Paratici to hold talks with Conte, offering six Spurs signings

According to the Daily Telegraph’s Matt Law, Tottenham Hotspur managing director Fabio Paratici will hold talks in Italy with Antonio Conte, offering the 52-year-old six signings in a plea for him to stay.

The Lowdown: Conte’s future

The Italian manager is currently taking a well-earned break in his home country to clear his mind, as he considers his future after guiding Spurs to a fourth-place finish and Champions League qualification.

It is believed that Paratici and club chairman Daniel Levy are in the dark over Conte’s current plans, who is debating whether to return to Italy, where his wife and daughter still reside.

The 52 year-old infamously hinted he could quit the club following a shock defeat to Burnley earlier this year, prompting links to former boss Mauricio Pochettino.

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The Latest: Paratici and Conte talks

According to reliable Daily Telegraph journalist Matt Law, Paratici is set to hold talks with the Lilywhites manager in Italy, ready to offer his backing in the summer transfer window.

Taking to Twitter, Law shared: “Paratici will hold talks in Italy with Conte. Transfers not the only thing under consideration but Tottenham ready to grant him at least six new signings – Fraser Forster set to be one.”

In the adjacent article, The Telegraph reveal that Paratici is to agree to Conte’s demands and will target two new wing-backs, a left-sided centre-back, a midfielder and a forward who can also play out wide. Tottenham will also sign a new back-up goalkeeper, with Southampton’s Fraser Forster set to undergo a medical this week.

Conte’s required assurance over the quality of signings is seemingly going to be met, with the north London club targeting Alessandro Bastoni, Gleison Bremer, Djed Spence, Christian Eriksen, James Ward-Prowse, Kalvin Phillips and Gabriel Jesus.

The Verdict: Hugely exciting

If Paratici can ensure Conte that he can pull off the ambitious transfer plans that they have set out, then it is likely to convince the former Inter Milan boss to remain at the club for another year, news which should come as hugely exciting for Lilywhites supporters.

With Tottenham playing in four competitions next season, adding depth to the squad will be imperative to Conte, and after the club ended the season winning eight of their last 11 matches, there is surely no better man out there to lead the squad into Europe’s elite competition.

Hailed as on a par with Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp, the news that the club are willing to do what it takes to keep Conte happy is simply huge for Tottenham’s future.

In other news: Tottenham Hotspur: Fabrizio Romano shares news on a second signing at N17

Aston Villa: Alan Hutton makes Calvin Bassey claim

Former Aston Villa defender Alan Hutton has made an ‘incredible’ claim regarding Rangers defender Calvin Bassey, Football Insider report.

The Lowdown: Villa closing in?

Steven Gerrard and NSWE have been hard at work in the transfer market over the last seven days, putting a number of deals in place ahead of the summer window.

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Villa have secured permanent deals for Philippe Coutinho and Boubacar Kamara and have also reached an agreement for centre-back Diego Carlos.

Another defender could be on the way, with The Times suggesting that Villa are also closing in on a move for Rangers star Bassey.

The Latest: Hutton’s comments

Hutton, who contributes for Sky Sports, was talking to FI about Bassey and Villa. He labelled a Villa swoop is a ‘no-brainer’ and waxed lyrical regarding the defender, describing him as ‘outstanding’ in the Europa League final and backed him to be an ‘incredible player’.

“He was outstanding in the Europa League final, and he carried that on in the Scottish Cup too.

“He’s growing in stature game-on-game. It doesn’t matter where he plays, centre-back or left-back – he gives you an unbelievable presence.

“He’s got such versatility – and that’s an attribute Villa will value so highly. For him to be putting in these kinds of performances at his age, and showing his capability at the highest level – it’s a no-brainer for someone like Villa to come in.

“If he can maintain that level and that consistency week-in, week-out – then wow, he could be an incredible player.”

The Verdict: Get it done

Bassey enjoyed a phenomenal season at Ibrox, making 49 appearances in all competitions. He turned out at centre-back and left-back, picking up the club’s Young Player of the Season award.

The Nigerian impressed many when it mattered most in cup finals against Frankfurt and Hearts, so a move to Villa Park could be a shrewd one.

The 22-year-old would provide Gerrard with another option at centre-back and cover for Lucas Digne at left-back, and you’d like to think he’ll only get better over the coming years.

In other news: Blow for NSWE: Villa will now miss out on key target after talks; Gerrard was desperate for him

Leeds may hijack Everton’s James Tarkowski move

Leeds United may look to hijack Everton’s move for defender James Tarkowski, according to The Daily Mail’s Dominic King.

The Lowdown: Tarkowski in demand

Tarkowski, who Sean Dyche described as ‘outstanding’, appears to be a man in demand with his Burnley contract set to expire at the end of June.

The 29-year-old has held talks with Aston Villa and has also been linked with Fulham and Newcastle.

However, it looks as if Everton are winning the race for the centre-back’s services, and Leeds could now look to make a late move for the player ahead of their recent relegation rivals.

The Latest: Leeds interest

King shared a story for The Daily Mail late on Thursday evening regarding Tarkowski, claiming that Everton are confident of signing the Burnley star on a free transfer.

However, the reporter added that the Whites are one of a few clubs keeping tabs on Tarkowski’s situation as ‘they plot a potential transfer swoop’.

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The Verdict: Unlikely?

Leeds are already well-stocked at centre-back with five senior options, and it looks as if their priorities currently lie elsewhere.

Reports have suggested that after the club wrap up a move for second summer signing Rasmus Kristensen, Leeds will look to sign a central midfielder, striker and an experienced goalkeeper.

Therefore, you’d expect that a move to Elland Road for Tarkowski is unlikely, however, it could be one to monitor following King’s claim.

In other news: Victor Orta now spotted 5.6 miles from stadium of ‘quality’ Leeds target dubbed the ‘new Drogba’. 

Liverpool plot move for Bukayo Saka

Liverpool are on the lookout for a replacement for Sadio Mane who has unexpectedly decided to leave Anfield ahead of the last 12 months of his contract with the club, and now a new potential transfer target has been identified.

What’s the latest?

According to Daily Mail, Liverpool have joined Premier League rivals Manchester City in the race for Bukayo Saka.

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As per the report, Saka was thought to be unlikely to make a move this summer and contract negotiations were opened to extend the young player’s deal with Arsenal beyond the two years he has left, however, their failure to qualify for the Champions League has thrown a spanner in the works.

The player could well join their ranks after Darwin Nunez who is currently the subject of intense speculation regarding a move to Anfield.

Mane 2.0

Although the midfield was an area the Reds were set to strengthen this summer, the potential departure of Sadio Mane has caused a headache for FSG who will need to now focus on finding a replacement to emulate the Senegalese winger’s attacking output that has been crucial in Liverpool’s success over the last six years.

With that being said, Jurgen Klopp has been a long-term admirer of Saka with the German coach hailing the youngster a “young and exciting player” as well as upsetting Arsenal supporters with his warm approach to Saka on the pitch at full-time after Arsenal’s Carabao Cup draw at Anfield

The £102m-rated star who was hailed a “game-changer” by Cesc Fabregas, has been impressive this season for the Gunners and has been a stand out performer in the team.

According to SofaScore, in 38 Premier League appearances Saka has scored 11 goals, delivered seven assists and created eight big chances while making 1.8 key passes.

He’s also made 1.1 tackles and taken 2.6 shots on average per game, proving that he is an absolute nuisance in attacking play, something Klopp would value in his forward line.

Another attribute Klopp will be keen on is the 20-year-old’s diversity in his positioning with the player deployed predominantly on the right this season but has also been seen on the left side too.

Thus, if the Liverpool manager could unlock his potential on the left side he could have Mane 2.0 on his hands.

AND in other news: Offer made: Liverpool now “want to sign” 34-goal “diamond”, Klopp absolutely loves him

5 New Premier League Betting Sites to Check Out This Season

The popularity of Premier League online betting has grown exponentially in recent years. More and more people are placing bets on their favourite teams, and the amount of money being wagered has increased significantly.

The reasons for this rapid growth in popularity are numerous. Naturally, the internet has made it much easier than ever to place bets. You can do it from the comfort of your own home, and you don’t have to go to a physical betting shop.

On Premier League betting sites, there is also more choice than ever before when it comes to online bookmakers. You can now choose between dozens of different sites that you can bet with, and each offers different odds and markets. As a result, you can conveniently find the best value for your bets.

Since the choices of betting sites are vast, we’ve decided to do the research for you and present you with five new and top-rated Premier League betting sites. Let’s go.

List of the top 5 new Premier League betting sites

For our research, we took a couple of things into consideration. First, we made sure that the sites on our list are reputable and have a good track record. Next, we made sure that the sites offer good odds and lines on Premier League matches. Finally, we’ve picked the top five Premier League betting websites that are easy to use and navigate.

Here are five of the best new Premier League betting sites:

1. Betfair

2. Ladbrokes

3. Coral

4. Paddy Power

5. William Hill

Since the growth of social media has played a role in the popularity of online betting, people can share tips and advice with each other, which makes it easier to make informed decisions about which bets to place. For all five sites mentioned above, you can easily find such tips online.

How do these new Premier League betting sites compare to existing ones?

There are a handful of key points to consider when comparing new Premier League betting sites to existing ones. The first is the odds offered on each site. Newer sites may offer better odds in an attempt to attract new customers, so it’s worth checking out a few different options before placing your bets.

Another thing to consider is the range of options offered by each site. Some sites may only offer bets on the outcome of matches, while others will also offer bets on things like first goalscorer, correct score, and so on. It’s worth checking out the options offered by each site to see which one offers the best selection for your needs.

Finally, the bonuses and promotions offered by each site are more lucrative on newer websites. Namely, newer sites may offer more generous bonuses in an attempt to attract new customers, so it’s worth checking them out and making the most of your initial betting experience.

What are the potential risks of using new Premier League betting sites?

There are a few potential risks to consider when using new Premier League betting sites. We’ll list them all out to help you get prepared.

1. You may not be familiar with the site or how it works, which can lead to making mistakes when placing bets or not getting the best odds possible. To avoid this risk, always read the terms and conditions.

2. The site may not be reputable or trustworthy, which could lead to your personal and financial information being compromised. With the five websites, we’ve listed above, you needn’t worry and can avoid this risk.

3. The site may not offer good customer service or have a good reputation for paying out winnings. However, all of the websites we’ve listed have top-notch customer service, so you’re safe here too.

Photo by Unsplash

Everton must avoid Alli error with Lingard

Having only staved off the drop in the final week of the 2021/22 campaign, Everton are now plotting to try and avoid a similar story next term, with the opening up of the transfer window offering the chance for manager Frank Lampard to drastically alter his squad.

The past few days has already seen the confirmation that a handful of players will be heading for the exit door, following the expiry of their contracts, although at present there has been relative inaction with regards to incomings, albeit with soon-to-be free agent James Tarkowski one name that been heavily linked with a move to Goodison Park.

Another figure who has also recently cropped up onto the radar is Manchester United’s Jesse Lingard, with the Englishman also set to be available on a free this summer, with the Red Devils having recently confirmed his impending departure from Old Trafford.

The 29-year-old endured a torrid campaign back at his parent club having previously impressed on loan at West Ham United during the 2020/21 season, making just two Premier League starts under both Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick combined in what proved to be another wasted year in Manchester.

After reinvigorating his career with the Hammers – where he provided nine goals and four assists in just 16 games – the decision not to leave the Theatre of Dreams on a permanent deal last summer has backfired, with the United youth product now once again out of the England reckoning in what is a pivotal, World Cup year.

A host of clubs – such as the Toffees – are likely to be battling it out for his signature in the coming months, with all hoping he can replicate the form he showed both at the London Stadium and in previous years with United.

However, amid talk that he could be demanding as much as £180k-per-week – having reportedly been on £80k-per-week at United – it begs the question as to whether it is wise for Lampard and co to pursue the deal, particularly for a player who has only once reached 20 top-flight starts in his career – that coming in the 2017/18 season.

Any deal would also seemingly mirror the decision to bring in Dele Alli back in January, with the 26-year-old joining on an initial free transfer deal from Tottenham Hotspur – albeit with the fee potentially set to reach as much as £30m based on a number of performance-related factors.

Just six months into his stint, there has already been suggestion that the one-time MK Dons man could be moved on this summer, having failed to make any sort of mark thus far, earning just one league start for the Merseyside outfit in the 2021/22 campaign.

Once dubbed “one of the best in Europe” by former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino, the former prodigy has endured a real career nosedive in recent seasons, with a return to the international fold under Gareth Southgate now seemingly a long shot.

Do Everton and Lampard really want to be saddled with another player on the decline in Lingard?

Yes he was once labelled a “nightmare” by Ryan Giggs for his exciting talent, yet he has only managed to show flickers of his quality in the past four years or so, with the Toffees simply unable to afford another expensive mistake.

Owner Farhad Moshiri has already pointed out that the club have spent unwisely in recent years, yet they must learn from previous mistakes and not pay over the odds – this time in wages – for a player who has rarely ever produced the goods consistently.

The club – and Lampard – can be forgiven for thinking they could resurrect Alli’s career, yet they will have nowhere left to turn if they repeat their error with Lingard.

IN other news, “Everton want..“: David Ornstein delivers huge transfer update, Lampard will be fuming 

Newcastle transfer news on Eriksen

Newcastle United have reportedly now made their approach to sign Christian Eriksen.

The Lowdown: Sensational return

Eriksen has made a sensational return to football after collapsing on the pitch for Denmark in Euro 2020, scoring one goal and making a further four assists in 11 games in the Premier League for Brentford last season (Transfermarkt).

Dubbed a player who is still ‘world class’ by his manager Thomas Frank, the Bees may now struggle to keep hold of him after only giving him a short-term deal back in January, as his contract expires at the end of the month.

The Latest: Newcastle approach

Writing in his latest piece for iNews, reliable journalist Mark Douglas has revealed that the St. James’ Park outfit have made an approach to try and sign Eriksen after submitting an enquiry.

However, they will face competition from Brentford, Everton and Manchester United for his signature, as a deal to stay with the Bees is ‘still very much an option’.

The Verdict: No-brainer

To get a player of Eriksen’s experience and quality on a free transfer is surely a no-brainer for the Tyneside club if they can convince him to move north.

His average rating of 7.37 in the top flight last term was only bettered by Kieran Trippier (7.38) in the Magpies squad, while none of Eddie Howe’s team averaged more shots, key passes or crosses per game than the 30-year-old.

Based on that evidence, Eriksen would be a superb signing for the Toon Army and add that sprinkle of creativity needed alongside the tenacity of Joelinton and Bruno Guimarães in midfield.

Newcastle must seal Marc Cucurella transfer

Newcastle United underwent a rather significant overhaul during the previous January transfer window.

The Magpies secured deals for players such as Chris Wood, Kieran Trippier and Bruno Guimaraes among others.

One other player that joined the club in this period that they didn’t have to travel far to secure is Matt Targett.

Originally joining on a loan deal from fellow Premier League club Aston Villa, the left-back became Newcastle’s first permanent signing of the current summer transfer window earlier this month.

During his period with the Toon last season, the full-back made 16 appearances in the Premier League, completing the full 90 minutes in all of them.

This highlights how important he quickly became for the Magpies.

Despite all of this, the remainder of the current summer window could give the Tyneside club the chance to secure what may well be an upgrade on the Englishman.

One other player in the Premier League that the Toon have been linked with recently is Brighton & Hove Albion defender Marc Cucurella.

After joining the Seagulls in the summer transfer window of 2021, the Spaniard went on to have a decent debut season with Graham Potter’s side.

With 35 league appearances to his name, the left-back played more minutes than any other outfield player at the club.

To compare his season with Targett’s, the Brighton star racked up more shots at goal, successful dribbles and shot-creating actions than the Englishman.

From a defensive point of view, Cucurella also won more tackles, made more successful pressures and made more blocks and interceptions than the Toon defender.

With this in mind, it’s easy to see why fellow Brighton defender Lewis Dunk labelled the full-back as a “class act,” and why journalist Andy Naylor claimed it would take an “eye-watering” transfer fee to sign him this summer.

Having also been linked with a £30m move to Manchester City, this also shows how in-demand the defender is and why the Toon could have a challenge on their hands to get him to St. James’ Park.

However, with the January window proving that the Toon aren’t reluctant when it comes to splashing the cash, a move to secure Cucurella and strengthen the left-back area of the squad even further could be a smart move for the club.

AND in other news: PIF could land Burn 2.0 as Newcastle now plot bid for “exceptional” £22m talent

Newcastle handed Nathan Ake boost

An update has emerged on Newcastle United and their chances of landing Nathan Ake in the summer transfer window… 

What’s the talk?

According to 90min, Manchester City have decided that they will cash in on the Netherlands international if an acceptable offer comes in for him in the coming weeks.

The report claims that Tottenham, the Magpies, Chelsea, Aston Villa and West Ham are among the teams now keen on a deal for the gem.

It is stated that the Cityzens will not allow him to leave on loan and will only green light a permanent exit for the £41m defender, giving Dan Ashworth the chance to snap him up.

Imagine him & Sven Botman

The former Brighton chief can land a solid defensive duo for Eddie Howe by signing Ake to partner him with Botman, who recently joined from Ligue 1 side Lille.

Newcastle confirmed the arrival of the Dutchman on Tuesday and they can find an excellent partner for him in a deal to sign his fellow countryman.

The versatile Manchester City machine is a proven performer in England and would be a superb addition to the squad next season. His international teammate Virgil van Dijk dubbed him “underrated” and his statistics in the Premier League certainly suggest that he deserves to be recognised for his performances.

In the top-flight last term, he averaged an excellent SofaScore rating of 7.08 in 14 outings. He won 66% of his individual duels and completed 91% of his attempted passes as he showcased both his defensive strength and his reliability in possession.

Ake has played in nine Premier League seasons throughout his career and – in the seven years the data is available for – a SofaScore rating of 6.82 is the lowest his performances have ever dipped. This shows that he has delivered quality displays on a remarkably consistent basis over the years, which is why he would be a star for the Toon.

Meanwhile, Botman averaged a score of 7.10 in Ligue 1 for Lille. He completed 88% of his passes and won 66% of his individual duels, after averaging a scoring of 7.08 and winning 68% of his battles in the 2020/21 title-winning campaign for the French outfit.

Now, imagine both of them dominating opposition attackers and then building play up from the back to develop a progressive, attacking, style of play at St. James’ Park next season.

It is an exciting prospect and Ashworth has the chance to make it a reality after being given the green light by Manchester City to make a move for Ake happen.

AND in other news, Ashworth eyeing NUFC swoop for “dangerous” £30m dynamo, just imagine him & Wilson…

Greg O’Keeffe drops Everton update

Everton have had a lot of speculation surrounding Anthony Gordon’s future with Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur interested in signing the player this summer, and now a new behind-the-scenes update has emerged from a reliable source.

What’s the latest?

According to Everton writer for The Athletic Greg O’Keeffe, the Toffees will now likely offer Gordon a new contract to deter the young player away from leaving the club this summer.

O’Keeffe tweeted:

“Tottenham were serious bidders, Newcastle have been interested but Everton are clear – Anthony Gordon is going nowhere.

“Most likely outcome is a new contract.”

Supporters will be buzzing

There is no doubt that Everton supporters will be buzzing that there is now potentially going to be a new deal tabled for Gordon to secure his future at Goodison Park. It will be widely welcomed as the boyhood Evertonian is proving that he has the potential to become their next greatest breakthrough.

Gordon earned his senior debut under the wing of former manager Carlo Ancelotti back in January 2020, and since then the player has gone from strength to strength becoming a key figure and regular starter in the Merseyside team.

In the Premier League last season the 21-year-old scored four goals, delivered two assists and created 35 chances, making 22 interceptions, three blocks and 54 tackles over his 35 appearances, proving that he is a consistent and creative player on the right wing for the Toffees.

The £18m-rated ace has been the recipient of high praise since his breakthrough into the side as a regular starter, with current manager Frank Lampard one of his biggest fans hailing Gordon “outstanding” last season:

“Anthony was a standout for me… but you never know until you get here. When you’re an Everton lad as he is and the fans see that in him, that’s a huge start but he has the talent as well. He’s playing outstanding football & long may that continue”

With that being said, Lampard clearly sees Gordon as an important part of his plans for the team when they return to action in the Premier League next month, and delivering on a new contract will surely keep the young talent focused on his future at Goodison Park.

AND in other news: Alan Myers drops three-word Everton transfer update that’ll excite supporters

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