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Liverpool's summer transfer window was not without its turbulence, but in hindsight, the mass midfield exodus and subsequent influx has reshaped and restored a side in decline.

Last season, the Reds languished and looked pitiful in the face of some heavy adversity, and the fifth-placed Premier League finish was an apt reflection of a miserable campaign.

Jurgen Klopp even admitted that he could face the sack in April should the terrible form seep into the 2023/24 season, having just slumped to a 4-1 defeat against Manchester City; it would have been an ignominious end to an illustrious reign.

Out with the old, in with the new – or so it goes. The likes of Jordan Henderson, James Milner and Fabinho were shown the door and an exciting new clutch of midfield talent has thus far pumped vitality and quality into the squad to uphold Klopp's system.

The impressive start to the campaign hints at prosperity once again, with the last residual vestiges of enervation wiped away, but it could have been that last term's issues were avoided entirely had transfer business in 2022 not been so myopic.

Arthur Melo was the sole midfield signing – a panic buy, on loan, late into the window – despite obvious signs of wear and tear, and the Brazilian flopped big time, playing just 13 minutes of action.

Klopp and co wanted the perfect addition, and after the pursuit of Aurelien Tchouameni ended fruitless, with the Frenchman joining Real Madrid in a €100m (£85m) transfer, an unadventurous end to the market set the Anfield side up for failure.

Liverpool transfer news – Aurelien Tchouameni

Last year, Liverpool were fighting fiercely to secure Tchouameni's services, with Fabrizio Romano even confirming that they were among the frontrunners for the touted talent.

Carlo Ancelotti's side, however, always looked to have the lead in the race and indeed triumphed, compounding Liverpool's upset after defeating them in the Champions League final.

Now, according to Mundo Deportivo, Anfield remain suitors for the 28-cap France international as Arsenal's budding interest grows, though any move would probably be unlikely in the immediate future.

Regardless, for all Liverpool's success in rebuilding the midfield recently, a specialist No. 6 is still required, with Wataru Endo not considered the long-term, first-choice solution – Tchouameni, it seems, would be the dream option.

The stats that show Tchouameni would be a good signing for Liverpool

Having joined the Santiago Bernabeu side for such an expensive fee, Tchouameni perhaps felt the weight of a move to arguably the world's most prestigious club and didn't quite reach his peak.

The £205k-per-week star made 50 appearances across all competitions and won the Copa del Rey, though was benched throughout the Champions League knockout stage and for both semi-final ties against Barcelona in the cup.

Clearly not quite entrusted with a central role in the biggest moments, Tchouameni has made the improvements to his craft this season and now appears indispensable.

Indeed, in La Liga this term – as per Sofascore – the holding midfielder has completed 93% of his passes, made 1.7 tackles and 3.6 ball recoveries per game and won an incredible 80% of his dribbles and 70% of his duels – Manchester City's Rodri, in comparison, has won 63% of his duels in the Premier League this season.

#

Player

Club

1

Frenkie de Jong

Barcelona

2

Federico Valverde

Real Madrid

3

Pedri

Barcelona

4

Joshua Kimmich

Bayern Munich

5

Nicolo Barella

Inter Milan

*Statistics sourced via Football Transfers

As per FBref, the 23-year-old ranks among the top 1% of midfielders across Europe's top five leagues over the past year for pass completion, the top 7% for passes attempted, the top 5% for interceptions, the top 7% for aerial wins, the top 10% for clearances and the top 18% for tackles per 90.

He's a superlative defensive force in the centre, considered "world-class" by Transfermarkt's Stefan Bienkowski, having now made 14 appearances this season for his high-flying outfit.

He has recently sustained a foot injury that will likely rule him out of action for the remainder of 2023, and whether Madrid can maintain their impressive form in his absence remains to be seen.

It feels like he's getting better with every performance on the pitch, and should Liverpool pull off a transfer that would possibly eclipse anything in recent years, Klopp's team would thrive at the forefront for years to come.

An acquisition could even surpass the impact of Dominik Szoboszlai, who has been positively incredible in the centre of the park since joining the Premier League side this summer.

How Aurelien Tchouameni compares to Szoboszlai

There may have been a few half-hearted claims of the tougher competition in the Premier League after Szoboszlai joined Liverpool from RB Leipzig in a £60m deal in July, but the innate technical ability surpasses Europe's majority.

Last season, the 36-cap Hungary captain had posted ten goals and 13 assists across all competitions for his German side as they claimed a second successive DFB Pokal trophy, with his exploits leading journalist Marcel Moeller to describe him as a "generational talent."

Prolific and potent, energetic and elegant, Szoboszlai has been at the heart of Liverpool's revival and he looks set to dominate at the centre of the Anfield pitch for years to come.

Having scored two goals and assists apiece from 13 matches, the 22-year-old is dazzling under Klopp's wing. He has completed 88% of his passes in the Premier League, averaging 2.5 key passes, 1.4 tackles and 7.6 ball recoveries per game, as per Sofascore.

For comparison, Tottenham Hotspur's James Maddison – arguably the "signing of the summer", according to TNT pundit Joe Cole – has completed 85% of his passes, creating 3.2 key passes per game but winning 1.4 tackles and 2.2 ball recoveries per outing.

Similar players, Szoboszlai is thriving as the engine in the middle, far more robust and energetic – for all Maddison's might, you would find few Liverpool supporters eager to trade.

It's rather staggering to think that if Merseysiders were to pull off the elusive deal for Tchouameni, Klopp might boast a midfield ace of greater quality than the Hungarian.

Tchouameni is, of course, a different kind of midfielder, and comparisons should not be drawn from the pairs' contrasting metrics, but the presence that the former Monaco man has on the pitch is profound.

His recent injury is a massive blow to Real Madrid's season, with Ancelotti's side undefeated when he has started, and if he was deployed as the Liverpool anchor the club would be propelled to new heights.

Talent scout Jacek Kulig once lauded the player as "out of this world", and a midfield pairing of Tchouameni and Szoboszlai really would have Liverpool soaring in the skies.

Klopp will fervently hope that one day an opportunity to sign the Los Blancos man presents itself, completing his flourishing crop.

As Liverpool look ahead to the looming January transfer window, both Jurgen Klopp and the club's support will be hoping to avoid a repeat scenario from the summer, in which much of the talk was centred around the future of lethal talisman, Mohamed Salah.

While the Egyptian goal machine ultimately stayed put at Anfield, there had been very real fears that he would join the likes of Fabinho and Jordan Henderson in moving to Saudi Arabia, having reportedly been the subject of a £215m bid from Al-Ittihad in early September.

To receive such an offer for a 31-year-old could likely have tempted the Reds into a sale, yet with the European window having already slammed shut, the inability to acquire a replacement was no doubt a factor in Klopp and co holding firm.

It is likely that with the club now once again in a strong position domestically – just a point behind leaders Manchester City – sanctioning the sale of their top scorer in January would be a no-no, yet there have been whispers that Saudi interest will renew in the New Year.

In the event that Salah – who has now scored 198 goals in 322 games for the club – is tempted to move on in 2024, either in the winter or next summer, those at Anfield will have to consider acquiring a suitable replacement to slot into that right-wing berth.

At present, the only natural fit among the club's attacking crop for that role appears to be 17-year-old sensation, Ben Doak, hence the need for a more proven and experienced asset to step in.

Liverpool transfer news – Mo Salah replacements

One name that has been doing the rounds of late is Bayern Munich's, Leroy Sane, with the former Manchester City man reportedly of interest to the Premier League outfit with just 18 months left to run on his existing deal.

The German speedster has been in sparkling form this season under Thomas Tuchel after scoring nine goals and contributing seven assists in all competitions, hence the interest from those on Merseyside.

That being said, an undoubtedly suitable candidate could also have presented himself within English football, with West Ham United talisman, Jarrod Bowen having also caught the eye of Klopp and his staff – as well as Newcastle United.

That interest – which was noted by talkSPORT back in October – may well have been scuppered somewhat by the England international only recently signing a new long-term deal with the Hammers, yet if a handsome offer is received for Salah, those funds could be reinvested in a sizeable bid for the 26-year-old.

The former Hull City man has long been linked with a move to Anfield and has even been dubbed an "unbelievable" player by Klopp, hence why now could well be the right time for the Reds to finally make their move.

Jarrod Bowen's season by numbers

For much of last season, it was largely a tale of woe for West Ham and for Bowen, with David Moyes' side finding themselves in and around the relegation zone, while the usually reliable winger netted just six league goals – after scoring 12 times the previous campaign.

Amid all that frustration, the 2022/23 season ultimately ended on a high for Moyes and co as they romped to Europa Conference League glory, with Bowen netting the decisive goal at the death in the showpiece win over Fiorentina.

Buoyed by that match-winning involvement, the one-time Hereford United man has carried that momentum into this term, having already bettered last year's goal tally with eight goals in just 12 Premier League games thus far.

While the Irons' league form has still been somewhat mixed, the £120k-per-week wizard has undoubtedly been a shining light from the flanks, having also created three 'big chances' and averaged 1.4 tackles per game – illustrating the full array of his qualities, both in and out of possession.

Club

Games

Goals

Assists

Liverpool

8

1

2

Manchester City

9

2

0

Arsenal

8

4

1

Chelsea

9

1

4

Tottenham

9

1

0

Manchester United

11

0

1

Stats via Transfermarkt

As a left-footed asset who loves to cut in from the right wing, it is evidently clear why Bowen has been noted as the "perfect replacement" for Salah by teammate, Michail Antonio, as "everything he is touching is turning to gold right now".

How Jarrod Bowen compares to Mo Salah

The in-form "bags-man" – as described by Antonio – would have big shoes to fill were he to move to Anfield, yet there have been signs that he has the necessary traits and qualities to ably take on the Egyptian's mantle.

That was notably true following his remarkable touch and finish against Brighton and Hove Albion earlier this season, as the in-demand ace killed the ball dead with ease before prodding past the onrushing goalkeeper in a manner that Salah himself would be proud of.

In fact, that effort was perhaps somewhat reminiscent of the goal that the latter man himself scored against the Hammers, ironically, a few years ago on the counter, with it easy to see the comparison between those two composed finishes.

While Bowen has scored fewer goals (eight v ten) and provided fewer assists than his Liverpool counterpart (one v four) in the top flight this season, it's worth remembering that Salah didn't truly explode until moving to Anfield at 25 – just a year younger than the West Ham man is now.

Having joined from Roma in 2017, the one-time Chelsea flop went on to score 32 league goals in his debut season under Klopp, having previously netted career-best figures of 15 league goals in Serie A the year prior.

As such, with Bowen showing promising signs of late – and in the Premier League to boot – his impressive rise could be set to sky-rocket if nurtured under the German's wing, with there few better options to fill that potential void on the flanks.

While it remains to be seen just how much the Leominster-born sensation would cost – having been valued at €50m (£44m), as per CIES Football Observatory – any deal could be worth every penny to find what could be the 'perfect' Salah successor.

The future of an "ultimate professional" at Newcastle United appears to be up in the air, with two clubs interested in signing him in the January transfer window.

Newcastle's January transfer business

It won't be too long until Eddie Howe is ready to head back into the transfer market and look for new signings, with mid-season additions at St James' Park widely expected. Newcastle have suffered an extremely challenging season to date, picking up constant injury problems and seeing their form affected in the process, and while they have steadied the ship impressively, it will be hard to secure another top-four finish in the Premier League without fresh signings.

The 10-month suspension handed to Sandro Tonali has highlighted the need for a new central midfielder to come in, with Kalvin Phillips and Ruben Neves two names who have continually been thrown into the hat as potential targets.

Defenders and attackers have also been linked with moves to Newcastle, however, from Sporting CP centre-back Goncalo Inacio to in-form VfB Stuttgart striker Serhou Guirassy, so there are certainly lots of options being looked at.

On the flip side, there are some individuals who could potentially move on in the New Year, should they not be earning enough playing time, and a key update has emerged over the future of one Magpies ace.

Newcastle interest in PSG gem is "genuine" with scouting reports compiled

The Magpies target is not getting enough playing time in the French capital.

ByHenry Jackson Nov 27, 2023 Jacob Murphy could leave Newcastle

According to a new transfer update from Football Insider, Newcastle's Jacob Murphy could leave the club in the January window, with two Premier League clubs keen on snapping him up.

"Newcastle United winger Jacob Murphy is attracting interest from Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest ahead of the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider. The 28-year-old has emerged as a valuable squad player for Eddie Howe and can star in a number of positions.

"Palace and Forest are both looking to bolster their attacking options in the mid-season window and have lined Murphy up as a potential target. It is believed both clubs have made enquiries about his price tag and availability as the new year approaches."

Murphy has been a really strong servant for Newcastle, rarely finding himself in the headlines as a match-winner, but proving to be a brilliant squad player and an important part of the dressing room.

The 28-year-old has been hailed as the "ultimate professional" by Howe, and Murphy has scored ten goals and registered 15 assists in 158 appearances, proving to be a solid if not spectacular source of end product and someone who provides plenty of industry out wide.

Appearances

158

Goals

10

Assists

15

While the Englishman isn't out of contract at Newcastle until the summer of 2027, he could like the idea of featuring more prominently for the likes of Crystal Palace or Nottingham Forest, so selling him in January could be the best decision for all parties.

That being said, the injuries that Newcastle have suffered this season mean that selling any player is a decision that shouldn't be taken lightly.

Footballers are only human, and they love making fools of themselves on reality TV just like us normal folk. Sometimes it's TV gold, sometimes it's a disaster for everyone involved.

Football FanCast takes a look at the top ten times footballers have appeared on reality TV.

David Seaman

Dancing on Ice, 2006

If there is one thing we like making celebrities do, it's dance for us. Dancing on Ice adds the extra element of literally being on ice, a concept ex-England and Arsenal goalkeeper David Seaman was more than happy to get involved with.

Seaman was a fairly safe pair of hands back on his day, excluding that infamous lob from Ronaldinho at the 2002 World Cup, but he wasn't particularly known for being any good with his feet. He was injured while attempting a move called the 'headbanger' during rehearsals.

In typical Seaman spirit though, he powered through, being eliminated just before the final. He continued to do live shows, where he would eventually meet his current wife, Frankie Poultney. So, all in all, it did have a happy ending.

Bruce Grobbelaar

Hell's Kitchen, 2009

Zimbabwean goalkeeper Bruce Grobbelaar is no stranger to controversy. Having been accused of match-fixing during his time at Liverpool – an allegation that Grobbelaar disputes to this day – he must have felt right at home with celebrity chef Marco Pierre-White in Hell's Kitchen.

Grobbelaar surprised many by being one of the stand-out performers of the show, impressing the man who mentored Gordon Ramsay, along with his fellow competitors. In the end, he decided to leave the show on his own terms, saying that he missed his wife too much and would rather be with her.

Pierre-White implored him to stay, but it wasn't enough. We like to think Grobbelaar kept up with cooking, making his wife a tasty homemade meal every night in a quaint cottage somewhere. All the best, Bruce.

Paul Gascoigne

L'isola dei Famosi, 2021

Our very own Gazza has quite the cult following over in Italy following his spell at Lazio between 1992-95. So much so, he was asked to be a contestant on L'isola dei Famosi – Italy's version of 'Survivor' in 2021.

Unfortunately, Gazza was forced to pull out of the show following a shoulder dislocation during one of the trials. He could be seen grimacing and waiting for medical staff just after. He continued with a sling around his arm, but was forced to retire after problems persisted.

Despite his injury, Gazza was looking well and in fine form amongst his fellow competitors. The teary reunion shows just how much of a beloved personality he truly is. It's good to see Gazza doing well!

Stan Collymore

The Farm, 2004

Channel 5's The Farm was a short-lived reality TV show that pitted celebrities together to see who would come out at 'top farmer' between the years of 2004-2005. Unsurprisingly, there were only two seasons, with ex-Liverpool player Collymore featuring in the first.

He didn't last long. Collymore walked away from the show, not because it was ridiculous, but because he fell out with rapper Vanilla Ice.

Collymore has since stayed away from reality TV, which is probably for the best. We wouldn't want to see him get in a scrap with Fred Durst in a hairdresser's.

Jermaine Pennant

Celebrity Big Brother, 2018

Jermaine Pennant is on the long list of footballers from the early 2000s who didn't live up to their potential. He played for some of the biggest clubs in the country, such as Liverpool and Arsenal, but never really made it. Still, he's used to a certain type of lifestyle, and one way to keep that up is through reality TV.

In 2018, Pennant was on Celebrity Big Brother, flirting and kissing glamour model Chloe Ayling while his wife was at home. It's almost as though he didn't realise the entire premise of the show was being recorded at all times of the day.

It didn't end there. Determined to save his marriage, Pennant took his wife onto the Jeremy Kyle show. His foolproof plan didn't work though, and Alice Goodwin left him after nine years of "ups and downs".

Neil Ruddock, John Fashanu, Carlton Palmer and Frank Worthington

Come Dine With Me, 2010

Football in the 90s was pretty wild. The introduction of the Premier League in 1992 meant piles of money became available to clubs so they could bring in the best talent from all around the world, but players like Neil Ruddock, John Fashanu and Carlton Palmer were still knocking about. Frank Worthington was player-coach of his hometown team, Halifax Town, at the time.

As it turns out, these four produced some very good TV. They got on really well, they were funny, and made some pretty tasty-looking food. There was fancy dress, and Neil Ruddock appeared with nothing but an apron on. It's pretty much exactly how you'd imagine it would have gone, only with less swearing.

Still, it's disappointing John Fashanu didn't go on a rant and accuse Frank Worthington of having a sad little life.

Lee Sharpe

Celebrity Love Island, 2005

Love Island is intrinsically linked with football whether you like it or not. It may now be a hotbed of buff semi-professionals looking for the 15 minutes of fame their careers didn't produce, but back in season one, a floppy-haired Lee Sharpe rocked up looking for love.

The ex-Manchester United winger had just retired from the game and was hoping to finally settle down at the ripe old age of 34. He caught the eye of many of the women on the show, including eventual winner Jayne Middlemiss, but spent most of his time with Liz McClarnon, whom he finished in 6th place with.

Sharpe and his family have since moved to Spain where they've opened a successful sports bar called Sharpey's. His quest for love on Love Island may not have worked out, but that sounds like a pretty good life to us.

Danny Mills

Celebrity Masterchef, 2012

Ex-England international Danny Mills joins Bruce Grobbelaar on the more wholesome side of reality TV when he signed up for Celebrity Masterchef in 2012. Unlike Grobbelaar, Mills saw it out until the end, finishing second to actress Emma Kennedy.

He may have lost, but Mills apparently makes a banging sea bass with fennel and chilli risotto. Just like Grobbelaar, we hope Mills has kept up with it. Hopefully, we'll get invited over to his to eat some fish and drink some organic wine.

Jill Scott

I'm A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here!, 2022

The first footballer on this list to have actually won the show they were on, ex-Manchester City midfielder Scott made a real name for herself in the jungle. Her career as a TV personality has since taken off having appeared as a pundit for several WSL and Premier League games.

Scott excelled in the jungle, winning an incredible 97% of available stars when she competed. For those who don't know, contestants get stars that help get food for their teammates. Scott essentially fed the rest of the jungle in Australia during her stint, which came just months after retiring as a European champion with the Lionesses.

Shola Ameobi

Cribs, late 2000s

Back in the early 2000s, MTV's Cribs was a pretty big deal. It was an opportunity for the rich and famous to show off the things they spent their money on. It turns out money can't buy taste after all, but it can buy a 55-inch plasma screen TV!

Ameobi was a big fan of hats. "I love wearing hats, lots of shapes and sizes of hats that I love wearing, just different sizes and colours really," he said on his episode of Cribs. But the most impressive thing at his place was his coffee table that lights up. He loved that thing.

"I have actually [still got it]," the ex-Newcastle United forward said when he was asked about the table in 2017. "My missus hates it but it doesn’t light up anymore, it’s just a coffee table now."

Arsenal are thinking about signing a £20 million striker as well as Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic, and it's been reported that he's set to leave his current club.

Edu targeting new striker for Arteta

While a lot of noise has surrounded Edu's pursuit of a new midfielder, there are still suggestions that manager Mikel Arteta wants to bring in a new striker next year. ESPN recently reported that Brentford star Ivan Toney is still a target for Arsenal as we head into 2024, with Arteta having just Eddie Nketiah and Gabriel Jesus to choose from to lead the line.

The Gunners have also been linked with Vlahovic regularly amid their search for a new forward, as they seek to win a first Premier League title in nearly 20 years.

"Arsenal will" – Romano thinks Edu is certain to bid for "underrated" star

Former Gunner Paul Merson’s a big fan.

ByEmilio Galantini Nov 29, 2023

A proven goalscorer could be the difference between domestic glory and falling just short, especially given Arsenal have to contend with both Man City and Liverpool who are also vying for first place. Club legend Ray Parlour, speaking to TEAMtalk at the start of this month, urged Arteta and Edu to bring in a striker if they wish to maintain their place among England's elite sides.

“Where they are going to be lacking is the striker position," said Parlour. "In teams I played in we had four top strikers so I think that is one area they need to improve.

"I know Jesus is out at the moment and Nketiah did brilliantly getting his hat-trick at the weekend but there is not a lot of options up front.

“I am sure Arteta, if there is someone available whether on loan or someone who is not playing on a regular basis but who he knows can do a decent job, will be looking for options. When you are chasing a goal you have got to change it up front and they do not have that at the moment. That might be the place they will be looking at."

Given Toney could cost a seismic £100 million to prise away in January, at least according to Sky Sports, it could be wise for Arsenal to consider other options.

Arsenal open to Leonardo deal

According to Football Transfers, Arsenal are open to signing Santos striker Marcos Leonardo "as well as Vlahovic" in their pursuit of new options. It's added that the 20-year-old is set to leave his club for Europe in the new year.

The Brazilian is one of South America's hottest young attackers right now, with reports suggesting Santos are also willing to sell for around £20 million.

This is considerably less than his marquee release clause and Leonardo is a player of serious potential, having scored 13 goals in 29 of his latest Brazilian Serie A appearances.

"I saw in him a brilliant eye for goal, opportunistic and always well placed," the forward's U13 coach Gustavo Roma said (via Football Transfers).

Gets fouled often

Does not dive into tackles

"He is a really good finisher, he always manages to be in the middle of every middle, he's very mobile and intense, with great instincts. He doesn't wait for the ball to come to him, he moves to create the best positions and finish with a goal, that's why he has so many.

"He was our top scorer in 2016 and even as a substitute last year he was one of our top scorers too. He has an eye for goal, he is a killer and born scorer."

Glasgow Rangers face their most important match of the season so far as they take on Aberdeen in the League Cup final at Hampden this afternoon.

The Ibrox side haven’t won the competition since a 2-1 victory over Celtic in 2011 and the 12-year wait must end this weekend.

Philippe Clement’s men warmed up for the clash by defeating Real Betis 3-2 in Seville and this will give them plenty of confidence heading into the tie.

One thing is for certain, Sam Lammers must drop to the bench for the final as he struggled in midweek.

Sam Lammers’ game in numbers vs Real Betis

The Dutchman played the full 90 minutes yet took only 36 touches and completed just 16 passes all match, indicating how wasteful he was when the ball was at his feet.

Rangers' 8/10 maestro was the real hero alongside Roofe vs Betis

Rangers secured a stunning victory in Spain over Real Betis on Thursday evening

ByRoss Kilvington Dec 15, 2023

The 26-year-old also managed to lose possession 15 times during the encounter and this can't be afforded against Aberdeen today.

Lammers failed to generate any sort of attacking contribution as he failed to take a single shot along with delivering just one successful cross, and he must be dropped to the bench.

Todd Cantwell missed the Europa League clash due to personal reasons, but he will hopefully be back available and should be unleashed against the Dons.

Todd Cantwell’s season in numbers

The £22k-per-week gem hasn’t quite enjoyed the most fruitful of seasons in front of goal, scoring just once across all competitions, although he has managed to register four assists.

There were a few occasions where Clement deployed him on the right wing and this didn’t exactly suit his skill set, and it culminated in the Englishman being subbed after just 36 minutes against Aris Limassol last month.

Following that match, he reverted to his preferred number ten role, and it worked wonders against St Mirren just a few days later as he made four key passes and created a big chance during the win.

Lauded as a “god given” talent by his former youth coach Gary Cockaday during his early years spent at Norwich City, Clement will be hoping he is raring to go this afternoon.

The Gers don’t have the best of records against Aberdeen this term, failing to win either of their domestic clashes so far and the 3-1 loss at Ibrox back in September proved to be the final straw for Michael Beale.

His sacking has allowed Clement to take over, and he has reinvigorated a stagnating side and, with one crucial victory already this week, another win at Hampden today would boost the club heading into the next few games.

Cantwell must be given the nod over Lammers and he ranks fourth across the squad for key passes (1.6) and for successful dribbles (1.1) per game in the top flight this season.

While not at his sparkling best, Cantwell has shown flashes of his talents under the Belgian and with the chance to win his first trophy with the Light Blues, the 25-year-old will surely be up to the task.

A top off-field target for Manchester United is now thought to be keen on an Old Trafford move, according to a new report.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s plans at Man Utd

Sir Jim Ratcliffe is set to buy 25% of the club and take control of footballing operations of the Red Devils, and it looks as if he could make sweeping changes when he arrives following the £1.3bn deal. He has already decided to fire chief executive Richard Arnold, whereas director of football John Murtough could be the next Old Trafford casualty.

It has recently been reported that Murtough is holding meetings over potential January transfers for United, however, he could be given a new role by Ratcliffe and INEOS when their investment is ratified, which could be after the winter window. (The Daily Mail)

Fabrizio Romano shares agreement to axe Man Utd player unhappy with Ten Hag

A January deal has already been rubber stamped.

ByDavid Comerford Dec 21, 2023

As a result, a new director of football is seemingly on the agenda for Ratcliffe and co, with Newcastle United’s Dan Ashworth emerging as a top target for the position.

Recent rumours claimed that those at St James’ Park are braced for an approach from Man Utd for Ashworth and have already been looking at possible replacements, which include Bournemouth recruitment expert Richard Hughes. Now, a further update has emerged regarding the Red Devils and Ratcliffe in what is a boost for Ratcliffe.

Dan Ashworth keen on Man Utd move

According to Football Insider reporter Wayne Veysey, new top target Ashworth is now “very keen” on taking the role at Old Trafford, with Man Utd holding behind-the-scenes talks over a possible deal.

The 52-year-old is attracted by the proposition so could end up leaving Newcastle, which he joined back in May 2022 after departing Brighton & Hove Albion.

It looks as if a move to Manchester for Ashworth could materialise, and should that happen, it may come as welcome news to Gary Neville. The Red Devils legend took to X earlier this season to share an interaction he had with Ashworth prior to the Magpies’ 3-0 win at Old Trafford in the EFL Cup.

“On my way up to the gantry last night, I bumped into Dan Ashworth. He transformed the FA’s structure, set Brighton up for this incredible period of success and has now built a strong foundation for the new owners at Newcastle. He’s competent, highly qualified and knows what he’s doing.

“Will work with his coach, recruitment team and other departments coherently and calmly. In the last two matches, Manchester United have played two clubs that have installed proper football departments to support the team on the pitch and off it. The complete opposite of United. We haven’t got a sporting director! I used to travel up to Newcastle and feel sorry for their great fans when the energy and enthusiasm had been sapped from them under Mike Ashley. It was painful to see.

“Last night, we saw the Theatre of Dreams turn into the Theatre of Nothing. Every single United fan bored and flat. On the pitch, the players in shock, the performances woeful and a manager struggling in front of our eyes. We’ve seen it before, we know how it ends and we’ve had enough.”

It looks like a deal will be one to watch in the new year, and at this moment in time, all the signs are looking positive.

Newcastle United head coach Eddie Howe relieved some heavy pressure off his shoulders at the weekend by putting bitter rivals Sunderland to the sword in the Tyne-Wear Derby with a 3-0 victory to progress to the next round of the FA Cup.

However, with games against Manchester City and Aston Villa in the Premier League on the horizon to close out January, the former Bournemouth boss could find himself under the microscope once more.

Nevertheless, with the winter transfer window open, Howe could invest in the market to bolster his squad beforehand and is reportedly eyeing up defensive reinforcements.

Newcastle United transfer news – Andreas Christensen

According to a report from Sport, Newcastle United are set to battle it out with Premier League rivals Manchester United over the signing of Barcelona centre-back Andreas Christensen. The outlet are claiming that La Blaugrana are pushing to sign Real Betis defender Chadi Riad which could force the Denmark international out the door.

Christensen has plenty of experience in English football, having spent eight years with Chelsea where he made 161 appearances for the Blues and even won the Champions League in 2021, coming off the bench early in the game as the London club beat Manchester City 1-0 in Portugal to lift the coveted crown.

The 27-year-old was an integral part of Barcelona’s title win last season, with journalist Domagoj Kostanjsak describing him as a “cheat code” in defence alongside Ronald Araujo and Jules Kounde. Nonetheless, Christensen could now be on the move, with Newcastle keen to improve their depth at the back.

Andreas Christensen's stats this season

While the Dane may not have a long-term future at Camp Nou, he has still been a mainstay in Xavi’s defence this season, having made 20 appearances in all competitions.

Sven Botman has been a regular in Newcastle’s starting lineup since joining the club in the summer of 2022 for £35m. The Dutchman has since played 56 matches for the Geordie club despite missing three months of the 2023/24 campaign through injury.

However, Howe will be keen to find a long-term partner for Botman in the heart of the defence. Due to injuries, both Fabian Schar and captain Jamaal Lascelles have shared the right centre-half position at regular points throughout this season, although the former has been slightly more prominent in the team, featuring 28 times to the skipper’s 22 appearances.

Nevertheless, Christensen has performed better statistically than both Schar and Lascelles this season and looks to be a perfect fit for Howe’s system.

Assists

0.08

0

0

Expected Assists

0.02

0.06

0.01

Progressive Passes

6.12

3.98

2.59

Progressive Carries

1.07

0.79

0.6

Passing Accuracy %

95.9

85.2

86.5

Long Passing Accuracy %

82.2

60.4

47.5

Passes To Final Third

5.7

4.45

3.19

Interceptions

0.99

0.94

0.34

Tackles + Interceptions

1.74

2.25

1.55

Aerial Duels Won %

75.7

50.7

67.1

Stats via FBref

The central defender is used to playing regularly in a possession-based system based on his time at Chelsea and Barcelona, hence why he has superior stats to Newcastle’s right-footed centre-backs. Additionally, as Botman is left-footed, Christensen would comfortably slot right next to him in the back four.

Christensen is a player with plenty of experience in England’s top flight and wouldn’t need a settling-in period to get to grips with the speed of the game. Furthermore, he is at the right age now, whereas both Schar and Lascelles are on the wrong side of 30.

If Christensen is available, with a market value of just £34m, as per CIES Football Observatory, then Howe certainly shouldn’t pass up the chance to bring him to St. James’ Park.

It doesn't take a nuclear physicist to work out that during the January transfer window Arsenal need to sign a centre forward.

To say the entire campaign has been a concern for the Gunners would be wrong. On Christmas Day they sat top of the league but with the new year now here, they sit in fourth place.

Mikel Arteta's men have only won one of their last five Premier League games and a big part of that has been their sorry record in the opposition's penalty area.

Indeed, over their last three encounters in all competitions, 61 shots have been taken, only resulting in one goal.

Whether it's now or in the summer, acquiring a prized striker in the transfer market is a great necessity. They simply can't adequately challenge for the title without one.

Strikers Arsenal could sign

At the top of the pile has been Brentford forward Ivan Toney with Miguel Delaney of the Independent reporting just before the window got underway that the north Londoners "want" to do a deal. However, with a reported asking price in the region of £100m, it doesn't seem entirely feasible, not now at least.

The same could be said of another mega-money target in Victor Osimhen. At the moment, a £120m release clause is attached to the prolific Nigerian so a deal doesn't seem realistic for him until the summer.

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They could turn their attention again to Alexander Isak. That's per a report from Football Transfers who claim the Emirates Stadium outfit are 'huge admirers' of the Newcastle attacker.

They are expressing a keen interest in securing the Swede, a player valued at a whopping £86m via CIES Football Observatory.

Edu and Co were initially appealed by the idea of signing the 24-year-old in the summer of 2022 but decided not to after concerns regarding a release clause. Isak went on to sign for Newcastle instead.

How Isak compares to Toney and Osimhen

What might concern Arsenal supporters is just how prolific Isak has been in his career to date. Before joining Newcastle, in the 2021/22 campaign, the Sweden international had only fired home ten goals in 41 appearances across all competitions.

Perhaps that was another reason for not signing him 18 months ago. Nonetheless, he's adapted well to life in English football, bagging 24 goals in 50 games for the Magpies, 14 of which have come in 23 outings during the current season.

It would appear that he is getting better all the time and we all know how much Arteta likes signing players from Premier League clubs. It's been a hugely successful tactic since he arrived in the dugout in N5. Just think Declan Rice, Aaron Ramsdale and Co.

It's likely it would take an enormous fee to prise the 6 foot 4 striker away from St James' Park, but despite not quite boasting the prolific nature of Toney and Osimhen yet, he does offer qualities that would appeal to Arsenal supporters.

Games

29

39

35

Goals

11

31

21

Assists

3

5

5

Goals

0.59

0.91

0.61

Shots

2.80

4.63

2.65

Pass Success Rate

74%

69%

59%

Key Passes

0.97

1.19

0.82

Progressive Passes

2.74

0.98

2.41

Shot-creating Actions

2.74

2.81

2.01

Successful take-ons

1.83

0.88

0.49

Carries

21.5

16.5

19.1

Progressive Carries

2.37

1.51

0.43

Aerial Duels Won

1.18

2.28

3.32

Subsequently, it likely comes down to what type of forward Arsenal want in their squad. If they want someone who's going to hold the play up, then Toney with his aerial prowess would be the wise choice. If they want an out-and-out scorer, Osimhen is your man, and if they seek a more unpredictable force who can beat players, Isak with his impressive carrying numbers looks like a smart bet.

How Isak compares to Thierry Henry

Perhaps the tipping point could well be Isak's similarities to a certain Thierry Henry. Yes, you read that right, the Swede has notoriously been compared to Arsenal's club record goal-scorer.

That likeliness was talked about a great deal after a remarkable assist by the Newcastle star against Everton last season, darting down the left like Henry used to do before playing the ball across the box.

Speaking after the game, the Toon's manager Eddie Howe said: "I can see the comparisons with Henry. Everyone is different, there’s no two players the same, but I think he has some of the characteristics that Thierry had. He’s certainly got the speed and is a similar build and frame.

"The footwork for the assist against Everton was truly remarkable really. The amount of turns and twists and step-overs he did, an incredible piece of skill. He has incredible ball manipulation."

He wasn't the only one to mutter such a comparison with Jacob Whitehead of the Athletic declaring that his involvement in that mesmeric goal was "shades of Henry."

Of course, Isak doesn't quite have the same clinical nature to his game yet, but the skillset is certainly there. Able to play from the left-hand side in a way Gabriel Jesus also offers to Arsenal right now, the Newcastle striker's range of attributes could well make him a perfect fit for the Gunners. It's over to you Edu.

West Ham United could sign a club's "big-game" captain if winger Said Benrahma leaves before February 1, according to reliable transfer source Fabrizio Romano.

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Michail Antonio recently suffered a setback in his recovery from a knee problem, while Mohammed Kudus is currently away with Ghana at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Lucas Paqueta is also set to be out for around two months with a calf injury, dealing a hammer blow for Moyes who is pretty short of creative attacking options.

This has motivated West Ham and Moyes to dip into the market for more forwards, and that is still the case despite reports claiming Jarrod Bowen could be back to face Sheffield United.

Many names have been linked with a move to east London in the last week alone. Indeed, rumours suggest Sunderland forward Jack Clarke, Sporting Lisbon star Marcus Edwards, Stuttgart striker Serhou Guirassy and Feyenoord number nine Santiago Gimenez are all January transfer targets for West Ham.

Another option for the Irons is former Tottenham forward Steven Bergwijn, who has been a standout player for Ajax amid their disappointing season. The Dutchman currently captains them, but it is believed West Ham are contenders to lure him away from Amsterdam.

Fabrizio Romano shares Bergwijn to West Ham update

Speaking to GiveMeSport, Romano has given an update on their apparent interest in the winger. Indeed, according to the respected journalist, West Ham could still sign Bergwijn if Benrahma leaves before deadline day.

"Benrahma's move to Lyon could happen if they offer the right amount of money and the player wants to go," said Romano.

"But it is not an easy situation for Lyon because the player is taking his time to decide whether to make the move. If Benrahma leaves the club, Steven Bergwijn could be an option. There is a possibility that he will sign because he is a top target for West Ham.

Ajax 2-0 FC Volendam

9.60

Ajax 4-1 Heracles

8.81

Ajax 5-0 Vitesse

8.73

Go Ahead Eagles 2-3 Ajax

8.68

Ajax 4-1 SC Heerenveen

7.59

"There are some candidates on the list, but we have to wait for outgoings at West Ham."

Despite not quite cutting it at Tottenham, he was lauded as a "big-game" player at points for Jose Mourinho (John Cross).