All posts by z3u9t.icu

West Ham United boss Graham Potter is under mounting pressure after slumping to a dismal 3-0 derby defeat against Tottenham last Saturday, with the east Londoners losing four of their opening five games in all competitions thus far.

Potter has tough games against Crystal Palace, Everton and Premier League title-chasing Arsenal on the horizon, with more unconvincing performances threatening to oust the tactician just 10 months after he took over from Julen Lopetegui.

Only Avram Grant, who led the Hammers to relegation in 2011, boasts a worse West Ham win percentage than Potter since the Premier League’s inception — serving as a clear warning that things desperately need to improve.

9. Sam Allardyce

30.7%

10. Julen Lopetegui

30%

11. Gianfranco Zola

27.8%

12, Graham Potter

27.3%

13. Avram Grant

18.9%

via StatMuse

West Ham’s woeful defence, which has conceded 14 goals in all competitions already, is the top flight’s worst back line right now by far — having also leaked 11 league goals in just four top flight matches.

Their failure to deal with set pieces has been another major thorn in Potter’s side, and one key ingredient West Ham need more than anything else is solidarity if they’re to avoid a relegation dogfight.

David Sullivan and the Irons board may even decide to cut their losses with Potter, especially considering that out-of-work former Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espírito Santo is readily available for hire.

The Portuguese, who guided Forest back to Europe for the first time since 1995 after a fairytale 2024/2025, was unceremoniously sacked by Evangelos Marinakis after a public fallout — just months after Nuno signed a brand-new contract.

Reports suggest that Nuno will jump at the chance to get back into management and his priority is to remain in the Premier League — making the 51-year-old a potential match made in heaven for West Ham.

Nuno’s pragmatic approach and defensive style could also suit West Ham down to the ground amid their real fragility at the back, with the likes of Kieran McKenna, José Mourinho and Frank Lampard also named as managerial candidates at the London Stadium.

How West Ham's board really feel about Graham Potter after Tottenham defeat

However, before any approach is made to the aforementioned coaches, the club must first make a decision on Potter.

According to Football Insider and journalist Pete O’Rourke, West Ham’s board believe it is “too early” to sack Potter despite their lacklustre start to 2025/2026 — with the ex-Chelsea boss retaining their backing “for the time being”.

The key phrase here is “for the time being”, but should West Ham relieve the tactician sooner?

West Ham must make ruthless Graham Potter decision

The team looks disjointed right now, lacking both defensive organisation and attacking spark, which arguably reflects poorly on Potter’s tactical approach among other key concerns.

For a squad boasting proven talent, fans and pundits alike are in agreement that the side should be performing far better.

Potter’s track record at Chelsea also raises concerns. Despite heavy backing in the transfer market there, he failed to deliver results, and many critics feared West Ham were repeating the same mistake when he was appointed.

Those fears now appear to be realised, and with Nuno available, West Ham should bite the bullet, admit they made a mistake and bring the former Tottenham boss to east London.

This summer is shaping up to be one of Arsenal’s best in a very long time.

It might sound hyperbolic, but it’s really not, as, following a slow start to the transfer window, the club have already officially announced four signings, including Martin Zubimendi and Noni Madueke.

Add to that the renewed contracts of Gabriel Magalhaes, Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri, plus the fact that Cristhian Mosquera is already reportedly out in Singapore, and it’s easy to see why some fans are getting very excited.

Moreover, while he’s not been announced yet, the club appear to have finally agreed a deal to sign Viktor Gyokeres, and based on reports, they’re also keen on someone who’d be his dream winger.

Arsenal target dream winger for Gyokeres

The most significant transfer saga involving Arsenal this summer has undoubtedly been about Gyokeres.

Transfer Focus

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

At first, it looked like Benjamin Sesko was the club’s first-choice option to lead the line next season, but once RB Leipzig priced him out of a move, the North Londoners turned their full attention to the Swedish international.

Finally, after what had felt like weeks of stalemate between Sporting CP and the Gunners over the add-ons in the deal, Fabrizio Romano gave the transfer the ‘here we go’ treatment yesterday afternoon.

It’s a potentially game-changing addition to a team that needed a clinical number nine last season, and better yet, the club are now being linked with someone who could be the striker’s dream winger.

According to a recent report from The Athletic, Arsenal are interested in Anthony Gordon.

The report claims that the Newcastle United star is a player the Premier League runners-up currently ‘admire’, but that the futures of Gabriel Martinelli and Leandro Trossard could determine whether that admiration develops.

In terms of how much the Englishman may cost, reports from earlier this summer claimed a fee of around £100m could be enough, and while that’s a lot of money, it might prove worth it to sign someone who could be Gyokeres’ dream winger.

Why Gordon would be a dream teammate for Gyokeres

So, to first determine which wingers would be dream teammates for Gyokeres, we need to take a moment to look at how the striker plays the game.

While Arteta and Co will surely be able to further develop the way in which the Swede plays, it’s crystal clear from both his heat map last season that he spends most of his time in and around the penalty area.

Moreover, when we take a look at his shot map in all competitions last season, it becomes even more apparent that he is a traditional number nine, a fox in the box, if you will.

So, to get the most out of him and maximise his strengths, the Gunners need a winger who is effective at getting the ball into dangerous areas, and based on some of his underlying numbers, Gordon fits the bill.

For example, FBref placed him in the top 7% of attacking midfielders and wingers in the Premier League last season for crosses into the penalty area and the top 15% for passes into the penalty area.

Additionally, FBref ranked him in the top 1% for penalty kicks won and the top 3% for goal-creating actions the previous season, suggesting that the Englishman will create chances for his teammates, either through winning a foul or ingenious play.

Finally, you don’t just have to look at the underlying metrics to see the Liverpool-born “nightmare,” as he described himself, could be a real game-changer for the Gunners and Gyokeres, as his output also makes the case.

For example, since the start of the 23/24 campaign, he’s scored 21 goals and provided 23 assists in 90 appearances, totalling 6815 minutes.

In other words, that means the 24-year-old ace has averaged a goal involvement every 2.04 games, or every 154.88 minutes.

Appearances

48

42

Minutes

3869′

2946′

Goals

12

9

Assists

16

7

Goal Involvements per Match

0.58

0.38

Minutes per Goal Involvement

138.17′

184.12′

Ultimately, Gyokeres looks like he’ll be an incredible addition to this Arsenal squad, but if Arteta and Co want to get even more out of him, they’d do well to bring in Gordon as well.

He'd be Nwaneri 2.0: Arsenal agree fee to sign "technically gifted" star

Arsenal could sign their new Ethan Nwaneri this summer.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 23, 2025

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta still has his eyes on an array of exciting attacking talents, amid the club’s widely reported pursuit of Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze and after their £50 million deal for Chelsea winger Noni Madueke.

Arsenal star in talks to leave the Emirates; it could free room for Rodrygo

Rodrygo could be on his way to Arsenal this summer.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 14, 2025

Mikel Arteta’s side have made a serious statement of intent with their deals so far, having also signed Kepa Arrizabalaga, Martin Zubimendi and Christian Norgaard, with Arsenal appearing determined to bridge the gap between themselves and Premier League champions Liverpool.

Madueke passed his Arsenal medical on Monday morning, and the England international will soon be joined by Valencia defender Cristhian Mosquera. The Spaniard has flown to England today as he begins his own medical with Arsenal, according to Sky Sports, after the Gunners reached an agreement to sign him for around £17 million, including add-ons (Fabrizio Romano).

Meanwhile, Arsenal are also finalising a potential £64 million deal for Sporting CP striker Viktor Gyokeres, with Arteta on the verge of finally seeing a prolific number nine join his side after what seems like years of waiting (The Athletic). The north Londoners are apparently hopeful they can fully close this deal in time for their pre-season tour of Asia, with Arsenal flying out to Singapore on Saturday.

After Gyokeres and Mosquera, there are many reports that Arsenal remain in ongoing talks with Eze.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

25/26 – summer

£75m

Arsenal held positive discussions with the England international’s representatives recently (ESPN), and according to trusted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, they’re still in contact as they maintain their pursuit of his signature.

Now, as per another reliable reporter, talkSPORT’s Ben Jacobs, Arsenal are set to approach Palace over a deal for Eze, with club-to-club talks set to get underway after two-week-long negotiations on the player’s side.

Arsenal hold "genuine" Rafael Leao interest with Eberechi Eze

Arsenal apparently plan to speak with Palace as early as this week, and he’s viewed by Arteta’s side as a possible central attacking signing.

Their deal for Madueke will not impact their move for the 27-year-old, who scored 14 goals and registered 11 assists in all competitions last season. They think of Madueke as a separate signing capable of playing both on the left and competing with Bukayo Saka on the right-hand side, with Jacobs even suggesting that they’re still keen on more left-wing options.

Writing for talkSPORT, Jacobs reports that Arsenal hold a “genuine” interest in AC Milan star Rafael Leao as one target on a star-studded three-man shortlist.

Leao has a £152 million release clause written into his contract, which is active from July 5 to July 15 of every year before his deal runs out in 2028, but Arsenal are very unlikely to trigger that considering both the expense and how it expires today.

The Portugal international is one of Milan’s star players, scoring 12 goals and racking up a further 13 assists over his latest season at the San Siro. However, a potential move for Leao hinges on either Leandro Trossard or Gabriel Martinelli leaving the Emirates, which is no surprise considering they’ve just signed Madueke.

Bringing in another big-name left-winger would be yet another showcase of real ambition from Berta, but questions will surely be asked about how it could disrupt the dressing room – as Arteta may struggle to hand out adequate game time.

Following the frustration of transfer failure, PIF are now confident that they’ll sign one of their top targets after Newcastle United reportedly submitted a fresh bid worth around £55m.

The transfers that could turn Newcastle's summer around

Those at St James’ Park first attempted to sign Bryan Mbeumo from Brentford at the start of this summer, only for reports to claim that he has picked Manchester United over anyone else. Then, the Magpies reportedly set their sights on Joao Pedro before he completed a familiar move from Brighton & Hove Albion to Chelsea. Newcastle were once again sent back to the drawing board.

In that time, however, a number of fresh targets have entered their radar while a deal to sign long-term target James Trafford looks likely to get over the line at long last this summer.

Alongside Trafford, the likes of Mohammed Kudus and Harvey Elliott have both reportedly entered Newcastle’s radar as they look to sign an attacking reinforcement. With Mbeumo likely to join Manchester United and Pedro already confirmed as a Chelsea player, Elliott and Kudus represent an ideal plan B this summer.

The latter has attracted plenty of interest already this summer and could yet be on his way out of West Ham United. Elliott, meanwhile, is reportedly likely to leave Liverpool in search of more game time elsewhere this summer.

According to the most recent reports, however, it may be neither of those options that end Newcastle’s search for a winger. Instead, it could be one of their top targets to begin turning their summer fortunes around.

Newcastle submit fresh Elanga bid

According to Fabrizio Romano, Newcastle have now submitted a fresh £55m bid to sign Anthony Elanga from Nottingham Forest and PIF want the deal done “as soon as possible”. Those at St James’ Park are reportedly confident that the 22-cap Swede will become a Newcastle player and they will get their £55m offer green lit by Nottingham Forest.

If Newcastle manage to get deals over the line for both Trafford and Elanga, as is likely to be the case at this stage, then any early summer struggles will become an afterthought for Eddie Howe.

Newcastle now ready to hijack Sunderland move to sign £43m "leader"

The Magpies could deal their rivals quite the blow.

1 ByTom Cunningham Jul 4, 2025

Elanga’s arrival will particularly excite fans if the Magpies push on and welcome the winger in the coming weeks. The Forest star, who was described by Nuno Espirito Santo described as “special” last season, could form one of the deadliest front threes in the Premier League alongside Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon.

Chelsea secured their place in the quarter-finals of the Club World Cup following an extra-time victory over Benfica at the weekend.

Reece James looked like he had powered the Blues into the next round, but a penalty from Ángel Di María sent the clash into an extra 30 minutes.

The game was suspended for a couple of hours, just minutes from the final whistle, due to a storm threat, but Chelsea finally won the clash 4-1.

It may have taken 4 hours and 39 minutes, but Enzo Maresca’s side now face off against PSG for a spot in the semi-final.

Despite the focus being on the tournament and progressing as far as possible, the manager is still keen on bolstering his squad via the transfer market.

How to Watch the FIFA Club World Cup for Free

Everything you need to know about the Club World Cup.

ByCharlie Smith Jun 13, 2025

Reports coming from the Athletic claim that the Blues have reached an agreement with Brighton and Hove Albion regarding a move for Joao Pedro.

The proposed deal looks set to be in excess of £50m and the Brazilian has agreed personal terms with the club.

With a medical booked in early for next week, it appears as though Maresca is closing in on signing another key target. Just what will Pedro offer the Blues?

Why Chelsea want to sign Joao Pedro

Maresca is looking to sell both Christopher Nkunku and João Félix this summer, with both players struggling for regular gametime last season.

Nkunku may have scored against Benfica, but with clubs such as Manchester United showing some interest in the Frenchman, it looks as though he might be sold.

Felix played just 20 times for Maresca last season, scoring seven times, but the Portuguese star spent the second half of the campaign out on loan at AC Milan.

Pedro’s arrival suggests one, or perhaps both, will soon be departing Stamford Bridge in the coming weeks.

Transfer Focus

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

The Brighton star is versatile, being able to operate as a centre-forward, second striker or even out wide on the left flank.

Last term, he typically operated in an advanced role centrally, scoring ten goals for the Seagulls and registering seven assists, proving he is adept in front of goal and at creating opportunities for his teammates.

Such were his performances, the 23-year-old ranks highly among his positional peers across Europe’s top five leagues.

Indeed, not only does the forward rank in the top 12% for assists (0.28) per 90, but he also ranks in the top 10% for shot-creating actions (3.33) and successful take-ons (1.34) per 90.

Furthermore, Pedro’s ability to get the ball into dangerous areas is evidenced by the fact he ranks in the top 4% for progressive passes (3.6) and in the top 3% for progressive carries (3.05) per 90, indicating that he will offer a lot of attacking qualities for the Blues next term.

It won’t be the only area of the squad that the Italian will be keen on strengthening, however, especially with the added demands of Champions League football next term.

As such, it’s certainly worth Chelsea bringing in a defender or two this summer.

Chelsea's search for a defender

Last season, the club conceded a total of 59 goals across all competitions from 57 matches, and this record will be something Maresca aims to improve next term.

Over the same period, Chelsea scored 120 goals. This suggests that bolstering the defence is surely a bigger priority than adding to the forward line, notably Joao Pedro.

It looks as though the Blues are keen on a defender who played against them just last weekend – Antonio Silva.

Journalist Simon Phillips stated via his Substack that the Blues have been impressed with the youngster, saying:

“Chelsea have tried and made approaches and checks on a number of potential new centre back names this summer so far and still have more to look at and in to. Chelsea have been scouting Antonio Silva of Benfica all season and already have him added to our transfer shortlist alongside his team mate, Tomas Araujo.

“But Chelsea are looking for an out and out centre back and attentions have again turned to the 21-year-old Portuguese international who has just two-years remaining on his contract.”

The centre-back is valued at €32m (£27m) according to Transfermarkt, but Benfica will be looking for a much higher fee than that to sanction a sale considering his release clause stands at around £87m.

Given their defensive issues last term, Silva would be a better signing than Pedro, that’s for sure.

Why Chelsea must sign Antonio Silva

The 21-year-old played over 40 times last season, including all four games at the Club World Cup for Benfica.

At the tournament, Silva averaged a 92% pass success rate, while winning a staggering 80% of his total duels contested, made 2.3 tackles per game and lost possession just 4.3 times per match in the States.

These performances have attracted plenty of attention, and there is no doubt that Silva is only going to get better and better.

Accurate passes

52.3

Tackles

1.5

Total duels won

4.5

Possession lost

7.7

Clearances

4.3

Balls recovered

4

After he burst onto the scene as an 18-year-old with a goal against Juventus in the Champions League back in 2022, Jamie Carragher claimed the defender was “going to be a superstar” and his upwards trajectory certainly suggests so.

When compared to his peers in the Champions League last season, Silva ranked in the top 1% for clearances (7.7) per 90, while also ranking in the top 16% for aerials won (2.36) and in the top 9% for touches in the defensive penalty area (12.91) per 90.

An impressive array of statistics indeed, and considering his ceiling is extraordinarily high, Maresca must make signing Silva a key priority this summer.

Pedro will certainly add plenty of dynamism to the club’s attacking department, but it is at the heart of the defence where the real improvements are required given the problems Maresca’s men suffered last term.

As such, spending whatever it takes to bring Silva from Benfica to the Premier League must be the next move BlueCo are planning.

If he lands his signature, Silva will almost certainly be a better signing than Pedro.

Chelsea considering "incredible" Club World Cup star after scouting mission

The Blues have added him to their list of targets…

BySean Markus Clifford Jun 30, 2025

The Premier League fixtures for the new season were released on Wednesday and, fair to say, they were not kind to Arsenal.

The Gunners will commence their campaign at Old Trafford on 17 August, before also facing Liverpool, Manchester City and Newcastle all in their first six matches; brutal!

So, ahead of their first scheduled pre-season game against AC Milan in Singapore on 23 July, Gooners worldwide are itching to see their team make some signings, so could their cravings be quelled by the arrival of an “insane” young talent?

Arsenal targeting defensive reinforcements

According to reports in France, Arsenal have “submitted” a contract offer to Ajax defender Jorrel Hato, adding that “talks are progressing well” for the “versatile left-footed centre-back”, who is valued at around £43m.

Hato, who is just 19 years old, made his senior debut for Ajax in the KNVB Beker against Den Bosch in January 2023, accumulating 111 appearances subsequently, starting 48 of the Dutch giants’ 54 matches across all competitions this season, predominantly deployed at left-back by Francesco Farioli, but also utilised at centre-back semi-regularly too.

His Eredivisie form has earned international recognition, earning six senior caps for the Netherlands, currently at the Under-21 European Championships in Slovakia, starting all three of Jong Oranje’s group stage fixtures as a central defender.

So now, could the teenager be on his way to North London?

How Jorrel Hato could replicate Jurriën Timber's success at Arsenal

Just under two years ago now, Jurriën Timber, heartbreakingly, ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during his Premier League debut against Nottingham Forest, thereby making just one more appearance that entire season, this coming on the final day.

Nevertheless, this time round, Timber established himself as an absolute stalwart in the Arsenal back-line, making 48 appearances across all competitions, very much the undisputed first-choice right-back, while also doing a commendable job on the left side or in the middle when called upon.

Ben McAleer of the Guardian described his performances as ‘commanding’, while Adam Keys asserted that the Dutchman is the “best 1vs1 defender” on the planet right now, following his exceptional performances against Vinícius Júnior and others.

So, while Timber is likely to begin next season as first-choice, above Benjamin White, who suffered his own long-term injury in November, he also offers Mikel Arteta invaluable versatility, affording Gabriel and William Saliba a breather when necessary.

So, could Hato do the same?

Well, let’s assess how the duo compare with each other.

Appearances

50

47

Minutes

4,185

4,207

Pass completion %

88.8%

91.9%

% of dribblers tackled

81%

73.3%

Interceptions

38

59

Clearances

88

86

Ball recoveries

179

235

Touches per 90

63

83

As the table outlines, when comparing Hato’s statistics from this season to those of Timber from his final campaign at Ajax, they are largely remarkably similar, with the teenager coming out on top when it comes to tackles and clearances.

Adam Keys describes Hato as incredibly talented, noting that he would offer Arteta “insane” depth across the entire back line.

Meantime, Domagoj Kostanjšak of Total Football Analysis documents how Hato boasts an ‘excellent duelling frame’, adding that he is ‘very comfortable on the ball’, which allows him to be ‘adventurous and brave’ in possession, while also a more than capable defender, given that he ‘reads the game well’.

On top of this, Ben Mattinson of Breaking the Lines outlines how the Dutchman is extremely ‘technically gifted’ and destined for greatness.

Thus, it is clear that Hato would be an excellent addition to Arteta’s squad, so Arsenal should act fast, before someone else comes in for this ultra-talented youngster.

Fabrizio Romano: £56m star "in London" with new Arsenal signing "completed"

Mikel Arteta has been gifted a major boost.

6 ByEmilio Galantini Jun 21, 2025

Newcastle United will have to evaluate their attacking targets this summer. Eddie Howe will surely be keen to build on what was a successful 2024/25 campaign for his side, who won the Carabao Cup and secured Champions League qualification thanks to their Premier League finish.

Unfortunately for the Magpies, it seems as though their primary attacking target this summer, Bryan Mbeumo, will join Manchester United.

Highly reputable journalist David Ornstein reported on June 2nd that the Brentford star has decided he wants to join the Red Devils this summer, picking them over the likes of Newcastle.

So, with Mbeumo off the table, the North East giants will have to turn their attention elsewhere when it comes to attacking targets.

Newcastle's Mbeumo alternative

There is no doubt that, for Newcastle, losing a player like Mbeumo, who would have slotted into their side nicely on the right wing, is a huge blow to the project. However, it seems as though they have identified the alternative.

Transfer Focus

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

According to a recent report from journalist Christian Falk, the Magpies are ‘interested in signing’ Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman, a player who Bayern are ‘are looking to offload’ this summer.

However, the 28-year-old France international is not just a target for the Premier League outfit, but also for La Liga giants Barcelona.

Barca are focusing on moves for Liverpool winger Luis Diaz and Man United sensation Marcus Rashford, but could move for Coman if those deals do not materialise. As for the price, Sky Germany reported in March that Bayern would want upwards of £34m for the attacker.

How Coman compares to Mbeumo

It wasn’t necessarily the easiest season for Coman. He struggled with a couple of injuries and perhaps did not play as much of an important role under Vincent Kompany as he may have liked, as Bayern went on to reclaim the Bundesliga title.

In 41 appearances across all competitions, the France international, who was born in Paris and came through PSG’s academy, played 41 games in total. In that time, he scored seven goals and grabbed four assists.

Breaking that down further, we can look at Coman’s stats in the German top flight, which, if anything, highlight just how sparse his involvement was this term. The 28-year-old played 28 games, with his 1,280 minutes the equivalent of 14 full games. A high point of his season was surely the goal and assist he grabbed in a 3-0 win at home to Union Berlin.

Yet, despite a season of much frustration for Coman, he could certainly benefit the Magpies. He is a serial winner, having lifted 30 major titles during his career. After all, there is a reason he’s previously been labelled as “one of the best players in the world” by Oliver Kahn.

Perhaps, with that in mind, he’d make a great alternative to Mbeumo, who seems destined for Old Trafford. The Cameroon international was sensational last season, with 20 goals and eight assists in the Premier League.

However, despite the fact that he performed so well last term, and has done for the past few years now, the experience that Coman would bring to the Newcastle squad is not necessarily something that the Brentford winger could match.

Indeed, the underlying numbers on FBref suggest that the Frenchman would be an apt alternative, too. For example, last season, Coman averaged 0.77 goal-creating actions per 90 minutes, compared to just 0.53 goal-creating actions each game for the Bees talisman.

Expected goals

0.3xG

0.32xG

Key passes

2.25

1.85

Shot-creating actions

5.68

3.8

Goal-creating actions

0.77

0.53

Progressive carries

4.65

3.43

There is no doubt that losing out on the Premier League talent is a blow for the Magpies. He is a player who could have added a direct threat on the right-hand side. However, adding Coman to the squad could certainly have a similar impact, and he can be a “menace” for opponents, as Statman Dave said.

The package of £34m Bayern are asking for does not seem too outlandish for a player still pursuing the goods on the pitch, as the stats show, and bringing with him bags of experience.

He's Gordon 2.0: Newcastle eyeing £43m "magician" after Mbeumo rejection

Newcastle are looking to make a series of signings this summer.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 4, 2025

Scott Parker certainly lived up to his label as a serial promotion winner out of the Championship this season at the Burnley helm.

Securing second spot for the Clarets on a mighty 100 points means Parker has now won promotion three times up to the Premier League as a boss, with the uphill battle of attempting to keep the Lancashire underdogs afloat in the taxing division now the tough goal.

It’s been a less-than-ideal summer so far for the newly promoted side unfortunately, as CJ Egan-Riley nears ever closer to a sad Clarets exit, whilst Josh Brownhill’s future at the club is reportedly up in the air having attracted interest from West Ham.

But, it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom as the Clarets anxiously count down the days until the Premier League returns to Turf Moor.

How might the Clarets look in the Premier League? We’ve laid out their dream XI in the top-flight right here…

1 GK – James Trafford

Much like Egan-Riley, Burnley’s number one goalkeeper James Trafford has reportedly been the subject of interest from Newcastle.

But, Parker and Co will just aim to keep swatting away interested parties, knowing full well that Trafford is Premier League capable, having kept a ridiculous 29 clean sheets last season.

2 RB – Connor Roberts

Connor Roberts is also likely to retain his place as Burnley’s starting right-back in top-flight action.

He was another steady presence in the Clarets’ formidable defence last campaign, whilst also being able to boast a season of Premier League experience already with the Lancashire outfit.

3 CB – Victor Nelsson

The first brand-new purchase could see Burnley take a punt on 26-year-old centre-back Victor Nelsson in a bid to immediately fill the Egan-Riley void.

Previously linked with a €10m (£8m) move for Nelsson in January, the 6 foot 1 Dane has shown across his career to date his ability to shine in some top divisions.

Before falling out of favour at Galatasaray and heading to AS Roma on loan, Nelsson would pick up a hefty 11 clean sheets in Super Lig action across the 2023/24 season, finishing too with an imposing average of 5.3 duels won per contest.

With his spell at Roma not going to plan either, the Scandinavian could well fancy leaving Turkey behind for good which is where Burnley might capitalise.

4 CB – Maxime Esteve

Whilst the news of Egan-Riley’s expected exit will sting, Burnley being able to keep a firm grip on his usual centre-back partner in Maxime Esteve could at least come as some source of comfort.

The Frenchman has been linked with a switch away to Crystal Palace, but if the Clarets are serious about their survival hopes, they must keep Esteve around.

The 23-year-old already looks ready-made for the Premier League, with the ex-Montpellier enforcer both confident on the ball with a 91% pass accuracy averaged last season in league action, but also assured when launching into many a tackle.

5 LB – Josip Juranovic

Whilst normally a right-back by trade, Burnley’s lack of a main left-back option could see the Clarets swoop in for reported target Josip Juranovic for help.

The “immense” Croat, as he’s been previously lauded by European football expert Zach Lowy, has been a goal-and-assist machine wherever he’s gone across his nomadic career.

That’s seen in his career tally of 43 goal contributions – but it’s ability to slot in as a right-back, left-back or even as a centre-back with ease that will have piqued Burnley’s interest.

6 CM – Josh Brownhill

Much like Esteve, it would be a complete disaster if Burnley were to lose Josh Brownhill after his sublime promotion heroics.

But, with his contract running down, it could well be a sticky situation to solve.

Still, if they can get their exciting captain to say, it would make the world of difference to the Clarets’ survival odds, considering the wanted star fired home 18 strikes last season as Burnley’s top scorer.

7 CM – Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall

Burnley-linked Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall might soon form a healthy working relationship with Josh Brownhill if the ex-Leicester City man is finally freed from his Stamford Bridge ordeal.

Whilst his time in West London has been rocky after a £30m switch last summer, he showed more than enough for the Foxes for Parker to consider a move, boasting 17 goals and 20 assists in total across his memorable King Power Stadium stay.

8 RM – Marcus Edwards

Now officially a permanent member of the Burnley camp, Marcus Edwards will be raring to go in the Premier League next campaign.

After all, he was once a heavily fancied kid off the block at Tottenham Hotspur, but he would never go on to make a top-flight appearance on the periphery in North London.

Now, after collecting a goal and an assist from 14 Turf Moor clashes, his opportunity finally awaits.

9 CAM – Hannibal Mejbri

Hannibal Mejbri is very much in the same camp as Edwards in attempting to show he belongs at the intimidating level.

He certainly showed he was worthy of competing at the top end of the Championship with Parker’s men, as seen in his respectable tally of one goal and five assists from the number ten spot. Therefore, he could come back to haunt his ex-employers, Manchester United.

10 LM – Jaidon Anthony

Jaidon Anthony will also be bursting with excitement about reentering the Premier League with the Clarets after penning a permanent deal at Turf Moor.

Whilst his team’s stern defence just stole most of the deserved plaudits, Anthony’s high haul of eight goals and seven assists from 43 league clashes went somewhat under the radar.

With Premier League experience also already under his belt with AFC Bournemouth, the 25-year-old could soon cause even more havoc down the left flank for Parker’s men.

Turning their attention away from a historic League One season and towards the summer transfer window, Birmingham City and Tom Wagner are now reportedly eyeing the chance to sign an Aston Villa gem.

Wagner wants to rekindle Aston Villa rivalry

Whilst attempting to swoop in and sign one of Unai Emery’s most impressive young talents, Wagner has made it no secret that he’s hoping to see Birmingham reignite their rivalry with the Villans in the near future. Back in the Championship and one step away from their rivals in the Premier League, the Blues chief is seemingly desperate to bridge that gap and commence a true battle.

Wagner told reporters earlier this month: “It’s absolutely a top objective. It’s the right rivalry for Birmingham, the right derby for English football, and the right way for each club to achieve its highest potential is by rekindling a rivalry that’s been dormant for too long. When I speak to the true fans on both sides of that rivalry, I get the same reaction, which is that they’d love to see it.”

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Unlike many clubs in the past, Birmingham won’t just be looking to survive in the Championship at the first time of asking. Alongside Wrexham, they’ll have their sights on causing a few upsets and pushing beyond the dropzone and perhaps even mid-table mediocrity if they get their summer business right.

That is the big unanswered question, of course. Just who could Birmingham sign this summer fresh from League One promotion? A number of names have already been mentioned, from Kwame Poku all the way to Torino’s Che Adams who played for the club between 2016 and 2019.

Meanwhile, Birmingham may not be afraid to steal some headlines by signing a rival star when the summer transfer window swings open in what would make an immediate statement.

Birmingham eyeing Louie Barry deal

According to GiveMeSport, Wagner and Birmingham have held internal talks about signing Louie Barry from Aston Villa this summer. The young winger will be allowed to leave the Villans on loan in the coming months after having his spell at Hull City cut short courtesy of injury last time out, and a move to St. Andrew’s could yet become an unexpected opportunity.

Although his loan spell at Hull ended in frustration, Barry’s form at Stockport County during the first-half of the season initially caught the eye enough to earn a move into the Championship. Scoring 16 goals in 28 games for the League One side, the 21-year-old earned the praise of football talent scout Jacek Kulig, who described his form as “superb” in December.

Following what turned into a mixed season, Barry has a decision to make in the coming months. If his League One numbers are anything to go by, then the Villa gem could now be ready for the Championship and potentially Birmingham this summer.

The defeat in the Europa League final against Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night highlights the need for a serious overhaul at Manchester United this summer.

Ruben Amorim’s side were unable to get the better of their Premier League opponents, topping off what has been a dismal campaign on and off the pitch for the Red Devils.

The manager has attempted to make the best out of the players currently on the books at Old Trafford, but he’s so far been unable to do so in his seven-month spell at the helm.

In the aftermath of the loss, the 40-year-old stated that he would leave if the board didn’t think he was the right man for the job, but they have since backed the former Sporting CP boss to turn things around.

However, the real backing will come within the transfer market, allowing him to make the necessary changes he requires to catapult the side back to their former glory.

The latest on Alejandro Garnacho's future

Attacker Alejandro Garnacho has previously been linked with a move away from United in recent months, with Chelsea and Napoli registering interest in his services back in January.

However, the Argentine could well leave the Red Devils this window, after being benched for the Europa League final and venting his frustrations in an interview after the game.

It’s been reported by ESPN that the player and his representatives are frustrated after the loss in Bilbao, with the 20-year-old now seeing his future away from the Theatre of Dreams.

The report also claims that he already has proposals to leave the club during the off-season, but doesn’t mention how much the hierarchy would demand for his signature.

However, despite the situation surrounding Garnacho, one other player needs to be sold this summer after his dismal run within the ranks since Amorim’s arrival.

The United player who needs to be sold alongside Garnacho

United’s lowly league standing in 2024/25 is nothing short of unacceptable, especially considering the previous success endured over the last few decades.

The club have gone from fighting for Premier League titles to now sitting in 16th position and out of all forms of European football in 2025/26 – something which could impact their finances.

Whilst new signings are undoubtedly needed to improve the current situation, it could depend on departures from the current squad, with Garnacho one who looks set to be sacrificed.

However, he could be joined out of the door by striker Rasmus Hojlund, with the Danish international clearly not at the level required for future success.

The 22-year-old was bought for £72m in the summer of 2023, with huge things expected, but he’s simply failed to deliver – notching just 10 goals in his 51 appearances this season.

He’s been unable to extract his best performances, even going 21 games without a goal at one stage, leading to one content creator labelling him as a “serious problem”.

Despite his disappointing showings, he was handed a start in the Europa League final on Wednesday night, but once again showcased the need for a new talisman during the summer.

Hojlund only registered a tally of 15 touches during his 71-minute display, unable to provide the focal point or threat that was required to claim European glory.

It’s no secret that Amorim has had to stick with the former Atalanta star during the early months of his tenure, certainly wanting to recruit his own players during the upcoming window.

Games played

31

Goals scored

4

Shots taken

1.4

Successful passes per 90

11.2

Dribble success

30%

Times dispossessed

1.6

Aerials won

23%

Whilst the hierarchy would likely lose a huge chunk of their investment, it’s vital that he’s offloading in the coming months, along with Garnacho, to hand the manager the funds he needs for change.

It’s a shame that the move has been unsuccessful, with the board needing to remember such a signing in the near future as they attempt to land the clinical goalscorer they crave.

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