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Without a single point and without a single goal in their opening three games this season, to say that Everton are in desperate need of reinforcements before the end of the summer transfer window would be an incredible understatement.

Sean Dyche's side have particularly looked lost going forward, with last season's issues in front of goal rearing their head once more months later.

With just four days left in the transfer window, it is a problem that Everton must solve if they are to stand any chance of maintaining their top flight status this season.

Having reportedly agreed a deal to welcome Udinese forward Beto, though, reports suggest that Everton want to get involved in another transfer battle which would significantly bolster their offensive options.

What's the latest Everton transfer news?

So far this summer, Everton have welcomed a total of four reinforcements, with Ashley Young, Jack Harrison, Chermiti, and Arnaut Danjuma all arriving hoping to help the Toffees avoid relegation.

Of course, however, none of the arrivals have made a significant impact as things stand, though it is early days, with Everton struggling to find even an ounce of form to get their season going.

Since opening their campaign with a 1-0 defeat against Fulham, Dyche's side have been smashed 4-0 by Aston Villa, and beaten by relegation rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers.

With that said, it's clear that Beto alone can't put an end to Everton's run to forget, and that's where Johan Bakayoko could come in.

According to Sacha Tavolieri, Everton want to get into the fight to sign the PSV Eindhoven winger before the end of the transfer window this summer.

They will have to act fast if they want to land the 20-year-old, however, given Paris Saint-Germain's reported €25m (£21m) bid, and PSV's reported asking price of €30m (£26m), plus bonuses.

Meanwhile, Crystal Palace are also reportedly interested in making a move for Bakayoko if Eberechi Eze leaves this summer.

Should Everton sign Johan Bakayoko?

Welcoming Bakayoko this summer would represent incredibly solid business from Everton, for both their present and future.

Compared to current Toffees wingers, it is the PSV man who stood out last season, proven by his statistics via FBref.

The Belgian has earned plenty of praise throughout what is still a relatively young career, too, including from Football Talent Scout's Jacek Kulig, who previously tweeted:

"Johan Bakayoko – 6 goals and 3 assists in his last 5 games for Jong PSV. Wonderful talent, fantastic left foot. Madueke-esque. Stay tuned."

Kulig was correct in his verdict to stay tuned, that's for sure, with the winger performing at an even higher standard in the current campaign.

So far this season, in just six games, Bakayoko already has four assists to his name.

Read the latest Everton transfer news HERE…

It is the type of creativity that Beto could thrive on at Goodison Park, should he complete his move from Udinese as expected.

Those at Everton, who are eager to join the race for the winger, will just be hoping to unexpectedly welcome Bakayoko this summer, too.

After a summer of arrivals, Manchester United have got off to a surprisingly difficult start in the Premier League this season, just about sealing all three points against Wolverhampton Wanderers, before suffering a 2-0 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur.

In their most recent outing, they didn't exactly look comfortable, either, conceding twice in the first four minutes against Nottingham Forest. Eventually, the Red Devils fought back to win 3-2, but it was far from convincing.

With that said, Erik ten Hag reportedly has unfinished business in the transfer window, and could yet reportedly welcome another fullback.

What's the latest Manchester United transfer news?

On paper, Manchester United's summer additions looked more than suitable. They solved their goalkeeping dilemma by welcoming Andre Onana from Inter Milan, whilst also adding some much-needed energy to their midfield, in the form of Mason Mount, before adding an out-and-out striker with the arrival of Rasmus Holjund.

It looks as if another goalkeeping arrival is also on the cards in Altay Bayindir. Recent reports have claimed that the Fenerbahce shot-stopper has already signed a Red Devils contract and undergone a medical, with Dean Henderson set to join Crystal Palace.

So far this season, United have not looked like a side who have just solved a handful of weaknesses, perhaps leading them straight back to the transfer market. With a matter of days left before the window slams shut, those at Old Trafford must act fast, and that could yet result in exits to accommodate arrivals.

According to Football Insider, Manchester United have been in talks and proposed a swap deal to sign Wolverhampton Wanderers right-back Nelson Semedo, in a potential move that would see Aaron Wan-Bissaka go the other way.

As per Football Insider, it is believed that the Midlands club still need to sell players to meet financial fair play regulations in the current window. And, with Wan-Bissaka in the final year of his United contract, a deal including Semedo could help all parties involved. Given how complicated the transfer could be, though, you'd think that United will need to act fast if they want to make it happen.

Should Manchester United sign Nelson Semedo?

The transfer window is all about upgrades, and that's exactly what Semedo would be for Manchester United when compared to Wan-Bissaka.

Last season, according to FBref, the Portugal international made more progressive passes, made more take-ons and more clearances per 90 than the current United fullback.

When at his best, Semedo has earned deserved praise in the past, too, including from reporter Tim Spiers, who said, via This is Futbol:

“Semedo, his stats were unbelievable.

"Yeah, a few balls went over his head, but I thought he had a decent game. Semedo’s stats, they sort of cloud a little bit of how the game actually panned out but I thought he did pretty well. And it reflects an improved confidence from him and a better mentality and I think he’s settling in quite well.”

Read the latest Man United transfer news HERE…

It certainly looks like it could be an action-packed end to the summer transfer window for Manchester United, who will be desperate to give Ten Hag a squad capable of challenging on all fronts.

If the Red Devils can welcome Semedo whilst parting ways with Wan-Bissaka, they may see it as a shrewd deal, and it looks like one to keep an eye on.

Declan Rice's early career is a testament to his rapid rise in the world of football. Born on January 14, 1999, in London, Rice began his football journey at the renowned Chelsea Youth Academy, showcasing his exceptional talent as a versatile midfielder and defender. However, his path to stardom took an unexpected turn when Chelsea released him at the age of 14.

Rice's resilience and determination were evident as he joined West Ham United's youth system in 2014, determined to prove himself. His dedication paid off when he made his senior debut for the club in May 2017 at just 18 years old. This marked the beginning of a meteoric rise in the Premier League.

Rice's statistics and consistency in midfield quickly caught the attention of fans and scouts alike. He earned a reputation for his impeccable passing accuracy, ball-winning abilities and composure. His breakthrough season came in 2018/2019 when he made 34 Premier League appearances and won the Hammer of the Year award.

Milestones continued to pile up as Rice made his debut for the England national team in March 2019, solidifying his status as a promising young talent. With each passing season, his stock continued to rise, attracting interest from top clubs in England and Europe, eventually securing a £105m transfer to Arsenal in July 2023, making him the most expensive British player of all time.

Declan Rice's early career is defined by his resilience, adaptability and remarkable rise from Chelsea's youth system reject to a Premier League and international star. His journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring young footballers worldwide, proving that dedication and determination can turn setbacks into success.

Declan Rice at West Ham

Rice made his senior debut for West Ham United on May 21, 2017, at the age of 18, in a Premier League match against Burnley. His versatility was immediately noticeable, as he played as a central defender in that game. This debut marked the beginning of his journey as a key player for the Hammers.

While Rice initially played as a defender, he soon transitioned into a midfield role, where he truly began to shine. His ability to break up play, distribute the ball effectively and provide defensive stability in midfield made him an invaluable asset for West Ham during his time in east London.

He consistently ranked among the top performers in various categories, including interceptions, tackles and passing accuracy. His composure on the ball and his knack for making crucial interceptions became defining aspects of his play. His contributions in both defensive and offensive phases of the game were notable. Rice scored his first goal for West Ham in January 2019, netting the winner in a home Premier League match against Arsenal.

The midfielder went on to play a crucial role in West Ham's journey to success under David Moyes. He was instrumental in helping the team secure a top-six finish in the Premier League for the 2020/2021 season, which earned them a spot in European competition. He did the same the following season as the Hammers secured a 7th-placed Premier League finish and reached the Europa League semi-finals.

In what would prove to be his final season at the club in 2022/2023, Rice was named captain of West Ham and while the Hammers suffered in domestic competition, finishing 14th in the Premier League, the midfielder played a pivotal role in the Hammers winning the Europa Conference League, beating Fiorentina in the final in June 2023. It ended a 43-year silverware drought for the club and was their first European trophy in 47 years. That final would prove to be Rice's final game in a West Ham shirt as he secured a record-breaking move to London rivals Arsenal just a month later.

Throughout his time at West Ham, Declan Rice was often linked with moves to larger Premier League clubs and other top European teams. His consistently strong performances and his potential to become one of the best midfielders in the world made him a highly sought-after talent.

Rice himself even admitted that he saw himself winning trophies throughout his career and it became common knowledge that if he was to achieve those ambitions, he would have to leave West Ham in order to do so. He would leave the club having made 245 first-team appearances over six years, scoring 15 goals and providing a further 13 assists.

Rice's Honours at West Ham

Declan Rice at Arsenal

Declan Rice joined Arsenal in July 2023 for £105m, making him the most expensive British player in history. That fee included £5m od add-ons, which involve Arsenal qualifying for the Champions League and Rice playing in at least 60% of the Gunners' games each season.

The midfielder made his competitive debut in the Community Shield against Manchester City, which the Gunners won on penalties. Rice then made his Premier League debut in August 2023, as Arsenal starting their season with a 2-1 victory over Nottingham Forest.

Rice's Honours at Arsenal

Declan Rice with England

Declan Rice's international career with the England national team has been marked by his rapid ascent as a talented midfielder and a key figure in the squad.

Rice made his senior international debut for England on March 22, 2019, in a UEFA Euro 2020 qualification match against the Czech Republic. His debut was a significant moment in his career, and it showcased the trust placed in him by England's management.

One of Rice's standout performances in an England shirt came during the UEFA Nations League in June 2019. He played a pivotal role in England's midfield, helping the team reach the semi-finals of the competition. His composure on the ball, ability to break up opposition attacks and distribute play effectively earned him praise from fans and pundits alike.

He then played a vital role in England's journey to the Euro 2020 final, putting in what many believe to be a Man of the Match performance, despite the Three Lions losing on penalties.

To date, Rice has 43 caps for England and has scored three international goals.

Declan Rice's Personal Accolades & Records

Declan Rice's rapid rise in the world of football, both at the club and international level, has led a handful of early personal honours. His versatility, consistency and leadership qualities were key factors in his success at West Ham, which ultimately led to recognition from both the club and fans alike.

Given Rice is still in the early stages of his career, it's expected the midfielder will win a lot more personal honours and set more records as his career plays out.

Declan Rice's Personal Honours

Prior to the international break, Leeds United very much bared the look of a side who had just lost key players such as Luis Sinisterra, and Rodrigo, whilst also attempting to get going under a new manager in the form of Daniel Farke.

In four games, they won just once, which came in dramatic fashion against Ipwich Town, with Leeds' form suggesting anything but a side ready to secure promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.

Using the break to their advantage, however, the Yorkshire club bounced back in style, with pundit Jobi McAnuff singling out one particular impressive player for praise after Leeds defeated Millwall 3-0 at The Den.

What has Jobi McAnuff said?

It may have taken Leeds a while to get going this season, but those at Elland Road will hope that their victory over Millwall will kickstart their campaign. It wasn't as routine as the end score suggests, either, with the visitors facing scares of their own in the opening period, before hitting the London club on the break in clinical style, allowing Joel Piroe to give his side the lead.

Things then got even better late on in the second-half, when Piroe found his second of the afternoon, and Georginio Rutter rounded off an impressive outing from the Whites.

It was Piroe who rightly received plenty of praise from McAnuff, who said, via Leeds United News: “He’s a class apart at this level. I’m actually surprised no Premier League clubs came in for him. Absolutely top drawer.”

The former Crystal Palace player is not wrong, either, as proved further by the fact that no player has scored more goals than Piroe's 44 in the Championship since the start of the 2021/22 season. With that said, it's clear that Leeds have got some player on their hands.

How has Joel Piroe performed this season?

Since making the move from Swansea City during the summer transfer window for a deal reportedly worth over £10m, Piroe has predictably hit the ground running, scoring three goals in as many games for the club.

The Dutchman will be hoping to extend that good start for as long as possible, too, having netted 19 goals for Swansea City in the Championship last season. With his goals, Leeds may just find themselves in the conversation for promotion come the end of the current campaign.

At his best, Piroe has earned plenty of praise, including from former manager Russell Martin, who said, via FourFourTwo:

"I had a chat with Joel after his first week with us because he wasn’t used to the intensity we were asking of him. Since then he has worked really hard to earn his opportunity and took it brilliantly with a great goal. He is good technically and an excellent athlete, so I am sure there is a lot more to come from him."

With that said, Farke has certainly got a much-needed talisman in the form of Piroe, and will now have an eye on the play-off places or, potentially, even more in England's second tier.

West Ham United insider ExWHUemployee has claimed that a "sensational" player is eager to sign for manager David Moyes.

Who have West Ham signed 2023?

The east Londoners enjoyed a productive summer transfer window overall; sealing deals for Edson Alvarez, James Ward-Prowse, Konstantinos Mavropanos and Mohammed Kudus.for a total fee of £134 million.

West Ham were forced to part company with ex-star player Declan Rice, though, who joined Arsenal for a record-breaking £105 million. Following the 24-year-old's departure, the Irons also let go of Gianluca Scamacca, Nikola Vlasic and Arthur Masuaku.

So far, Moyes and the board have been justified in their decisions, as the club are starting this Premier League season in very bright fashion. It took European champions Man City to end their unbeaten streak last weekend, with West Ham tasting victory in three of their opening five top flight matches so far.

The Hammers are also off to a flyer in their Europa League campaign, beating Serbian super league side Baska Topola 3-1 courtesy of goals from Nemanja Petrovic (OG), Mohammed Kudus and Tomas Soucek.

What's the latest West Ham transfer news?

However, despite their fine start to the new campaign, there have been reports that Moyes could move to strengthen further forward. Despite a late summer deadline day push for PSG striker Hugo Ekitike, West Ham couldn't quite get a deal over the line, and it is believed they will try yet again for a number nine in January.

Meanwhile, a move for free agent Jesse Lingard is still on the cards, with the Englishman training at Rush Green in a bid to both up his fitness and prove his worth to Moyes.

There were suggestions that his re-signing is unlikely, but reliable club insider Ex has shared an update hinting that Lingard's return is still possible. Speaking to The West Ham Way, Ex also claims that the 30-year-old is also very keen on putting pen to paper after his release by Nottingham Forest in June.

“The situation with Lingard is that he is still proving his fitness, although this has to be resolved soon,” stated the club insider.

“At the end of the day it needs concluding either way as it is costing the club money – with travel, accommodation etc. A decision will come soon, and we know that the player wants the deal. However, the club don’t want to pay until he’s available for selection.”

How good is Jesse Lingard?

The midfielder dazzled on loan at West Ham in 2021, scoring nine goals and assisting four others in 16 top flight starts.

"He (Lingard) looked like someone going nowhere but he’s been sensational at West Ham," said Nigel Winterburn to The Sun in the summer of 2021. "I think there’s a conversation to be had at Man Utd as to whether he’d fit back into their plans.

"If not, he’s had this success at West Ham, so I don’t know why he’d want to sign elsewhere. He knows the club, so I think West Ham would be favourites to sign him.”

If Moyes opts to re-sign the Englishman, it will be interesting to see if he does indeed make a success of a second chance in east London.

Arsenal may be 'cooling' their interest in Manchester United keeper Mary Earps as they are showing interest in Aston Villa's Daphne van Domselaar.

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• Arsenal's interest in Earps 'cooling'
• Might target Aston Villa's Van Domselaar
• Yet to decide on the future

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  WHAT HAPPENED?

  During the World Cup last summer, Arsenal attempted to sign England's No. 1 goalkeeper, but Manchester United turned them down. As per The Telegraph, Arsenal may now be losing interest in signing Earps as they have turned their attentions to signing Aston Villa's Daphne van Domselaar instead.

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• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Van Domselaar's contract has a £200,000 release clause, and according to insiders, Arsenal have made the 24-year-old a top priority for their summer transfer window. The Dutch shot-stopper is regarded as one of the most talented in the sport right now and has been touted to become one of the best in the world. She signed a three-year deal with Aston Villa last year after leaving FC Twente and has been enjoying life in the Women's Super League with the Villans.

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  WHAT VAN DOMSELAAR SAID

  Speaking to The Telegraph in February, the Dutch shot-stopper said: "I am really happy with my choice to join Aston Villa and join the WSL, which is the best league in the world. There’s a lot of potential in the team and I’m happy where I am right now. It’s a good team."

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• WHAT NEXT?

  The futures of both players are likely to become clearer over the next few months. A decision will certainly need to be made regarding Earps as the stopper's Manchester United contract expires at the end of the season.

Newcastle United have been heavily linked with a move for Valencia star Javi Guerra in recent weeks, and a reliable journalist has now shared the chances of him moving to the Premier League in January.

Who is Javi Guerra?

Guerra is naturally a central midfielder who has plied his trade at the Mestalla Stadium since his childhood days having worked his way up through the various youth ranks to get promoted to the first-team, and it’s fair to say he’s impressed in the senior fold.

Spain’s youth international has firmly established himself as Ruben Baraja’s second best-performing offensive player so far this season (WhoScored – Valencia statistics), so despite still having another four years remaining on his contract, he’s caught the eye at St. James’ Park.

The Magpies are reportedly one of the clubs to have been monitoring the 20-year-old since the start of the new term, but the same outlet state that his side are relaxed about their stance considering that he has a €100m (£86m) release clause included in his deal.

The La Liga outfit’s sporting director, Miguel Angel Corona, has even since warned his admirers that he’s not for sale, and whilst there will no doubt be a temptation to test his resolve, PIF and Eddie Howe don’t seem too convinced at this moment in time.

Are Newcastle signing Javi Guerra?

Writing in his column for CaughtOffside, Fabrizio Romano confirmed that Newcastle could well be scouting Guerra alongside Manchester United, but right now, they are not considering an approach in January. He said:

"Javi Guerra – A report yesterday linked this promising Valencia youngster with Manchester United and Newcastle, but as far as I’m aware there is nothing concrete.

"Valencia consider him key player for present and future so not something concrete at this stage. More than five top clubs are scouting him but nothing else yet. For sure, he’s an excellent talent with top potential, so one to watch for the future."

How good is Javi Guerra?

According to football talent scout Jacek Kulig, Guerra is an “orchestrator” for the way he dictates the game from the centre of the park, and considering the instrumental impact he makes in the final third, Newcastle securing his services next year would be a massive coup for the outfit in the northeast.

The Gilet native, who is sponsored by Adidas, has seven contributions (five goals and two assists) to his name in 45 appearances since the start of his career, but even if the ball doesn’t always hit the back of the net, he still poses a constant threat to the opposition’s defence.

Guerra ranks in the 98th percentile for successful take-ons so loves to dribble past his marker and take aim, as he’s also recorded ten shots so far this season, which is the second-highest total throughout his squad, via FBRef, making this a no-brainer of a deal to pursue should the opportunity present itself in January.

Aston Villa have confirmed the signing of a young talent after finalising a training compensation agreement to bring an exciting teenage midfielder to the West Midlands.

What's the latest news involving Aston Villa?

According to Football Insider, Aston Villa are contemplating cutting ties with kit manufacturer Castore due to issues regarding the quality of the shirts provided and their tendency to weigh players down in-game.

Members of both the men's and women's teams have complained about the product and the outlet now indicate that the Villans could be willing to look elsewhere to secure a new kit deal, with their current one believed to be worth around £4 million per season. Premier League side Newcastle United and Scottish Premiership outfit Rangers have also had complications relating to the standard of their team wear.

In other news, Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins is in talks over signing a new long-term deal at his current employers as his current terms are set to expire in the summer of 2025, as per BBC Sport.

Arsenal and Chelsea have been linked with a swoop for the England international over the last few weeks; nevertheless, discussions are believed to be 'progressing' and Villans' boss Unai Emery views the former Brentford ace as a key component of his plans moving forward at Villa Park.

Watkins has been a superb asset for Aston Villa since joining for a fee in the region of an initial £28 million back in 2020 and has gone on to deliver 47 goals and 15 assists in 126 appearances across all competitions, as per Transfermarkt.

His last outing came on Wednesday night in the Carabao Cup for Aston Villa against Everton, though the visitors ran out 2-1 victors in a disappointing evening for Emery's men.

Who have Aston Villa signed?

Port Vale's official website has confirmed that youngster Freddie Lawrie is on his way to Aston Villa after the Premier League outfit reached a breakthrough over training compensation for the teen midfielder.

Speaking about his time at the Valiants, Lawrie stated: "I’ve really enjoyed my time here and I think I’ve improved a lot. It’s thanks to Danny Lloyd and the other coaching staff that I’ve had the opportunities I have, they have given me the chance to play the games and also play up an age group, and because of that, I’ve now got this chance."

Lawrie, who is a central midfielder by trade, has had interest from a number of clubs in his signature over the last few months; however, he has chosen to join Aston Villa and will hope to follow a similar trajectory to the likes of Jack Grealish, Carney Chukwumeka and Jacob Ramsey by securing a first-team breakthrough.

Cited by Birmingham Live, Port Vale's head of academy Will Ryder has given his best wishes to Lawrie, saying: "This is an unbelievable opportunity for Freddie, he is now going to get the opportunity to go to a category one club and be in and around an Premier League environment as he continues his development."

NSWE have involved themselves in trying to improve the structure of Aston Villa's academy since taking over and the addition of Lawrie could prove to be another step in the right direction for everyone connected with the club.

Folarin Balogun only has two goals in his last 14 appearances, but the USMNT star is being backed to score “a lot” for Monaco.

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• Striker thrived on loan at Reims last season
• Earned big-money transfer away from Arsenal
• Has found the going tougher in 2023-24

• WHAT HAPPENED?

  The 22-year-old striker smashed through the 20-goal barrier in French football last season during a productive loan spell at Reims. Those exploits earned him a big-money transfer away from Premier League giants Arsenal. He has found the going a little tougher in 2023-24, missing a few penalties along the way, but retains the full support of his club colleagues.

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  WHAT ZAKARIA SAID ABOUT BALOGUN

  Monaco team-mate Denis Zakaria has told of Balogun’s supposed struggles in the final third: “He's an important player for us. When a striker doesn't score for a few matches, we tend to criticise him a bit. He's helped us a lot in many matches, especially against Lens. Even if he hasn't always been as efficient as he can be, he's a great goalscorer and a great guy. I have no doubt he'll score a lot of goals for AS Monaco.”

• THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Balogun is not the only exciting forward on Monaco’s books – as he is joined by the likes of Wissam Ben Yedder, Aleksandr Golovin, Takumi Minamino and Maghnes Akliouche – with Zakaria saying when asked who impresses him the most: “I could mention all of them… There's a lot of talent. But honestly, there are so many players, including young ones, who are very strong… I couldn't single one out in particular. We're very lucky to have them all.”

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  WHAT NEXT FOR BALOGUN?

  Monaco have risen up to third in the Ligue 1 table, as they compete for Champions League qualification, and have seen Balogun register six goals in 22 appearances. Indeed, he'll be looking to hit top form soon as he works his way through a big year for the United States, that includes the CONCACAF Nations League finals and 2024 Copa America.

With Liverpool ceding territory in recent Premier League matches Arsenal started to find hope in their flailing title bid. Injuries have laid waste to Mikel Arteta’s frontline, but they still should have defeated West Ham United at the Emirates.

Instead, Arteta watched in horror as his side failed to break the Irons down and groaned deeper still when Jarrod Bowen found space in the area to guide Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s swooping cross beyond David Raya.

Arsenal will hope that their recent title nemesis Manchester City will do them a favour and consign Arne Slot’s team to the losing column on Sunday evening, but the Gunners would still trail Liverpool by a chasmic eight points, albeit with a game in hand.

While it’s hard to pin the missed opportunity down to a single moment, Myles Lewis-Skelly’s second-half red card killed any chance of staging a comeback and keeping the title flame flickering.

Myles Lewis-Skelly's moment of madness

Subbed on before the hour mark with Arsenal trailing, Lewis-Skelly lasted just 17 minutes before being given his marching orders by referee Craig Pawson after a VAR intervention.

The young full-back, so talented, so promising, has already faced the riotous red of the referee’s book this season, but unlike against Wolves, this one isn’t likely to be overturned.

A tussle with Mohammed Kudus had seen the Ghanaian facing Arsenal’s half with no defender in sight, and when Lewis-Skelly wrestled him to the ground, VAR’s intrusion only meant one thing.

It’s difficult to blame the 18-year-old for too much. He has been one of the Londoners’ brightest sparks this season and has been “showing an insane level” among his senior peers this term, so says analyst Ben Mattinson.

Arsenal have been branded by some as toothless in front of goal in recent weeks, and while circumstance is important, Riccardo Calafiori was the only man to strike the target

The Italian defender might have shown some initiative in that instance, but he cost his team dearly as the hopes of lifting the Premier League trophy faded into obscurity.

Why Riccardo Calafiori may have cost Arteta

Calafiori has only started nine Premier League matches since joining Arsenal last summer, but he did himself no favours in claiming a most consistent starting role against West Ham.

He’d been presented with a decent shot at opening the deadlock in the first half, but it was at the other end of the field that Calafiori where will be left red-faced, having been beaten far too easily by Wan-Bissaka before the Hammers man looped a ball into Bowen’s path.

Having failed to win all three of his ground duels, not even attempted a dribble and indeed been beaten by the ball-carrying Wan-Bissaka on two occasions, it was one to forget for the 22-year-old, who cost the Gunners a pretty at £42m including add-ons last summer, joining from Bologna.

He lacked connectivity despite placing one key pass. Moreover, the Italy international was negated by the United low block, failing to even attempt a cross for makeshift centre-forward Mikel Merino – whose strength at number nine, perhaps, lay in his quality in the air.

Much has been made about Arsenal’s struggle attackers, but with Calafiori’s displays thus far hinting that he has work to do before becoming a recognised starter in a talented backline, you wonder whether Arteta will be looking to head back into the left-back market in the future – especially if Lewis-Skelly’s long-term future lies in the centre of the park.

Against West Ham, the Evening Standard certainly felt that Calafiori flattered to deceive, branding the dynamic defender with a 4/10 match rating after a display that left plenty to be desired.

With Oleksandr Zinchenko routinely kept on the sidelines, it’s unlikely that Calafiori will lose his place to the Ukrainian – however, Ben White’s return from injury could see Jurrien Timber take up the left-sided berth.

Last season, Calafiori played 29 of his 37 appearances with Bologna in central defence, playing a dynamic and expansive role but bringing energy to Thiago Motta’s high-flying, Champions League-qualifying side, the beating heart.

He is of course an able and potentially brilliant Premier League left-back, but Arsenal need more energy and drive to stretch and overcome such defensive blocks, averaging a dribble only once every two matches.

If Graham Potter’s West Ham were able to achieve such success against Arsenal, fans will no doubt be concerned heading into next Wednesday’s contest against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, perhaps the division’s most industrious and robust counter-attacking unit.

Calafiori has shown that he is endowed with the technique to make a real name for himself in north London, but this one showed that he has much to do. Loose with his passing and flimsy in the face of attacking adversity, his withdrawal before the hour mark told the full tale.

Perhaps the most concerning part for Calafiori is that he put in a performance that will have done him no favours in leaping ahead of Lewis-Skelly as Arteta’s first-choice left-back – and that’s despite the youngster’s red card.

Performance in Numbers

Arsenal need to press the iron over their many creases in the coming weeks. There is still time to mount a late-stage charge and pressure Liverpool – who have shown themselves susceptible to dropping points – but without more impetus and control, Arteta will likely be resigned to a third runners-up medal on the trot.

Outscoring Saka & Havertz: Arsenal must rue releasing "world-class" star

The incredible striker would be unreal for Arsenal.

By
Jack Salveson Holmes

Feb 21, 2025