All posts by z3u9t.icu

While it’s impossible to deny that for large parts of this season, Arsenal haven’t performed to the standards they’ve set in previous years, they have also been quite unlucky regarding injuries.

Specifically, in late December, Mikel Arteta lost his best player and talisman to a severe hamstring injury that kept him out of the side for almost four months: Bukayo Saka.

The best way to demonstrate what a difference having the Hale Ender in the side could have made in that period is to look at his outrageous output, as despite missing so much football this season, he’s still managed to score 11 goals and provided 14 assists in 33 games, at an average of a goal involvement every 1.32 games.

So, with the Englishman unquestionably being the Gunners’ most important player, it would make sense to sign players who would make great teammates for him, which, based on recent reports, seems to be the opinion of Andrea Berta and Co.

Arsenal transfer news

Before we get to the player in question, it is worth looking at some of the other stars Arsenal are looking at who could help Saka reach that next level by improving the left-hand side, such as Jamie Gittens and Raphinha.

Transfer Focus

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

The former has recently popped up as a target for the Gunners and could be available for around £51m, which for a youngster who’s scored at the Bernabeu and has racked up a haul of 17 goal involvements this season and could prove a worthwhile investment.

Likewise, while the reported price tag of £77m for the Barcelona star is indeed steep, he would undoubtedly be worth it, as in just 52 games this season, he has managed to rack up an unreal haul of 57 goal involvements.

Yet, what would likely help Saka more than anything else is signing a new striker, which is where Liam Delap enters the fray.

According to a recent report from Football Transfers, Arsenal are now incredibly interested in the Ipswich Town striker, with Andrea Berta particularly keen.

Furthermore, it’s moved beyond just an interest, with the report revealing that the club have now made an offer for the Englishman, who has a £30m release clause in his deal following the confirmation of the Tractor Boys’ relegation.

He might not be the biggest of names, but given how well he’s performed this season and his potential, Delap is someone worth signing, especially as he’d be a dream for Saka.

Why Delap would be a dream for Saka

Now, there are a few reasons why Delap would be a dream signing for Saka this summer, but they ultimately boil down to his ability in front of goal, as the Arsenal winger would surely thrive with a more clinical striker to his left.

We feel comfortable calling the Englishman more clinical than the Gunners’ current options up top, as it’s a statement more than backed up by the numbers.

For example, Understat has worked out that his 12 league goals this season have come from an expected goals figure of just 11.85, which, in other words, means he’s actually outperforming his underlying numbers.

Delap

11.85

12

Havertz

11.76

9

Jesus

3.38

3

In contrast, prior to his injury, Kai Havertz scored his nine league goals from an expected goals figure of 11.76, and Gabriel Jesus scored his three goals from an expected figure of 3.38.

On top of being better at putting away his chances, of which he’d be provided plenty from the Hale Ender, the 22-year-old marksman is more than capable of creating his own chances.

For example, FBref places the “complete” forward, as dubbed by analyst Ben Mattinson, in the top 8% of forwards in Europe’s top five leagues for successful take-ons, the top 9% for shot-creating actions from successful take-ons, the top 10 % for carries into the final third and more, all per 90.

So not only would he help boost the Arsenal ace’s assist tally, but the attacking “monster” – in the words of Ipswich podcast Mark Heath – would almost certainly boost his goal output as well.

Ultimately, from price to goals and his ability to get the ball into dangerous areas, Delap seems like an ideal signing for Arsenal and, just as importantly, someone who’d be a sensational teammate for Saka.

Mega upgrade on Odegaard: Berta lining up Arsenal move for £100m "machine"

The £100m-rated star would be a game-changer for Arsenal.

ByJack Salveson Holmes May 7, 2025

Will Manchester City qualify for next season’s Champions League?

Last Sunday, the Sky Blues reached a third successive FA Cup final, courtesy of a 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at Wembley, in which Rico Lewis and then Joško Gvardiol were the scorers.

Back in the Premier League, Pep Guardiola’s team have enjoyed three successive victories, now seeking to win four in a row for the first time since the first four matches of this season.

Victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday night would propel the Sky Blues up to third, but this won’t be easy, considering Wolves travel to the Etihad following six successive victories, achieving this in the top division for the first time since 1970.

If Guardiola is going to end Wolves’ winning streak, he should make a change to his forward line with Jack Grealish likely to come out of the side.

Jack Grealish's Manchester City decline

When Grealish arrived at Manchester City for £100m, at the time breaking the British transfer record, few would’ve forecast that, four years later, he’d merely be a peripheral figure.

The 29-year-old has started just 16 matches across all competitions this season, going a whopping 392 days without a club goal, starting only once in the Premier League since Christmas, hence why his name was a surprise inclusion against Nottingham Forest on Sunday.

The table below illustrates the England international’s decline.

Appearances

39

50

36

31

Starts

31

41

26

16

Minutes

2,730

3,487

2,114

1,520

Matches unused

19

11

18

20

Goals

6

5

3

3

Minutes per goal

455

697

705

507

Assists

4

11

3

5

As the table outlines, since Grealish’s best season, the treble-winning campaign of 2022/23, he’s been little more than a bit part player, no longer a regular starter and not a regular contributor when it comes to goals and assists.

Jeremy Cross and Oli Gamp of the Daily Mirror believe it is very likely that Grealish will depart this summer, making it pointless Guardiola picking him for Man City’s four remaining league fixtures, so here’s who he should unleash against Wolves instead.

Chalkboard

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

The Man City forward yet to fulfil his potential

Jérémy Doku joined Manchester City two summers ago from Stade Rennais, costing a reported £55.5m, with Director of Football Txiki Begiristain describing him as a “very exciting young player” who has the potential to “develop into a world-class attacking talent”.

Meantime, Jacek Kulig of Football Talent Scout labeled him an “explosive winger” with “superb dribbling skills” who “plays with a natural flair”.

Well, so far, we’ve only seen this in glimpses, with the Belgian scoring only six goals both this season and last, the most recent of which came during the 6-0 demolition of Ipswich all the way back in January.

Nevertheless, Doku does rank more favourably when it comes to other metrics, as outlined by the table below.

Minutes played

1,307

247th

Goals

3

99th

Assists

5

41st

Progressive carries

176

1st

Attempted take-ons

175

2nd

Successful take-ons

98

1st

Take on success % (min 50 attempted)

56%

4th

Carries into the final third

83

4th

Carries into the penalty area

80

2nd

As the table highlights, despite his relative lack of minutes, Doku has accumulated the most progressive carries and successful take-ons of any player in the Premier League.

Meantime, only Mohammed Kudus of West Ham has attempted more take-ons, while only Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has registered more carries into the opposition penalty area.

Still only 22-years-old, Doku has the potential to be the future of this team, while the same cannot be said of Grealish.

Thus, given that Vítor Pereira is likely to set Wolves up in a low defensive block on Friday night, their back three quickly retreating and becoming a back five, Doku’s one-vs-one dribbling ability could be invaluable as Man City seek to break them down.

'Shades of De Bruyne': Man City preparing to make offer for £35m sensation

Manchester City are preparing to make an offer to sign a highly-rated talent to replace Kevin De Bruyne, described as Guardiola’s dream signing.

Apr 29, 2025

Nottingham Forest have now made contact over a deal for a midfielder who is expected to cost around £40m this summer, according to a report.

Forest set to strengthen in multiple areas

Despite losing their last two Premier League games, Forest are well-positioned to qualify for next season’s Champions League, given that they remain three points clear of sixth-placed Chelsea with just six games left to play.

The race is likely to go right down to the wire, but it is looking very likely the Tricky Trees will be playing European football of some description next season, which means Nuno may need to strengthen his squad in the summer transfer window.

Targets have been identified in multiple areas, having recently joined the race for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, but a new striker appears to be of particular interest, with Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and AFC Bournemouth’s Evanilson among the options.

Nottingham Forest plot hijack for "elusive" £30m forward who West Ham want

The Tricky Trees have set their sights on a winger, who looks set to leave his club in the summer transfer window.

ByDominic Lund Apr 15, 2025

There have also been suggestions Forest could look to bring in a new central midfielder, and they are believed to be very keen on AC Milan’s Yunus Musah, but the American is not their only target.

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Nottingham Forest have now made contact over Chelsea’s Andrey Santos, submitting an enquiry to discuss a potential summer deal, but there could be fierce competition for his signature.

Eight Premier League clubs have expressed an interest in Santos, who is valued at around £40m by the Blues, while there is also set to be competition from several unnamed European sides, which could make it very difficult to get a deal over the line.

Not only that, but the 20-year-old isn’t particularly keen on a move to the City Ground, given that his game time was very limited during his loan spell with the Tricky Trees last season.

Santos impressing on loan at Strasbourg

The Brazilian may have found game time hard to come by at Forest last season, but he has been seriously impressive on loan at Strasbourg, picking up nine goals and four assists in 27 Ligue 1 appearances this term.

Not only has the maestro impressed going forward, but he ranks highly on some key defensive metrics over the past year, when compared to his positional peers, indicating he is a well-rounded midfielder.

Statistic

Average per 90

Non-penalty goals

0.32 (98th percentile)

Tackles

3.33 (96th percentile)

Clearances

2.06 (81st percentile)

Football talent scout Jacek Kulig has also been left seriously impressed by the Rio de Janeiro-born starlet in the past, lauding him as a “one-man war machine in midfield” after starring for Brazil U20 against Peru.

Santos has proven he deserves another chance in the Premier League, but it seems pretty unlikely the youngster would be willing to move back to the City Ground, given that his previous spell didn’t go to plan.

Trent Alexander-Arnold scored the winner as Liverpool defeated Leicester City on Sunday afternoon, which now means winning the Premier League title this month has fallen into Arne Slot’s hands.

Should Arsenal lose against Crystal Palace at the Emirates on Wednesday, Liverpool will be crowned. If not, Anfield will be charged with a frenzy next weekend, the Reds knowing victory over Tottenham Hotspur will seal the deal.

There was something poignant about Trent’s winner, the ecstasy of moving within an inch of the trophy tempered by the knowledge that the boyhood hero, the homegrown superstar, probably scored his final goal for Liverpool.

Trent is set to leave Liverpool

Liverpool fans were divided in opinion after Alexander-Arnold scored and celebrated with such undiluted emotion at the King Power Stadium.

The more optimistic among us suggested the vice-captain’s celebration bespoke a passion that will see him renew terms, devote the remainder of his prime years to his boyhood club.

But this doesn’t feel likely. Fabrizio Romano has already corroborated an overload of Spanish reports in recent months that the England international will indeed sign for Real Madrid this summer, and it would take a remarkable turn of events for that to change now.

Premier League

255

18

65

Champions League

60

2

13

FA Cup

13

1

3

Carabao Cup

10

0

6

Europa League

5

0

2

Club World Cup

2

0

1

Community Shield

2

1

0

CL Qualifying

2

0

1

UEFA Super Cup

1

0

0

Sadly, wishing for a thing doesn’t make it so, and all the pointers suggest that Liverpool’s number 66 is poised to leave when his contract expires in a few months.

One of those pointers is that FSG have already mapped out plans to sign a replacement. He’s been one of the Premier League’s standout full-backs this season.

Liverpool already chasing Trent replacement

As per Caught Offside, Liverpool have set Nottingham Forest’s Ola Aina in their sights as they prepare for life without Alexander-Arnold.

The Nigerian defender has been in fine fettle for high-flying Forest this season and is months away from the end of his £40k-per-week contract, and may well be tempted by a bumper pay rise with the soon-to-be champions.

With Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur also lurking, Forest are piecing together a long-term offer to keep the 28-year-old at the club for the remainder of his prime years, but Anfield presents an enticing package indeed.

How Ola Aina compares to Alexander-Arnold

Nottingham Forest are sixth in the Premier League with just over one month of the 2024/25 campaign left to play. Nuno Espirito Santo has worked wonders, and Aina has been one of his most vital cogs.

Transfer Focus

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

The one-year deal that Aina was tethered to when he joined Forest in July 2023, after his contract with Italians Torino expired, rather candidly comments on the hesitance behind the signing.

Though he’s currently set for free agency this summer, the City Ground side have been confident that an extension could be secured. The minutiae of the potential transfer is unclear, but Liverpool’s pull is a powerful thing.

Such a rumour might feel somewhat deflating, but Aina really has been among the finest full-backs in Europe this season, so important as the Tricky Trees chase down unexpected Champions League qualification.

His ability is uncontestable. In fact, the experienced ace has been described as “the best right-back in the Premier League” this season by former Nigeria international Julius Aghahowa.

It’s hard to dispute it. Defensively, at the least, Aina has been a force to be reckoned with, keeping 11 clean sheets across 30 top-flight fixtures while recovering 5.3 balls, winning 4.2 duels and making 2.8 tackles and interceptions per game, as per Sofascore.

He’s not averse to attacking play either. Aina has scored twice this term, the first of which carried Trent-esque technique as West Ham United were flattened by the ranged missile.

Moreover, he’s averaging a dribble per game this year, which is working out to a 55% success rate. Not bad going. Alexander-Arnold, for example, succeeds with just 48% of his ball-carrying attempts.

What about Conor Bradley? Here we find the crux of the argument. The reasoning behind FSG launching a bid for a wide defender at the north end of their 20s who simply doesn’t bring more than a mite of playmaking prowess that Alexander-Arnold will take with him as he capers off to Madrid.

Bradley has so much potential, and with Slot pleased with the Northern Irishman’s progress, it would take quite the right-back to oust him over many years.

Instead, by signing Aina, a sort of balance could be struck, keeping the finely-worked equilibrium on Anfield’s pitch at a productive angle.

To clear the fogs, so to speak, let’s have at how Aina compares to Alexander-Arnold, and how they look when their Premier League metrics from the current campaign are collated.

There’s plenty to unpack here, but we’ll try and simplify it.

First and foremost, it might appear like Aina pales in comparison to Liverpool’s star man, but it’s important to remember that Forest operate without possession. In fact, Nuno’s system has bred the least amount of possession in the Premier League this year, remarkable given they currently lie within the Champions League qualification zone.

Alexander-Arnold creates far more than Aina and curiously makes more tackles, but the Forest star’s duel success, athleticism and ability to take on and beat his man shines a light on his skill and how that could be perfect to slot in to compete with Bradley.

The confluence of styles that Bradley and Aina would project down the right flank could give Slot the right blend to tackle the forthcoming campaign.

Aina wouldn’t replace Alexander-Arnold’s supreme creativity; Liverpool must sign a new attacking midfielder to compensate for the loss of his playmaking.

However, this would balance, dynamise, you name it, Liverpool’s defence, giving Slot what he needs to challenge at the top once again while allowing Bradley to jockey for a place with a contrasting, older profile.

He was as bad as Salah: Liverpool star proved why FSG must spend millions

This Liverpool flop who was as bad as Mo Salah proved that FSG must spend millions this summer.

ByDan Emery Apr 21, 2025

Arsenal are ready to make a “bold” attempt to sign a “dominant” Real Madrid player following approval from Mikel Arteta, which interestingly comes amid the Gunners’ exceptional 3-0 win over Carlo Ancelotti’s men in the Champions League.

Arsenal hammer Real Madrid in statement Champions League win

Tuesday evening was one of Arsenal’s proudest ever nights in Europe, with Declan Rice in particular taking centre stage.

The seven words Saka said to Rice before Arsenal's first goal vs Madrid

Declan Rice defied instructions to score Arsenal’s first goal against Real Madrid.

ByMatt Dawson Apr 9, 2025

The England international scored two sensational free-kicks from long-range, curling it beyond the Los Blancos wall on both occasions and past a helpless Thibaut Courtois, who could feel hard done by considering the former Chelsea goalkeeper made save after save in what was a commendable display from him.

Brentford (home)

April 12th

Ipswich Town (away)

April 20th

Crystal Palace (home)

April 23rd

Bournemouth (home)

May 3rd

Liverpool (away)

May 11th

Arsenal could’ve won by even more if it wasn’t for the Real shot-stopper’s heroics, but Courtois couldn’t do anything about Rice’s exceptional strikes into the top corner, or Mikel Merino’s finish to round off a superb 3-0 win for the home side.

“I was very convinced because I could sense in the preparation that we were really at it, that we had that belief and that trust that we could create Madrid a lot of problems,” said Arteta after Arsenal’s historic Champions League victory over Real.

“But then it was the theme of the game, make it happen, then you have to make it happen. But you have that mindset and that belief that things can happen and we delivered today. It was a hard time, but we are very happy.

“My feeling was that the team was super convinced, and we had the trust that we could do it because we’ve done it for big periods against the best opposition that you can face in football for two years. And if you can do that, you can do it on the day, and especially with our crowds. At that level, I think it elevates the level of the team, and we have managed to beat them.”

Off the field, it is believed new sporting director Andrea Berta could rival Real for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz, and a new report has now claimed that Arteta’s side may even look to raid the Bernabeu this summer.

Arsenal preparing offer for Real Madrid forward Arda Güler

According to a Spanish media source, Berta and co apparently have their eyes on Turkey international starlet Arda Güler.

The attacking midfielder, who can also slot in on the right wing, has been used sparingly by Ancelotti this season. Guler’s chipped in with three goals and seven assists over 33 appearances in all competitions, but he’s predominantly utilised as an impact player off the bench.

Now, it is believed that Arsenal are preparing a “bold” move to sign Guler, and plan to offer around £26 million to tempt Real into selling him. Arteta personally “doesn’t want to pass up” any opportunity to sign the 20-year-old, as Arsenal’s manager believes that Guler is an ideal fit.

Arteta also thinks that Guler could play a similar role to club captain Martin Odegaard, so this could be an intriguing story to keep tabs on amid the Turk’s struggle for game time in La Liga.

“His IQ is at a high level,” said Montenegro manager Robert Prosinecki.

“He is a very dominant player with the ball. He always thinks about attacking.”

Leeds United have made an opening enquiry to sign a new Premier League player, according to a fresh transfer report.

Leeds latest as Farke drops Meslier for Darlow

The Whites are still pushing for Championship promotion under Daniel Farke, with Leeds in a current battle with Sheffield United and Burnley.

It looked like it could be a straightforward promotion after wins over the Blades and Sunderland back in February, however, Leeds have taken just six points from a possible 15 since.

Goalkeeper Illan Meslier was once again at fault last time out in a draw with Swansea City, and Farke has now taken the decision to drop Meslier for Karl Darlow. Talking at a recent press conference, Farke said: “I think I’m a big believer to have clarity on GK position. I’ve taken the decision – Karl Darlow will play on Saturday. Karl and Illan are aware.

“I think in general with a goalkeeper, it’s important you don’t change game to game. Especially with a promising GK like Illan. He took part in securing promotion a few seasons ago. He’s still young for a GK. It’s professional football and you have to deliver and handle the pressure. In the last weeks we felt he could have done a bit better.

“I’m in the position where I have to make a decision and protect him a bit. The spotlight is on him and the weight of the world is on him. That was my feeling this week. I have a really reliable option with Karl Darlow. A top class character. I see him every day in training – absolutely professional and loyal. He played two solid performances for Wales. he’s in a good rhythm. I’m convinced it’s the right decision.”

Should Leeds return to the top flight after a two-year absence, Leeds and the 49ers Enterprises could look to splash the cash to remain in the division.

Meslier replacement: Leeds now eyeing move for "world-class" £14m goalkeeper

The Whites are looking at options to replace Meslier, who has made a number of mistakes this season.

ByDominic Lund Apr 4, 2025

It has proven a tough task for the six promoted sides since 2023, however, Leeds are turning to experience to potentially help Farke.

Leeds make enquiry to sign Farke target Soucek from West Ham

According to Claret & Hugh, Leeds have made an opening approach over a deal to sign Tomas Soucek from West Ham United.

It is claimed that ‘Farke has identified West Ham midfielder Soucek as a player who can guarantee the Whites some top-flight goals’ and that any deal would require Leeds being promoted.

The report also adds that Leeds are ‘ready to offer him at least £30,000 per week more than his current wage’, which currently stands at £90,000 per week.

The 6 ft 4 midfielder, who can play in holding, central or attacking roles, could therefore earn £120,000 per week at Elland Road, however, he is currently settled at the London Stadium, where his deal runs until 2027.

Games

238

Goals

39

Assists

13

Yellow cards

33

Red cards

1

It appears as if Farke is personally keen on the Czech Republic international, and any deal would see the midfielder offer a physical presence as well as plenty of Premier League experience.

Arsenal’s 18-game unbeaten run is over. In that time, they have defeated their arch-rivals 4-1, defeated one of the most in-form sides in Europe in the shape of Bayern Munich 3-1. They have also been to St James’ Park and to Stamford Bridge without losing.

It’s typical, therefore, that the man who Mikel Arteta succeeded, Unai Emery, brought it to an unsavoury end.

This game will always be Emery’s cup final and that showed on Saturday. The Gunners were far from their best. They looked tired, shaky at the back. A 2-1 loss occurred and after Manchester City won later in the day, the gap at the top of the table was narrowed to just two points.

How Emery got the better of Mikel Arteta

A week ago, Arsenal looked like the runaway leaders in the Premier League. They’ll definitely win the title, some cried. Well, how quickly things can change.

While Arteta’s side are still in the driver’s seat to win it next May, they will need to improve on their last two away games with Chelsea and Villa.

This match was classic Emery. He loves facing his former employers and despite amassing plenty of possession in the Midlands, Arsenal seemed powerless to stop the Villans.

While Arsenal were missing Gabriel Magalhaes and William Saliba due to injury, Villa’s swift transitions, counter-attacking football and their willingness to get runners in behind really made life difficult for Arteta’s side.

Ollie Watkins – who was once the subject of a bid from the Gunners – didn’t score but several times he was able to get in behind. Jurrien Timber, who was playing at centre-back, was made to look rather silly.

Watkins could well have scored the opening goal of the game when he got in behind Timber and Piero Hincapie, turning them inside out before forcing a strong save from David Raya.

The combination play between him and Morgan Rogers, as well as Youri Tielemans, posed a colossal threat. Between them, they made three key passes.

Usually an offensive line would be met with a brick wall in the shape of Saliba and Gabriel but Arsenal’s centre-backs were a shadow of what we’ve come to expect with Arteta’s usual centre-back pairing on the sidelines with injury again.

That said, it was a moment of pinball that led to the winning goal. Arsenal failed to clear their lines and despite throwing several bodies in the way, Emilio Buendia was the calmest man in the Midlands, firing the ball past Raya. Bedlam erupted inside the stadium.

Arsenal's summer signing costs them big time

The defensive line of Arsenal has undoubtedly been the best in the country this season. Before their clash with the Villans, the Gunners had shipped just seven goals in the top-flight. Make that nine now.

Any team in world football would miss players of the calibre of Saliba and Gabriel but the league leaders have found out in recent matches just how tricky life is when both of them are unavailable.

Chalkboard

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

Cristian Mosquera was forced off with injury in the 2-0 win against Brentford in midweek which meant Arteta was forced to select Timber at centre-half at Villa Park. Smaller, not as physical, and keen to go to ground, he was no match for Watkins and Co.

Equally, Hincapie – who could sign permanently in a £45m deal – endured a topsy-turvy afternoon in what was just his fourth start in the Premier League. The Ecuador international is a physical beast but arguably lacks the same level of composure we’ve so often seen from Gabriel and Saliba in recent years.

He is, of course, new to the English game but his performance levels in the last two away fixtures have left something to be desired.

Against Chelsea last week, he and Mosquera looked rather unsettled and nervous. Fair enough, really, particularly when you consider they had only played together as a pairing once before.

Hincapie improved against Brentford and for the most part against Villa, he looked strong. Against a robust offensive unit, he won all three of his aerial duels, made a whopping seven clearances, six recoveries and won 50% of his ground duels.

This was not a bad performance until one mistake cost Arsenal the game. It was a moment you’d typically associate with the later days of Arsene Wenger’s reign, or even the Unai Emery era.

During those years, you’d associate Arsenal’s defenders with lapses in concentration and mistakes. Hincapie wasn’t riddled with errors on Saturday but his blunder deep into injury time cost Arsenal.

In the words of The Athletic’s Aaron Catterson-Reid, he has been “pretty poor since Spurs” and while that may well feel harsh, the inability to clear his lines late on was certainly poor.

Mins played

90

90

Touches

66

68

Pass accuracy

94%

82%

Tackles won

3/3

1/3

Interceptions

2

1

Clearances

3

7

Recoveries

4

6

Duels won

4/8

6/9

GOAL’s Charles Watts handed the defender a 6/10 rating at full-time and called out his lack of awareness at the end. He had a chance to clear his lines, but instead ran the ball out of play. It was from the Villa throw-in that they ultimately scored the winner.

It felt insignificant when it happened but there was a lack of game awareness. It was like something out of the Emery era. Saliba and Gabriel wouldn’t do that. The dogged defence Arteta has created wouldn’t do that. It could subsequently cost him his place in the team against Brugge in midweek.

Perhaps it’s time to see what Riccardo Calafiori can do at centre-half with Myles Lewis-Skelly at left-back?

Fewer touches than Raya & only 7 passes: Arsenal star must be dropped

Arsenal’s title charge got a whole lot trickier after defeat to Aston Villa at Villa Park.

ByAngus Sinclair 5 days ago

Things are looking up for Chelsea.

Despite a couple of poor results earlier in the season, Enzo Maresca’s side are second in the Premier League, with a chance to cut Arsenal’s lead to just three points on Sunday.

Then on Tuesday night, they showed the continent just how dangerous they are by beating Spanish champions Barcelona 3-0.

One of the stars of that game, and of Chelsea’s season, was Estevao, and so fans should be excited about reports linking them to someone who could be seen as the original version of the wonderkid.

Chelsea target the original Estevao

The transfer window is still over a month away from opening, but that has not stopped Chelsea from being linked with a host of potentially game-changing signings.

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, Nottingham Forest’s man-mountain Murillo has been touted for a £79m move to Stamford Bridge, as has Athletic Bilbao’s £62m Nico Williams.

However, as talented as those two are, neither one can accurately be described as the original Estevao, unlike Vinícius Júnior.

Yes, according to a recent report from Football Insider, Chelsea are one of a couple of teams interested in signing the Real Madrid superstar.

In fact, the report goes further, revealing that should the Brazilian be up for sale in the summer, the Blues will be one of the frontrunners for his signature, alongside Manchester City.

However, the report has confirmed that, even though he’d have just a year left on his deal, Los Blancos would demand a fee of around £80m.

Even so, Vini Jr is a genuinely world-class player and someone Chelsea should be happy to break the bank on, especially as he’s the original Estevao.

Why Vini Jr is the original Estevao

Now, when it comes to the similarities between Vini Jr and Estevao, there are a few that are quite obvious and somewhat surface-level.

For example, they’re both exciting wide players, they’re both Brazilian, and now they’ve both played for the national team.

However, what makes the Madrid star the original version of the Chelsea star is how they were both spoken about prior to their big-money moves to Europe.

The Blues ace, for example, was labelled a “future Ballon d’Or winner” by respected analyst Ben Mattinson a few months before his deal was agreed.

Likewise, when the 25-year-old arrived in Spain over seven years ago, president Florentino Perez said: “He’s a player who is already considered one of the great hopes of Brazilian and world football.

In short, the West Londoners’ new prospect looks to be following in the footsteps of the former Flamengo ace, and they’ll certainly hope he continues.

After all, despite having a slow start to life in the Spanish capital, the São Gonçalo-born monster has now amassed 340 appearances for the biggest club in the world, during which he has scored 111 goals and provided 89 assists.

Appearances

340

Starts

267

Minutes

24,291′

Goals

111

Assists

92

Points per Game

2.15

Moreover, he’s helped the club win everything there is to win in the game, including two Champions Leagues, three La Ligas and one Copa del Rey.

Finally, he also has some sensational underlying numbers to his name, with FBref ranking him in the top 1% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for progressive carries, the top 3% for successful take-ons, the top 6% for shot-creating actions and more, all per 90.

Ultimately, with all that in mind, it’s hard to disagree with Ronaldo’s assertion that Vini Jr is “the best player in the world,” and therefore, Chelsea should be doing all they can to sign him next year, especially as he could help Estevao’s development.

Chelsea have already signed another exciting star who's "just like Estevao"

Chelsea have already signed another youngster who could become another Estevao for Enzo Maresca.

ByJack Salveson Holmes Nov 26, 2025

West Ham United midfielder Lucas Paqueta has made an admission about his future at the club amid repeated suggestions he could leave in January.

Paqueta’s time at West Ham has been intriguing to say the least, and fresh speculation has emerged recently about a potential winter exit from the London Stadium.

West Ham paid £51 million to secure his services in a club-record deal from Lyon three years ago, with the Brazilian quickly establishing himself as one of the Premier League’s most technically gifted playmakers in his debut season under David Moyes.

Paqueta helped the Hammers to a glorious Conference League triumph that year, their first major trophy since 1980 and first European trophy since 1965, but a spot-fixing scandal then began to overshadow his time at the London Stadium.

The 28-year-old was charged with four alleged breaches of FA rule E5.1 in May 2024, relating to matches involving West Ham, with allegations that he directly sought to influence matches by intentionally seeking to receive a card from the referee for influence of the betting market.

The investigation, which began in August 2023, cast a dark cloud over his future, with the FA once seeking a lifetime ban for him. Throughout the ordeal, West Ham stood firmly by their star man, and in July this year, he was finally cleared.

With that uncertain point of his career finally over, Paqueta got back to focusing on the pitch, and clubs also started taking an interest in the £150,000-per-week star.

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

West Ham 3-2 Burnley

Aston Villa tried to sign Paqueta in the summer, but he ultimately chose to stay put and show loyalty to a side who backed him off the field.

However, credible reports are indicating that his long-term future could be away from Rush Green. The Times recently reported that Paqueta is keen to leave West Ham as early as next month, with Fabrizio Romano also backing up that the ex-Ligue 1 star’s exit is a realistic possibility.

Lucas Paqueta makes West Ham transfer admission and expects move to happen

Now, the player himself has come out to make a revelation of his own.

Speaking to Brazilian outlet Globo, as translated by Standard Sport, Paqueta says that he had a desire to return to Flamengo in the most recent summer window, and he expects that transfer to happen eventually due to his close ties with the club.

Paqueta’s current deal expires in 2027, and while Nuno Espirito Santo won’t want to lose him in January, a summer transfer certainly appears on the cards next year.

Unfortunately for chairman David Sullivan, by that point, the Irons wouldn’t be in a position to demand big money for the player with just one year remaining on his contract.

Flamengo’s best opportunity to strike a reunion could be next year, if a more illustrious European or Premier League big-hitter don’t move to entice him first.

Arsenal have been to Old Trafford, to Anfield and to St James’ Park this season. Mikel Arteta’s men have faced Manchester City and Atletico Madrid at home but it was a newly promoted side who gave them their toughest test yet.

The Gunners headed to Sunderland and the Stadium of Light on Saturday. Spurred on by former Arsenal captain, Granit Xhaka, the Londoners conceded for the first time in over eight matches.

The end result? A 2-2 draw and just the third time all campaign that Arteta’s side had dropped points.

Arsenal were not at the races, far from it, although their second-half dominance should have been enough to see them across the line. During those 45 minutes, two players really stood up for the visitors.

Arsenal's best performers vs Sunderland

This was not the finest of evenings for a host of Arsenal’s usually ever-reliable performers. It’s rare they don’t defend well but under pressure from a buoyant Sunderland crowd, they wilted a bit in the north east on Saturday.

Gabriel and David Raya, two stalwarts of the current squad, were at fault for Brian Brobbey’s late goal.

Dan Ballard had scored a rasping opener in the first half but far more could have been done about the late equaliser. Gabriel wasn’t strong enough in his attempts to beat Brobbey to the ball and Raya didn’t seem to know the Black Cats striker was even in the frame. Both came for the ball but were beaten by the Sunderland centre-forward. Cue bedlam inside the Stadium of Light.

Before that, however, Arsenal had responded remarkably well to Arteta’s half-time team talk. Their domination in the second period proved that they are no mugs from open play. There were no set-play goals on this occasion, just two brilliantly worked strikes.

Bukayo Saka has struggled with injury and form this term but he’s still their main man and proved as such this weekend.

Saka’s second-half display was inspiring and a true captain’s performance. It was the winger who got Arsenal back into things, darting onto Mikel Merino’s ball before firing past Robin Roefs with his weaker foot. It was a phenomenal finish.

Speaking of world-class finishes. Step forward Leandro Trossard.

The Belgian ended last season with his Emirates Stadium future in doubt. The club knew they needed to reinforce the attack and it was likely the winger would be moved on as a result.

However, there is a reason that he’s featured more than other player under Arteta since he arrived from Brighton in January 2023.

Handed a pay rise over the summer to stay, he has undeniably been Arsenal’s best attacker this season and has taken advantage of a plethora of injuries across the front line, notably to the likes of fellow wingers Gabriel Martinelli and Noni Madueke.

Across the 30-year-old’s last seven games in all competitions, he has scored three goals and registered two assists. Not bad indeed.

His goal at Sunderland was perhaps his best in Arsenal colours yet. The winger received the ball from Martin Zubimendi about 25 yards from goal. He advanced a little bit towards the edge of the penalty area before shifting the ball away from Mackems midfielder Noah Sadiki and unleashing a fizzing effort that crashed home. It was vintage Trossard. It was the Belgian at his very very best.

While Arsenal’s attack came alive, question marks do have to be raised about the defensive efforts. Perhaps it’s time for a little change in the starting lineup.

Where Arsenal can improve after Sunderland

While Arteta won’t want to rip up the blueprints overnight, there are a few changes the Spaniard must make for the north London derby in a couple of weeks.

By then, Viktor Gyokeres could be back to full health, while Gabriel Jesus was spotted in first-team training for the first time after his horrific ACL injury back in January. While the Brazilian won’t be starting games just yet, Gyokeres is expected to swiftly replace Merino despite his brace in the Champions League in midweek.

David Raya

5/10

Jurrien Timber

6/10

William Saliba

6/10

Gabriel Magalhaes

5/10

Riccardo Calafiori

5/10

Martin Zubimendi

6/10

Declan Rice

7/10

Eberechi Eze

5/10

Bukayo Saka

7/10

Leandro Trossard

8/10

Mikel Merino

6/10

Merino did register the assist for Saka’s goal on Saturday but he’s not quite as good at leading the press, something that plays an imperative role in how Arsenal defend.

There could be a change just behind the striker too. After all, Eberechi Eze certainly struggled this weekend, with GOAL noted that he was withdrawn late on after “a subdued display”.

But, it’s at left-back once again where a position could be up for grabs. Earlier in the campaign, Riccardo Calafiori was described by some as Arsenal’s “player of the season” so far. It was hard to disagree with that too.

The Italian had started the campaign in brilliant form, scoring a vital goal against Manchester United on the opening weekend and registering two assists in the 5-0 win over Leeds.

Most importantly, Calafiori has spent the early months of the season injury-free. It’s his best run of game time since he moved to the club in the summer of 2024.

Yet, every player has their dips and the Italy international is arguably having his now. While he didn’t make any colossal errors on Saturday, it was a frustrating performance from the 23-year-old.

Football.London reporter Tom Canton wrote at full-time that he was ‘somewhat erratic in the first half, but not in the usual way.’

Indeed, since joining the club, he has resembled something of a “wild horse” in the words of journalist Sam Dean. He’s everywhere, whether it was rampaging forward, inverting into midfield or appearing as an extra striker inside the box during attacking phases of play.

Chalkboard

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

Sadly, his impact against Sunderland was not as great. He failed to have a shot or make a key pass, while that aforementioned erratic nature was summed up by the fact that he made a whopping five fouls.

Calafiori alarmingly also only won two of his six duels to compound what was a frustrating night at the office.

Minutes played

90

Touches

50

Possession lost

7x

Accurate passes

23/27 (85%)

Key passes

0

Accurate crosses

1/2

Successful dribbles

2/2

Ground duels won

2/6

Aerial duels won

4/7

Tackles

0

Fouls made

5

Interceptions

1

Clearances

4

So, ahead of the north London derby in a couple of weeks, Arteta has a decision to make. While new signing Piero Hincapie got the nod on the left of the defence in Prague in midweek, perhaps this is the time for Myles Lewis-Skelly to start for the first time in the Premier League this season.

The talented teenager has only played 86 minutes in the top flight this season and was subsequently excluded from Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the latest round of international fixtures.

That wasn’t because Lewis-Skelly is a bad player, far from it. The full-back issued a reminder of his qualities against Atletico in the Champions League a few weeks ago.

Remember the rampaging run through the middle of the pitch to supply Martinelli’s goal?

While it was Calafiori’s defensive display that let him down on Saturday, Lewis-Skelly could give Arteta’s side a lot more in possession. His temperament and ball-carrying skills could be key against Spurs.