Celtic are planning a busy end to the transfer window with Brendan Rodgers wanting at least three more signings coming through the door. The Hoops boss wants to sign a new winger, striker and centre-back to compete for the Scottish Premiership and in Europe.
Rodgers has already made six signings this summer but believes more signings will allow them to compete on multiple fronts, especially if they qualify for the Champions League.
The first of these new signings have been identified as Celtic have put in a bid for one of their long-term forward targets.
Rodgers and Celtic bid for Jota-like winger
Celtics hunt for a new winger might come in the form of long-term target Michel-Ange Balikwisha. Balikwisha is similar in his position and style of play to Jota, as per Football Transfers, so he would be a suitable replacement while the Portuguese star is recovering from his injury.
Michel-Ange Balikwisha in action for Royal Antwerp.
Sports Witness have reported that the Hoops’ interest in Balikwisha first started last summer when Rodgers attempted to sign him. The report also shares that Celtic and Royal Antwerp had negotiations on his signing and that injuries to the Belgian forward halted the deal.
This summer, Celtic are seen as ‘currently the most concrete option’ for Balikwisha’s next team. The Scottish champions have reportedly put in a bid of unknown value, however, that was rejected by Antwerp. It seems the 24-year-old could cost Celtic up to £4.7 million as Antwerp are hoping to recoup most of what they spent on him in 2021.
Balikwisha injury concerns
Celtic have a long-term interest in Balikwisha, and with a similar profile to Jota, he could be a good fit to join the club. However, the deal has failed to come to fruition once before because of his injuries, and it’s certainly a factor that needs to be taken into consideration.
Balikwisha’s Injury History Since Joining Antwerp
Season
Days Missed (Games Missed)
Injury
24/25
205 (29)
2x Unspecified Muscle
1x Torn Thigh
23/24
49 (10)
Knee Surgery
22/23
103 (14)
1x Unspecified Muscle
1x Torn Thigh Muscle
21/22
51 (10)
1x Hip Injury
1x Hamstring Injury
Total
408 (63)
8 Injuries
Even in Balikwisha’s best season at Antwerp, he missed 10 games through injury. However, his best seasons are far less concerning than his worst, as last year he was only available for 17 of Antwerp’s 46 games.
It is not certain that, just because Balikwisha has experienced these injuries at Antwerp, that he would continue to at Celtic. A change in medical staff and physio department might be needed to help the 24-year-old train so that his injuries are not as frequent, but there’s no guarantee of this, and he may just be an injury-prone player.
Celtic will have to take this into consideration when they decide whether or not to make a new offer. From the report, this has been an issue that has deterred them from this transfer in the past, so Rodgers and his team need to decide whether he is worth the money.
It would be something of an understatement to say this summer has been a busy one for Chelsea.
Enzo Maresca’s men hardly had a moment to catch their breath after winning the Conference League before they were thrown into the Club World Cup, which they then won.
Likewise, even though the board have made plenty of signings over recent years, they’ve been just as busy this summer, picking up some genuinely exciting talents like Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Jamie Gittens.
Chelsea manager EnzoMarescabefore the start of the second half
However, they aren’t done there, as they’ve also been linked with another international star, someone who’d be a far better signing than another player touted for a move to Stamford Bridge: Alejandro Garnacho.
Chelsea target massive Garnacho upgrade
While most of Chelsea’s business this summer has been conducted without much controversy or fan backlash, it wouldn’t be unfair to suggest that there is a portion of the fan base who wouldn’t be overjoyed with the potential signing of Garnacho.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
After all, the Argentine international has a massive public falling out with Ruben Amorim at Manchester United, and while he’s talented, the supposed price tag of around £40m might be too much for someone who could disrupt the dressing room.
So, it’s good news that it now appears as if the club are closing in on someone else, someone who’d be a far better signing.
Manchester United's AlejandroGarnachoduring training
At least that is according to a recent report from Sports Zone, which claims that Chelsea are now rapidly advancing with their interest in Xavi Simons.
In fact, the report has revealed that the Blues have now reached an agreement on personal terms for the RB Leipzig star, and that a first bid is expected sometime today.
While the report makes no mention of how much the Dutchman might cost the West Londoners, other stories from this month have claimed that the German outfit want around £61m.
It could therefore be an expensive transfer to get over the line, but given Simons’ ability and potential, it’s one worth fighting for, especially as he’d be a way better signing than Garnacho.
Why Simons would be a better signing than Garnacho
So, if we ignore all the potential off-the-pitch problems and focus solely on what they can do on the pitch, why would Simons be a far better signing than Garnacho?
Xavi Simons celebrates
Well, first and foremost, the Dutchman is simply the far more dangerous attacking outlet, and that is clearly shown in their respective output from last season.
In his 33 games for Leipzig, totalling just 2763 minutes, the 22-year-old “game-changer,” as dubbed by talent scout Jacek Kulig, scored 11 goals and provided eight assists.
That means the former Paris Saint-Germain gem managed to average a goal involvement every 1.73 games, or every 144 minutes.
In contrast, the Madrid-born ace scored just 11 goals and provided ten assists in 58 appearances, totalling 3,568 minutes, for the Red Devils last term.
Appearances
33
58
Minutes
2763′
3568′
Goals
11
11
Assists
8
10
Goal Involvements per Match
0.57
0.36
Minutes per Goal Involvements
144′
169.90′
In other words, the Argentine international averaged a goal involvement every 2.76 games, or every 169.90 minutes.
Unfortunately for the United ace, the one-sided nature of this comparison only continues when we take a look at their national team statistics as well.
For example, the former PSV Eindhoven superstar has already won 28 senior caps for the Netherlands, in which he’s scored five goals, provided four assists, made one World Cup appearance and six at the European Championships.
For his efforts, the Argentine has won just eight caps, one of which was a substitute appearance at the Copa América, and he’s only provided one assist in that time.
Ultimately, while Garnacho has undeniable talent, Simons is simply the better and more complete player, and therefore, Chelsea should be looking to sign him over the United ace.
Chelsea are now "close" to signing a talent who's as big as Estevao
The seriously exciting gem could develop into a world-beater for Chelsea.
For the first time in a decade, Manchester United will begin a new season without Marcus Rashford in tow, with the former boy wonder having finally secured his long-awaited switch to LaLiga giants, Barcelona.
That loan move – which could be made permanent for a fee of around £26m next summer – has long been in the pipeline amid the Englishman’s ongoing exile back at Old Trafford, having last been seen in a United shirt away to Viktoria Plzen back in December.
Cast aside by Ruben Amorim ahead of the Manchester Derby triumph at the Etihad, the £300k-per-week enigma appears in need of reinvigoration, with his 30-goal heroics in 2022/23 standing out as a notable high point amid a mixed few years on a personal note.
2024/25*
24
7
3
2023/24
43
8
6
2022/23
56
30
11
2021/22
32
5
2
2020/21
57
21
18
Such woes have notably seen a fair few figures raise their eyebrows at the 27-year-old’s ability to still covet interest from an elite European club like Barca, with treble winner Teddy Sheringham even going as far as to suggest that the move to Catalonia is “a step up that he hasn’t deserved.”
Regardless, Rashford is someone else’s problem – or prize – now, for the next 12 months at least, with Jason Wilcox and co now needing to assemble a squad to kickstart a new era in Manchester.
Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha have more than strengthened Amorim’s hand so far, although further surgery is surely required…
Latest on Man Utd's search for a striker
The new Premier League season is mere weeks away and Man United appear no closer to ending their number nine search, having reportedly seen their interest in Aston Villa talisman Ollie Watkins knocked back, with the Midlands seemingly unwilling to cash in on the Englishman.
Isak
To the surprise of no one, wantaway Newcastle United man Alexander Isak also won’t be ending up at the Theatre of Dreams, with the cash-strapped Red Devils said to have stepped out of the race for the £130m-rated Swede.
Alternative options continue to be considered, however, with ESPN naming Paris Saint-Germain outcast Randal Kolo Muani as one of the players on Wilcox’s shortlist, following his return from a loan spell at Juventus.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
The suggestion is that United have been exploring a potential deal for the Frenchman, with the versatile striker said to have been offered to a number of clubs, as Juve struggle to greenlight a return due to the financial demands.
The report outlines that PSG could agree to an initial temporary deal with an obligation to buy, while a permanent move could cost in the region of €50m (£42m) – two years on from having cost the Ligue 1 side a fee of around €75m (£63m).
It is claimed that the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal have already passed up the opportunity to sign the 26-year-old, although could he prove a risk worth taking for United?
How Kolo Muani compares to Marcus Rashford
It is telling of United’s current woes that despite being cast aside before Christmas, Rashford’s return of four Premier League goals – excluding his two for Villa – still saw him finish level with Rasmus Hojlund in that regard, as well as one ahead of fellow forward Joshua Zirkzee.
That is not to say that the Englishman deserved to be persisted with, however, having notably chipped in with just seven top-flight goals the year prior, after also only scoring four times in the league in 2021/22.
Of course, the academy graduate has had his high points – namely his 17 league goals in 2022/23 – but there is little evidence to suggest that he is irreplaceable. Turning to a talent like Kolo Muani, for instance, could represent the perfect replacement.
Indeed, while many onlookers are perhaps most familar with the 39-cap France international for his last-gasp miss in the 2022 World Cup final, the former Nantes man is typically an “ice-cold” finisher, as dubbed by German legend Lothar Matthaus.
That was evident during his six-month stay in Turin earlier this year, with the dynamic striker making an instant impact for the Old Lady, having scored ten times in just 22 outings, including a return of eight goals in just 16 Serie A games.
For comparison, Rashford’s own January loan switch to Villa Park yielded only four goals from 17 appearances in all competitions, with both men having typically operated in a central role during their respective temporary moves.
Having started just 13 games in Italy’s top flight, Kolo Muani enjoyed a rate of one goal every 146 minutes, alongside an impressive goal conversion rate of 31%, as per Sofascore.
Rashford, for contrast, scored a goal every 238 minutes back in England, while enjoying a goal conversion of just 17%, having started 16 games in all.
While the latter man came out on top for assists (three vs one) and big chances created (eight vs two), the pair both averaged 1.1 key passes per game, with Kolo Muani notably enjoying a superior record for successful dribbles completed (0.7 vs 1.1).
And so, with the chance available for United to pounce, Wilcox could be able to hand Amorim an immediate upgrade on Rashford to bolster his forward line, with the striker’s form in Italy certainly reason for encouragement.
He's perfect for Watkins: Man Utd hold internal talks for "dangerous" star
Manchester United appear to be making a move to land a star who could thrive alongside Ollie Watkins.
Arsenal are very active in the transfer market and could complete an array of different deals before summer deadline day on September 1.
Club now "working tirelessly" to sign Arsenal "magician" for pre-season
It starts in three days.
ByEmilio Galantini Jul 11, 2025
Mikel Arteta is being backed to the very hilt by new sporting director Andrea Berta, who’s making quite the impression since he was officially announced as Edu’s replacement in late March.
The Italian has begun his reign by completing the signings of Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard and Noni Madueke, with the latter undergoing his medical this weekend ahead of a £50 million move from Chelsea (Fabrizio Romano).
19/20 – winter
£0
20/21 – summer
£81.5m
20/21 – winter
£900k
21/22 – summer
£156.8m
21/22 – winter
£1.8m
22/23 – summer
£121.5m
22/23 – winter
£59m
23/24 – summer
£208m
23/24 – winter
£0
24/25 – summer
£101.5m
24/25 – winter
£0
25/26 – summer
£75m
The England international, who has divided opinions among the Arsenal fanbase, will also put pen to paper on a long-term five-year contract – putting an end to Arsenal’s search for a left-winger.
While their pursuit of an out-and-out wide appears has drawn to a close with Madueke’s arrival, Arsenal still want Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze to complement club captain Martin Odegaard in central attacking midfield, according to Sky Sports.
Arsenal have held positive talks with Eze’s camp, but are yet to open formal Palace talks with regard to paying the 27-year-old’s £68 million release clause.
The potential arrivals of both Eze and Madueke would come as a serious statement from Arsenal, but one area of the squad which quite simply needs to be prioritised is at centre-forward.
Arsenal’s lack of ruthlessness in the final third last term, especially when compared to their previous two campaigns, was a major cause for concern and played a serious role in the Gunners’ lacklustre Premier League title challenge.
Viktor Gyokeres only wants to join Arsenal this summer
The consensus is that Berta’s looking towards Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres to solve this problem.
The prolific Sweden international has been unplayable since moving to Portugal two years ago, scoring 97 goals in just 102 total appearances, but his time at Sporting, it’s safe to say, is now over.
The former Coventry City star is actively refusing to return to pre-season training, and Arsenal are in advanced talks to sign Gyokeres, as negotiations rumble on over the final fee.
Now, the ever-reliable Fabrizio Romano has shared an update on the situation.
Viktor Gyokeres celebrating.
Writing for CaughtOffside, he states that Gyokeres only wants to join Arsenal this summer, and he won’t entertain talks with any other club as things stand, so there is little danger of a potential hijack from Ruben Amorim’s Man United.
This comes after personal terms were agreed with Gyokeres days ago, but Sporting’s price is a major sticking point.
Some reports have even claimed that their president, Frederico Varandas, could go back on his promise not to demand the player’s full £85 million release clause – due to the toxic situation involving Gyokeres’ agent (CNN Portugal).
Leeds United are reportedly close to completing their third signing of the summer transfer window with the addition of central defender Sebastiaan Bornauw from Wolfsburg.
The Belgian colossus was due for his medical at Thorp Arch on Monday and is now set to add more depth to a defensive unit that already includes Pascal Struijk, Max Wober, Joe Rodon, Ethan Ampadu, and recent signing Jaka Bijol.
Daniel Farke looks set to have plenty of options to choose from at the heart of his defence next season in the Premier League, and he is also looking to add more quality at the other end of the pitch.
Leeds pushing to sign new striker
Bornauw will be the second centre-back added to the squad, after Bijol, and the Whites are now in the market to make further attacking reinforcements.
Rodrigo Muniz appears to be one number nine target who is off the table for the club, though, as Fulham reportedly see him as not for sale amid interest from the West Yorkshire outfit.
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 the print edition of Corriere Dello Sport (30/06/2025), as relayed by MOTLeedsNews, Leeds United are pushing to sign Lecce centre-forward Nikola Krstovic in the summer transfer window.
The report claims that the club’s interest in the Montenegro international has forced the Serie A clubs to start pursuing striker targets of their own to replace the forward, which speaks to the level of interest shown by the Championship champions.
It now remains to be seen whether or not Leeds will be able to get a deal for the £21m-rated number nine over the line in the coming weeks.
Nikola Krstovic could be the next Chris Wood for Leeds
If the Whites can secure the 25-year-old striker’s signature, then they could find their next version of Chris Wood, who scored 44 goals in 88 matches during his time at Elland Road in the Championship.
After leaving Leeds to sign for Burnley, Wood proved himself to be a dependable Premier League goalscorer, with a return of 89 goals in 263 games for the Clarets, Nottingham Forest, and Newcastle United combined. That is a return of between 12 and 13 goals per 38 appearances.
In Krstovic, Leeds could find a physical and mobile centre-forward, like Wood, who can also consistently deliver that level of quality in front of goal in the top-flight.
The 25-year-old star ended the 2024/25 campaign with a haul of 11 goals in 37 Serie A outings for Lecce, which shows that he can score goals at a respectable rate in a major European league.
As well as being a striker who has the potential to add a goal threat to Farke’s squad in the Premier League next season, Krstovic is also similar to Wood in the sense that he provides a physical presence in the number nine role.
Appearances
37
36
Goals
11
20
Big chances created
5
3
Assists
5
3
Duels won
4.9
3.5
Ground duel success rate
40%
35%
Aerial duel success rate
41%
39%
As you can see in the table above, the Lecce star offered even more physicality to his team in the Serie A than the New Zealand international did for Forest in the Premier League, winning a higher percentage of his duels on the deck and in the air.
Krstovic, who was hailed as “integral” by former boss Roberto D’Aversa, stands at 6 foot 1 and, clearly, has the attributes to compete with physical centre-backs at the top level.
A Bijol repeat: Leeds make one of the "best in the world" a priority target
Leeds United could soon seal another fantastic defensive deal by landing this cut-price star.
ByKelan Sarson Jun 30, 2025
Therefore, Farke could land his own version of Wood by landing a deal for the Serie A marksman, who could provide goals, assists, and physicality in the Premier League next term.
Amid rumours that they’ve already had to reject a bid worth £45m to sell Anthony Elanga, Nottingham Forest have now reportedly opened talks to sign a possible replacement.
Nottingham Forest reject Newcastle's Elanga bid
After securing a shock place in the Europa Conference League in an excellent season last time out, Nottingham Forest are in no position to sell key players. But that hasn’t stopped certain clubs from testing the waters. Among them, Newcastle United reportedly formalised their interest in Elanga with an offer worth £45m earlier this week, only to see that bid rejected by those at the City Ground.
There’s still plenty of time remaining in the summer transfer window, however, and Forest will be well aware that Newcastle could yet come calling a second time.
If that does happen, then preparing for Elanga’s exit in a worst-case scenario would not be a bad idea for all involved at the City Ground. Already, on that front, Forest have attempted and failed to sign Timothy Weah from Juventus and have also been linked with versatile AC Milan midfielder Yunus Musah.
YunusMusahof the U.S. in action with England's Jude Bellingham
Whether either of those options possess the quality to replace Elanga is the big question. One man who is unlikely to face problems in that regard is Igor Jesus. The Botafogo forward is reportedly on his way to the Midlands alongside teammate Jair Cunha following their Club World Cup campaign.
The former has already stolen plenty of headlines with his winning goal against Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain and is seemingly about to take the Premier League by storm.
Nottingham Forest open talks to sign "elite" new star after Weah rejection
They’ve instantly turned towards another option.
ByTom Cunningham Jun 27, 2025
Jesus and Cuiabano may not be the only Club World Cup stars to arrive, either, amid reports that Forest have opened talks to sign another attacking target.
Nottingham Forest open talks to sign Pepe
According to ESPN Brazil, Nottingham Forest have now opened talks to sign Pepe from FC Porto, who are demanding over €15m (£12m) to sell their 28-year-old winger this summer.
An experienced winger who scored at the Club World Cup for Porto in a 4-4 draw against Al-Ahly this summer, Pepe would offer Forest instant depth and may even be asked to replace Elanga if the Swede joins Newcastle.
Minutes
1,991
2,501
Goals
3
6
Assists
2
11
Key Passes
31
50
The pressure would instantly be on Pepe if he did step in for Elanga and although his experience could prove to be invaluable, questions will be asked about his ability to match the 22-year-old’s output.
As a versatile backup who can play all across the frontline, however, the Porto man represents an ideal choice as Forest step into European football. At just over £12m too, it’s not a deal that Evangelos Marinakis will need to splash out on for Nuno Espirito Santo in the coming months.
Newcastle United are now trying to get ahead of Barcelona in the race to sign a “fantastic” forward on loan for the 2025/26 season, according to a new report.
Newcastle chasing multiple targets after rejected Elanga bid
Earlier this week, the Magpies saw a bid in the region of £45 million turned down straight away by Nottingham Forest for winger Anthony Elanga. Forest have made it clear they have no intention of selling the Sweden international, and now Newcastle are said to be weighing up whether to make another move.
Nottingham Forest's Anthony Elanga
As they decide what to do next in their pursuit of Elanga, Newcastle are already working on other potential arrivals in the meantime. The Premier League side are already in advanced talks to sign James Trafford from Burnley in a deal that is worth £30 million, and the transfer news doesn’t stop there, as the Magpies have agreed personal terms with forward Joao Pedro.
Newcastle are now said to be preparing a bid to sign the Brighton & Hove Albion attacker, but Chelsea’s interest has made the player think about where he would like to play his football from next season and beyond.
Newcastle now contact representatives of imposing 6 ft 4 Spanish defender
The Magpies have emerged as a new contender.
BySean Markus Clifford Jun 25, 2025
A move for Pedro may depend on several factors, as a continued pursuit of Elanga could cool their interest in the Brighton man, but there is also another player who is firmly on their radar, and he could be seen as an alternative to both attackers.
Newcastle trying to beat Barça to Rashford
According to Caught Offside, Newcastle are making “serious moves” to sign Marcus Rashford on loan from Manchester United.
The Magpies are laying the groundwork to sign the Englishman, though with Rashford fully expected to leave Old Trafford this summer, there is set to be a race for his signature. The winger’s preference is to join Barcelona, but it remains unclear if the Spanish side are going to make him a priority despite Hansi Flick’s public interest.
Rashford, who earns £300,000 a week at Man United, spent the second half of last season on loan at Aston Villa after falling out of favour under Ruben Amorim. The Red Devils have already brought Matheus Cunha to the club this summer and are now closing in on a deal for Bryan Mbeumo, which makes the case stronger that Rashford doesn’t have a future at the club.
Apps
25
Starts
16
Goals
6
xG
4.77
Total shots
1.4
Chance conversion
17%
Assists
3
xAG
3.45
Big chances created
8
United would ideally like to sell Rashford, as they have placed a £40 million price tag on his head. But given his wages and the transfer fee, the Red Devils may have to accept what Newcastle are willing to offer, and that is a loan deal.
A move to St James’ Park would see Rashford, who was dubbed “fantastic” by Unai Emery and even “world class” by teammate Rasmus Hojlund, come up against the likes of Anthony Gordon, Harvey Barnes and Alexander Isak for a starting spot in Eddie Howe’s team.
The season ended less than a month ago, and so much has already changed at Tottenham Hotspur.
In the space of a week, Ange Postecoglou, who led the club to their first trophy in almost two decades this season, was fired, and his replacement all but announced.
The man to come in and try to improve the Lilywhites’ Premier League form looks set to be Brentford’s Thomas Frank.
However, to ensure the Danish coach can do that, Daniel Levy and Co have to execute this summer perfectly, which means bringing in the right players and selling those who need to be sold, such as Son Heung-min and another big name.
Why Son should be sold
There is no doubt that in the pantheon of great and iconic Tottenham Hotspur players, Son is right near the very top, as not only has he spent a decade at the club, but he was the captain for their Europa League triumph last week.
Chalkboard
Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.
However, that is one of the reasons he should be moved on this summer, as if he were to go now, he’d be leaving on an incredible high and as an unquestionable legend of the club, but were he to remain for another year, there is every chance his declining ability would see him eventually leave on something of a sour note next year.
It’s not the South Korean superstar’s fault he’s become less effective in recent years, but just an unfortunate reality of getting older, a reality supported by research carried out by The Athletic showing that wide attackers peak at 26 and see their ability to take defenders on nosedive at 30 and beyond.
Appearances
36
46
Goals
17
11
Assists
10
12
Goal Involvements per Match
0.75
0.5
We can also see this in his numbers, with the Chuncheon-born ace racking up 27 goal involvements in 36 appearances last year but just 23 in 46 games this year.
Moreover, per FBref, the 32-year-old sat in the top 9% of attacking midfielders and wingers for successful take-ons per 90 in the 18/19 Premier League season, but then this season, he was in the bottom 42% for the same metric.
Now, the good news is that the North Londoners can probably still get some good money for the Bayer Leverkusen star, as according to French outlet Foot Mercato, he has been approached by Saudi Pro-league side Al-Hilal, and as we’ve seen in the past few years, they can pay an awful lot for ageing stars.
In all, Son is now a bonafide legend at Spurs, but this summer feels like the right time for him to go so he can leave on a high, and the club can cash in, which is the same for another star.
The Spurs star who should be sold
While there are a few players who should be sold this summer because they simply aren’t good enough, like Yves Bissouma, we are talking about one of the co-vice captains, Cristian Romero.
Now, before the pitchforks and torches come out, we are not for one second saying the Argentine isn’t good enough to play for Spurs under Frank.
However, there are a few reasons why the North Londoners should probably be looking to cash in on him, with the first being the interest.
There has always been the odd link here and there for the World Cup winner, but it has to be said that in the last few months, said links have increased in volume and believability.
For example, Real Madrid were reportedly keen on the former Juventus ace in early April, but since then, there has been a near-constant stream of reports touting him for a move to their city rivals, Atlético Madrid.
Worse still, the Córdoba-born “monster,” dubbed by journalist Charlie Eccleshare, has reportedly already spoken to his compatriot Diego Simeone and now wants to move to the Spanish capital, which is a want likely strengthened by the sacking of Postecoglou.
The second reason is intertwined with the first and concerns the money involved in a potential move.
If the club can get upwards of £60m for the wantaway defender, as it looks like they want, then that cash can go towards new players that actually want to play for the team and that Frank personally wants in his squad.
Finally, the the £165,000-per-week defender cannot be relied upon to remain fit anymore, as he missed a whopping 27 games for club and country this season, so even if he stays this summer, he could well end up missing half of the 25/26 campaign.
Ultimately, Romero is a brilliant footballer and was important in the Europa League this year, but with him increasingly looking like he wants to leave, combined with his fitness problems, it would make sense for Spurs to cash in now and hand Franks the funds to sign his own players.
Dream Semenyo alternative: Spurs plot bid to sign "terrifying" £21m star
The dynamic attacker could represent a sensational deal for Spurs.
Manchester United’s season ended in disappointing fashion when they were beaten 1-0 by Tottenham Hotspur in the final of the Europa League in Bilbao last month.
That result means that the Red Devils will not be playing European football in the 2025/26 campaign, as they missed out on the chance to qualify for the Champions League.
Manchester United manager RubenAmorimbefore the match
This has already had an impact on their summer transfer business, as Chelsea agreed a deal to sign Liam Delap from Ipswich Town ahead of them. Fabrizio Romano claimed that Champions League football was key to the Blues winning the race for the England U21 international.
The 22-year-old marksman plundered 12 goals in 37 appearances in the Premier League for the Tractor Boys in the 2024/25 campaign, and will now link up with Enzo Maresca and his squad.
Liam Delap
However, despite failing to qualify for any European competition and missing out on the signing of Delap, Manchester United have already confirmed that Matheus Cunha has joined the club from Wolverhampton Wanderers on a permanent deal.
What Matheus Cunha could bring to Manchester United
The Brazil international appears to be an ideal fit for Ruben Amorim’s system on paper, because he played as one of two attacking midfielders behind a striker in a similar formation at Wolves.
Wolverhampton Wanderers'MatheusCunhacelebrates
This means that he could slot straight in as one of the number tens in the Portuguese head coach’s 3-4-2-1 system, with the hope that he can deliver goals and assists on a regular basis.
The 26-year-old’s form for Wolves in the last two Premier League seasons suggests that the potential is there for him to make an instant impact at Old Trafford with his ability to score and create goals.
Appearances
32
33
xG
9.49
8.63
Goals
12
15
Big chances created
7
13
Key passes per game
0.9
1.8
Assists
7
6
As you can see in the table above, Cunha delivered 27 goals and 13 assists in 65 appearances across those two campaigns, whilst no Manchester United player scored more than eight goals in the Premier League this term.
This suggests that he could immediately be Amorim’s biggest goal threat at the top end of the pitch, due to the current lack of quality in the final third for United.
Cunha, however, only scored six goals and provided six assists in 40 LaLiga outings for Atletico Madrid earlier in his career, so there may still be a question mark over his suitability for a side that is looking to challenge at the top end of the table.
Whilst there is still some doubt over whether or not he can become a star for United in the same way he was for Wolves, the Red Devils could land an even bigger signing than Cunha amid interest in a Champions League winner.
Man Utd eyeing deal for PSG star
According to CaughtOffside, Manchester United are one of a number of clubs interested in a deal to sign Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.
The report claims that Inter, Juventus, Manchester United, and Manchester City are all eyeing up a move for the shot-stopper, who kept a clean sheet in the Champions League final on Saturday.
Transfer Focus
Mega money deals, controversial moves and big-name flops. This is the home of transfer news and opinion across Football FanCast.
It states that the Italy international’s current contract in Paris is due to expire in the summer of 2026, with contract talks at a standstill, and this has left the door open to a potential move away from the club ahead of the 2025/26 campaign.
CaughtOffside adds that Juventus and Inter are the two most serious contenders to land the 26-year-old goalkeeper this summer, as they hope that a move back to Italy would be tempting for him.
The report claims, however, that Manchester United are also monitoring his situation with PSG because Amorim is unconvinced by Andre Onana could swoop for the PSG star as a replacement for the Cameroon international.
If the Red Devils can get a deal over the line for Donnarumma ahead of the likes of Inter and Juventus, the Italian colossus could be an even bigger signing than Cunha.
Why Donnarumma would be a bigger signing than Cunha for Man Utd
Unlike Cunha, the PSG superstar has proven himself at the very top level as a regular for both PSG and Italy, winning four Ligue 1 titles, one Champions League, and the European Championship with his country.
The former Milan star has been there and done it in the biggest competitions and leagues, whereas Cunha – as aforementioned – is yet to prove himself at that level.
GOAL recently posted an updated power ranking for the 2025 Ballon d’Or and placed Donnarumma in 12th place, as one of the contenders for the prestigious award, thanks to his impressive performances for PSG.
Cunha, as he has not showcased his quality on the same stages, did not rank in their top 20, which speaks to the gulf in quality between the two players.
Donnarumma would also come in as a significant upgrade on Onana between the sticks and provide United with a solid goalkeeper who could be relied upon week-in-week-out.
Appearances
15
13
Save percentage
72%
63%
Goals prevented
1.69
-1.54
Clean sheets
6
2
Error led to shot
0
0
Error led to goal
1
2
As you can see in the table above, the Italian international was significantly better as a shot-stopper in Europe this season, whilst also making fewer errors that led to goals.
The PSG star also went through the Ligue 1 campaign, playing 24 matches, without making a single error that led to a shot or a goal, whilst Onana made four errors leading to shots or goals in 34 Premier League games.
These statistics suggest that Donnarumma would be a huge upgrade on the current United number one, both as a shot-stopper and as a reliable presence in goal, which is another reason why he would be an even more important signing than Cunha.
Instead of worrying about whether or not their goalkeeper is going to make a mistake, the Red Devils defenders could be assured by the Italy international behind them, leading to greater defensive displays and fewer errors at the back.
Osimhen upgrade: Best "finisher in the world" is now Man Utd's no.1 target
All of Manchester United’s attacking dreams would come true if they landed this Victor Osimhen upgrade.
5 ByKelan Sarson Jun 1, 2025
It is now down to the club to win the race to sign the Champions League winner and Ballon d’Or contender this summer, as he could be a transformational signing due to the quality and pedigree that the goalkeeper would bring to the team.
Arsenal transfer chief Andrea Berta is now targeting a marquee Premier League forward for Mikel Arteta, as his talks for Real Madrid star Rodrygo hit a snag.
Arsenal open talks for Rodrygo in chase for quality new winger
Last week, Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg broke news that Arsenal had opened talks over a move for Rodrygo, with Berta in hot pursuit of a quality new winger who can provide them with even more goals and assists.
Club tell "popular" young forward they want to ship him back to Arsenal
A return to north London for him now beckons.
1 ByEmilio Galantini May 24, 2025
Rodrygo shot to the “very top” of Berta’s list of transfer targets in that regard, but it is still seen as a pretty difficult deal to pull off for a multitude of reasons.
The 24-year-old, who’s bagged 13 goals and 10 assists in all competitions over 50 total appearances this season, is also on around £202,000-per-week at Real. This would make Rodrygo one of Arsenal’s highest-paid players on a wage bill which is already pretty significant, with the Gunners’ annual payroll already totalling around £170 million.
19/20 – winter
£0
20/21 – summer
£81.5m
20/21 – winter
£900k
21/22 – summer
£156.8m
21/22 – winter
£1.8m
22/23 – summer
£121.5m
22/23 – winter
£59m
23/24 – summer
£208m
23/24 – winter
£0
24/25 – summer
£101.5m
24/25 – winter
£0
If you also factor in his £68 million rumoured price tag, a move for Rodrygo suddenly becomes a costly operation, and Arsenal need to set aside their summer funds carefully as they also target a prolific striker.
Taking all of this into account, it’s actually little surprise that negotiations are now stumbling, as reported by Plettenberg this week.
Arsenal eye Kaoru Mitoma as Rodrygo talks stall
Writing via X, the Sky journalist claims that Brighton star Kaoru Mitoma has now been identified as an alternative to the Real winger, with a move for Rodrygo proving complex as talks stall.
As Arsenal become faced with the very real possibility of having to give up on their “dream signing”, as per Plettenberg, Mitoma could prove to be a tempting option in place of Rodrygo.
The Japan star has scored 11 goals and bagged a further four assists in total throughout 24/25, enjoying yet another productive season at the Amex, but he won’t exactly be much cheaper than Rodrygo.
Kaoru Mitoma
Reports suggest Mitoma could cost as much as £80 million to prise away from the south coast, with Brighton known to be stern negotiators when it comes to selling their star players.
The 27-year-old won’t be a signing for the ultra-long-term either as he fast approaches his prime, so this is a move which Berta will need to consider very carefully.