Chelsea now find themselves back in the top five for the time being, having beaten Everton 1-0 at Stamford Bridge, making it six points from their last two games in the Premier League.

Enzo Maresca’s men put in a very strong team performance, winning 58% of their duels, winning 41/74 ground duels, winning 12/18 aerial duels, and completing 22 tackles in the game.

This same fight will be needed in the Blues’ last four Premier League games, if they have any chance of securing Champions League football. But the form of their attackers will also be key, as many have been struggling for goals as of late.

Nicolas Jackson broke the deadlock after 27 minutes with an instinctive strike into the bottom corner from outside the box, with his goal being the decider for Maresca’s side and the difference between one point and three points for the Blues.

Nicolas Jackson's performance against Everton

Jackson has made 30 appearances for Chelsea this season, netting ten times and providing five assists in 2,205 minutes played. However, this was the 23-year-old’s first goal in 2025, with his last coming against Brentford back in December.

The Senegal international scored with his only shot of the game, completing 100% of his passes (24/24) and completing one of his three dribble attempts.

The ability to drop deep and relieve pressure, linking play with the midfielders before making runs in behind was effective against the Everton back line.

But Jackson wasn’t the only effective attacker on the pitch for Chelsea today, as Maresca unleashed another forward in an unfamiliar position, which yielded positive results.

Maresca hit gold with star in a new position

Noni Madueke has mainly played off the right this season for Maresca’s side, making 35 appearances, scoring 10 goals and providing five assists in 2,002 minutes played.

However, the 23-year-old winger was deployed on the opposite side against Everton, and to quite good effect too.

The Chelsea boss hit gold by unleashing the former PSV star in a new role on the left side of the pitch, as it yielded an impressive showing from the attacker.

Minutes

78

Touches

46

Accurate Passes

20/25

Shots

4

Long Balls

2/3

Successful Dribble Attempts

2/4

Ground Duels Won

4/7

Aerial Duels Won

1/1

Tackles

1

The England international managed 46 touches in the game, taking four shots, all of which were on target, and completing 50% of his dribble attempts with two successful dribbles of his four.

Madueke also won 100% aerial duels, made one tackle, and won four ground duels, doing his bit off the ball to help the side.

This shows that he was even better than Jackson because he impacted play at both ends of the pitch, with his hard work on and off the ball.

Madueke earned himself a 7/10 match rating from GOAL for his performance, praised for forcing Jordan Pickford into ‘multiple top-quality saves’, cutting inside on his weaker right foot. The winger had the same eagerness to be direct on the ball, beating players and looking to drive towards goal at every opportunity.

With Pedro Neto showing his best from the right this season, Madueke on the left could be something we see from Maresca more at the back end of this season. It’s safe to say he’s now as undroppable as Jackson.

Chelsea reporter reveals Liverpool "sniffing around" shock Cole Palmer move

The Reds are an appealing destination for prospective arrivals…

BySean Markus Clifford Apr 26, 2025

Chelsea have held talks with the representatives of a highly-rated star recently, with his club nown also identifying a potential replacement for him.

Chelsea summer transfer plans explained

The three key items on BlueCo’s agenda this summer are the signings of a centre-back, winger and striker (Simon Phillips).

Chelsea in "active talks" to sign forward with Jadon Sancho swap possible

The Englishman could go the other way.

ByEmilio Galantini Apr 30, 2025

Wesley Fofana consistently finds himself on the treatment table with long-term injuries, which has been the case ever since his £75 million move from Leicester City, while it appears likely Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi will be sold by Chelsea this summer.

There are even reports in France that Chelsea are seriously considering Fofana’s sale as well, leaving little wonder a centre-back is high on the agenda at Stamford Bridge.

Liverpool (home)

May 4th

Newcastle (away)

May 11th

Man United (home)

May 16th

Nottingham Forest (away)

May 25th

Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounding Mykhailo Mudryk, Noni Madueke and Jadon Sancho means Chelsea have reportedly opened talks for Borussia Dortmund starlet Jamie Gittens already, as they seek to get deals done early before their Club World Cup campaign.

A host of strikers are being linked with moves to Cobham as well, including Benjamin Sesko, Liam Delap, Jonathan David, Hugo Ekitiké and Victor Osimhen (Sky Sports), so it appears Enzo Maresca’s side are set for yet another busy window.

Going back to the defensive area of their squad, links to Bournemouth starlet Dean Huijsen are refusing to go away.

The 20-year-old’s £50 million release clause has piqued interest from a host of elite sides, including Chelsea, and the reliable Simon Phillips recently reported that they’ve held “very positive” talks with Huijsen’s representatives in the last fortnight.

Chelsea apparently hold a serious belief that they could be frontrunners for the Spain international’s signature, but it is a complex saga to say the least.

“So what has happened so far is that Barat [his agent] is pushing Huijsen to join Chelsea, but Don [his father] is pushing him to join Liverpool,” wrote Phillips last week (Substack).

“The belief is that ideally, Huijsen would want to go to Real Madrid but he is being advised to stay in the Premier League for now and also, Real have yet to make a solid move other than register some interest. I have not heard that Champions League football is a deciding factor, but it could be ‘a’ factor.”

Bournemouth identify Albian Hajdari as replacement for Dean Huijsen

Following reports of Chelsea’s talks with Huijsen, journalist Rudy Galetti has shared another update on his future in a piece for TEAMtalk.

It is now believed that the Cherries are very much planning for his exit from the Vitality this summer, with Bournemouth identifying Lugano defender Albian Hajdari as a replacement for Huijsen.

This is described as a boost for Liverpool in their pursuit of Huijsen, as Bournemouth grow more aware he is heading out of the door this summer, but it also comes as a piece of encouragement for Chelsea – especially after their discussions with the player’s camp.

Huijsen has been a mainstay under Andoni Iraola this season, passing his first season in the Premier League with flying colours, and the sky appears to be the limit for a centre-back who could still be miles away from reaching his ceiling, given his young age.

Liverpool fell to just their second Premier League defeat of the season this afternoon, losing 3-2 to Marco Silva’s European-chasing Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Alexis Mac Allister put Arne Slot’s side ahead after just a quarter of an hour but would trail 3-1 at the break after goals from Ryan Sessegnon, Alex Iwobi and Rodrigo Muniz.

Luis Diaz pulled a goal back in the second half, but it was too little too late, as the Reds squandered an opportunity to move one step closer to title glory in 2024/25.

They still sit 11 points clear of second-placed Arsenal with just seven games to go this campaign, still sitting in pole position to end their four-season drought for a league triumph.

It certainly was an afternoon to forget on the banks of the River Thames, with numerous players failing to deliver like they have done on so many occasions – undoubtedly contributing to the loss.

Liverpool’s poor performers against Fulham

Goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has been a superb replacement for Alisson in his absence this season, but his showing today was one of his worst of the season.

The Irish international had a goals prevented xG of -1.22 whilst also conceding three times – the most he has in any game throughout the current campaign.

As for star man Mohamed Salah, he blanked for the second game in a row after failing to make an impact in the Merseyside derby against Everton in midweek.

The winger registered just 49 touches, missing one big chance and failing to complete any of his attempted dribbles – once again unable to have an impact in the final third.

However, despite the Egyptian’s lack of positive impact in the capital, one other Reds player failed to deliver, with Slot needing to drop him from his starting eleven next weekend.

The Liverpool player who was worse than Salah against Fulham

Ahead of the game, Slot decided to make just one change from the team that beat their local rivals on Wednesday night, with Cody Gakpo coming in to replace Diaz.

Such a decision proved that the Dutchman had faith in the side to claim another victory, but were unable to do so, falling way behind the high levels they have set for themselves.

Diogo Jota scored the winner against the Toffees, but failed to have any form of positive impact this afternoon, with the manager desperately needing to drop the Portuguese international from his side.

The 28-year-old featured for 67 minutes against the Cottagers, missing a big chance and only completing two passes, showcasing how poor he was when the ball fell his way.

He also notched just 22 touches, an average of one every three minutes, and lost the ball 100% of the time he tried to take on an opponent, unable to repeat his heroics from midweek.

Out of his 22 touches, he lost possession 13 times, meaning he gifted the ball away with 60% of his touches – with Slot needing to hand increased minutes to the likes of Darwin Núñez and Federico Chiesa.

Minutes played

67

Touches

22

Passes completed

2

Dribbles completed

0/1

Possession lost

13x

Big chances missed

1

Shots taken

1

As a result of his dismal showing, he was handed a measly 5/10 match rating by The Express’ Jack Mceachen, further highlighting how poor he was during the defeat.

Given his inability to take advantage of his starting position, Slot has to drop him from the side, with Jota simply not at the level required for a side at the top of the Premier League.

The summer could pose an interesting challenge for the manager, deciding whether to stick or twist, potentially ending his stint at Anfield after his inability to impress.

Liverpool can sign the PL's new Kevin De Bruyne in swoop for £63m "artist"

Arne Slot’s side are expecting to be busy in the summer transfer market.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 5, 2025

Who is the greatest player in Liverpool’s modern history? Certainly, if we’re talking about post-millenial brilliance, Steven Gerrard sits at the top of the tree.

Gerrard might be the greatest player in the Merseysiders’ history anyway, utterly incredible and synonymous with the city’s beating red heart.

However, we’re looking at Liverpool’s resurgence over the past decade, here, when Jurgen Klopp saved a team from drowning and turned it back toward the light.

So many superstars have graced Anfield’s pitch since the former German manager was appointed as Brendan Rodgers’ successor, but it’s hard to argue against Virgil van Dijk being the cream of the crop.

Virgil van Dijk is Liverpool's hero

When Liverpool paid Premier League rivals Southampton a £75m sum to take their prized centre-back in January 2018, many opposing fans chuckled at such an obscene figure for a defender.

But it’s difficult to say that Liverpool and their Dutch skipper haven’t had the last laugh, with Van Dijk transforming the Reds’ shaky backline and leading them to glory, winning all the biggest honours, coming within a whisker of Lionel Messi on the Ballon d’Or podium in his prime and immortalising his name as the leader of Liverpool in their finest period in modern times.

The 33-year-old is no longer a bright new voice in the Premier League but he’s still matchless in defence, so important this season as Arne Slot’s side surprised everyone and assumed a commanding lead at the top of the table – 11 points clear with seven games to go.

Virgil van Dijk’s Premier League Performance (24/25)
Stats (* = per game)*	Van Dijk
Matches (starts)	31 (31)
Goals	1
Assists	1
Clean sheets	13
Pass completion	92%
Key passes*	0.3
Dribble success	60%
Ball recoveries*	3.1
Tackles + interceptions*	2.7
Clearances*	5.1
Total duels (won)*	4.7 (67%)
Stats via Sofascore

And he’s not done yet. Van Dijk has completed 313 appearances for Liverpool and won the full gamut, and though his lucrative contract is into its eleventh hour, he’s recently allayed fans’ concerns by confirming that talks are ongoing regarding a renewal.

This will be crucial for the Anfield side as it steers into the second year of Slot’s project, giving the Netherlands icon another year (or two) to drive the stake of his legacy even deeper into the rich Liverpool soil.

To be fair, you’d have to say that Mohamed Salah is Liverpool’s best signing in a long, long time. The Egyptian joined the club from AS Roma for just £34m and has gone on to claim legendary status.

However, his arrival preceded the skipper’s. He was followed from the Serie A by another though, and it is he who stands proud as Liverpool’s standout signing.

Liverpool's best signing after Van Dijk

You’ve probably already guessed who it is. While Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and co have reshaped Liverpool’s midfield and charged the club’s charge toward the Premier League title this season, it’s not them.

While Ibrahima Konate, Luis Diaz and and Cody Gakpo have been instrumental in Liverpool’s success in recent years, it’s Alisson Becker between the sticks who has been the life-juice since arriving in the early knockings of Klopp’s still-standing (even if he’s gone) dynasty.

Liverpool paid a world-record £67m fee – for a goalkeeper – to secure Alisson’s signature, but it still feels like something of a bargain. Quite simply, the Brazil international’s positional rivals all pale in comparison.

Slot has been more than happy to chip in about his keeper’s calibre, hailing his “world-class” saves. He’s the best of the best, with his stunning display at the Parc des Princes in February the perfect illustration of his lofty skills.

Making nine stunning saves and preventing an xG total of 2.26 goals, as per Sofascore, the South American called it “the performance of my life” as Liverpool somehow survived a ceaseless onslaught and emerged victorious – they lost the return leg, of course, but Alisson still put in a good shift.

First-leg match-winner, Harvey Elliott, also called his towering teammate “the best in the world” – and it’s a fair claim indeed.

It’s not just this season that the 32-year-old’s been in fine fettle, as you surely know. Back in May 2023, Klopp declared that his shot-stopping star had been the club’s “most consistent player” through a testing year.

In fact, injuries aside, Alisson is rarely in the firing line for poor performances, with his leadership, command and shot-saving prowess all converging to present a player who is truly the complete package.

The fact that Alisson, who arrived at Liverpool way back when, remains Liverpool’s best signing since Van Dijk was brought into Klopp’s squad six months earlier makes a telling comment on the issues behind recruitment over recent years.

It also details a pretty firm assessment regarding the Reds’ absolutely staggering longevity, not really making the sweeping changes of their divisional rivals over the past eight years or so.

Liverpool have done well to prudently tie Giorgi Mamardashvili down, but whether he’ll reach the same incredible heights as the Brazilian is another question entirely.

The Georgian keeper is set to join from Valencia this summer in a deal worth £29m, but the 24-year-old is sure to spend some time serving as Alisson’s understudy, replacing Caoimhin Kelleher as the able deputy leaves in search of a first-choice spot.

Alisson’s place is at Anfield for the foreseeable, but he’s about to enter the penultimate year of his contract and could leave for a transfer fee in one year’s time or maybe see his £150k-per-week deal out to its end.

In any case, the 6 foot 4 sensation is one of Liverpool’s finest modern players, so important, so influential, over the years. There’s a firm case to be made that all who have walked through the gates since have failed to outstrip him.

Better than Diaz & Gakpo: "Perfect" £62m star wants to sign for Liverpool

Arne Slot is hoping to make a range of signings this summer to improve Liverpool’s starting 11.

By
Angus Sinclair

Apr 7, 2025

Celtic forward Daizen Maeda continued his sensational season with yet another goal in the club’s 5-1 win over Kilmarnock in the Scottish Premiership last weekend.

The Hoops romped to a comfortable victory in front of their home support to bounce back from their disappointing 1-0 defeat away to St. Johnstone in their previous outing in the top-flight.

A close-range strike from Maeda, as well as some stunning goals from Reo Hatate and Cameron Carter-Vickers, helped the Scottish giants on their way to all three points.

Brendan Rodgers’ Japanese marksman has been in phenomenal form in front of goal throughout the 2024/25 campaign, notching his 31st goal of the season against Kilmarnock.

The experienced forward has scored 31 goals and provided nine assists in 45 appearances in all competitions for the Hoops so far this term, which shows that he has provided a regular threat in front of goal as both a scorer and a creator for Celtic.

Rodgers needed him, and others, to step up at the top end of the pitch after the club sanctioned the sale of proven goalscorer Kyogo Furuhashi in the January transfer window.

How much Rennes paid for Kyogo Furuhashi

Shortly after Celtic’s 1-0 win over Young Boys in the Champions League, there was talk about a possible move to France for the Japanese forward before the deadline.

Six days on from that victory, which turned out to be the striker’s last appearance for the club, Rennes officially completed the signing of Kyogo for a reported fee of £10m.

Deciding to move on from the Japan international midway through the campaign was a gamble by the Scottish giants, given the quality that he had provided over the years in Glasgow.

Kyogo joined the club from Vissel Kobe on a permanent transfer in the summer of 2021 under the management of Ange Postecoglou, and hit the ground running with 20 goals in all competitions in the 2021/22 campaign.

Kyogo Furuhashi’s Celtic career (all competitions)
Season	Appearances	Goals	Assists
24/25	32	12	4
23/24	50	19	5
22/23	50	34	5
21/22	33	20	5
Stats via Transfermarkt

As you can see in the table above, the Japanese centre-forward was a consistent goal threat for the Scottish giants throughout his time in Glasgow, scoring at least 12 goals in all four of his seasons at Parkhead.

His best year in a Hoops jersey was, as is obvious by looking at the table, the 2022/23 campaign as he plundered a staggering 34 goals in all competitions for Celtic.

His form in front of goal over those seasons eventually allowed the club to rake in £10m for his services in the January transfer window, but he is not the most expensive striker sold by the Hoops in the past decade.

How much Celtic paid for Odsonne Edouard

In the summer of 2018, Celtic decided to splash the cash on a new centre-forward to bring Odsonne Edouard from Paris Saint-Germain to Paradise in a club-record £9m transfer.

The French marksman had spent the 2017/18 season on loan in Glasgow, scoring 11 goals in 28 matches, and that convinced the board to sign the attacker on a permanent deal in a record transfer ahead of the following campaign.

Edouard followed that up with a return of 22 goals and eight assists in 52 matches in all competitions during the 2018/19 season, including 15 goals in the Premiership – as shown in the highlights above.

The former PSG starlet went on to be a reliable threat at the top end of the pitch for the Scottish giants for several years, racking up 87 goals and 37 assists in 179 outings for the club in all competitions.

These statistics show that Celtic hit the jackpot by splashing out a club-record fee to sign him on a permanent deal because he went on to become a prolific scorer for the Hoops in his three seasons in Glasgow as a permanent player.

The Hoops then went on to strike gold on the centre-forward by making a significant profit on the attacker when they sold him to Premier League side Crystal Palace ahead of the 2021/22 campaign.

How Celtic hit the jackpot with Odsonne Edouard

The English side swooped for his services in the summer of 2021, as they looked to bolster their options at the top end of the pitch, and they agreed a reported deal worth up to £18.5m.

Market Movers

Football FanCast’s Market Movers series explores the changing landscape of the modern transfer market. How much is your club’s star player or biggest flop worth today?

Eagles chairman Steve Parish described Edouard as a striker with “proven quality”, based on his time with Celtic, and that is why Palace were willing to commit a huge sum of money to sign him.

The French centre-forward’s value, therefore, soared by a whopping £9.5m during his spell with the Hoops, from the £9m that they initially paid for him, and that shows that they hit the jackpot with him.

Odsonne-Edouard

Edouard was also sold for £8.5m more than Kyogo was in January, despite his impressive goal return for the Bhoys, which speaks to how well the club did to rake in that fee from Palace.

Celtic also hit gold with the sale of the Frenchman because he has only scored 21 goals in all competitions in his four years in England to date, with all 21 of those coming for Palace and none in his current loan spell with Leicester City.

Odsonne Edouard’s market value since leaving Celtic
Date	Market value
August 2021	£18.5m reported fee
December 2021	£14.6m
September 2022	£12.8m
November 2022	£14.6m
October 2023	£17.2m
May 2024	£15.4m
December 2024	£12m
March 2025	£8.5m
Valuations via Transfermarkt

As you can see in the table above, his market value has plummeted from £18.5m to £8.5m in the last four years as a result of his lack of goals for Palace and Leicester since his move away from Parkhead.

This suggests that the Scottish giants played a blinder by cashing in on him in the summer of 2021 because he has regressed since leaving Glasgow and is now worth even less than the initial £9m that the Hoops paid to sign him from PSG.

Celtic chasing deal for star who could become even better than Jota

Celtic are reportedly interested in a deal to sign the impressive young forward.

By
Dan Emery

Apr 16, 2025

Arne Slot’s achievement of winning the Premier League in his first season as Liverpool manager is nothing short of sensational, offering a seamless transition after taking over from Jürgen Klopp.

The Dutchman has led the side to the title with four games to spare, losing just two games in the process, highlighting the excellent job he’s done at the helm.

Such an achievement has secured the Reds’ 20th top-division league title, putting them level with Manchester United in terms of being the most successful side in English football history.

Undoubtedly, after tasting success in his first season, the 46-year-old will want to make it back-to-back in 2025/26, hopefully having the chance to make the necessary changes to his squad this summer.

Multiple areas of the pitch are in need of investment, with foundations already put in place by the hierarchy for potential incomings over the next few months.

The latest on Liverpool’s hunt for new signings

A striker has been on the club’s radar over the last few weeks, as Slot looks to add firepower to the frontline in place of Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez, who could both depart this summer.

Benjamin Sesko is the latest player touted with a move to Anfield, with the Reds needing to trigger his £55m release clause if they are to secure a deal for his services.

He’s been named as a potential alternative to Alexander Isak, who looks unlikely to swap Tyneside for Merseyside, with Newcastle United demanding £150m for his signature.

Alongside Sesko, Slot could make another Bundesliga addition in the form of Bayern Munich winger Kingsley Coman, that’s if recent reports are to be believed.

According to CaughtOffside, the Reds are set to make an offer for the 28-year-old in the coming months, with his current employers valuing him at £35m.

It also states that Vincent Kompany’s are willing to let the Frenchman depart during the off-season, with Coman himself considering his own future at the Allianz Arena.

Why Coman could be Slot’s next Gravenberch

Midfielder Ryan Gravenberch joined Liverpool in the summer of 2023 from Bayern Munich, looking to provide key depth in the middle of the park for former boss Klopp.

However, he struggled to break into the side, making just 12 Premier League starts, unable to dislodge Alexis Mac Allister from the role, with Wataru Endo even preferred to the Dutchman.

Slot’s arrival has transformed the 22-year-old’s career at Anfield, starting every single league game to date, and cementing his place alongside the Argentine.

Such a deal has proven to be a huge success for the club, with Gravenberch a key reason in their title triumph – offering a consistent presence in the side during a year of transition.

The manager could land his next version of the star in the form of Coman this summer, arriving as a fringe player from Bayern and looking to become a hit under his guidance on Merseyside.

The winger, who’s been previously labelled “one of the best players in the world” by Oliver Kahn, has struggled for game time this season, making just 12 league starts – unable to force his way into Kompany’s plans.

However, despite his limited minutes in 2024/25, he’s still managed to impress, producing numerous key figures that would bolster the Reds’ attacking department.

Kingsley Coman’s stats for Bayern in the Bundesliga (2024/25)

Statistics (per 90)

Tally

Games started

12

Goals & assists

9

Pass accuracy

89%

Shots on target

1.3

Chances created

2.4

Successful dribbles

3.1

Touches in opposition box

6.3

Stats via FotMob

He’s still managed to register nine combined goals and assists to date, whilst registering 1.3 shots on target per 90, showcasing his threat with the ball at his feet.

Such a threat is further seen by his tally of 2.4 chances created and 3.1 successful dribbles per 90 – having the tools to further aid the likes of Mohamed Salah in forward areas.

Such a deal would certainly aid the club’s chances of replicating their success in the years to come, having the opportunity to cement themselves as the country’s best ever team.

£35m for a player of his experience and quality is a bargain in today’s market, enabling them to sign a versatile option who could easily replicate the achievements set by former teammate Gravenberch.

Related A big Diaz upgrade: Liverpool make approach to sign future "£100m" star

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Posts ByEthan Lamb Apr 30, 2025

Newcastle United missed the chance to reinforce their lofty Premier League position as they were given a thorough hiding against Champions League-chasing rivals Aston Villa.

A switch flicked in December and United charged their way into the ascendancy, winning the Carabao Cup off Liverpool in March and underlining their elite-level credentials.

Still third in the top flight, Eddie Howe’s side now need to regroup ahead of the crucial final stretch of the season, their six-match winning run snapped.

However, this was a bruising display that will have left stand-in manager Jason Tindall seething. So often so strong, the centre-halves were taken to the shops against Villa Park’s slick frontline.

Newcastle's defence falls against Villa

Newcastle have been in emphatic form in recent weeks, turning Crystal Palace over 5-0 in midweek. However, the relentless fixture list, having forced United into three games over six days, claimed a top outfit in this one.

Fabian Schar equalised before twenty minutes after connecting with the in-form Harvey Barnes’ whipped delivery, but it was not a good evening for the long-serving Swiss centre-back, who disappointingly lost all five of his duels.

Likewise, Dan Burn has been a pillar of strength this term but he failed to produce his best performance, skewing Youri Tielemans’ lunge into his own net to all but seal the hosts’ victory. He also struggled to impose himself against a lively frontline, winning just one of five duels.

Both Schar and Burn will recover over the coming days and gear up for next weekend’s crucial clash against Ipswich Town at St. James’ Park.

Options have been sparse in defence, but there’s one man who may be dropped going forward after being exposed against Unai Emery’s men.

Newcastle must now drop stalwart

Even with Lewis Hall sidelined for the rest of the season, Kieran Trippier surely needs to be benched for the tough run-in, with Howe perhaps shifting Tino Livramento back into his natural right-back berth and giving Matt Targett some rare game time from the outset.

26/04/25

Ipswich Town (H)

18th

04/05/25

Brighton (A)

10th

10/05/25

Chelsea (H)

7th

18/05/25

Arsenal (A)

2nd

25/05/25

Everton (H)

13th

Following the loss, the experienced full-back was branded with a 4/10 match rating by The Chronicle Live, who noted that he was run ragged by the Lions.

Ceding possession 16 times despite only making one key pass, as per Sofascore, Trippier’s ball-playing skills weren’t at their best, but more concerningly he only won one of his four contested ground duels, having a tough time against the dangerous Ollie Watkins.

Newcastle writer Thomas Hammond even made the scathing comment that “Trippier’s legs gave up on him.” Aged 34 and a true veteran of the game, it’s hardly surprising that this might be the case for the vice-captain.

Schar and Burns suffered rare off-days and you’d think that all of a Magpies persuasion will be able to rally ahead of the stretch ahead, but if faced with such intensity again, Howe and Tindall might want to consider dropping Trippier, who was already at risk of being sold during the winter transfer window and may well be in the coming months.

The concern, of course, is that the Toon face a testing finish to the season, one which they will need to pass with flying colours if a place back at the continent’s prized tournament is to be achieved, lifting a stunning campaign even higher.

Best signing since Isak: Newcastle hit the jackpot on "world-class" star

Newcastle’s signing has turned into one of the best players in the Premier League.

ByAngus Sinclair Apr 18, 2025

Real Madrid are being repeatedly linked with Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso, and a report has now claimed the tactician is already making transfer demands ahead of a switch to the Bernabeu, which could end up scuppering Arsenal.

Arsenal targeting new centre-back for Mikel Arteta

With Riccardo Calafiori preferred at left-back by Mikel Arteta, and some uncertainty surrounding the long-term future of Jakub Kiwior, Arsenal are believed to be in the market for another central defender this summer.

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The north Londoners had a potentially ambitious plan.

ByEmilio Galantini May 1, 2025

Arteta will also be minus Kieran Tierney, who has agreed a pre-contract to join Celtic in July, while Oleksandr Zinchenko is widely expected to be sold by Arsenal this summer after falling down the pecking order.

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Newcastle United (home)

May 18th

Southampton (away)

May 25th

Myles Lewis-Skelly and Calafiori appear likely to be Arteta’s two first-choice left-backs next season, so if Kiwior does leave the Emirates, Arsenal will have a scarce lack of defensive options behind Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba.

This has prompted them to look into a summer deal for highly-rated Bournemouth starlet Dean Huijsen.

According to the reliable David Ornstein, Arsenal have held talks with Huijsen’s camp already, and are willing to pay the £50 million release clause into his contract.

“They [Arsenal] are among the clubs (with Chelsea, Liverpool, Newcastle and Tottenham) who have met his representatives, with Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta keen to sign the Spain international,” wrote Ornstein in a Q&A recently.

“Whether or not Arsenal win the race is unclear because it’s still open and I’m not aware of a front-runner between them, Chelsea and Liverpool to date.

“Either way, Huijsen would play a lot of football at Arsenal, and they can now show him many examples of how, under Arteta, players have developed extremely well and become top-level talents. Now, this doesn’t mean he will opt for them; there are pros and cons to each of the suitors, all of whom are ready to pay the release clause.”

It has also been reported by talkSPORT that Huijsen favours a move to Arsenal after these discussions, so this could be a real one to watch, with Bournemouth standing to make a major profit off his £16 million signing last summer.

Xabi Alonso asks Real Madrid to sign Dean Huijsen

While the Gunners are clearly very keen, the same can now be said of Real Madrid’s prospective new manager.

Alonso is Real’s top priority to replace Carlo Ancelotti, according to Fabrizio Romano, and the former Liverpool midfielder is equally keen to swap Leverkusen for La Liga.

The move appears like a very real possibility, with Spanish media sources now reporting that the tactician is already making transfer demands to Real president Florentino Perez and the Whites’ board.

Indeed, it is now believed Alonso has asked Real to consider signing Huijsen, as the 43-year-old holds a real desire to reinforce the club’s central defensive options before his potential first full season in charge.

The former Juventus starlet has started every single Premier League game under Andoni Iraola since early December, becoming a reliable mainstay for the Cherries, which is made all the more impressive by his young age.

Manchester United are enjoying a climactic end to the campaign and may already have made progress in pursuit of one high-profile summer target, according to Florian Plettenberg.

Manchester United put one foot in Europa League final

In what has been a strange campaign for the Red Devils, they have little to play for in the Premier League bar pride as their domestic season slowly peters out under Ruben Amorim. However, United appear nailed on to feature in the Europa League final later this month after a heroic 3-0 victory away to Athletic Club on Thursday evening.

Despite facing the wrath of a raucous home crowd, Casemiro’s header and a double from Bruno Fernandes kept the Red Devils’ hopes of securing a backdoor route to the Champions League alive, which is bound to be advantageous in soliciting summer transfer business.

Reports suggest that Real Madrid winger Rodrygo is a legitimate Manchester United target despite the fact it may cost upwards of £85 million to bring the Brazil international to Old Trafford.

Liam Delap and Matheus Cunha could join the Europa League semi-finalists from Ipswich Town and Wolverhampton Wanderers, respectively. Still, Viktor Gyokeres is another target firmly in the sights of Amorim.

Man Utd ahead of Barcelona in race to sign £4.2m sensation alongside Biyik

The club are doing some sensible long-term planning.

ByHenry Jackson May 2, 2025

Truthfully, the outcome of Manchester United’s exploits in Europe will determine their scope of doing business. If they fail to claim silverware on the continent, there will be a scaled-back approach to dealings in light of the financial reality at the global giants.

Nevertheless, not every signing needs to cost millions, which is a philosophy Amorim seems to have taken into account after his side initiated talks with a defender who would strengthen their experienced backline.

Manchester United hold talks over move for Jonathan Tah

According to Sky Germany journalist Florian Plettenberg, Manchester United have held talks over a free transfer move for Jonathan Tah as his contract at Bayer Leverkusen nears expiration.

Discussions with his management have occurred, while Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Real Madrid remain in pursuit of the 35-cap Germany international.

Enjoying a fine campaign at Bayer Leverkusen, the central defender has registered three goals and a solitary assist in 30 appearances across all competitions.

Dominant at the back, Tah has won 91 duels and made 146 recoveries on Bundesliga duty as his side look to secure a runners-up spot behind league leaders Bayern Munich.

Inexpensive deals that can provide high pedigree could be the way forward for Manchester United, who are still yet to determine whether they will have a sizeable amount to invest in their squad this summer.

Newcastle United are now racing to sign a “splendid” goalscoring midfielder, who could be available for a fee of just £17m this summer, according to a report.

Howe sets sights on new midfielder

Newcastle are well-stocked in central midfield, with Bruno Guimaraes’ and Sandro Tonali’s impressive performances this season attracting the attention of Manchester City ahead of the summer transfer window.

It is unclear whether the Magpies would be willing to strengthen a direct Premier League rival by selling one of their star midfielders, but if they do decide to cash-in, there are a number of possible replacements on the shortlist.

The PIF are said to have joined a tug-of-war for Man City midfielder James McAtee, while Eddie Howe is particularly fond of Lazio midfielder Matteo Guendouzi, with signing a new midfielder deemed to be a priority if Tonali moves on.

Newcastle have strong interest in £25m PL ace who Howe called "magnificent"

The Magpies have set their sights on a Premier League player who Eddie Howe has been left very impressed by.

ByDominic Lund May 4, 2025

Guendouzi specialises in a defensive role, but there are indications that Howe could also be keen on signing a midfielder capable of making an impact in the attacking third of the pitch.

According to a report from Spain, Newcastle are now racing Atletico Madrid and Nottingham Forest for the signature of Girona maestro Yangel Herrera, with Howe looking to complement his current options in midfield.

Although the rival interest in Herrera may be an issue, there is a sense that a deal could be possible, with the Spanish side willing to sanction his departure for a fee of around €20m (£17m), which would easily be affordable for PIF.

The Venezuelan has been a key player for Girona this season, catching the eye due to his physicality and passing ability, while the central midfielder has also proven himself in front of goal during his time in La Liga…

"Splendid" Herrera impressing on the front foot

The Girona midfielder has been particularly impressive going forward in La Liga this season, picking up four goals and three assists, while ranking in a high percentile across a number of key attacking metrics over the past year.

Statistic

Average per 90

Non-penalty goals

0.17 (88th percentile)

Touches (Attacking penalty area)

2.42 (87th percentile)

Shots total

1.84 (92nd percentile)

The Venezuela international is also a dominant force in the air, placing in the 91st percentile for aerials won, and he received high praise from Opta Jose for his attacking output back in March.

Herrera has limited top-level experience, making just five appearances in the Champions League, but Newcastle will need to increase their squad depth to compete on all fronts next season, and the 27-year-old has proven he could be a solid option.