potential signing of talented forward Mohammed Kudus – but their bid was immediately rejected.

However, they’re set to make another offer in the coming days, with the new boss wanting to accelerate a deal for the Ghanaian attacker this window.

Despite the move for the 24-year-old, another Premier League forward has emerged on their shortlist in recent days in Rodrigo Muniz, according to Brazilian outlet BolaVIP.

They claim that a £32m bid has been made for the Fulham striker after he scored eight times in England’s top flight throughout the 2024/25 campaign.

It also states that the Lilywhites will face stiff competition from Leeds United, after the newly promoted side made an offer for his services earlier this window.

Why Spurs’ latest target would be Frank’s answer to Haaland

Erling Haaland is a player who’s constantly tormented countless backlines within the Premier League, scoring endless goals for Manchester City over the last few years.

Manchester City's ErlingHaalandduring the warm up before the match

The Norwegian moved to the Etihad back in the summer of 2022 and has since scored 124 times in his 146 appearances – a simply staggering record in the modern day.

He’s registered four goals in his six appearances against the Lilywhites, often causing the club countless issues, with the fanbase undoubtedly wishing they had their own version of the forward.

However, talents like Haaland don’t come around very often, and if they do, they will likely cost a small fortune – especially given the money in the current climate.

They could be about to land their own version of the talisman with Muniz this summer, with the Brazilian labelled as a similar player to the City star by FBref.

Whilst he’s undoubtedly been massively outscored throughout 2024/25, he’s managed to outperform Haaland in numerous key areas, showcasing what an excellent addition he’d be to Frank’s side this summer.

Muniz, who’s been labelled as “one of the best strikers in the Premier League” by teammate Willian, has registered a better goal per shot on target rate – demonstrating his clinical edge in front of goal.

Games played

31

31

Goals & assists

9

25

Goals per shot on target

0.4

0.3

Passes into final third

1.2

0.3

Progressive passes

2.5

0.6

Take-ons completed

0.9

0.4

Fouls won

2.9

0.4

Aerials won

6.3

1.8

He’s also registered more progressive passes per 90, with more passes completed into the final third, having the ability to provide others around him with chances in attacking areas.

The Fulham star has also completed more take-ons per 90, whilst also winning more aerial duels, offering Frank an all-round option at the top end of the pitch that he will likely desire.

It’s unclear if Marco Silva’s side will accept the latest offer for Muniz’s signature, but it’s evident that, from the stats produced, he would be an excellent option for Spurs.

If he can replicate the levels produced by Haaland over the last couple of seasons, it would be a superb signing and one that could catapult the club up the table next campaign.

Better signing than Mbeumo: Spurs make enquiry for "world-class" £20m star

Tottenham Hotspur have wasted no time making moves within the summer transfer market.

2 ByEthan Lamb Jul 5, 2025

He'd be perfect for Mbeumo: Man Utd prepare bid for "exceptional" £28m ace

Manchester United’s side is one that has massively struggled over recent seasons, struggling to match the levels that were produced during Sir Alex Ferguson’s reign.

The Red Devils have now gone 12 whole seasons without a Premier League triumph, with current boss Ruben Amorim the latest to try his luck at Old Trafford.

However, so far, the 40-year-old has been unable to transform the situation, achieving a 40% win rate in his 42 games in the role, leading to a 15th-place league finish this season.

Leeway should be handed his way, however, only having the January transfer window earlier this year to make the additions he wanted to help him in his quest at the club.

However, this summer is a huge period in his stint in charge at the Theatre of Dreams, needing to find the right players for his system if he is to be a success in the role.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions

Viktor Gyokeres is a player who has been firmly on their radar over the last couple of years, but United now appear to be in pole position for his signature after the latest update on his future.

Warren Zaire-Emery is another surprise name on the club’s shortlist, after the hierarchy made an enquiry to sign the PSG youngster, who’s currently valued at £85m.

However, a new name has entered the mix over the last couple of days, with Borussia Dortmund’s midfield star Felix Nmecha on their radar, according to one Spanish outlet.

They claim that the Red Devils are preparing an offer to land the 24-year-old this summer, with a £28m price tag mooted for his signature in the coming months.

It also states that the former Manchester City academy star could have his head turned by the Red Devils ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, but that the Bundesliga side have no intention of offloading him.

Why United’s £28m target would be perfect for Mbeumo

Bryan Mbeumo has been a name on the lips of all supporters over the last couple of weeks, understandably so given the keen interest in his signature.

The 25-year-old has been a player who’s thrived in the division over recent years, but he produced his best-ever campaign last time around, scoring 20 times in the Premier League for Brentford.

However, a deal hasn’t been easy up until now, with the Red Devils having two separate offers rejected, the latest being a fee in the region of £60m.

A deal should be completed smoothly if a fee is agreed, after the Cameroonian international has agreed personal terms with Amorim’s side over a move to Old Trafford.

He could be boosted in his chances of success should Nmecha move to the club, as the German possesses a lot of qualities that would aid the forward in attacking areas.

Borussia Dortmund's FelixNmechaleaves the pitch

When delving into his stats from this campaign, he’s thrived in numerous key areas, making him the perfect box-to-box option within Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system.

Nmecha, who’s been labelled “exceptional” by former boss Nuri Şahin, has registered an 88% pass accuracy along with 5.1 progressive passes per 90 – subsequently showing why he’d be perfect for Mbeumo and having the tools to provide him with the opportunities needed.

Games played

26

Goals & assists

5

Pass accuracy

88%

Progressive passes

5.1

Passes into final third

5.4

Progressive carries

1.3

Take-ons completed

65%

Tackles won

1.3

Interceptions made

1.4

Aerials won

1.4

He’s also completed 65% of the take-ons he’s attempted, whilst also registering 1.3 progressive carries per 90, further demonstrating his desire to take the ball into forward areas.

The German has also starred without the ball, winning 1.3 tackles per 90 and 1.4 interceptions per 90, making him the perfect ball-winning option in the middle of the park.

£28m for a player of Nmecha’s calibre could prove to be one of the bargain additions of the summer, offering Amorim a new dimension to his midfield and taking the side to new heights.

If he can excel without the ball and provide Mbeumo with added chances in front of goal, it would be a sensational signing and one that could push them back up the table in 2025/26.

Bruno will make him world-class: Man Utd hold talks for "phenomenal" star

Manchester United appear to be making a move in a deal to sign a new talisman.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 28, 2025

Celtic begin negotiating personal terms with £4.2m target who Rodgers loves

Celtic are in the process of making some significant moves this summer and look to have reignited their interest in an exciting attacker, according to a report.

Celtic searching for attackers to offer final third variation

Brendan Rodgers opted to operate with Daizen Maeda and Adam Idah as central options during the second half of last campaign, taking a look at the market before deciding to stick rather than twist in January.

However, Celtic are set to conclude a deal for Fulham youngster Callum Osmand after the Wales international turned down the opportunity to sign professional terms at Craven Cottage, offering an alternative threat through the middle.

Nevertheless, Frank McAvennie believes the Bhoys should offer a shock deal to Jamie Vardy amid their efforts to strengthen across the front four positions, with free agent Danny Ings also recommended by the former Scotland international.

The ex-Celtic explained: “Vardy. I would take Vardy. I know they are talking about him going to Rangers, but I would take Vardy at Celtic.

“They (Vardy and Danny Ings) are goal scorers. Two of them are goal scorers. They are just natural predators. Get them up here. Good names.”

Celtic can forget about Kvistgaarden with move to sign "gifted" £0 striker

With Celtic seemingly set to miss out on signing Mathias Kvistgaarden from Brøndby, they should instead go for a “gifted” free agent.

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While it feels unlikely that either of the duo mentioned would arrive north of the border, there is an appetite for another striker and winger at a minimum to bolster squad depth.

Marco Tilio’s return from Melbourne City could also intrigue Celtic, but it has always felt likely that the Bhoys will dip into the market to acquire new creative threats.

Speaking of which, Rodgers’ men have now reportedly opened talks with a familiar target as they look to push a deal over the line, per recent developments.

Celtic hold discussions to sign Michel-Ange Balikwisha

According to Sacha Tavolieri on X, Celtic have made contact and opened discussions with Michel-Ange Balikwisha’s camp to begin ‘new discussions regarding personal terms’ involving the Royal Antwerp man.

Retaining an interest in the former Belgium Under-21 international since last summer, further updates are expected on his future in the coming days as Rodgers looks to land his man.

Labelled “unpredictable” by Ben Mattinson, Balikwisha is someone the Irishman has personally expressed an interest in signing and his small sample size on the pitch over the campaign has illustrated why.

Despite having injury issues, the 24-year-old registered four goals and three assists in 18 matches across all competitions. Valued at roughly £4.2 million by Transfermarkt, it remains to be seen what the ballpark figure is for Celtic to secure his services.

Mourinho loves him: Everton readying offer to sign "intelligent" forward

Everton are now ready to make an offer to sign an “intelligent” new striker who is loved by his manager Jose Mourinho, according to a recent report.

Everton targeting Premier League proven signings

As the Toffees head into their new stadium, they hope the prospect of being a part of a new era at the club will help them when it comes to signings this summer. This is a chance for David Moyes to put a real stamp on this Everton team, and from recent rumours, it is clear the Scotsman is targeting Premier League captures.

Everton now make bid to beat Man City in race to sign £1.5m EFL rising star

Everton are among the Premier League teams to make an offer to sign a young Championship player.

ByBrett Worthington Jun 5, 2025

It’s already been reported that the Toffees are eyeing a surprise double raid on their arch-rivals Liverpool, as they are interested in signing Ben Doak and Joe Gomez, both players who could be free to leave Anfield. As well as looking at Liverpool, it’s also been reported that Burnley duo Josh Brownhill and Maxime Estève are firmly on their radar, as both players impressed for the Clarets during their Championship promotion campaign.

Adding more creativity to his team seems to be a priority for Moyes this summer, as Sky Sports reported earlier this week that the Toffees are keen on striking a deal to sign Matt O’Riley from Brighton & Hove Albion. The Dane suffered a frustrating season with the Seagulls due to a pre-season injury, and it is now unclear if he remains a part of their plans heading into the new campaign.

Everton ready to make an offer to sign Oguz Aydin

Doak and O’Riley are not the only attacking options under consideration, as according to Sporx, relayed by Everton News, Everton are ready to test the waters and make a move to sign Oguz Aydin from Fenerbahçe.

The report states that Moyes is looking to add more depth and quality to the wide areas of his team, and that has taken them to Aydin. The 24-year-old joined the Turkish giants last summer and finished the campaign with seven goals and four assists in 25 Süper Lig games.

Despite the fact that he is under contract until 2028, the Toffees are ready to “test the waters” and make an offer to Fenerbahçe for the winger. In fact, Everton sent scouts to watch Aydin in action last season, and he is obviously a player they have kept a close eye on and are now ready to make a concrete move for.

Aydin is a player who can play on both flanks, and given his importance last season and the fact he has only just joined Fenerbahçe, it is likely going to take a big offer to tempt them into selling.

Apps

30

Starts

20

Goals

7

Assists

8

Aydin has done really well since Mourinho brought him to the club; in fact, the Fenerbahçe boss hasn’t hidden how much he rates the winger, labelling him “intelligent”: “He is a good player physically and tactically and very intelligent.

“With all due respect to (Vincenzo) Montella (Turkey manager), he should be happy. I suppose the team that did not sign him will be unhappy. We brought him in at the last minute. I asked him to give me time. He was not ready, but, after 4-5 months, he has reached an optimal level. I am very happy for him.”

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