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Tottenham Hotspur star Lucas Bergvall will miss at least the rest of the season and the next round of international fixtures, according to reports in Sweden.

Bergvall injured as Spurs hunt Europa League glory

There’s no question the Lilywhites won’t have 100 per cent of their focus on the all-London clash with West Ham this weekend, despite the unquestionable morale boost a win over the Hammers would provide.

Ange Postecoglou’s side travel to Norway next week with a 3-1 aggregate lead over Bodo/Glimt, knowing if the manager can fulfil his second season trophy promise it would not only rescue a diasastrous domestic campaign but also present more opportunities in the transfer market with Champions League football on offer.

They will have to do it without perhaps their player of the season however, with Swedish starlet Bergvall injured in training and since spotted wearing a protective boot.

Explaining the problem in his pre-West Ham press conference, Postecoglou said he expects the 19 year-old, who has just signed a new contract, to miss most or all of the remaining matches: “Just something you see all the time. It wasn’t a tackle, he was on his own, he just went to turn and just his ankle gave away, so it’s just one of those things.

“Sometimes life works in mysterious ways and it’s denied Lucas the opportunity to play in a big game last night (Thursday). He’s been a massive contributor to us, but I’ve got no doubt he’ll come back stronger from that.”

Tottenham may sign £300k-p/w Premier League star if they win Europa League

A lot is on the line.

ByEmilio Galantini May 1, 2025 Swedish media share Bergvall return date

According to Swedish outlet Fotboll Direkt, translated by Sport Witness, Bergvall is without a doubt set to miss the entire Spurs fixture list, including a potential all-English Europa League final in Bilbao on May 21.

However, Ange may have underplayed the issue, with this update suggesting the teenager’s return is “at least eight weeks” away, meaning he would also miss Sweden’s matches against Hungary on June 6 and Algeria on June 10, as well as the opening stages of Spurs’ pre season, with a return date expected around July 1.

This would of course be a massive blow for a player who has taken huge strides this season, having featured in 27 top flight matches and 12 more in European competition.

The young midfielder expressed his delight this week after signing a new deal that will keep him at the club until 2031, but will now have to wait until the middle of the summer to continue that journey.

As for Ange, he will have to rely on a combination of Pape Sarr, Rodrigo Bentancur and Bergvall’s compatriot Dejan Kulusevski to fill the gap against West Ham, in Norway on Thursday and beyond.

Manchester United are believed to be planning an offer to sign an “unplayable” Premier League player in a potential £65m deal this summer, according to a fresh update.

Man Utd defeat highlights need for signings

The Red Devils were beaten 4-3 away to Brentford on Sunday afternoon, as their hugely disappointing league campaign continues, amid their continued search for Europa League glory later this week.

The loss leaves Ruben Amorim’s side still sitting in 15th place in the table, having lost 16 of their matches in the league in 2024/25, highlighting how important it is for new signings in the summer transfer window.

Bournemouth attacker Antoine Semenyo has been linked with a move to United at the end of the season, following an impressive season for the Cherries that has seen him score nine times in the league, also bagging five assists in the competition.

Meanwhile, Lyon youngster Rayan Cherki has been mentioned as a target for the Red Devils, with the 21-year-old thought to be open about the idea of moving to Old Trafford if he is made the leading man in Amorim’s attack.

Man Utd planning offer for £65m Brentford star

According to a new update from Caught Offside, Manchester United are planning to make an offer for Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo, looking to snap him up in the summer window. The Bees could be looking for as much as £65m for the Cameroonian, with Tottenham, Arsenal and Newcastle United also interested in him.

Mbeumo has arguably been one of the Premier League’s most dangerous attacking players throughout this season, scoring 18 goals, which is only fewer than Mohamed Salah, Alexander Isak, Erling Haaland and Chris Wood.

Meanwhile, his importance isn’t lost on Brentford manager Thomas Frank, who heaped praise on him earlier in the season: “Bryan Mbeumo today was unplayable. The way he holds the ball up and links play, like today to Kevin Schade [for the fourth goal] was very impressive.”

Admittedly, Mbeumo takes up the same right-sided attacking role that Amad Diallo likes to play in, so there is a risk of blocking his path, but strong competition is needed all over the pitch.

The 25-year-old is in the perfect place to come in and be a star man from the off at Old Trafford, having already shown that he can take the Premier League by storm, bagging 68 goal contributions (40 goals and 28 assists) in 133 appearances since joining the Bees.

With the likes of Marcus Rashford, Alejandro Garnacho, Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund all arguably feeling like flawed attacking options currently, it is essential that a couple of genuinely top-level players arrive in that area this summer.

As bad as Shaw: Amorim must axe Man Utd dud after 4/10 Brentford display

Ruben Amorim must ring the changes for Manchester United’s next game.

ByMatt Dawson May 5, 2025

In Mbeumo, United could have a fantastic option who could be a key man for the next five or six years, producing relentless end product and making Amorim’s men a far greater force.

With promotion to the Premier League confirmed with two games to go, Leeds United can finally turn their attention towards trying to build a side capable of staying in England’s top flight.

Such a feat might be easier said than done, with every promoted side from the Championship in the last two years returning straight back after just one season in the top division.

However, despite the achievements of boss Daniel Farke throughout 2024/25, it emerged yesterday that the hierarchy may consider sacking him to appoint a more proven Premier League manager to aid their ambitions next season.

Undoubtedly, such a decision would be extremely harsh after the German secured promotion, but football is a cutthroat industry with bold decisions needing to be made to avoid relegation in 2025/26.

That being said, bold decisions will need to be made in the market to create a side capable of consolidating next campaign, with money needing to be spent by the hierarchy to aid their attempts.

The latest on Leeds’ pursuit of new signings

There’s no denying that the Whites will likely be linked with a whole host of players after their return to the Premier League, but it’s important that quality over quantity arrives at Elland Road.

One name that has been constantly linked with a summer switch to Yorkshire is Borussia Mönchengladbach midfielder Julian Weigl, after previously featuring under Farke during their time together in the Bundesliga.

The 29-year-old, who’s made 29 appearances in the league this campaign, has been firmly on the club’s radar, but no deal is currently on the cards, leading to potential moves for other targets.

The hierarchy could subsequently look to pursue a move for West Ham United midfielder Tomas Soucek this summer, with the Czech international reportedly open to a move to Yorkshire.

According to IDNES, the 30-year-old is unhappy after losing his place under Graham Potter, opening the door for a transfer to join Leeds with just 12 months left on his contract.

They revealed that the newly-promoted side a strongly considering a move this summer.

Why Leeds should prioritise a move for a PL star over Weigl

There’s no denying Weigl would be an excellent addition to the Leeds squad, having the quality and experience to make a real difference at the heart of the side.

During his professional career, he’s featured for the likes of Borussia Dortmund and Benfica, often being a key member of the respective sides in the Champions League.

Such experience is key, especially heading into a season which could be a challenge for the Whites – that’s if the last couple of campaigns for newly-promoted sides are anything to go by.

However, given the fact he’s never played in England’s top-flight, such a deal could be seen as a risk, with the right additions needing to be made – potentially seeing them prioritise a move for Soucek as a result.

When comparing the duo’s respective stats from the ongoing season, the West Ham star has massively outperformed him, highlighting why the club should opt for his signature instead.

Games played

30

29

Goals & assists

8

2

Shots taken

1.9

0.6

Key passes

0.6

0.3

Tackles won

0.8

0.7

Clearances made

3.1

2.5

Aerials won

3.6

1.2

The Czech star, who’s been labelled “superb” by EXWHUEmployee, has registered more goals and assists this season, whilst also notching a higher tally of shots per 90 – showcasing the attacking threat he possesses from deep-lying positions.

He’s also managed to complete more key passes per 90, whilst also winning more tackles and aerials – offering Farke an all-round presence at the heart of the midfield next season.

Whilst it’s unclear how much a deal for Soucek would set the club back in the coming months, it would undoubtedly be a worthwhile investment, having the experience to help them in their Premier League quest.

With just 12 months left on his current deal at the London Stadium, it could be worth getting him on the cheap, possibly becoming their first signing back amongst England’s elite.

A dream first deal after promotion: £15m star wants to sign for Leeds

The player is reportedly keen to secure a permanent move to Leeds United this summer.

ByDan Emery Apr 23, 2025

Aston Villa are now in a three-way race to sign an “incredible” midfielder who is ready to leave his current club this summer, according to a report.

Villa stepping up midfielder pursuit

As we approach the summer transfer window, Villa seem to be particularly keen on adding a midfielder to their ranks, having submitted an offer for Rosenborg’s Sverre Nypan last week, and Fabrizio Romano has recently dropped a further update.

A deal for Nypan appears to be edging closer, but given that the Norwegian is just 18-years-old, Unai Emery may be keen on bringing in a central midfielder with a little more experience at the top level, and contact has been made over FC Barcelona’s Marc Casado.

Back in October, it was revealed that Emery had personally requested the signing of Athletic Club’s Oihan Sancet, with the manager being left “captivated” by the midfielder’s performances, which indicates the Spaniard is a big fan.

Now, there has been a new update on Aston Villa’s pursuit of Sancet, with a report from Spain revealing they are now in a three-way race for the 24-year-old, alongside Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool.

The Villans are said to be closely monitoring the Spanish midfielder’s development, and their presence in the Champions League should give them a good chance of winning the race for his signature.

The Pamplona-born maestro is ready to leave Athletic Club this summer, but a deal will not be cheap, with the La Liga side set to hold out for his release clause of €80m (£69m).

Aston Villa ready to spend £75m to sign star who has scored at Villa Park

He’s been in stellar form this season.

1 ByBarney Lane Apr 14, 2025 "Incredible" Sancet could be fantastic signing for Villa

The attacking midfielder has previously been lauded as “incredible” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, and he has been one of his side’s top performers in La Liga this season, having averaged a 6.97 match rating.

The Spain international has been particularly impressive in front of goal, having scored 16 goals in all competitions, including 15 in 23 La Liga games, which is a phenomenal record for a midfielder.

As a result, the Athletic star ranks in the top 2% for non-penalty goals per 90 over the past year, when compared to his positional peers, while also ranking very highly on some other key metrics for midfielders.

Statistic

Average per 90

Non-penalty goals

0.64 (98th percentile)

Pass completion %

82.3% (86th percentile)

Progressive passes

5.78 (86th percentile)

Sancet could be a fantastic signing for Aston Villa this summer, and they should be well-placed to compete for his signature, should they manage to qualify for the Champions League once again.

Everton were a day late and a dollar short once again at Anfield, though most of a Toffees persuasion will have spilled out Liverpool’s turnstiles with a sense of grievance and perhaps frustration that parity wasn’t restored.

Diogo Jota’s neat footwork preceded a tidy finish to wrong-foot Jordan Pickford and send Liverpool deeper into their seat at the summit of the Premier League.

For Everton, their Anfield purgatory continues. David Moyes’ pre-match comments bespoke a chasmic gap between the neighbours: “We might be further away from Liverpool than we ever have been at the moment.”

However, the two contests over the past two months have shed some new light on Everton’s startlingly sharp development with the Scotsman at the helm once again.

Player ratings courtesy of Sofascore.

This is a new Everton team revived and confident and hungry for new levels of success. Much has changed in short time, but the derby itself hasn’t, insofar as hackles were raised and jaws were bared from both sides of the sphere.

A fiery Merseyside derby

Everton versus Liverpool hasn’t been without its fracas-laden moments over the years, and while Wednesday’s Anfield clash won’t fall into the most tempestuous of meetings in modern history, it wasn’t that far away.

Moyes, certainly, was left feeling aggrieved after one or two controversial moments. In particular, Jota’s goal carried a hint of contention that left the 61-year-old frustrated post-game, for Luis Diaz was in an offside position during the build-up. Albeit the Colombian didn’t touch the ball while walking back into legality, not seeking to interfere with play.

However, that wasn’t the only, or indeed more scrutinised, point of controversy on the evening. Beto had actually put Everton ahead in an impressive first half but saw his goal chalked off for a marginal offside, but the biggest issue came on the Toffees’ defensive side.

James Tarkowski’s first-half challenge on Alexis Mac Allister sent Anfield into a maddened frenzy. It was, colloquially, a ‘leg-breaker.’

However, Liverpool’s midfielder walked off fine and so too did Everton’s veteran defender, who accepted a booking for his reckless sliding clearance – which he technically won – after VAR official Paul Tierney failed to recognise the gravity of the incident. Even Moyes suggested the 32-year-old was “lucky” not to have received his marching orders.

Everton's new Gareth Barry

The Merseyside derby has often been a game of brinkmanship on both sides, but Tarkowski pushed his chances to the limits on the disciplinary front, with former Premier League referee Mike Dean branding the incident a “horrible challenge and 100% a red card.”

It’s the kind of combativeness, though, that harkens wistful thoughts of a former era, one many fans resonate with as being more real and nostalgic, for better or worse.

Standing in for the rarely-seen Seamus Coleman as Everton captain, Tarkowski evoked the spirit of that era, evoked the spirit of Gareth Barry, combining leadership with, frankly, a whole lot of yellows.

He may have been the Blues’ hero in the reverse fixture at Goodison Park, but – the VAR drama aside – he suffered a few shaky moments. Namely, it was his half-cleared swipe that sparked Jota’s goal.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

Although given that the £100k-per-week Tarkowski incredibly made 12 clearances in total, as per Sofascore, it’s understandable that at least one might not travel the length of the field.

The acting skipper also won six duels, blocked three shots and made three interceptions, highlighting his gritty, no-nonsense nature.

For the most part, he leads by example, indeed showing that he has become a “really strong leader,” recognised as such nearly three years ago by former boss Frank Lampard.

Barry used to be that man for the Merseysiders. The all-time leading appearance maker in the Premier League – having played 653 games – the 44-year-old featured 153 times for the Toffees, scoring five goals and placing 11 assists across a four-year period, instrumental in driving Everton through the halcyon, pre-Moshiri days.

Of course, the retired England international was strong in the challenge himself, facing card-brandishing referees on more than a few occasions throughout his long Premier League career.

1.

Gareth Barry

123

2.

Wayne Rooney

102

3.

Lee Bowyer

99

3=

Kevin Davies

99

5.

Paul Scholes

97

Barry, who captained the Three Lions at one point, was an understated midfielder, a man of industry and intelligence as he controlled games plum in the centre of the pitch.

His defensive quality and positional understanding were virtues that could also be attributed to Tarkowski at Everton right now, the centre-back upholding Sean Dyche and now Moyes’ values and adding an almost foundational element to the team, which allows others to flourish.

Barry – who now plays in England’s 12th tier with village club Hurstpierpoint F.C., four years on from retirement – was once hailed as “one of England’s best players ever” by his one-time gaffer Roberto Martinez, so industrious and an expert at the rudiments of football.

Tarkowski might not boast the same degree of wider acclaim, but he’s certainly made his mark at Goodison Park since leaving Burnley on a free transfer in 2022, playing in every single Premier League fixture since moving to Merseyside.

Thankfully, that record won’t be snapped by a VAR intervention. Regardless of the Englishman’s over-zealous challenge, his tough, protective approach has borne dividends for Everton over the past few years, and he’s not done yet.

Moyes loves him: Everton now plotting surprise move for "rapid" £30m winger

The Toffees could make a shock move for a forward, who is admired by manager David Moyes.

ByDominic Lund Apr 2, 2025

While there were a few wobbles towards the start, it would be fair to say that Nuno Espírito Santo’s time in the West Ham United dugout has largely gone well so far.

The Portuguese coach has lifted the East Londoners out of the Premier League relegation zone and picked up some impressive results against Newcastle United, Manchester United, Everton and Burnley.

One of the players who seems to have benefited most from his arrival is Callum Wilson, who rediscovered his goalscoring form.

However, it might not be enough in the eyes of the club, as West Ham are now being linked with a striker who would represent an upgrade on the Englishman, a striker who once finished in a Jarrod Bowen-esque way.

West Ham linked with Wilson upgrade

The transfer window reopens in under a month, and, as is the case with most other clubs, West Ham have already been linked with a plethora of exciting players.

Transfer Focus

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

For example, Toulouse’s highly rated English defender, Charlie Cresswell, has once again been touted for a move to the London Stadium, as has Nuno’s old number one, Jose Sa.

However, while both players would certainly have a positive impact at West Ham, neither one could be described as a Wilson upgrade, unlike Santiago Giménez.

Yes, according to a recent report from Spain, the Hammers are among several clubs that have been offered the chance to sign the AC Milan forward next year.

If the East Londoners do want to take up the offer, either on loan or in a permanent deal, they will have to get moving, as the report also states that Leeds United are the team with the most concrete interest in the player.

It could be a complicated transfer to get done for West Ham, but considering Giménez’s ability and goalscoring record, it’s one they should fight for, especially as he could be an upgrade on Wilson and arguably finished like Bowen in the past.

Why Giménez would be an upgrade on Wilson

There are a few reasons why Giménez would represent an upgrade on Wilson, and the first is their respective output.

Now, it is undoubtedly the case that the Englishman is actually outdoing the Mexican international in this regard so far this season, scoring four goals in 12 games compared to his one goal and two assists in 11 games.

However, when you take a step back and look at his form last season, and especially when he was playing in the Netherlands, it becomes clear that the former Feyenoord star is the more dangerous striker.

For example, while the former Newcastle United star scored only once in 22 appearances last year, the Resistencia-born marksman scored 22 goals and recorded six assists in 38 appearances.

Moreover, the season before that saw the Coventry-born ace do pretty well, scoring ten goals and providing one assist in 26 games, but his potential competition still did better, scoring 26 goals and providing eight assists in 41 games.

Games

41

26

Minutes

3204′

1338′

Goals

26

10

Assists

8

1

Games

38

22

Minutes

2110′

458′

Goals

22

1

Assists

6

0

With all this in mind, it’s clear that the “insane” Milan forward, as dubbed by U23 scout Antonio Mango, is the far superior goalscorer, and considering he is left-footed, there is a Bowen-esque way to how he often curls the ball into the net.

Now, on top of the output, the 46-capped Mexican ace also has age on his side, coming nine years younger than the veteran 33-year-old Englishman.

Finally, the £78k-per-week game-changer also has fitness on his side, as he’s only had one season in his career in which he’s missed more double-digit games through injury, compared to Wilson, who has had seven.

Ultimately, while it might not be the club’s top priority, West Ham should go out and sign Giménez as soon as possible, as he could supercharge their attack.

West Ham are brewing another Potts and he finishes just like Jarrod Bowen

West Ham United could have another Potts-esque academy gem on their hands who could be the next Jarrod Bowen.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Dec 3, 2025

Newcastle United have now reportedly been offered the opportunity to finally sign James Trafford in a deal that would see Tino Livramento head in the opposite direction to Manchester City.

The Magpies certainly have a lot to think about ahead of 2026. With new sporting director Ross Wilson in place, they’ll be hoping to avoid the chaos of missing out on top targets to hand Eddie Howe some much-needed reinforcements.

He'd revive Elanga: Newcastle could hire "one of the best managers in the PL"

There have been whispers of a potential managerial change at Newcastle after a poor start to the season.

ByAngus Sinclair Nov 20, 2025

Howe’s side enter this weekend’s clash against Man City in desperate need of three points, having entered the international break off the back of a shock 3-1 defeat at the hands of Brentford. Currently sat as low as 14th in the Premier League, the Newcastle boss reiterated that he’s looking for a response from his players on Saturday night.

There would be no better way to get back on track than a victory against a side with Man City’s quality, but then it’s about consistency for the Magpies. On the pitch, they must turn things around in preparation for what could be a busy January transfer window.

Already, reports are claiming that they’re still interested in signing Trafford and could be handed an interesting opportunity to do so in 2026.

Newcastle offered chance to sign James Trafford

As reported by TeamTalk, Newcastle have now been offered the chance to sign Trafford by Man City, who are looking to strike a swap deal involving Livramento. The Citizens were interested in the versatile right-back in the summer, but were priced out of a move thanks to the Magpies’ eye-watering £80m price-tag.

Now, just months later, it looks as though City are once again interested in a move for the England international and are already willing to cut ties with Trafford to make a move happen.

The shot-stopper returned to the club with the hope of finally becoming their number one, only for Gianluigi Donnarumma’s arrival to bring an end to those plans. Left to watch on from the bench ever since, he could certainly do with another call from those in Tyneside.

That said, whilst Newcastle’s admiration for Trafford is clear, it remains to be seen whether he’s valued higher than Livramento in Tyneside. The goalkeeper has been described as “incredible” by Pep Guardiola, but even that may not be enough to convince Newcastle to sacrifice their star defender.

Bigger talent than Anderson: Newcastle have 'one of the world's best teens'

West Ham manager Nuno Espírito Santo has seemingly changed his tune about one member of the Hammers squad he reportedly didn’t fancy, with the tactician speaking highly of him in the build up to this weekend’s clash against Burnley.

Nuno has been very experimental with his Irons team selection since taking over from Graham Potter in September.

One of his first orders of business was axing James Ward-Prowse from the matchday squad entirely, despite the midfielder being vice-captain and an ever-present under Potter.

The 30-year-old hasn’t made a single matchday squad during Nuno’s time in charge and all signs point towards Ward-Prowse leaving West Ham when the January transfer window opens in under two months time.

Sunderland 3-0 West Ham

West Ham 1-5 Chelsea

Nottingham Forest 0-3 West Ham

West Ham 0-3 Tottenham

West Ham 1-2 Crystal Palace

Everton 1-1 West Ham

Arsenal 2-0 West Ham

West Ham 0-2 Brentford

Leeds 2-1 West Ham

West Ham 3-1 Newcastle

While the writing is on the wall for Ward-Prowse, Nuno has been chopping and changing his preferred options in recent weeks, especially after striker Niclas Fullkrug’s latest in a long line of injuries.

The Portuguese deployed Lucas Paqueta as a false nine against both Brentford and Leeds United, but to no avail, with Nuno tinkering his full-back and midfield choices for the two defeats as well.

Against Newcastle last weekend, Nuno finally found a winning formula, electing to gift highly-rated youngster Freddie Potts his first Premier League start for the club whilst dropping Paqueta back into midfield, with Max Kilman and Jean-Clair Todibo impressing after swapping sides at centre-back.

Striker Callum Wilson was also handed his first start under Nuno.

The Englishman, who signed on a free transfer from Newcastle in the summer, was finally given the nod but replaced on the hour-mark by Tomas Soucek after putting in a decent shift against his former club.

According to reliable club insider ExWHUemployee last month, when asked why Nuno wasn’t playing Wilson in place of Fullkrug initially, the manager simply didn’t “fancy” the 33-year-old as an option.

However, he now appears to have changed his mind.

Nuno changes tune about Callum Wilson as he makes "very important" West Ham claim

Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of Burnley, Nuno was adamant that Wilson is a “very important” player for West Ham and praised his performance at home to Newcastle.

The 51-year-old also strongly hinted that Wilson is in line for another start against Scott Parker’s side at the London Stadium.

Wilson was once one of the Premier League’s most prolific strikers, scoring 18 top flight goals for Newcastle in 2022/2023 before a plethora of injury problems dampened his form.

So far, the ex-Bournemouth hitman has been fit and readily available for all of West Ham’s games since joining, and Nuno will be praying that continues, at least until January.

West Ham are believed to be in the market for a striker, and this is backed up by the likes of Sky Sports and Fabrizio Romano, with Fullkrug apparently deciding to leave West Ham when the winter window reopens.

Manchester United defensive midfielder Casemiro continued his fine form in the 2025/26 campaign with a goal for Brazil against Senegal on international duty on Saturday.

The veteran midfield star has started nine of his ten appearances in the Premier League for Ruben Amorim this season, scoring three goals and providing one assist from the middle of the park.

The Brazil international only started 18 times in the top-flight in the 2024/25 campaign, per Sofascore, but he has emerged as a vital player for the Portuguese boss this term.

Despite his renewed importance to the team, Casemiro turns 34 in February and United may still be on the lookout for the long-term successor to his place in the starting XI.

In September, it was reported that the Red Devils have identified Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba as a priority target, with a deal that could reach a club-record £100m touted for 2026.

However, the Premier League giants should, instead, avoid a swoop to sign the Cameroon international in the January transfer window and next summer.

Why Man Utd should avoid a deal for Carlos Baleba

Manchester United should avoid a deal to sign the defensive midfielder, particularly if the price tag is £100m, because his performances for Brighton have declined from the 2024/25 campaign to the current term.

Baleba won 55% of his ground duels and made 3.7 tackles and interceptions per game in the Premier League last season, per Sofascore, which makes it easy to understand why the club identified him as a possible successor to Casemiro.

The Brazilian star has made 2.7 tackles and interceptions per match and won 58% of his ground duels in the division this term, per Sofascore, and the Brighton ace could have been viewed as a good fit to take his place moving forward.

However, his numbers have declined across the board in the Premier League this season, which suggests that he may not have the consistency that United will need from their stars if they want to compete for the biggest trophies.

Appearances

34

11

Goals

3

0

Tackles + interceptions per game

3.7

2.0

Clearances per game

1.3

1.0

Duels won per game

5.8

3.4

Ground duel success rate

55%

44%

Fouls made per game

1.2

1.5

As you can see in the table above, Baleba has lost the majority of his ground duels in the division and has won fewer duels, made fewer tackles and interceptions, and committed more fouls in comparison to the 2024/25 campaign.

When paying £100m, which would be a club-record fee for United, the Red Devils should want a player who is improving and on the way up, yet the opposite appears to be true of the Brighton midfield.

Man United eyeing move for Premier League midfielder

That is why it should come as good news to supporters that INEOS are reportedly looking at an alternative to Baleba who would be a better option for the club to sign.

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 reports from Spain, Manchester United are one of a number of clubs interested in a deal to sign Crystal Palace defensive midfielder Adam Wharton in the January transfer window.

The report claims that Real Madrid, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal are all also keen on the England international, which means that there will be plenty of competition for his signature ahead of the second half of the season.

It adds that any deal for the left-footed star could cost around £88m and that the signs are pointing towards a January exit from Selhurst Park for the former Blackburn Rovers ace.

However, it remains to be seen whether or not Manchester United are willing to pay the £88m that will be required to beat the likes of Real Madrid and Arsenal to his signature.

Why Manchester United should sign Adam Wharton

The Red Devils should push to win the race for Wharton’s services in January because he would be a way better signing than Baleba, who is valued at £12m more than the Englishman.

Unlike Baleba, the 21-year-old star has taken a step forward with his performances in the Premier League for Crystal Palace this season, which shows that he is improving and progressing as a player, rather than regressing.

Appearances

20

9

Big chances created

5

5

Key passes per game

1.3

1.6

Dribble success rate

20%

64%

Tackles made per game

1.7

1.3

Ground duel success rate

49%

53%

Dribbled past per game

1.4x

1.0x

Possession lost per game

10.8x

10.2x

As you can see in the table above, the left-footed midfield maestro has improved in and out of possession, making fewer tackles per game but being more efficient in his attempts to tackle, hence the higher ground duel success rate and fewer times dribbled past per game.

Wharton was hailed as “the best deep-lying English midfielder since Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick” by one CONCACAF B certified coach earlier this year, and it is easy to see why.

Scholes, in particular, was renowned for his exceptional passing from midfield, which led to 82 assists for United (Transfermarkt), and Wharton is cut from a similar cloth.

Per FBref, the Eagles star ranks within the top 1% of midfielders in the top five leagues in Europe and European competitions over the last 365 days for xAG per 90 (0.30) and the top 10% for shot-creating actions per 90 (3.75).

Wharton, like Scholes, is a tempo-setting midfield player who also has the quality to break lines and create chances for his teammates with his impressive passing range.

Whereas Baleba has only created five ‘big chances’ in 91 appearances in all competitions for Brighton, per Sofascore, which suggests that he would not provide the same level of quality on the ball.

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He could replace the veteran midfielder.

ByTom Cunningham Nov 16, 2025

Therefore, Wharton could be a much better option for United than the Brighton star because he would provide more quality on the ball, whilst arriving as a player who is improving week-on-week, instead of regressing, as Baleba has.