All posts by rastrear-estafeta.com

Serie A heavyweights AC Milan have identified one Tottenham star as a potential priority signing this summer, and they’ve been given some encouragement by his stance on joining Massimiliano Allegri at the San Siro.

Tottenham pull U-turn over signing "beautiful" player amid Thomas Frank issue

Spurs’ manager faces a headache.

ByEmilio Galantini Jul 9, 2025

Spurs boss Thomas Frank already faces the prospect of losing a couple of noteworthy names before deadline day on September 1.

Atlético Madrid are not easing up on their interest in Cristian Romero, according to recent reports, with Spanish newspaper AS stating earlier this week that the La Liga side are in ongoing negotiations to sign the Argentine.

Daniel Levy remains a significant roadblock in Diego Simeone’s pursuit of Romero, but Atlético are very keen on signing the 27-year-old, so this could be one to watch all the way to the latter stages of this summer.

Meanwhile, Son Heung-min could bring an end to his decade-long stay at Spurs too.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

Son has attracted interest from Saudi Arabia and Los Angeles FC recently, with Levy reportedly placing a £50 million price tag on the South Korean’s head. An offer too good to refuse will surely strike debate among the Spurs hierarchy, considering Son has entered the final 12 months of his contract.

This window represents the final chance for them to make any money back off Son’s sale, and despite his cult hero status, the north Londoners could be forced into a purely business decision.

Uncertainty also surrounds the future of Tottenham striker Richarlison, as it is believed by some South American news sources that Frank’s side are actively trying to sell him after an injury-ridden campaign (Jorge Nicola).

Frank’s squad could look fairly different by the start of his debut campaign in the dugout, with Milan now expressing a serious interest in left-back Destiny Udogie.

AC Milan identify Tottenham defender Destiny Udogie as top target

As per The Boot Room and journalist Graeme Bailey, the Italy international has shot right to the top of the Rossoneri’s target list, and Milan are “dreaming” of signing him.

Tottenham do not wish to part company with Udogie given his first-team status, but the prospect of a return to Italy with Milan is said to be tempting the 22-year-old.

Udogie is very open to joining Milan, and having the opportunity to work with Allegri is particularly appealing to the left-back. That being said, the seven-time Champions League winners may still need to fork out a substantial fee.

The ex-Udinese starlet’s agent, Stefano Antonelli, told TUTTOmercatoWEB that Spurs will likely demand a fee north of £43 million to even consider selling Udogie.

He could still have a crucial role to play for Frank as well. The tactician would need to turn to either Djed Spence or Ben Davies to fill the void left by Udogie’s potential exit, unless Spurs sign a replacement, so Levy will be taking this into account amid Milan’s admiration.

Udogie enjoyed a phenomenal debut 2023/2024 season under Ange Postecoglou too, with pundit Ian Wright heaping praise on the player.

“You know someone who has to get some love as well for going under the radar, Udogie,” explained the Arsenal legend on his Wrighty’s House podcast in late 2023.

“You watch Spurs and they have put together some players that you look at and think it’s a team that are shutting up everything. He has given them stability and a progression of the ball that is very impressive. The man is going under the radar. I cannot wait to see this guy, I can’t wait to see him live.”

Everton supporters are starting to get excited ahead of the new season.

Star centre-back Jarrad Branthwaite signed a new five-year contract last week, which is great news for Evertonians everywhere.

Meantime, it is being widely reported that striker Thierno Barry travelled to Merseyside on Tuesday, ahead of finalising a £32.5m move from Villarreal.

Now, could David Moyes bolster his midfield options as well?

Everton targeting a new midfielder

Ahead of moving into their new stadium at Bramley-Moore Dock, much of the positivity is rooted in Moyes, considering the Toffees won eight of 19 Premier League matches following his reappointment in January, including each of the last three.

The 62-year-old returned to the club 13 years after leaving for Manchester United, having enjoyed so much success during his first stint at Goodison.

2002/03

7th

59

2003/04

17th

39

2004/05

4th

61

UCL qualification

2005/06

11th

50

2006/07

6th

58

2007/08

5th

65

League Cup semi-finals

2008/09

5th

63

FA Cup Finalists

2009/10

8th

61

2010/11

7th

54

2011/12

7th

56

FA Cup semi-finals

2012/13

6th

63

As the table outlines, under Moyes, the Blues regularly finished in the top six of the Premier League, something they’ve not achieved for 11 years, and he enjoyed having countless top-class players at his disposal during this period.

One of the best players during Moyes’ later years at Goodison was Marouane Fellaini, more on the big Belgian shortly, so are Everton about to sign Moyes’ best midfielder since him?

Well, as reported by TEAMtalk, Everton have ‘made an enquiry’ to Juventus over the possibility of signing Douglas Luiz.

They add that the Brazilian ‘has been transfer-listed’ by la Vecchia Signora, with the Italian giants willing to sell him for half of the £43m fee paid to Aston Villa just 12 months ago, with Manchester United and Fulham also showing ‘strong interest’.

So, could Luiz swap Turin for Hill Dickinson Stadium?

How Douglas Luiz would improve Everton

The reason Luiz is on the market this summer is because, as described by Juventus legend Alessio Tacchinardi, the Brazilian’s transfer to I Bianconeri has been a “disaster”.

Since making the move from Villa, the 27-year-old has racked up just 877 minutes of action in a black and white striped shirt, starting just nine Serie A matches.

Before that though, brand strategy consultant Adam Gilks asserted that he was “one of the best sixes in the Premier League”, while Alex Keble of the Premier League added that he had become ‘the most important Villa player’ towards the end of his time in the Midlands.

So, let’s assess that assertion.

Minutes

2,993

41st

Goals

9

31st

Completed passes

1,800

23rd

Key passes

53

29th

Progressive passes

168

26th

Crosses

115

21st

Tackles

58

55th

Ball recoveries

184

27th

Fouls

51

10th

As the table outlines, during his final season at Aston Villa, Luiz ranked highly for most passing metrics, but also out of possession metrics too, namely ball recoveries, underlining his all-action style and hence, why Owen Hargreaves once described him as an “elite” defensive midfielder.

These statistics are certainly more impressive than those of any current Everton midfield options, namely Idrissa Gana Gueye, James Garner, Carlos Alcaraz or Tim Iroegbunam.

Thus, one would have to go back to Moyes’ first stint in charge to find an equally pivotal central midfield, and the star of the 2012/13 side was the aforementioned Fellaini.

After a sequence of impressive performances in 2010, Moyes asserted that “Marouane is probably the best midfielder in the country at the moment”.

Meantime, Barney Ronay of the Guardian outlined how Fellaini’s ‘sheer physical scale tended to generate a buzz’, but that he can be ‘unplayable’ at times, believing he remains one of the most unique players to ever grace the Premier League.

While, in terms of stature, demeanour and playing style, Luiz and Fellaini could hardly be much more different, but should the Brazilian arrive this summer, he would almost unquestionably be the best midfielder Moyes has worked with on Merseyside since the unmistakable Belgian.

Doucoure upgrade: Everton hold talks to sign 'one of the world's best CMs'

Everton are looking to sign a former Premier League midfielder

ByRoss Kilvington Jul 7, 2025

Slowly and then all at once might be one way to describe Arsenal’s transfer window so far.

For weeks and weeks, it felt like very little was happening at the Emirates, but now Martin Zubimendi’s transfer is reportedly wrapped up, as is Kepa Arrizabalaga’s, and there have been reports of progress being made towards both Rodrygo and Viktor Gyokeres.

It’s not just incomings either, as Fabrizio Romano broke the news yesterday afternoon that Thomas Partey is now “set to leave” this month.

As if that wasn’t enough, yesterday also saw news come out linking Arsenal to Christian Nørgaard as a potential replacement, but if other reports are to be believed, Mikel Arteta could be looking to sign another midfielder who’d be even better than the Brentford star.

Arsenal target Nørgaard upgrade

While it’s been known for a few days now that the contract talks with Partey were not advancing and that there was, therefore, a real chance the Ghanaian could leave this summer, there were no murmurings that Nørgaard was being looked at as a potential signing.

Transfer Focus

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

In fact, the report from Danish journalist Mads Glenn Wehlast on Wednesday morning was the first time most people had any idea the club were even supposedly interested in the 31-year-old.

The report claims that the Gunners have already submitted an offer worth around €11m in total, which is about £9m.

While that could end up being a good deal, there is still another midfielder the club are interested in, someone who’d be a better signing: Lucien Agoume.

According to a recent report from The Athletic, Arsenal are still very much interested in the Sevilla star, who has been the subject of talks.

A price for the young Frenchman is not mentioned in the report, but stories from earlier this week claim that he could be available for just £20m, although he is also a target for Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur.

It might not be a big-name signing, but based on the ability Agoume has already shown, and the potential so many believe him to possess, it’s one Arsenal should fight for, especially as he would be a better addition to the squad than Nørgaard.

How Agoume compares to Nørgaard

So, if it ends up being a choice between signing Agoume and Nørgaard in the coming weeks, why should Arsenal opt for the former?

Well, the first argument, and its significant one, is the statistical one, as when we take a look under the hood and compare their underlying numbers, it becomes clear that the Sevilla star, whom talent scout Jacek Kulig described as “10 out of 10 talent,” is the more well-rounded midfielder.

The Dane might do marginally better in a few metrics, such as non-penalty expected goals plus assists and passing accuracy per 90, but he comes out a clear second-best in most other statistics that are relevant for a number six.

Non-Penalty Expected G+As

0.14

0.18

Progressive Carries

1.23

0.45

Progressive Passes

5.74

4.92

Passing Accuracy

81.5%

81.6%

Key Passes

1.15

0.58

Passes into the Final Third

5.36

4.38

Shot-Creating Actions

2.55

1.85

Goal-Creating Actions

0.21

0.42

Tackles

2.98

2.52

Blocks

1.28

1.66

Interceptions

1.74

1.57

Errors Leading to a Shot

0.00

0.03

Successful take-ons

0.94

0.22

Aerial Duels Won

1.79

1.57

For example, the former Inter Milan gem comes out looking far better in things like progressive passes and carries, key passes, shot-creating actions and, most crucially, tackles, interceptions and aerial duels won per 90.

This suggests that not only does he have the Bees ace beat in plenty of attacking areas, but he’d also be able to better provide cover for the back four, and the fact he’s so good at winning balls in the air will be like music to Arteta’s ears.

Finally, there is another number that matters here: his age.

At 22 years old, the Yaoundé-born maestro has plenty of time to continue developing, and if he does do that, then the Gunners would have a serious midfielder on their hands down the line, whereas at 31, the Brentford star is only going to regress over time.

Moreover, if Zubimendi is going to be the starting six anyway, surely it makes sense to bring in a promising understudy to cover for him, someone who could seriously rival him for game time in a few years.

Ultimately, while Nørgaard wouldn’t be a bad signing by any means, Agoume just looks like the far better option, and therefore, Arsenal should be doing what they can to get him this summer.

Dream teammate for Rodrygo: Arsenal now in talks to sign £68m "magician"

The creative monster could help the Brazilian reach another level at Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jun 25, 2025

Manchester United hit their lowest ebb last season, but Ruben Amorim has a vision and is convinced that the only way from here is up.

Amorim clearly wants to restructure his frontline, so as to turn a corner. Wolverhampton Wanderers star Matheus Cunha has already completed a £62.5m move to the Theatre of Dreams, and right-sided forward Bryan Mbeumo is in talks to follow.

However, replacing the much-maligned Rasmus Hojlund could be the crowning moment of United’s transfer window, with a new number nine desperately needed to front the team.

Hojlund has been hung up to dry somewhat, only scoring four goals across 32 Premier League matches in 2024/25, but then also missing just six big chances, as per Sofascore, so his problems lie in finding opportunities, rather than letting them go begging.

The 22-year-old Dane has been touted for a return to Italy this summer, two years on from his £72m move from Atalanta to Manchester. United, then, would need to find a replacement.

Man United open talks for new striker

As per a Spanish report, Manchester United have made their first move in an effort to sign Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike this summer, having established contacts with the Bundesliga outfit. Liverpool and Chelsea are already thick in the race.

Ekitike, 22, is one of the most sought-after forwards in Europe right now, and with United’s move for Viktor Gyokeres having hit a roadblock, this may be a stunning acquisition for the Premier League giants.

The sticking point? Die Roten would quite like to bank €100m (£84m) for the sale of their star striker, so the Red Devils will need to weigh up how to make this work.

Why Man United should sign Hugo Ekitike

Ekitike might be young, but he’s demonstrated over the past year an aptitude that places him right alongside the best forwards in Europe. Indeed, analyst Ben Mattinson has hailed him as “one of the best strikers out there” while he’s also been described as the “next Mbappe” by journalist Graeme Bailey.

Across all competitions in 2024/25, the Frenchman scored 22 goals and provided 12 assists for his teammates, proving himself not only to be a first-class shooter but also a dynamic forward capable of linking play together.

With Amorim’s attacking system likely to see Cunha and potentially Mbeumo flank him, this could be the perfect way to add colour to the team, certainly providing an upgrade on Hojlund.

Goals

0.30

0.51

Assists

0.06

0.29

Shots taken

1.65

3.74

Shot-creating actions

2.07

3.50

Touches (att pen)

3.78

6.73

Pass completion

76.9%

75.3%

Progressive passes

0.96

1.95

Progressive carries

1.20

3.04

Successful take-ons

0.33

1.90

Ball recoveries

1.71

2.75

As you can see, Ekitike is simply far superior to the Red Devils’ focal frontman, dwarfing him in regard to creative underlying numbers.

Moreover, Ekitike has actually demonstrated an even more clinical conversion rate than his beleaguered positional peer, scoring 16 goals in the Bundesliga last term and only missing 15 big chances, as per Sofascore.

His movements and intelligence denote his suitability as the frontman at a prestigious club like Man United, who will rise again after such struggles in recent years.

Flanked by Cunha and Mbeumo, Amorim would have created a robust and balanced front three by placing Ekitike at the front and centre.

Unfortunately for Hojlund, there may be no route back after his struggles, and change, for sure, will be a good thing heading into the new campaign.

Ekitike upgrade: Wilcox in constant contact to bring "monster" to Man Utd

Manchester United appear to be making positive moves over a deal to land a new striker for Ruben Amorim.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 14, 2025

The 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is now upon us, with the new-look format scheduled to get underway on June 14 and end on July 13.

There are 32 teams battling it out to win the first edition of the newly expanded competition, which will take place in the United States of America.

12 stadiums across 11 states will host games, with the likes of Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Jude Bellingham some of the top superstars fighting for a place in the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Watch the FIFA Club World Cup live and on-demand here What is the new FIFA Club World Cup?

Previously, the Club World Cup would take place mid-season and only be formed of up to seven sides, with Manchester City winning the most recent iteration at the end of 2023.

However, 32 teams have qualified in the new format, and the competition will only take place every four years, similar to the international FIFA World Cup.

In total, there will be 63 games over 29 days and there promises to be incredible match-ups, unmissable clashes and must watch football at the highest level.

Where can I watch the 2025 Club World Cup?

One of the main questions fans will want to know is where to watch the 2025 Club World Cup. Well, you can watch the unmissable 2025 FIFA Club World Cup for free on DAZN – the global home of football.

DAZN has secured the exclusive broadcasting rights for the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 and will broadcast all of the matches live, available worldwide in 14 languages. Whether it be on a Smart TV, mobile, streaming stick, or games console, the DAZN app will provide the ultimate viewing experience.

Already a DAZN subscriber? Great, the Club World Cup will already be included as part of your membership. However, new customers can sign up for free using an email address, and will then be able to watch all the action.

FIFA Club World Cup Current Champions Manchester CityFounded 2000Most Championships Real Madrid (5)

DAZN

Watch all FIFA Club World Cup games free on DAZN. The biggest clubs and the best players in the world compete in the FIFA Club World Cup.

Watch Every Game Live on DAZN List of qualified teams for 2025 Club World Cup

32 of the best club teams around the world have qualified for the tournament. Europe have the most clubs with 12, spaces which were allocated based on Champions League performances since 2020/21.

There are six teams from South America, four clubs each from Asia, Africa and North America, one from Oceania and Inter Miami representing the USA as host nation.

Europe Manchester City Real Madrid Chelsea Bayern Munich Paris Saint-Germain Inter Milan FC Porto Benfica Borussia Dortmund Juventus Red Bull Salzburg Atletico Madrid Africa Al Ahly Wydad Esperance de Tunis Mamelodi Sundowns Asia Al Hilal Urawa Red Diamonds Al Ain Ulsan HD North America Monterrey Seattle Sounders Pachuca Inter Miami Los Angeles FC Oceania Auckland City South America Palmeiras Flamengo Fluminense River Plate Boca Juniors Botafogo Club World Cup groups and format

In total, there are eight groups of four teams in the Club World Cup, with each team playing three group games.

The top two teams in each group will qualify to the last 16, where the tournament will enter the knockout rounds. Quarter-finals, semi-finals and the final will follow, but there is no third/fourth play-off game at the Club World Cup.

The quarter-finals will take place across July 4 and 5 with the two semi-finals on July 8 and 9. The tournament will end with a spectacular showpiece final on Sunday July 13, featuring a half-time show by J Balvin, Doja Cat and Tems.

Palmeiras, FC Porto, Al Ahly, Inter Miami

Paris St-Germain, Atletico Madrid, Botafogo, Seattle Sounders

Bayern Munich, Auckland City, Boca Juniors, Benfica

Flamengo, Esperance de Tunis, Chelsea, Los Angeles FC

River Plate, Urawa Red Diamonds, Monterrey, Inter Milan

Fluminense, Borussia Dortmund, Ulsan, Mamelodi Sundowns

Manchester City, Wydad, Al Ain, Juventus

Real Madrid, Al Hilal, Pachuca, RB Salzburg

Wolverhampton Wanderers are now set to say goodbye to Rayan Ait-Nouri as Manchester City are reportedly closing in £33.7m deal to sign the player.

The Algerian defender has been with Wolves since 2020, but after five seasons at Molineux, now is the time to cash in.

This follows on from Manchester United signing Matheus Cunha, bringing in £62.5m for Vitor Pereira to use this summer.

Cunha will be missed, no doubt about that, but Ait-Nouri has been one of the best players for Wolves in the Premier League over the previous few years.

Rayan Ait-Nouri's record at Wolves

Last season, the defender enjoyed his most productive season with regards to attacking output since he joined Wolves.

Across 41 matches, Ait-Nouri scored five times while registering seven assists for the club. He also created eight big chances in the Premier League for the Old Gold, while averaging 1.3 key passes and succeeding with 1.7 dribbles per game last term.

The onus for Pereira now is to find a player who can be signed cheaply that will go on to replicate the success that Ait-Nouri has at the club.

Season

Games

Goals

Assists

2024/25

41

5

7

2023/24

38

3

4

2022/23

27

2

1

2021/22

27

1

6

2020/21

27

1

2

He will have money to spend. That’s a certainty. Could he sign a player from his homeland this summer who might be an even bigger talent than Ait-Nouri?

Wolves eyeing move for Roger Fernandes

Journalist Graeme Bailey stated recently that Wolves are keeping tabs on Braga’s Roger Fernandes ahead of making a potential swoop.

Transfer Focus

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

“I think the Portuguese league will be somewhere that they explore; it wouldn’t surprise me if they do look towards that league again,” said Bailey.

“I’ve heard Roger Fernandes’ name linked to Wolves in recent weeks as well, wouldn’t surprise me if he was on the agenda.”

Despite typically operating as a right-winger, Fernandes can also play either left-back or left wing-back, positions that Ait-Nouri made his own at Wolves.

Quite how highly-rated the 19-year-old is evident by the fact that he even made his debut aged just 15 years and eight months for Braga back in August 2021 – a record in Portugal’s top-flight. Ait-Nouri, by contrast, was 17 when he made his first senior bow for Angers in August 2018.

Last season, meanwhile, Fernandes made 48 appearances across all competitions for the Portuguese side, scoring five goals and chipping in with seven assists.

For context, Ait-Nouri’s final season in France saw him register just three assists in 17 games in Ligue 1, before joining Wolves at the age of 19.

Fernandes shone at both ends of the pitch. Not only did he create six big chances while averaging 1.3 key passes per game, but the youngster also won over 50% of his contested duels while averaging 1.5 tackles per match for Braga.

Last summer, talent scout Jacek Kulig praised the teenager, describing him as “Braga’s biggest jewel” and “one of the most exciting U19s in Portugal.”

It would certainly be a significant coup should Pereira land the winger this summer, especially given his high ceiling for development.

Wolves might only have to pay a fee of around £25m to secure his services. With the club raising nearly £90m by selling Cunha and Ait-Nouri, it could prove to be a wonderful bargain this summer.

Wolves now keeping tabs on £25m winger who is similar to Antonio Valencia

The Old Gold are looking to add some attacking flair this summer.

BySean Markus Clifford Jun 5, 2025

Arsenal have internally discussed the possibility of striking a deal for one forward who’s been offered to Premier League rivals Manchester City, according to a report this week.

Arsenal expected to sign forward after Martin Zubimendi

Barring a very unexpected surprise, Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi will become Andrea Berta’s first signing as Gunners sporting director.

Arsenal tipped to sign class striker after Zubimendi as Arteta pressures board

The Spaniard has made his wishes clear to Emirates Stadium transfer chiefs.

ByEmilio Galantini May 29, 2025

The Spain international will put pen to paper on a move to north London with Arsenal set to trigger his £51 million release clause. Zubimendi is also awaiting a medical at N5, as confirmed by multiple reliable sources, including Fabrizio Romano.

The 26-year-old’s arrival is seen as very good news for Mikel Arteta, who’s moved quickly to secure a world-class replacement for the exit-bound Jorginho.

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

As per Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol earlier this week, Arteta has been pressuring the Arsenal board to be active in recruitment this summer, and there is every expectation that they will look to bring in attackers.

While Arsenal are widely tipped to sign an elite-level centre-forward, amid repeated links to RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, they’ve also held negotiations for wide players.

Berta is very keen to bring in a new winger and is holding active talks over “numerous” targets, as per Sky Germany last week, with Arsenal negotiations for Real Madrid forward Rodrygo recently stalling due to wage demands.

Soon to be out-of-contract, £242,000-per-week Bayern Munich forward Leroy Sane could be another viable option.

Arsenal internally discuss Leroy Sane deal this summer

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, speaking to The Boot Room, Arsenal have internally debated a deal for Sane, who was once valued at £137 million by his ex-employers Man City.

Pep Guardiola has actually been offered the chance to re-sign his former player, as have “every major club in England”.

“We have been here before with Sane – talks with Bayern have been off and on, he has a good offer from them, but his people are assessing options elsewhere,” said Bailey.

“I am told there are two offers in Turkey, one from Galatasaray which are ‘very big’ and there is the Saudi Pro League. As we revealed previously he was offered to every major club in England, even former club Man City.

“There is a liking for the player in England and Arteta is a fan, and whilst there is interest – no offer has come from Arsenal yet – he is an option I am told and they have talked about a prospective deal.

“Sane is a top player and appeals on a free transfer – could he be seen as a ‘win now’ player? Quite possibly.”

Reports in Germany this week stated Tottenham are actually emerging as the main contenders for Sane, so he could potentially move to north London, but maybe not with Arsenal.

Manchester United are now closing in on their first signing of the summer as they have agreed personal terms with Wolves star Matheus Cunha, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Man Utd stepping up transfer plans as they lodge multiple bids

This summer is expected to be a busy time for the Red Devils as they look to address what has been a very poor campaign and give Ruben Amorim the ingredients to become a success at Old Trafford. The summer transfer window isn’t even open yet, but United have already started to make moves in the transfer market.

A report from Spain has claimed that Man United have submitted a £55 million bid to sign Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford – Mbeumo is seen as a player who can improve United’s attacking options, and the hope from Old Trafford is that the offer is enough to tempt Brentford into selling one of their star players.

As well as making an offer for Mbuemo, reports have claimed United have also lodged a staggering £113 million bid to try and sign Xavi Simons from RB Leipzig this summer.

The Dutch international is expected to leave the Bundesliga side, and United hope he will ease the creative burden on Bruno Fernandes. It is claimed that United are desperate to bring Simons to Old Trafford, and his signing would be a huge statement from INEOS in terms of them backing Amorim in the transfer market.

Man Utd lodge £113m bid to sign their new Bruno Fernandes

Manchester United will aim to snap up their next Bruno Fernandes with this stunning purchase.

ByKelan Sarson May 19, 2025 Man Utd closing in on £62.5m Cunha deal after agreeing personal terms

Mbuemo and Simons appear to be top targets for the Red Devils, but they are not going to be the first signing the Premier League side make this summer. That is because, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Man United are close to signing Matheus Cunha from Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Romano reports that United are close to signing Cunha, as the Wolves star has now accepted the project on offer at Old Trafford and has agreed personal terms with the Red Devils, which means the deal is now almost completed. Romano adds that just the final details need to be sorted between all parties ‘and then, here we go’.

United have moved very quickly to sign Cunha, who has been dubbed “sensational” by pundit Micah Richards. The Brazilian international has a release clause worth £62.5 million, and the Red Devils are expected to trigger that to reach an agreement.

It was claimed last week that Arsenal had reopened talks to sign Cunha from Wolves, perhaps prompting INEOS to act fast with their move for the versatile forward, who has scored 15 goals in the Premier League this season.

Apps

31

Goals

15

xG

8.04

Shots per game

3.2

Shots on target per game

1.3

Chance conversion

15%

Assists

6

Big chances created

13

Cunha’s arrival at Old Trafford will likely see him deployed as one of United’s number 10s in Amorim’s system. But his versatility means the Brazilian can also operate as a number nine, which Amorim may be more inclined to do, given the struggles of Rasmus Hojlund.

Manchester United’s recent fortunes would suggest that a place in the Europa League final isn’t quite guaranteed, not just yet, although Ruben Amorim’s men certainly have one foot in the showpiece following a stunning first-leg triumph on Thursday night.

Up against an Athletic Bilbao side who had conceded just 12 goals at home all season in LaLiga and in European competition combined, the Red Devils romped to a brutal 3-0 win in San Mames, maintaining their unbeaten run in this year’s edition.

After a nervy opening – which saw Inaki Williams notably guide his effort over the crossbar – the visitors took control through Casemiro’s backpost header, before ever-reliable skipper, Bruno Fernandes, converted from the penalty spot following a last-ditch foul on Rasmus Hojlund.

With Dani Vivian dismissed for the action that led to the spot-kick to compound matters for the home side, United swiftly extended their advantage just minutes later, with that man Fernandes rounding off an intricate team move just before the break.

A fourth and potentially tie-clinching goal did not emerge after the interval, although Amorim can have few complaints on a night in which his experienced heads, in particular, kept their cool.

Casemiro and Fernandes rise above the rest

If the former Sporting CP boss is to have any reason for negativity following Thursday’s convincing win, the Portuguese tactician may be concerned at the shaky start which his side endured, with Victor Lindelof notably among those to have needlessly squandered possession in the early exchanges.

Touches

Casemiro (109)

Accurate passes

Victor Lindelof (97)

Key passes

Bruno Fernandes (3)

Crosses

Bruno Fernandes (5/7)

Shots on target

Bruno Fernandes (3)

Successful dribbles

Ugarte & Sannadi (2)

Defensive actions

Casemiro (9)

Duels won

Casemiro (10)

Possession lost

Nico Williams (20)

The Swede did, thankfully, redeem himself soon after with a vital goal-line block, with Manuel Ugarte also enjoying his own in-game redemption, having shaken off a careless beginning to ultimately register two assists on the night, including a clever backheeled flick for Fernandes’ second.

Some initial nerves may have been understandable, although in the case of the captain and Casemiro, the experienced pairing proved to be “the difference again”, in the words of journalist Samuel Luckhurst, having been head and shoulders above the majority of their teammates.

For Fernandes, such a performance has simply become the norm, with the influential skipper now boasting 37 goals and assists this season in all competitions, including seven goals and four assists in the Europa League alone.

To see the 30-year-old pulling the strings is no surprise, although for his veteran teammate, this recent resurgence has been a welcome one, not least considering it appeared as if he was approaching the end of a storied career not too long ago.

Once looking like “he is playing in Soccer Aid” under Erik ten Hag last term, as per pundit Jamie Redknapp, Casemiro has been reborn in the Amorim regime, with the return to Spain seeing the former Real Madrid warrior win ten of his 12 attempted duels, alongside getting on the scoresheet.

A starter in every knockout stage game in the competition, this redemption arc continues for the 33-year-old – much like it does for Harry Maguire.

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The importance of Fernandes and Casemiro was evident as even at 3-0, Amorim opted not to rest the star duo despite making a raft of changes, with the two men simply pillars in this developing 3-4-3 system.

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In a similar manner, the fact that Maguire was withdrawn just after the hour mark was also a sign of his growing stature under the new regime, with Amorim unable to afford an injury setback to the 6 foot 4 Englishman.

The 32-year-old hasn’t been a stranger to periods on the sidelines this season, having actually only featured on 34 occasions, although at present he looks the real bedrock in a back three that repeatedly chops and changes with each passing game.

A player his manager previously described as “perfect” for this setup, following the extension of his contract by a further 12 months, Maguire looks at home in the centre of the defensive trio, having been largely untroubled against the Basque outfit.

There was one hairy moment just prior to his withdrawal, amid appeals from the home crowd for a red card following a ‘foul’ on Maroan Sannadi, although it was otherwise plain-sailing, with the former Leicester City man spraying passes with ease after racking up a 97% pass accuracy rate in total.

Much like last month and his stoppage time heroics to clinch victory over Lyon, it was actually his impact in the final third that was most memorable from Maguire’s outing, with the towering defender proving an unlikely menace down the right flank, before whipping in a cross that eventually found its way to Casemiro, via the head of Ugarte.

The sight of the big man twisting and turning truly was a joy to behold, with that marking another “glorious” moment – as per The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell – in the revival of a player who was memorably stripped of the captaincy by Ten Hag back in 2023.

There were even suggestions that a move to West Ham United was on the cards that summer, yet now the £190k-per-week powerhouse looks a key cog in the Amorim machine – with the aforementioned Luckhurst noting his ‘solid’ 8/10 performance on the night.

In an era of pursuing younger and younger signings, with the aim of looking to the long-term, the likes of Maguire, Casemiro and Fernandes are proving that experience and class are simply priceless.

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ByRobbie Walls May 1, 2025

A £45,000-a-week star has said yes to signing for Leeds United following promotion to the Premier League, according to a transfer update.

Leeds looking to lift Championship title at Plymouth

It has been a memorable season for the Whites, with Daniel Farke’s side setting numerous club records and achieving their goal of winning promotion to the Premier League.

Leeds can still get to 100 points and lift the Championship title with a win at Plymouth Argyle on the last day of the season, something which Farke wants to do.

“The main job is done, we are promoted to the PL. We had a fantastic final home game. The connection between the club and the supporters. Icing on the cake is silverware for the bus tour. It’s pretty useful as you can drink something out of [silverware]. Both teams would deserve to win the league.”

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Attention after the last game of the season at Home Park will then be on the summer transfer window. Decisions will have to be made on the likes of Junior Firpo, Sam Byram and Josuha Guilavogui, all of whom are out of contract in the summer.

Meanwhile, calls will also be required on loanees Manor Solomon, Joe Rothwell. When asked if decisions were already made on those players, Farke said: “No not yet. Until everything is settled and done, we won’t speak about individuals about the future. It will happen pretty fast, right now we have clarity. But no rush because we have the whole of May and June to speak but we will do things relatively quick.

“Middle of next week we will make some decisions then we will speak to agents and move forward. We’ve had a few meeting already [re strategic planning]. Many structural and personal changes in the past. It’s important we sit down together and have clarity over budget.

“Scouts and data analysts doing a very good job. Right now we will prepare for next season with Robbie and Alex – they are in different roles now and we have to make sure the processes are right. A bit more time needed to discuss these processes. Next week we will need a few meetings. I’m optimistic.”

Now, there has been another transfer update on Solomon signing for Leeds on a permanent basis from Tottenham.

Leeds confident of signing Solomon who says yes to Elland Road move

According to TEAMtalk, Tottenham are open to selling Solomon this summer, and the player himself has said yes to signing for Leeds.

A permanent transfer ‘is expected to go through in the coming weeks’, with the 49ers Enterprises confident of a transfer and the winger and his fiancé, Dana Voshina, very happy in Leeds.

The 25-year-old, on £45,000-a-week, has been a standout performer for Leeds in the pressure moments of the season, as can be seen from his form during the run-in.

Leeds United 4-0 Bristol City

8.75/10

Leeds United 6-0 Stoke City

8.84/10

Oxford United 0-1 Leeds United

7.45/10

Leeds United 2-1 Preston North End

8.67/10

Middlesbrough 0-1 Leeds United

7.3/10

Nine goals and 12 assists in 38 Championship games from the left hand side has been Solomon’s contribution, striking up a brilliant relationship with Firpo. Now, it looks as if the Israel international, once dubbed a “pocket rocket”, could be here to stay.