"Outstanding" free agent wants £5m+ a year to sign for Man Utd after talks

Manchester United are interested in signing an “outstanding” attacker in a surprise move, and he wants a £100,000-a-week contract to move to Old Trafford.

Man Utd still hopeful over Mbeumo signing

The signing of Matheus Cunha felt like a significant piece of business by the Red Devils, showing that they still have plenty of pulling power, despite failing to qualify for Europe last season.

Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo has stood out as United’s primary transfer target since the arrival of Cunha from Wolves, but Tottenham are thought to be providing stiff competition for his signature, having appointed Thomas Frank as their new manager.

Some reports have said that the Red Devils are closing in on the signing of the Cameroonian, who was one of the Premier League’s best attacking players last season, scoring 20 goals in the competition and starting all 38 of Brentford’s matches.

Mbeumo would surely be a perfect option on the right-hand side of United’s attack, with Ruben Amorim admitting he wants a signing in that position, despite the emergence of Amad Diallo: “I think Amad in that position (right wing-back) he could be an option but in this moment with the type of players we have we need a left footer on that position in front. I try to reinforce the team with the idea and try to use the characteristics of the players.”

Free agent wants £100,000-a-week to join Man Utd after talks

Now, according to a fresh claim from Caught Offside, Manchester United are “considering” completing the surprise signing of Dominic Calvert-Lewin ahead of the new Premier League season after recently holding talks with the free agent.

The England international is available after leaving Everton earlier this summer, and it is believed that he is looking to earn £100,000-a-week at his next club, coming in at over £5m per year, which the report says could be too much for the Red Devils.

In truth, there are both positives and negatives to United signing Calvert-Lewin, with the free element of the signing jumping out as a good thing, not to mention the fact that Sean Dyche lauded him during their time together at Everton.

“I thought he was excellent. He’s had a bit of illness. We’re hopeful that has passed, he had it before the game, so I must commend him on that. His physical performance was outstanding, He’s not quite over it but we hope it settles down a bit.”

On the flip side, though, Calvert-Lewin has suffered badly with injury problems down the years, not starting over 30 Premier League games in a season since the 2020/21 campaign, so there would be a big risk element in bringing him in.

At 28, the striker, who scored at Old Trafford in 2021, is also no longer a young player who could develop or overcome fitness issues, so United should arguably be looking elsewhere for someone to lead the line.

Amorim's answer to Kane: Man Utd in talks to sign "world-class" striker

Manchester United could finally end their pursuit of a new talisman with a move for one European star.

ByEthan Lamb Jul 11, 2025

If Amorim brought in Calvert-Lewin as a squad option, as well as a superior signing to play most weeks, it could be sensible business, but it may be a non-starter due to his wage demands.

After Gittens: Chelsea now want to hijack Newcastle move to sign £52m star

After announcing the arrival of Jamie Gittens, Chelsea now reportedly want to hijack Newcastle United’s chase to sign a Serie A defender who’s worth over £50m.

Gittens realises Premier League "dream"

As ever, Chelsea haven’t been afraid to spend big in the summer transfer window. This time around, they’ve splashed out over £60m to sign Joao Pedro from Brighton & Hove Albion, £35m to sign Liam Delap from Ipswich Town and, most recently, £52m to welcome Gittens from Borussia Dortmund. But even then, the Blues are unlikely to be done there.

After putting pen to paper to confirm his big-money move, the winger told Chelsea’s official website: “I did watch Chelsea when I was younger. Not in the stadium but on the TV at home in Reading, during the time of the Eden Hazard era.

“Eden was the clear player for me at that time. I liked Willian as well, another attacker. He had that little shimmy he did, I liked that.

“It’s my dream to play in the Premier League. Obviously, watching it from Germany, it’s a really intense league. Every week is a battle, and I feel like I can enter that battle strongly. I’m excited to join this team that have a winning mentality – that’s the main thing.

More exciting than Estevao: Chelsea chase one of "England's biggest jewels"

Chelsea could be looking to make a move for one of England’s finest talents

ByRoss Kilvington Jul 5, 2025

“I just want to keep improving, especially as a footballer and a human being. I want to be more consistent and keep learning. It’s a great feeling to join Chelsea, such a big club. I can’t wait to learn from everyone in the team and to push myself to the max here. It’s amazing.”

With Pedro, Delap and now Gittens at their disposal going forward, those in West London have seemingly turned their attention towards handing their backline a similar boost in the form of a Serie A star.

Chelsea eyeing Giorgio Scalvini hijack

According to Caught Offside, Chelsea now want to hijack Newcastle’s move to sign Giorgio Scalvini from Atalanta and face competition from Manchester United to do so. The Magpies have set their sights on the defender, but now face competition from two rivals.

Like Gittens, however, the deal won’t come cheap for Chelsea with the Serie A club reportedly demanding as much as €60m (£52m) to sell their central defender this summer.

It’s clear to see why Chelsea are interested in Scalvini even as he returns from an ACL injury, and it’s not just because of his defensive talents. As analyst Ben Mattinson highlighted last year, the Atalanta man has the “front-footed aggressive style” to push into midfield if needed in the type of versatility that no side would turn down.

Whilst he may need time to get back to his best after a long-term injury, Scalvini remains one to watch this summer.

He's perfect for Mbeumo: Wilcox opens talks to sign £35m star for Man Utd

Manchester United have made a rapid start to the summer transfer window, something that was desperately needed given their lowly Premier League standing this season.

Ruben Amorim’s side ended the campaign in a measly 15th place, winning just 11 of their 38 matches, sitting a staggering 24 points off a place in the top five.

He’s already added attacker Matheus Cunha to his ranks, with a move for Bryan Mbeumo appearing to be moving in the right direction after submitting an improved offer for his services.

Whilst the pair are likely to cost over £120m between them, the hierarchy appear to be showing no signs of slowing down in the market as multiple other targets remain on their radar.

Multiple positions are set to be the subject of their investment, handing the manager the depth he needs if he is to be a success during his stint at Old Trafford.

The latest on United’s hunt for new additions this summer

Dusan Vlahovic is a player who’s emerged as a key contender for the striker role at United, with Juventus set to hold talks over a swap deal which would see Jadon Sancho move in the opposite direction.

Goalkeeper Emi Martinez has been another key target for the Red Devils, as the Argentine is expected to depart Aston Villa this window as they try to raise funds to satisfy the division’s PSR rules.

However, the midfield department could be about to have a new addition, with the club firmly in the race to sign Club Brugge star Ardon Jashari, according to Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg.

He claims that Amorim’s side have already been in contact with the Belgian outfit over a move for the 22-year-old who’s valued at €40m (£35m) this summer.

Plettenberg also confirmed that they face a battle with Serie A side AC Milan over a move to land his signature, with the player himself keen on a move to Italy this window.

Why United’s £35m target would be perfect for Mbeumo

As previously mentioned, United submitted an improved £60m bid for Brentford star Mbeumo, still facing stiff competition from fellow top-flight side Tottenham Hotspur for his signature.

However, even before the latest bid, the 25-year-old stated his desire to move to Old Trafford this summer, claiming that they are the only side he’s interested in joining during the off-season.

His tally of 20 league goals this season is evidence of the talent he possesses within the final third, handing Amorim a new dimension and the added threat he’s craved since taking the reins.

As a result of his success, he’s demanding a pretty penny should he move to the Theatre of Dreams, wanting a reported £250k-per-week, subsequently making him one of their highest-paid players.

If he is to succeed in any move, he will need to be provided with opportunities at the club, something which Jashari could do should he also join the Red Devils this summer.

Club Brugge's ArdonJasharireacts

The youngster, who’s been labelled “seriously talented” by analyst Ben Mattinson, has registered four assists this campaign, with his tally of 7.2 progressive passes per 90 within the top 9% of all players within the Belgian Pro League.

He’s also managed 7.3 passes per 90 into the final third, with 1.3 of which going into the opposition area, subsequently being able to hand Mbeumo the ammunition he needs to succeed next season.

Games played

25

Goals & assists

6

Pass accuracy

87%

Progressive passes

7.2

Passes into final third

7.3

Passes into oppostion box

1.3

Take-on success

61%

Carries into final third

2.2

Jashari’s talents with the ball are further reflected by his take-on success rate, which has seen him complete 61% of his efforts, often liking to drive forward and taking the ball into attacking areas.

Given his talents, £35m in today’s market would reflect excellent business by the Red Devils, with the prospect of the youngster linking up with the Cameroonian certainly one the supporters should get excited by.

However, given the interest in his signature from Italy, the hierarchy need to operate quickly to avoid missing out on such a talent, with Jashari having all the tools to thrive and improve further given his tender age.

Their own Osimhen: Man Utd start talks to sign one of Europe's "best STs"

Manchester United appear to be making strides in a deal to land a new striker for Ruben Amorim.

1 ByEthan Lamb Jun 25, 2025

Romano: Everton now make contact to sign star who Mbappe called a "tank"

Everton have made contact over the signing of a “world-class” defender with many trophy wins to his name, according to Fabrizio Romano.

Everton eyeing Richarlison reunion

The Blues are expected to make plenty of changes to their squad in the summer transfer window, both in terms of incoming signings and current players moving on.

Richarlison is arguably among Everton’s best attacking players in the Premier League era, scoring 53 goals in 152 appearances, and the Merseysiders are reportedly interested in bringing him back to the club.

The Brazilian has struggled to consistently shine in a Tottenham shirt, with injuries certainly not helping in that respect, and Blues supporters will hope that he feels he has unfinished business with his former club.

Appearances

152

Goals

53

Assists

15

In terms of other potential signings, ex-Manchester United midfielder Fred is seen as a good option to add to Everton’s midfield, with the Brazilian now playing for Turkish giants Fenerbahce. Grasshopper Zurich attacker Adama Bojang has also been mentioned as a target.

Better than Thierno Barry: Everton considering bid for lethal £42m striker

Everton are looking to sign a striker or two this summer

ByRoss Kilvington Jun 17, 2025 Everton make contact over signing Kyle Walker – Romano

Writing on X on Monday, Romano claimed that Everton have made contact with Manchester City legend Kyle Walker over a potential move to Merseyside this summer.

Walker will be allowed to leave City before next season gets underway, acting as an immediate boost for the Blues, and he could jump at the chance of remaining in the Premier League during the autumn of his career, with David Moyes also approving a transfer for the right-back.

At 35 years of age, there is no doubt that the England international’s best days are now likely to be behind him, but he still possesses electric pace and is a born winner, having clinched league title glory six times in his career, also winning one Champions League crown.

Walker has been among Europe’s best right-backs over the past decade, with his speed arguably making him the best possible opponent for Kylian Mbappe, who called Walker a “tank”. Pep Guardiola has also heaped praise on him in the past.

“I would say first of all [as] a footballer, [he] has a genetic [quality that] is incomparable, physicalities, something unique. After is the personality. When he talks to his mates, the people listen and now I think he is making a step as a more mature player, on and off the pitch.”

Granted, Walker is likely to demand high wages, which Everton may struggle with compared to other clubs, but if he agrees to join them, it would feel like a major coup.

The Blues could get a couple of good years out of him, with the Englishman putting his experience to good use, acting as an upgrade on Moyes’ recent right-back options, too.

He's more exciting than Tierney: Celtic could re-sign "elite" £7m star

2025 has been the year of the returning hero at Celtic Park so far.

Kieran Tierney has returned to Celtic, six years after departing, following in the footsteps of Jota, who re-joined the Hoops during the January transfer window.

So now, could Brendan Rodgers, who is no stranger to a Glasgow return himself, be re-united with a star he once labelled one of Europe’s best young players?

The reaction to Kieran Tierney's Celtic return

After completing his return to his boyhood club last week, Tierney said it “feels amazing” to be back, adding “my ambition is just for Celtic to be as successful as possible”.

Rodgers too exclaimed that he’s “delighted” to add a “talented and high-quality” player to his squad, while Tierney is unquestionably a fans’ favourite in Glasgow’s East End, having come through the academy to make 170 appearances for the club during his first spell, winning 11 major trophies.

So, while there is major excitement about seeing the left-back bedecked in green and white hoops once again, could an even bigger talent also be back later this summer?

Celtic's search for a new striker

Tierney’s return to Parkhead this summer has been met with glee, but when has a left-back ever been more exciting than a new striker? Arguably never.

The Scot has the potential to come back and be a roaring success down the left channels, carving out goalscoring opportunities at will for teammates, but who will be on the end of his teasing balls into the box? Well, another Celtic return could be on the cards and it’s more eye-catching than Tierney.

Indeed, as noted by Ryan McDonald of the Daily Record, Celtic could re-sign striker Odsonne Édouard this summer, with ex-Celtic midfielder Scott Allan believing the club shouldn’t think twice if they are able to add a “fantastic player” to their ranks.

The striker initially arrived at Parkhead on loan from Paris Saint-Germain in 2017, scoring on his debut against Hamilton Academical at New Douglas Park, before his move was made permanent the following summer, costing a then-club-record £9m.

In total, Édouard scored 87 goals in 179 appearances for the Celts, numbers that are comparable with the club’s other great centre-forwards of modern times.

Kyōgo

165

85

126

Giakoumakis

57

26

97

Édouard

179

87

140

Dembélé

94

51

120

Griffiths

262

123

118

Hooper

138

82

136

The numbers above rubberstamp why he was more exciting than Tierney in green and white, with only Leigh Griffiths having scored more goals for Celtic since Henrik Larsson’s departure in 2004, with the Scotland international doing so in 83 more appearances.

Former Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard.

Édouard ultimately departed for Crystal Palace in August 2021, costing around £18.5m, scoring 21 times for the Eagles, including bagging a memorable double on his debut against Tottenham, but his career has gone off the rails in the last year or so.

Not in Oliver Glasner’s pre-season plans, the Frenchman joined Leicester City on a season-long loan last summer, but this has to go down as one of the most disastrous loan spells of all time, now valued at just £7m by Transfermarkt.

Appearances

6

Minutes

113

Starts

1

Matches an unused sub

3

Matched not in the squad

31

Total matches

40

Édouard was completely frozen out by both Steve Cooper and Ruud van Nistelrooy at Leicester, most recently a substitute on Boxing Day, his last appearance coming on 10 November, while his one and only start for the club came in the Carabao Cup at Walsall in September.

Odsonne-Edouard
Odsonne-Edouard

As outlined by John Percy of the Telegraph, having featured for both Palace and Leicester in 2024/25, FIFA regulations stipulate that he was unable to represent a third club in the same season.

Thus, Édouard remained stranded in the proverbial wilderness from January onwards, despite the fact the Foxes broke all sorts of records when it came to not scoring, most notably losing eight successive Premier League home games to nil, an unprecedentedly miserable run.

Nevertheless, still 27 years old, the striker certainly still has plenty to offer.

When Édouard signed permanently for Celtic in the first place, Rodgers labelled him one of European football’s “elite young talents”. While he may not still be too young, he still has elite potential, particularly if it took him to Scotland again.

Still searching for a Kyōgo Furuhashi replacement, if the Frenchman becomes available at a cut-price, this would surely be a no-brainer.

More exciting than Tierney: Celtic expected to complete "no-brainer" deal

Celtic are expected to seal the signing of a star who would be more exciting than Kieran Tierney.

1 ByDan Emery Jun 14, 2025

Arsenal now pull plug on £60m striker signing after Mikel Arteta decision

Arsenal’s search for a striker is set to dominate headlines as we enter the first mini-summer transfer window, and it’s an area of the squad which sporting director Andrea Berta is working hard to address.

Arsenal in ongoing talks for Benjamin Sesko in search of striker

Gabriel Jesus’ ACL rupture in their FA Cup defeat to Man United, and Kai Havertz’s lengthy absence due to a hamstring injury, crippled Mikel Arteta’s options up front during the second half of 2024/2025, prompting the Spaniard to utilise Mikel Merino in an emergency striker role.

Arsenal given fresh Martin Zubimendi worry as Sociedad president speaks out

The north Londoners are reportedly closing in on a deal for him.

ByEmilio Galantini May 30, 2025

Merino performed well, but that injury crisis up front brought yet more attention to Arteta’s glaring need for a prolific centre-forward.

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

A proven number nine has long been touted as the final missing piece of Arteta’s jigsaw, and Berta is said to be laying the groundwork on deals to bring Arsenal’s long search for a new striker to an end this summer.

Arsenal have held talks over signing Eintracht Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike, according to some reports, and they were heavily linked with a move for Sporting CP star Viktor Gyokeres, until this week at least.

Now, RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko has entered pole position to become Arsenal’s answer to their goalscoring woes, and “concrete” talks are underway after Berta’s meeting with Leipzig director Marcel Schafer in London.

The Gunners are said to be putting their focus on a deal for Sesko, and discussions are centered around a payment structure for his £67 million release clause.

While Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg claims Gyokeres is still high on Arsenal’s list despite these Sesko talks, Spanish media sources claim their negotiations for the Slovenian have put an end to their chase for Sporting’s serial goalscorer.

Arsenal pull plug on Viktor Gyokeres deal after opening Sesko talks

According to reports from Spain, cited by Football 365, Arteta has now ‘ruled out’ an Arsenal move for Gyokeres, and they’ve now ‘withdrawn from the bidding’ to sign him – which could open the door for other linked sides like Man United and Barcelona.

This follows their decision to up the ante in pursuit of Sesko, so going by this update, it appears the 22-year-old is now their priority target.

Given the costs involved when it comes to a deal for Sesko, we wouldn’t be surprised if Arsenal pull a U-turn on this call, especially considering that Gyokeres could leave Sporting for just £60 million.

The “quality” ex-Coventry City star is fresh off the back of an exceptional campaign, scoring 54 goals in all competitions, and there are reports in Portugal that Arsenal have already offered Gyokeres a contract, so he could just be on the back-burner for now.

“I have said this before, and I will continue to say it: he brings a lot to the team, and his teammates are aware of what he contributes, which is why they look for him during games,” said Sporting boss Rui Borges about Gyokeres.

“The collective effort also plays a role, as no one can succeed alone. Viktor is a game-changer, and he will continue to be, whether with us or elsewhere. His quality is undeniable; it is phenomenal.”

Postecoglou sack stance after Levy holds fresh Tottenham boardroom talks

Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy and the Lilywhites board have held fresh talks about Ange Postecoglou’s future after their glorious night in the Europa League on Wednesday, with their current stance on keeping or sacking the tactician emerging.

Ange Postecoglou's plea to Spurs board during victory parade

The 59-year-old became a Lilywhites hero overnight, guiding the club to their first piece of major silverware in 17 years and only European trophy since 1984.

Tottenham "dreaming" of signing £67m ex-PSG star after Europa League triumph

Spurs’ summer transfer window has suddenly become much more interesting.

1 ByEmilio Galantini May 23, 2025

Postecoglou came under fire for a bold statement earlier in the campaign, namely that he ‘always’ wins trophies during his second season in charge, but that message will now go down as one of the most memorable quotes in recent football history after Tottenham’s Europa League triumph.

Player

Rating

Guglielmo Vicario

7.7

Yves Bissouma

7.6

Cristian Romero

7.4

Bruno Fernandes

7.4

Destiny Udogie

7.2

Brennan Johnson also etched himself into Spurs folklore with his scrappy winner minutes before half-time, with the defensive heroics of Micky van de Ven – who made a match-saving clearance off the line – and goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario’s vital saves proving decisive on an unforgettable night for the club.

Cristian Romero, Destiny Udogie and Pedro Porro’s robust defensive displays also helped to shut out a lacklustre Man United side who simply couldn’t find any joy at all in the final third, despite their dominnace in possession.

TottenhamHotspur's CristianRomeroreacts

While Postecoglou’s future at Spurs remains uncertain (David Ornstein), despite their celebrations, it is pretty clear that the manager wishes to continue his mission.

The north Londoners endured a lacklustre domestic campaign, breaking their all-time record for most Premier League defeats in a single season, but Postecoglou sent a subtle message to the board during their victory parade in London on Friday.

“I told them, and they laughed,” said Postecoglou after Tottenham’s open-top bus celebrations.

“I told them and they didn’t believe. And here we are. I’ll leave you with this: all the best television series, season three is better than season two.”

Postecoglou’s hint suggests the ex-Celtic boss has every intention to build upon their European success, but it remains to be seen whether Levy is on the same page.

Tottenham stance on sacking Postecoglou after fresh boardroom talks

In the wake of their triumph in Bilbao, journalist Pete O’Rourke has told Football Insider that high-ranking Tottenham chiefs are discussing what to do next in the managerial dugout.

According to the reporter, Levy and the Spurs board held fresh talks regarding Postecoglou after their Europa League final win, with O’Rourke sharing what their current stance is about potentially sacking him.

It is believed that, following their midweek celebrations, the club are now ’50/50′ when it comes to sticking or twisting with Postecoglou – indicating that they now have much more to think about in what has suddenly become a major conundrum.

While reports in the build-up to their clash with United indicated that Postecoglou could be sacked regardless of their Europa triumph, and that apparently remains the case, the emotion of such a momentous occasion makes this call far easier said than done in practice.

In terms of possible replacements, there are no shortage of options that have been linked in a long Tottenham managerial target list which includes the likes of Andoni Iraola (Bournemouth), Marco Silva (Fulham), Oliver Glasner (Crystal Palace), Thomas Frank (Brentford), Scott Parker (Burnley), Jürgen Klopp (Head of Global, Red Bull), Niko Kovač (Borussia Dortmund), Edin Terzić (free agent), Xavi (free agent) and Francesco Farioli (free agent).

Nottingham Forest set to make serious move to sign "special" want-away star

In a deal that could see them replace Morgan Gibbs-White, Nottingham Forest are now reportedly set to make a serious move to sign a want-away Premier League midfielder this summer.

Nottingham Forest clarify Marinakis outburst

Whilst Nottingham Forest’s 2-2 draw against Leicester City last weekend secured their Europa League qualification at the same time that their Champions League fate fell out of their hands, it was owner Evangelos Marinakis who stole the headlines. Marching onto the pitch at full-time, the Greek owner was seen exchanging words with manager Nuno Espirito Santo in a moment which instantly garnered criticism.

Nottingham Forest eye summer swoop to sign £6m winger after scouting trip

He’s a rising star…

ByTom Cunningham May 14, 2025

Since then, however, the Midlands club have clarified the controversial moment – revealing that Marinakis’ frustration was directed at the medical staff who allowed Taiwo Awoniyi to continue before he came off injured not long after. The forward has now reportedly undergone the first part of urgent surgery after an abdominal injury and has been placed in an induced coma with the rest of the procedure due to be completed.

Following a moment full of emotions around a concerning injury, Marinakis also released his own statement on the matter, which read: “Everybody – coaching staff, players, supporters and including myself – we were frustrated around the injury of Taiwo and the medical staff’s misjudgement on Taiwo’s ability to continue the game. This is natural, this is a demonstration of the passion we feel for our club. Let’s all be grateful, passionate and keep on dreaming!”

The Nottingham Forest owner, like many around European football, are now simply hoping to see Awoniyi make a full recovery.

Nottingham Forest set to make serious McAtee move

Amidst the headlines away from the pitch, those at the City Ground did have Europa League qualification to appreciate last weekend and could put that to instant use in the transfer market.

According to TeamTalk editor James Marshment, Nottingham Forest are now set to make a serious move to sign James McAtee, who is reportedly looking to leave Manchester City this summer. In pole position, Forest’s move for the midfielder certainly makes sense amid rumours that Gibbs-White could be heading in the opposite direction.

Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola reacts withJamesMcAtee

What’s more, all it takes is one look at Cole Palmer and Chelsea to realise just how successful Manchester City’s academy graduates can be when given the chance to thrive. And Nottingham Forest could offer McAtee exactly that.

That’s not to say Pep Guardiola isn’t well aware of McAtee’s talents, either, having told reporters following the midfielder’s hat-trick against Salford City earlier this season: “I am so happy for him, he is a special player. A hat trick is not easy. He has an incredible sense in front of goal, he has the right tempo, he changed the rhythm to score and I am very happy for him.”

Amorim's own Rio & Vidic: Man Utd plot bid to sign "one of the best CBs"

Rio Ferdinand and Nemanja Vidic were two key components of the Manchester United side that achieved huge levels of success during the Sir Alex Ferguson era.

The pair cemented their places at the heart of the defence for many years, helping the Red Devils win multiple Premier League and Champions League titles.

Partnerships like that are very hard to come by in the modern game, with current boss Ruben Amorim dreaming of having such a duo at the heart of his backline in 2024/25.

The Portuguese manager has already led the club to a Europa League final during his first few months in charge, with this summer crucial if he is to be a success at Old Trafford.

With just a couple of months left until the opening of the transfer window, the manager has already wasted no time in identifying targets who could improve his defensive department.

An update on United’s hunt for new defenders this summer

Given the fact United have conceded 51 times in the Premier League this campaign, it’s no surprise to see the hierarchy targeting reinforcements within the backline.

Dean Huijsen is just one player who they have already entered talks with, but the Red Devils face huge competition from other English sides such as Arsenal, Liverpool and Newcastle United.

Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen

However, he’s not the only option on their shortlist, with Inter Milan star Yann Bisseck the latest star appearing on their radar, according to one Spanish outlet.

Their report claims that Amorim’s men are considering making an offer for the German international, with his aggressive approach and ability to play out from the back catching the eye.

It also states that the 24-year-old would be open to a potential move to Old Trafford this summer, with personal terms not expected to be an issue if a fee is agreed between the two sides.

How United could form the next Ferdinand & Vidic

Within United’s current first-team picture, it’s unclear how many players will be kept and who will be sold to raise funds for Amorim to make his own impact on the squad.

However, centre-back Leny Yoro will certainly be a key part of his plans at the Theatre of Dreams after joining from Ligue 1 outfit LOSC Lille in a £52m deal less than 12 months ago.

The 19-year-old has already made 30 appearances across all competitions in 2024/25, leading to comparisons to former defender Ferdinand, having the potential to star for the club for many years to come.

Yoro will need his own version of a Vidic to partner him at the heart of the defence, with Inter’s Bisseck potentially providing just that and allowing for another excellent partnership for Amorim.

The Serbian was a dominant force at the back for United during his eight-year spell at the Theatre of Dreams, making 300 appearances and registering 21 goals – having a huge impact at both ends of the pitch.

Such achievements have undoubtedly cemented his place in the club’s history forever, with summer target Bisseck able to follow suit and be the Red Devils’ next version of the Serbian star.

When delving into his stats from the ongoing campaign, he’s showcased his talents, having the chance to further progress his game should he make the switch to England.

Inter Milan defender Yann Bisseck

The German, who’s been labelled “one of the best centre-backs” by Lothar Matthäus, has managed to complete 92% of the passes he’s attempted – handing the manager another comfortable ball-playing option at the back.

Without the ball, Bisseck has also been just as impressive, winning 73% of the tackles he’s entered, along with 74% aerials won – highlighting his dominant nature in the air, in the mould of Vidic.

Games played

24

Goals & assists

4

Pass accuracy

92%

Tackles won

73%

Duels won

4.3

Aerials won

2.7

Aerial success rate

74%

Interceptions made

1.1

Recoveries made

3.7

He’s also managed to make 1.1 interceptions per 90 and has made 3.7 recoveries, offering an added defensive presence at the back – handing Amorim his own version of Ferdinand and Vidic with the German alongside Yoro.

It’s unclear how much a deal for the 24-year-old would cost the hierarchy this summer, but it’s evident that he has all of the tools needed to impress in England’s top-flight.

If he does get anywhere close to the levels produced by the Serbian in the Premier League, it would be a bargain regardless of the fee, with him and the Frenchman having the chance to catapult the club back to its former glory in the years ahead.

The new Amrabat: Amorim must axe 4/10 Man Utd man who lost the ball 15x

Manchester United booked their place in the Europa League final last night, setting up a clash with Tottenham Hotspur.

6 ByEthan Lamb May 9, 2025

Moyes' next Louis Saha: Everton desperate to sign £30m "battering ram"

Everton are in the market for signings this summer, with a raft of first-teamers set to depart when their deals at Goodison Park expire in a few months.

Bramley Moore awaits, and the Toffees appear to be ready to use the change of scenery as more than just a symbolic shift: this is a new era, and hopefully, a new Everton.

Dominic Calvert-Lewin may yet renew his deal, but with Armando Broja set to depart after a disappointing loan spell and Beto attracting plenty of attention from overseas in the recent past, signing a new centre-forward is going to be one of David Moyes’ priorities.

Everton chasing new striker

According to iNews’ Mark Douglas, Moyes is to be handed the powers to enforce a series of changes to his squad this summer, with sights set on rising up the Premier League ladder next year.

The Northern correspondent claims that the Toffees are ‘all in’ for Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, who is one of the hottest commodities in England at the moment, with a £30m release clause now active following his team’s relegation.

Delap bears a throwback kind of attacking profile with a modern, technical twist, with such an approach suggesting that he could be Moyes’ next version of Louis Saha.

Moyes' next Louis Saha

Saha made 134 appearances for Everton, scoring 34 goals across three-and-a-half seasons, signed from Manchester United for an undisclosed fee.

Delap, while his own man, bears a similar kind of profile and could thrive under Moyes as the Scotsman’s next version of the dynamic striker.

Having joined Ipswich from Manchester City’s academy in a £20m deal last summer, the number nine has been the biggest success story from a frustrating campaign for the freshly-promoted side.

His commanding displays up top have given Kieran McKenna’s side a focal point, one which, more often than not, will finish the chances provided and indeed gave Ipswich a fighting chance of retaining their top-flight status.

Matches (starts)

33 (30)

Goals

12

Assists

2

Shots (on target)*

1.9 (0.9)

Big chances missed

10

Pass completion

62%

Key passes*

0.6

Dribbles*

1.2

Duels won*

4.5

As per FBref, the Englishman even ranks among the top 15% of forwards across Europe’s top five leagues over the past year for progressive carries and the top 9% for successful take-ons per 90, highlighting his capacity to drive forward with powerful and confident strides.

This is further backed up by Opta Analyst, who described him as a “one-man battering ram” for the Tractor Boys earlier in the season.

His roundedness certainly carries similarities to Saha.

Regarded as the complete striker, Saha’s link-up play, pace and power allowed him to establish himself as one of the most talented forwards in England, only thwarted by recurrent injury problems throughout his career. Wayne Rooney even stated once that the Frenchman was his favourite strike partner.

Delap is endowed with similar athletic and technical properties, and after flourishing for a side fighting relegation all year, he could take his game to the next level as the talisman of an Everton side that, whisper it quietly, is on the rise.

A massive Beto upgrade: Everton enter talks to sign "phenomenal" star

Everton are making moves to land a new striker for David Moyes ahead of the summer.

ByEthan Lamb May 1, 2025

Game
Register
Service
Bonus