All posts by h79snht.top

Declan Rice’s magical free-kick double reignited Arsenal’s season as they thumped European champions Real Madrid on a historic Champions League night at the Emirates Stadium.

The England midfielder’s superb brace was even more incredible considering he had never scored a direct free-kick in his senior career.

Now a hero in N5, he joins a list of great free-kick goalscorers for the Gunners. Here, we rank some of the best free-kicks scored by those in red and white down the years.

Related 10 best Premier League free-kicks of all time (Ranked)

David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo have scored two of the best free-kicks in recent history, but who has scored the greatest in the PL era?

Posts ByLewis Thompson Jun 15, 2024 9 Mesut Ozil v Liverpool 2014/15 Premier League

Arsenal were flying when they took on Liverpool at the Emirates in April 2015, with Arsene Wenger’s side coming into the game on a six-game winning streak.

Backed to see off the Reds as they looked to overtake Manchester City in second place, the Gunners went ahead just before the break through Hector Bellerin.

Minutes later, Arsenal were awarded a free-kick on the right-hand side, with Mesut Ozil standing over it.

And despite placing it on the ‘keeper’s side, the German doubled Arsenal’s lead with a superb effort, which set the Gunners up for a 4-1 victory.

8 Cesc Fabregas v Aston Villa 2009/10 Premier League

With their title bid threatening to falter, Arsenal were struggling to break down a stubborn Aston Villa team that had been a thorn in the Gunners side.

Level on points with their opponents at the time, it was a must-win game. But with Arsenal toiling, a less-than-fit Cesc Fabregas was summoned to give the home side the advantage they craved.

Around 25 yards out, the captain stepped up to put his team in front with a superb curling effort that Brad Friedel could do nothing about.

7 Robin van Persie v Sunderland 2007/08 Premier League

Robin van Persie’s strike against Sunderland would probably still be travelling had it not nearly shattered the Emirates crossbar back in 2007.

His thumping early free-kick against the Black Cats was past Craig Gordon like a bullet, and was one of those you could watch over and over again.

The Dutchman then popped up late on after the Gunners had dropped a two-goal lead to take them to the top of the table.

6 Thierry Henry v Roma 2002/03 Champions League

Thierry Henry had such a knack for scoring great free-kicks, he could have his own ‘best of’ compilation.

But one of his finest has to be his clincher in the Stadio Olimpico against Roma in the Champions League, which not only secured a superb away win in the second group phase for Arsenal, but a magical European hat-trick.

Goalkeeper Francesco Antonioli had absolutely no chance.

5 Mikel Arteta v Aston Villa 2011/12 Premier League

Some free-kicks just stay hit, and Mikel Arteta certainly proved this against Aston Villa in the 2011/12 season.

During a routine victory for the Gunners, Arteta put the icing on the cake with a screamer into the net from miles out.

Shay Given appeared to have been expecting a shot into the opposite corner, but once he’d made the wrong decision, the ball was already past him.

4 Declan Rice v Real Madrid 2024/25 Champions League

This may be fresh in the memory, but Declan Rice’s first strike against Real Madrid was befitting of the occasion, not to mention a thing of beauty.

Having spotted the potential to curl one around the outside of the wall, Rice’s strike lit up the Emirates, handing Arsenal the lead over the European champions.

It was also Arsenal’s first direct free-kick goal since Martin Odegaard scored against Burnley in September 2021. The relief and ecstasy was tangible.

For the moment alone, it will likely be a special memory for years to come.

3 Thierry Henry v Wigan 2005/06 Premier League

Thierry Henry was up to his old tricks against Wigan in 2005, producing a superb free-kick – with a cold celebration to go with it.

Having built a reputation for taking free-kicks quickly, referee Graham Poll made it very clear he had to wait for the official’s whistle.

Clearly disturbed by this, Henry responded by placing an inch-perfect free-kick in off the post, leading him to ask the referee, “is that enough?”.

2 Santi Cazorla v Hull 2013/14 FA Cup

Arsenal had often been accused of lacking leaders, and when the Gunners were 2-0 down to Hull City in the 2014 FA Cup final, it looked like those concerns would re-emerge as their trophy drought threatened to extend further.

But after being handed a free-kick, Santi Cazorla scored perhaps his greatest Arsenal goal under the Wembley arch by torpedoing a strike past Allan McGregor in the Tigers net.

It set Arsenal up for the dramatic comeback that won them the trophy, and gave the supporters a moment to treasure forever.

1 Declan Rice v Real Madrid 2024/25 Champions League

The term ‘top bins’ has been around for a while now, but this may well be the ultimate epitome.

Having just scored a screamer past Thibaut Courtois in the Real Madrid goal, Declan Rice lined up what he hoped would be another screamer.

Buoyed by his earlier effort, Rice smashed home an all-timer to double the Gunners’ lead on the night and score what is surely the best free-kick the club has ever seen, with the ball arrowing into the top corner.

When you consider the importance, the opposition and the perfect execution, it is going to be hard for anyone to top this.

Related Ranking The Top 10 Free Kicks Of All Time

Football Fancast runs down the top ten best free kicks in football history.

Posts ByAlex Roberts Dec 10, 2023

Glasgow Rangers will have all eyes on Europe over the next few days as Barry Ferguson will be aiming to lead the Gers into the semi-finals of the Europa League.

The 0-0 draw against Athletic Bilbao set the Ibrox side up nicely for the second leg in Spain on Thursday evening, although it will arguably be the toughest game of the season for the club.

Even if Ferguson masterminds a run to the last four or even the final, he won’t be in charge of the Glasgow side next season. A new era will begin this summer, with a permanent manager announced in the next couple of months.

It appears as though Nils Koppen is looking ahead to the future regarding potential summer signings, however, especially with Champions League qualification required to bolster the club’s finances.

The transfer business will have to be smart. Spending lavish sums of money on players isn’t a strategy that can afford to go wrong for the fourth summer in a row. That’s a certainty.

This means the Gers will have to target those who can be brought in for free or sign young talent for minimal fees, similar to the Lyall Cameron and Hamza Igamane deals.

Could this entice the Light Blues into signing Peterborough United winger Kwame Poku?

Latest on Rangers' pursuit of Kwame Poku

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, Rangers are showing plenty of interest in Poku and with his contract expiring this summer, they could secure a bargain deal.

Discussing the youngster, Bailey said: “His people are in talks with a number of clubs – and yes, one of them is Birmingham. There are others, though – Crystal Palace, Millwall, Luton and Norwich among them.”

“However, the big danger is Rangers – they want him and have watched him numerous times. Talks have continued but complicated by their takeover and then new manager.”

Given the fact he would be challenging for trophies and playing European football in Scotland, a move to Rangers is certainly the most appealing on this list of clubs.

Considering the club would only have to pay a small compensation fee, plus the fact he is still only 23 years old, Poku could be a smart signing indeed ahead of next season.

Why Rangers want to sign Kwame Poku

Vaclav Cerny will return to his parent club at the end of the season after a positive loan spell, and this leaves a major gap to fill on the right wing.

Poku certainly has the required abilities to shine in Scotland. For the Posh this season, the winger has registered 22 goal contributions – 12 goals and ten assists – across just 26 matches in all competitions.

Furthermore, the youngster has also created nine big chances, averages 1.3 key passes per game and succeeds with 1.9 dribbles per game in League One this season for his club. An impressive set of statistics for the winger.

Comparing Poku to Cerny domestically this season

Metric

Poku

Cerny

Goals

12

11

Assists

8

2

Big chances created

9

6

Successful dribbles per game

1.9

1.5

Shots per game

2.5

2.9

Goal conversion percentage

20%

14%

Stats via Sofascore

Poku has made one appearance for his country, all the way back in 2021, but if he keeps this form up and earns a move to a bigger side, might he return to the national team fold?

According to Transfermarkt, Poku is currently valued at €1.5m (£1.3m), although this could rise further should he perform in the Scottish Premiership or the Premier League.

While he has plenty of talent and could turn out to be an excellent signing for the Light Blues should he be tempted by a move to Scotland, Rangers have a talented starlet of their own who is worth double what Poku is valued at.

Hamza Igamane might not be at his best right now, but if developed correctly, he could be sold for millions.

Rangers have struck gold on their own sensation

Despite arriving as a relatively unknown quantity last summer, Igamane has since gone on to become one of the club’s prized assets through a string of excellent performances, most notably in Europe.

Indeed, in the Europa League group stage, he scored four goals and grabbed an assist in eight matches, including a double against Nice and a goal scored against Tottenham Hotspur.

Indeed, he scores once every 110 minutes in the competition, along with registering 1.4 shots per game and having a goal conversion rate of 31%.

Add to the fact he has netted ten Premiership goals, which included a stunning late winner against Celtic, and it is clear that the Moroccan international has endeared himself to the supporters.

The 22-year-old has attracted interest from afar due to these performances, however, leading to the suggestion that the Ibrox side will cash in on him as soon as they receive a satisfactory offer.

Following the Spurs match, it was revealed that scouts from Everton were in attendance to monitor his display.

Last month, Football Insider reported that the Toffees were plotting a move for the striker this summer, although no transfer fee was mentioned.

Analyst Ben Mattinson hailed Igamane late last year, saying: “Completely unpredictable, tonnes of flair and trickery. The type of player to try outrageous moves/shots just because.”

Having cost the club a mere £1.7m from AS FAR last summer, the striker has seen his value soar in just under a year since joining. According to Transfermarkt, Igamane is now worth €4m (£3.5m) after a stunning start to life for the Glasgow giants.

Indeed, this means he is worth over double the value of Poku and, with such a large scope for improvement, don’t expect this number to stay this low.

Whoever arrives at the club as the new manager this summer faces a major issue. Do they keep Igamane for another season in a bid to make him even better, thus potentially increasing his value? Or do they cash in when the first big offer comes this summer?

There are merits to both points, but the Ibrox faithful just want to see him shine over the last few games of the season.

Related Calvin Bassey 2.0: Rangers could make millions on "unbelievable" star

Rangers have someone in their squad who could make them millions this summer.

Posts ByRoss Kilvington Apr 12, 2025

La Liga leaders and Champions League semi-finalists Barcelona are readying a £30m+ offer to sign a Manchester United player.

Players who could leave Man Utd this summer

It has been a difficult 2024/25 campaign for the Red Devils and Ruben Amorim, who are looking to rescue their season by winning the Europa League.

Man Utd are set to take on Athletic Club in the semi-finals after a dramatic quarter-final triumph over Lyon, however, it is promising to be a busy summer in the transfer market ahead of Amorim’s first full season in charge at Old Trafford.

Previous reports claimed that Man Utd and INEOS could move on up to 10 Red Devils players who currently pick up £1.8m per week at the club.

Casemiro (£350,000-a-week), Marcus Rashford (£300,000-a-week), Mason Mount, (£250,000-a-week), Jadon Sancho, (£250,000-a-week), Antony (£200,000-a-week), Christian Eriksen (£150,000-a-week), Victor Lindelof (£120,000-a-week), Rasmus Hojlund (£85,000-a-week), Jonny Evans (£85,000-a-week) and Tom Heaton (£45,000-a-week) may all exit Old Trafford, with some out of contract and others out on loan.

Related Man Utd in regular contact with agents of £60m physical specimen striker

United are in desperate needs of reinforcements.

Posts ByBarney Lane Apr 21, 2025

Rashford is one of those currently out on loan and has been impressing at Aston Villa, which has led to plenty of praise from Unai Emery.

“He is a good guy – humble, a very good professional, and he is really happy with his teammates. He is being demanding on himself and with everything we want to work on with him, with the team. He is playing free, he feels comfortable and this is the most important thing.

“We try to connect with him as a person first of all, and afterwards as a player. His process here is getting better, playing in two different positions. He started with us as a left-winger and now he is playing more as a striker. It’s about how he can exploit his qualities as well as he can.”

Aston Villa have an option to sign Rashford on a permanent basis for £40m but are yet to make up their mind, and it looks as if Barcelona are readying their move as a result.

Barcelona ready £30m+ bid to sign Rashford from Man Utd

According to reports in Spain, Barcelona are preparing a €40m (£34.4m) offer to sign Rashford from Man Utd this summer. The Spanish giants are ‘willing to make a significant move’ to bring Rashford to the Nou Camp, and it is added that Rashford has dreams of playing for Barcelona.

Rashford’s 2024/25 stats

Man Utd

Aston Villa

Games

24

16

Goals

7

3

Assists

3

6

Minutes played

1,500

864

The report also claims ‘the Red Devils would have to seriously consider’ an offer of €40m as Barcelona look to take advantage of Rashford’s situation.

Rashford has starred for Villa since joining on loan in January, and by the looks of things, a move to Spain could be one to keep an eye on for the England international, especially if Villa decide against signing him permanently.

A “world-class” striker is now a contender to lead the line for Liverpool next season, with Arne Slot set to be handed a war chest in the summer transfer window, according to a report.

Nunez's Anfield future in doubt

During the January transfer window, Darwin Nunez was heavily linked with a move to Saudi Arabia, but with FSG unwilling to potentially weaken the Premier League title push by sanctioning a departure, the Uruguayan ultimately ended up remaining at Anfield.

Now, however, the Reds have changed their stance, with Slot’s side willing to cash-in on Nunez in the summer, at which point they are expecting a big approach from a club in the Saudi Pro League, potentially recouping the £62.5m initial fee they shelled out.

As such, Slot is looking increasingly likely to be tasked with bringing in a replacement for the striker this summer, and a new report has suggested the manager is set to be given a transfer war chest in the summer window.

Related Liverpool could sign dream Trent successor who's 'one of the best in the PL'

Alexander-Arnold’s decision has left Liverpool in search of a new right-back.

Posts ByAngus Sinclair May 6, 2025

FSG are willing to back their manager by splashing the cash on new additions, and according to a report from TalkSPORT, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen is a contender to lead the line for Liverpool next season.

Mohamed Salah has carried much of the goalscoring burden this season, with not enough contributions coming from elsewhere, which means the Reds are set to rival the likes of Arsenal and Manchester United for a striker this summer by handing the manager a war chest.

With Nunez potentially in line for an exit, the need to bring in a striker could be exacerbated, and Osimhen is one of the candidates on the shortlist, but the Nigerian is not the only option, with Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres and RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko also of interest.

"World-class" Osimhen would be huge upgrade on Nunez

The Uruguay international has scored some important goals this season, most notably bagging a late brace to secure a 2-0 win at Brentford in January, but performances of that quality have been few and far between, and an upgrade is needed this summer.

There are plenty of indications that the Galatasaray loanee could fit the bill, given that he has maintained a fantastic record in front of goal in all competitions this season.

Competition

Appearances

Goals

Assists

Turkish Super Lig

27

24

5

Europa League

7

6

2

Turkish Cup

3

3

1

Not only has the 26-year-old impressed on loan in Turkey, but he also caught the eye during his time with Napoli, receiving high praise from Serie A analyst Matteo Bonetti.

Previous reports have suggested that Osimhen could be available for £62m, which appears to be a fair fee, given his stellar record in front of goal in both Turkey and Italy, and a move to Anfield should be an attractive proposition after this season’s title triumph.

Tottenham Hotspur could reunite with ex-managing director Fabio Paratici once his worldwide ban concludes on June 30, and it is now believed the transfer chief may end up playing a vital role in signing a “top-level” Liverpool player.

Fabio Paratici tipped for Tottenham return this summer

The ex-Juventus man, who gained popularity among the Spurs fan base after sealing deals for the likes of Rodrigo Bentancur, Dejan Kulusevski, Yves Bissouma, Romero, Porro, Djed Spence, Destiny Udogie and Pape Sarr during his time there, could well be coming back to N17.

Related Tottenham open talks with "quick" £45m forward tipped to bag 40 goals a season

Spurs chairman Daniel Levy and co want to make him their first summer signing.

Posts ByEmilio Galantini May 8, 2025

Paratici was forced to resign as managing director in early 2023, after he was slapped with a 30-month worldwide ban from FIFA. The 52-year-old was found guilty of false accounting during his time at Juve, with Paratici unable to work in any official footballing capacity since then.

Tottenham’s final Premier League fixtures

Date

Crystal Palace (home)

May 10th

Aston Villa (away)

May 18th

Brighton (home)

May 25th

That isn’t to say he hasn’t been of use to Spurs since then, though, as it is known that Paratici has been advising the club on an unofficial consultancy basis.

However, with his ban due to end on June 30th, reports from Italy are adamant that an official Tottenham return for Paratici could be nearing (Corriere della Sera).

The official held extensive talks with AC Milan over becoming their new sporting director, but those negotiations broke down, which has freed up a move to N17 as a result.

Daniel Levy has publicly praised Paratici’s work ethic and “tough” negotiating style in the past, and it is believed by some that the Lilywhites chairman has been working hard to tempt him with a return to the club.

Levy held private talks with Paratici over re-joining Spurs as far back as late March, and there has been no sign of this potential appointment slowing down since then.

Fabio Paratici could sign Federico Chiesa for Tottenham

Now, CaughtOffside report that he could play a vital role in luring £150,000-per-week Liverpool forward Federico Chiesa to north London.

The Italy international’s debut season in England hasn’t exactly been a dream for him, and Arne Slot’s side could choose to part ways with Chiesa for as little as £13 million.

Tottenham are emerging as potential contenders for Chiesa, and Paratici’s excellent relationship with his agent, Fali Ramadani, has been described as a “crucial” factor which could give them an edge in the race for his signature.

CaughtOffside also back up previous reports that Paratici is expected to come back, and he could now mount an assault for Liverpool’s attacker after he returns.

Despite Chiesa’s lack of luck at Anfield, the ex-Juve star has shone on the biggest occasions in past seasons, including Euro 2020, and he’s still just 27-years-old. For just £13m, Chiesa would be an arguable snip, with the only real sticking point financially being his salary.

Chiesa has also been called a “top-level” talent since making the move to Merseyside last summer, having impressed on the odd occasion for Liverpool, and perhaps he’d have more luck earning game time down south.

In what would be a statement move, the 49ers and Leeds United have now reportedly set their sights on signing an impressive Manchester City target in the coming months.

Leeds planning big summer

As Southampton, Ipswich Town and Leicester City found out the hard way this season, surviving in the Premier League is tougher than ever before. To put into context just how large a gap there is to bridge for Championship sides these days, the closest clubs to the bottom three in the current campaign have been Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur, who need little introduction.

Nonetheless, Leeds will enter England’s top flight hoping to avoid the same mistakes that led to instant relegation for Leicester, Southampton and Ipswich. That is, of course, easier said than done, but club chairman Paraag Marathe has already reiterated that he knows the extent of the challenge ahead, whilst also publicly backing Daniel Farke.

Related 49ers now ready to launch new bid to sign 16-goal French forward for Leeds

He’s enjoyed an excellent season.

Posts ByTom Cunningham May 15, 2025

He told reporters amid Leeds’ recent title celebrations: “I’m very excited to run it back with Daniel and collaborate with him. I’m under no illusions that it is going to be easy. The past two seasons the three promoted teams came straight back down but we have something they don’t have, we have Daniel Farke first of all.I have ended the speculation. He is my man.”

As clear as day in his stance, Marathe and the rest of those behind the scenes at Elland Road must now focus on potential incomings, with several targets already threatening to steal the headlines.

Among those already mentioned includes the likes of Jamie Vardy and Beto, as the 49ers seemingly set their focus on attacking additions in the coming months. In a long summer ahead, reports have even suggested that one particular star is back on their radar ahead of their return to the Premier League.

Leeds eyeing "fantastic" Gabriel Sara

According to transfer reporters Graeme Bailey, the 49ers now have Gabriel Sara “on their radar” with Leeds plotting a summer move to sign the reported Manchester City target this summer.

Bailey told Leeds United News: “He’s [Sara] on the radar. Leeds have looked at him. You know, they knew all about him at Norwich, etc. He was fantastic. He’s not going to be cheap. We know that. But he’s an option out there.”

Whilst a move to Leeds would see Sara make his first foray into the Premier League, it wouldn’t be his first time in English football after he initially earned Galatasaray’s interest throughout an impressive spell at Norwich City.

Praised for his “creative left foot” at the time by analyst Ben Mattinson, Sara has since kicked on in Turkey and is on course to end the current campaign with two goals and as many as nine assists to his name.

Will Newcastle United secure Champions League qualification?

Ahead of the final day of the Premier League season, Eddie Howe’s team are fourth in the table, but not yet assured of Champions League qualification.

The Magpies are above both Chelsea and Aston Villa by virtue of goal difference alone, but victory over Everton at what promises to be a raucous St James’ Park will rubber stamp a top five finish and a return to the Champions League.

Expected to get the job done, Newcastle have already begun plans for the summer transfer window, so do they have an “astonishing” magician, reminiscent of a fan favourite from yesteryear, in their sights?

Hatem Ben Arfa's Newcastle United career

Hatem Ben Arfa arrived on Tyneside from Olympique Marseille, initially on loan, in the summer of 2010, and would depart four years later as a bona fide cult hero.

The Frenchman scored 14 goals and provided 16 assists in 86 appearances for the Magpies, but he was certainly more than just about pure statistics.

Peter McVitie of Goal outlines how he ‘showed flashes of brilliance’ during his time in the North East, without ever showing much ‘consistency’, winning over the Toon Army with ‘some dazzling firepower’ and ‘awesome displays of skill’.

Meantime, Louise Taylor of the Guardian labelled him ‘the sort of footballer fans adore’, praising his ‘exquisite touch… superior vision, perfect balance and elusive movement’, even if then-manager Alan Pardew regularly referred to him as “high maintenance”.

Jean-Baptiste Caillet of Opta’s the Analyst believes Ben Arfa is ‘France’s best dribbler since Zinédine Zidane, which is certainly high praise indeed, but backing it up by noting that only Neymar and Lionel Messi ‘have completed more dribbles per-90’ across Europe’s big-five leagues since Zizou’s retirement in 2006.

So, more than a decade on from Ben Arfa’s departure, could the Newcastle faithful soon have another dribbling winger to get behind?

Newcastle's search for a new forward

According to a recent report by Santi Aouna of Foot Mercato, Newcastle are ‘interested’ in signing Al-Ahli forward Gabri Veiga.

It had been reported by Fabrizio Romano that Veiga is on the verge of joining Porto for around £14m, but Newcastle, who have obvious connections to Saudi Arabia, are hoping to hijack this deal.

Born and raised in Galicia, he broke through at local, boyhood club Celta de Vigo, describing playing for los Celestes as a “dream”, with Sid Lowe of the Guardian documenting his ‘extraordinary’ La Liga form, adding that he ‘is not the stereotypical Spanish midfielder’.

In total, he scored 11 goals and registered five assists in 36 La Liga appearances during the 2022/23 season, including bagging a brace to beat Barcelona at Balaídos on the final day, which would turn out to be his last-ever appearance for the club.

His La Liga statistics from that season were certainly very impressive.

Gabri Veiga 2022/23 La Liga statistics

Statistics

Gabri Veiga

La Liga rank

Minutes

2,294

120th

Goals

11

13th

Goals + assists

15

12th

Shots on target %

46.8%

17th

Shots on target per 90

1.14

15th

Goals – xG

+4.9

1st

Attempted take-ons

75

34th

Take-on success % (min 70 attempted)

54%

7th

Progressive carries

68

40

All statistics courtesy of FBref.com

Given the above, it was expected that Veiga would move to one of Europe’s biggest clubs, but instead, he chose to join Al Ahli, with the Saudi Pro League side paying his €40m release clause, earning a reported €10m a year.

Well, in the Middle East, the Spaniard has scored 12 goals and registered ten assists in 65 appearances, a key figure as Matthias Jaissle’s side won this season’s AFC Champions League Elite, beating Kawasaki Frontale in the final in Jeddah earlier this month.

Now ready to return to Europe, could he be on his way to Tyneside?

Mak Pakhei of Total Football Analysis praises Veiga’s ‘awareness to play the ball forward’ as well as his ability to take on opponents in the middle third of the pitch, a trait associated with Ben Arfa from his time at St James’ Park.

Journalist António Mango believes he possesses “astonishing technical ability”, while Thomas Hammond simply labels him a “quality player with bags of potential”.

So, it is very clear that the Spaniard is a flamboyant, highly-talented midfielder who, at 22 years old, still has room for development, underlining that he would be both an excellent and exciting signing for Newcastle supporters.

Related Newcastle make approach for £25m ace and Howe's already revealed his thoughts

He could be an ideal addition for Eddie Howe.

Posts ByHenry Jackson May 23, 2025

With Ipswich Town suffering relegation back down to the Championship, there must be a fear in the air that they could suffer the same fate as Luton Town.

Like the Hatters, the Tractor Boys sealed an unexpected place in the top-flight but since then, Luton have found themselves on the end of back-to-back relegations.

Of course, Kieran McKenna will look to the examples of both Burnley and Leeds United instead as clubs who have been able to lick their wounds quickly after sinking back down to the EFL, but it’s not set in stone that the Tractor Boys will rise back up to the Premier League in a flash.

Any effort made towards achieving instant promotion will be made a lot harder by Liam Delap’s impending exit from Portman Road, with the young Englishman now closing in on a move to Chelsea.

Latest update on Delap's Ipswich future

If it wasn’t for Delap leading the line, Ipswich’s 2024/25 campaign would have been a lot more grim towards the foot of the top-flight table.

Indeed, a large 12 of the Tractor Boys’ overall 33 league strikes came courtesy of the ex-Manchester City man’s magic firepower in front of goal, but not even Delap’s best efforts have been able to keep his lowly side from succumbing to the drop.

But, off the back of being such a livewire in an otherwise despondent group, Delap attracted interest from a plethora of top-flight sides including Manchester United, Everton, Newcastle United and, of course, the Blues.

The Daily Mail revealed earlier this week that he had held talks with four potential sides over leaving Suffolk behind, with his low £30m release clause tickling the fancy of many a Premier League outfit.

As it is, Enzo Maresca’s side have emerged victorious from that hotly-contested battle, with Fabrizio Romano outlining that the striker is set to undergo a medical on Monday, ahead of moving to Stamford Bridge.

Whilst losing Delap would be devastating, not every departure this summer needs to be equally as soul-destroying.

The Ipswich star who must now be axed

McKenna will believe that he can steer Ipswich straight back up to the big time, having already achieved two memorable promotions from the Portman Road dug-out.

But, he could well have to be cut-throat in who he allows to leave the building if he wants instant success, with long-standing Ipswich servant Sam Morsy one face he might have to contemplate letting leave.

After all, whilst the Egyptian veteran did captain both of those promotion-winning sides, he showed worrying signs of rust when thrown into the side last season.

It resulted in Morsy only picking up a weak one goal and one assist from 31 starts, which is way off his three goals and six assists tally during the 2023/24 campaign.

Additionally, despite falling down the pecking order in Suffolk somewhat, Morsy still pockets a higher wage per week than Tractor Boys stalwart Leif Davis, with the left-back also eyeing up a major move away from Ipswich now, with Nottingham Forest rumoured to be keen.

Standout Ipswich players earning less than Morsy (24/25)

Player

Weekly wage

League games

Goals

Assists

George Hirst

£27.5k-per-week

26

3

1

Jack Clarke

£25k-per-week

32

0

4

Jaden Philogene

£25k-per-week

21

2

0

Liam Delap

£20k-per-week

37

12

2

Leif Davis

£25k-per-week

33

1

2

Sourced by Sofascore/Capology

Amazingly, Morsy’s £30k-per-week salary means he earns more than all of the Ipswich first team figures above, with the Tractor Boys number five even raking in £10k-per-week more than 12-goal hero Delap.

McKenna might well want to keep Morsy around for one final season before his Ipswich contract runs down, knowing full well that he knows what it takes to play his part in a successful EFL campaign.

But, before he declines even more, it could well be the most appropriate course of action to move on Morsy now.

Related If "sensational" Ipswich star leaves, it would be as disastrous as Delap

Ipswich Town could also lose this sensational star away from just Liam Delap leaving Portman Road.

Posts ByKelan Sarson May 23, 2025

Aston Villa may not be playing Champions League football next season, but that hasn’t deterred Unai Emery from trying to sign high-profile players this summer.

Indeed, Manchester United winger Jadon Sancho has been linked with a stunning move to the Midlands, while a potential move for Jack Grealish would surely satisfy the football romantics at Villa Park.

These two players would bolster the first-team squad, without a shadow of a doubt, and this is the type of player the club should be targeting.

Might Emery also be keen on raiding Liverpool for one of their young gems this summer? A move for a midfielder who didn’t enjoy the best of seasons under Arne Slot could be on the table.

Aston Villa could see bid accepted for Liverpool starlet

Harvey Elliott has been recently linked with a move to Villa this summer, and this could be a shrewd piece of business by the Spaniard.

Transfer Focus

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

Expand Collapse

Former Villa scout, Bryan King – speaking about that speculation – suggested that the Midlands side could potentially see a bid accepted of around £30m, should they wish to firm up their interest:

“He is a player who has come up through the system, and he’s a London boy; his parents are from London. Therefore, watch this space, a London-based club might also be interested in him. I’d imagine that Liverpool would accept £30m for Elliott, that is how much they’ll want.”

In today’s market, £30m could turn into a bargain, especially as he shares similar qualities to a certain Cole Palmer.

Why Aston Villa must sign Harvey Elliott

Palmer is arguably one of the finest English attacking midfielders in the country right now. During his two full seasons at Chelsea, he has registered 40 goals and 27 assists across just 91 matches.

This works out as a goal involvement every 1.3 matches for the Blues. Therefore, signing someone who exuded these sorts of skills, for a fraction of the price, should be high on Emery’s list of priorities.

Harvey Elliott’s Liverpool statistics

Season

Games

Goals

Assists

2024/25

28

5

3

2023/24

53

4

14

2022/23

46

5

2

2021/22

12

1

1

2019/20

8

0

1

Via Transfermarkt

Indeed, Palmer is the eighth-most comparable player to Elliott in Europe’s top five leagues, as per FBref, judging by their respective statistical profiles, with the pair both creative, left-footed playmakers who can operate centrally or on the right flank.

The pair have registered similar statistics across several metrics, including shots per 90 (4.12 vs 3.41), shots on target per 90 (0.97 vs 1.24), shot-creating actions per 90 (5.11 vs 5.7) and successful take-on percentage (44.4% vs 45.1%) in the Premier League last term.

Previously hailed as a “machine” for his tireless work rate by journalist Sam McGuire, it appears as though his spell at Anfield is coming to an end.

The midfielder started just eight of his 28 appearances for Liverpool last term, and with the signing of Florian Wirtz imminent, Elliott will be deemed surplus to requirements.

This should put Emery on high alert, especially if he can secure his signature for the aforementioned £30m fee this summer.

The next few weeks could be interesting indeed for the Villa faithful as they wait and see who will arrive at the club.

Related Aston Villa now want to sign £25m Chelsea ace as replacement for Martinez

Aston Villa have identified a new goalkeeper who they think could replace Emi Martinez.

Posts ByBrett Worthington Jun 13, 2025

One of Europe’s biggest clubs are reportedly open to the idea of selling a “world-class” player to Manchester United in the summer transfer window.

Amorim coy over Man Utd's summer business

The Red Devils endured a pitiful 2024/25 campaign by their standards, with the Europa League final defeat to Tottenham the last nail in the coffin.

Ruben Amorim will know the importance of nailing his first summer in charge of United, both in terms of signings and training ground work, but the Portuguese has spoken cautiously about the amount of transfer business that can be done.

“You know better than me that we have rules with FFP. We can’t change that in this year. We need to do something in the summer. We have a plan and we are doing that in a while. We also have a preseason to improve the players we have.”

It looks as though United are trying to be bold in the market, with Matheus Cunha already arriving from Wolves, and the likes of Brentford star Bryan Mbeumo and Eintracht Frankfurt forward Hugo Ekitike also among the leading targets ahead of next season. Now, another player with a big reputation has been mentioned as an option.

Man Utd boosted in efforts to sign "world-class" ace

According to Give Me Sport, Juventus are “open” to selling Douglas Luiz to Manchester United this summer, with a “cut-price” deal mooted. A loan move away from the Serie A giants is also mentioned in the report, with the Brazilian midfielder not believed to be part of their future plans, in a possible boost for Amorim.

Added quality is needed in United’s midfield this summer, with Casemiro no longer the force of old and Christian Eriksen’s time at the club now officially over. Kobbie Mainoo is a great prospect, but he is still learning his trade, while the likes of Manuel Ugarte and Mason Mount are good players, but haven’t wholly convinced at Old Trafford to date.

In Luiz, United could have a great choice to strengthen their options in the middle of the park, having been hailed as “world-class” by former Aston Villa teammate John McGinn in the past.

The Brazilian has proven that he can shine in the Premier League, making 175 appearances in the competition and chipping in with 38 goal contributions (20 goals and 18 assists).

Luiz possesses box-to-box quality, offering defensive quality but also class going forward, and at 27, he is at a good age to come in and hit the ground running from minute one.

Related He's better than Cunha: Man Utd in talks to sign £40m Ekitike alternative

Manchester United appear to be making moves to land a star who could sign ahead of Viktor Gyokeres.

Posts ByEthan Lamb Jun 13, 2025

A permanent deal would be better than a loan move, although the benefit of the latter is that he could be moved on easily next summer if the move simply didn’t work out.