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Leeds United had one of the biggest annual wage bills in the Championship but are now back in the Premier League. The Whites, after a busy summer transfer window, now have an annual payroll of £59,306,000, with the average player earning more than £2m per season at Elland Road.

So, we at Football FanCast have ranked every Leeds United player in the first-team squad in order from highest to lowest in terms of wages for the 2025/26 season, with the help of Capology.

Disclaimer – only the club and the players themselves truly know their wages, so take each of these figures as you will.

1

Dominic Calvert-Lewin

£100,000

£5,200,000

2

Jack Harrison

£90,000

£4,680,000

3

Sean Longstaff

£80,000

£4,160,000

4

Daniel James

£75,000

£3,900,000

5

Noah Okafor

£72,500

£3,770,000

=6

Pascal Struijk

£50,000

£2,600,000

=6

Lucas Perri

£50,000

£2,600,000

=7

Anton Stach

£45,000

£2,340,000

=7

Brenden Aaronson

£45,000

£2,340,000

=7

Jaka Bijol

£45,000

£2,340,000

=7

Sebastiaan Bornauw

£45,000

£2,340,000

=11

Ethan Ampadu

£40,000

£2,080,000

=11

Joe Rodon

£40,000

£2,080,000

=11

Wilfried Gnonto

£40,000

£2,080,000

=11

Joel Piroe

£40,000

£2,080,000

=15

Lukas Nmecha

£35,000

£1,820,000

=15

James Justin

£35,000

£1,820,000

=17

Karl Darlow

£30,000

£1,560,000

=17

Jayden Bogle

£30,000

£1,560,000

=17

Illan Meslier

£30,000

£1,560,000

=20

Ao Tanaka

£25,000

£1,300,000

=20

Sam Byram

£20,000

£1,040,000

22

Ilia Gruev

£15,000

£780,000

23

Alex Cairns

£10,000

£520,000

24

Sam Chambers

£8,000

£416,000

Here are the top 10 Leeds United earners… 10 Jaka Bijol £45,000 per week

Another new centre-back on £45,000 per week is Jaka Bijol, who cost more than Sebastiaan Bornauw. Leeds paid Serie A side Udinese an initial £15m for the Slovenia international.

Bijol is under contract at Elland Road until 2030.

9 Brenden Aaronson £45,000 per week

Attacking midfielder Brenden Aaronson is one of Leeds’ most expensive signings of all time, however, he’s had his struggles in Yorkshire.

After returning from a loan spell in Germany in 2024, the USA international helped Leeds win promotion back to the Premier League and his deal expires in 2027.

8 Anton Stach £45,000 per week

Central midfielder Anton Stach cost Leeds more than £17m from Hoffenheim following their return to the Premier League and signed a four-year contract with the Whites.

Already becoming a fan favourite, Stach is the last of four players to collect £2.34m a year.

7 Lucas Perri £50,000 per week

Following Illan Meslier’s poor performances in 2024/25, Leeds moved to sign a new first choice goalkeeper in Brazilian shot-stopper Lucas Perri.

Costing just under £14m from French side Lyon, Perri stands at 6ft 6 and is under contract until 2029.

6 Pascal Struijk £50,000 per week

Pascal Struijk has had his injury issues in recent seasons, but when fully fit, appears to be a part of Daniel Farke’s strongest XI.

The defender joined Leeds’ U21 ranks back in 2020 from Ajax and progressed into the first-team setup under Marcelo Bielsa. He’s made over 150 appearances for the Whites.

5 Noah Okafor £72,500 per week

Leeds’ most expensive signing of the summer was versatile forward Noah Okafor, who cost around £18m from AC Milan.

The Swiss attacker actually played against the Whites in pre-season weeks before moving to Elland Road and scored his first goal for the club in a 3-1 win at Wolves.

4 Daniel James £75,000 per week

Signed from rivals Manchester United in 2021, Daniel James struggled to get going at Elland Road and was even sent out on loan to Fulham a year later.

However, following Leeds’ relegation to the Championship, James has found a home in Yorkshire and starred in the Championship, resulting in a new deal being signed in 2025.

3 Sean Longstaff £80,000 per week

Sean Longstaff cost Leeds £12m from Newcastle over the summer and arrived with plenty of Premier League experience with the Magpies.

Earning more than £4m per season at Elland Road, Longstaff’s current Leeds contract expires in 2029.

2 Jack Harrison £90,000 per week

After two seasons on loan at Everton, Jack Harrison returned to Leeds in the summer and is once again a part of the first-team picture at Elland Road.

The winger, who made his move to Leeds permanent back in 2021 under Bielsa, is under contract with the Whites until 2028 after signing his latest deal in 2023.

1 Dominic Calvert-Lewin £100,000 per week

Top of the charts as Leeds’ top earner for 2025/26 is Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who arrived at Elland Road on a free transfer following his Everton exit.

The centre-forward snubbed an offer from a Champions League side in order to sign for Leeds, and with no fee involved, the Whites were able to offer him £5.2m per season until 2028.

Newcastle United are becoming quite the force in the transfer market and could now be able to tempt a high-profile star to St James’ Park in the near future.

Wissa injury puts dampener on Newcastle's new arrivals

Excitement has engulfed the North East air as supporters await Yoane Wissa’s debut following his £55 million move from Brentford on Deadline Day. Nevertheless, the DR Congo international may need to wait a little while before being able to pull on the famous black and white for the first time after Eddie Howe confirmed he picked up a knee injury before his side took on Wolverhampton Wanderers.

He explained: “Unfortunately not, no, so he won’t make this game (vs Wolves). I saw him for the first time yesterday. He’s feeling the effects of the injury he sustained just before he came off, so we’re going to have to see how he is.”

Later, he added on a potential timescale for his return: “I don’t know currently as I sit here. I think he’ll go away for tests and maybe see a specialist to see.”

Jacob Ramsey also missed out due to an ankle issue, leaving Howe short on options as his side look to climb the Premier League table. Nevertheless, Newcastle retain a strong squad with proven top-flight quality, and Nick Woltemade got off to the perfect start with a fine headed goal to open the scoring against Wolves.

Tino Livramento could be in line for a new contract to ward off Manchester City’s advances, albeit the Magpies have needed to deal with change this summer, signifying that incomings in January may be likely.

Adhering to their preference of bringing in Premier League talent, Newcastle are now looking to tempt a renowned star to the North East who has previously been on their radar.

Newcastle United target Jan Paul van Hecke open to Magpies switch

According to Football Insider, Newcastle target Jan Paul van Hecke is open to joining the Magpies due to the prospect of being able to play Champions League football in the North East.

Valued at £60 million, PIF held internal talks about signing the Netherlands international during the summer window and Dan Burn was even drafted in to try and convince him that a move to St James’ Park would be best for his career.

Worth even more than Anderson: Newcastle struck gold on "one of the best"

Newcastle have so much talent running through Eddie Howe’s first-team squad.

ByAngus Sinclair Sep 12, 2025

Deemed as an alternative signing to Crystal Palace central defender Marc Guehi, the 25-year-old has made just shy of 100 appearances for the Seagulls, registering one goal and three assists.

Establishing himself as a reliable presence within Fabian Hurzeler’s backline, Van Hecke has already been a consistent figure for the Seagulls on Premier League duty in 2025/26.

Ultimately, plenty can change between now and the January window, though Newcastle already seem to be building a shortlist of exciting targets.

Nottingham Forest make their long-awaited comeback to the European stage this season and have a World Cup winner in their sights that they hope will join the party, according to a report.

Nottingham Forest await outcome on Morgan Gibbs-White conundrum

By now, everyone connected with the Tricky Trees will know Morgan Gibbs-White is at the centre of an impasse after Nottingham Forest threatened legal action after Tottenham Hotspur activated his release clause.

Ultimately, it remains to be seen if the England international will stay put. The summer window is far from over, and plenty of twists and turns remain despite his return to training and appearance against AS Monaco in a friendly last weekend.

Addressing his future, Ola Aina confirmed that Gibbs-White is maintaining a professional approach despite rumours surrounding his future at the City Ground.

He stated: “He’s keeping it professional; I don’t know the ins and outs of that. He was here today, playing, and he’s training, keeping fit as normal. At the end of the day, we’re all professionals – we’ve got a job to do and that’s what Morgan is doing right now. He’s keeping it professional.”

Regardless, Nottingham Forest are targeting a move for Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz, even if West Ham United have already submitted a £34 million offer to bring him to the London Stadium.

Nottingham Forest reach full agreement to sell "wonderful" ace in £19m deal

The Tricky Trees are set to net a windfall…

BySean Markus Clifford Jul 18, 2025

Nuno Espirito Santo and his side are awaiting the outcome of Crystal Palace’s appeal against Europa League expulsion. That may take a few weeks, though they are preparing for European football regardless, potentially paving the way for additions.

Now, with optimism growing in the East Midlands, there is every chance a World Cup winner could be on their way to join the Tricky Trees’ mission.

Nottingham Forest make contact to sign Nahuel Molina

According to reports in Spain via Sport Witness, Nottingham Forest have initiated contact with Atletico Madrid star Nahuel Molina’s camp, as it has become apparent that he is set to leave the Spanish capital this summer due to his non-EU status.

Marc Pubill has joined Diego Simeone’s men, leaving World Cup winner Molina free to explore a move elsewhere, which could occur in the form of a loan switch to the City Ground.

Nahuel Molina in La Liga – would he be a good signing for Nottingham Forest?

Appearances

93

Goals

6

Assists

8

The prospect of the 27-year-old coming to the East Midlands permanently also hasn’t been ruled out, and Nottingham Forest are at an advantage in their pursuit after Juventus decided to intensify their efforts to sign Porto’s João Mario.

Deemed to be on the ‘exit ramp’ at the Wanda Metropolitano, Molina is firmly in the sights of Espirito Santo and would arrive off the back of 46 outings last season across all competitions.

With the scene set for Nottingham Forest to pounce, it remains to be seen if they can tempt the Argentina international with the prospect of a shot at the Premier League.

There is just over a month to go until the transfer window slams shut, and so far, Arsenal fans have had a lot to shout about.

Mikel Arteta and Co have been quick to announce the signings of Christian Norgaard, Martin Zubimendi, Noni Madueke and Kepa Arrizabalaga.

They aren’t finished there, though, as Spanish defender Cristhian Mosquera has already been pictured in the club’s training kit, and talks for Viktor Gyokeres appear to be in the final stages.

Moreover, the Premier League runners-up have also been linked with Eberechi Eze, although, based on reports, they may now be after another international who would be an even better signing.

Arsenal target Eze upgrade

This summer hasn’t been the first time Arsenal have been linked with Eze, as you only have to look back to last summer to see stories touting the Crystal Palace star for a move back to the club that released him as a child.

Transfer Focus

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

However, it would be fair to say that the stories this year have felt more concrete, with some claiming that talks had been held with the player’s camp and personal terms had been agreed upon.

However, as things stand, the links appear to have quieted down somewhat, and as far as we can tell, no agreement was reached with the South Londoners, who still want the Englishman’s full £68m release clause to sell him.

Yet, fans shouldn’t worry about missing out on a talented midfielder, as it now looks like they could turn their attention to another, someone who’d be a better signing than Eze.

At least that is according to Arsenal insider Hand of Arsenal, who revealed that the club had been in contact with Xavi Simons’ agent, Ali Barat, who has offered them the chance to sign the Dutch talent.

This news aligns with reports from earlier this month, which claimed that the Gunners are interested in the RB Leipzig star, who could be available for around £52m.

While it could be a complicated and costly transfer to get over the line, it’s one Arsenal should pursue, as Simons is already a brilliant player who could further improve, and someone who’d be a better acquisition than Eze.

Why Simons would be a better signing than Eze

So, the first reason Arsenal would be wise to sign Simons over Eze this summer is that, when we take a look under the hood, at their underlying numbers, the Leipzig ace comes out on top.

It’s not even a close comparison, as in practically every relevant metric, the former Paris Saint-Germain gem comes out on top, demonstrating exactly why some in the game think he’s “one of the best 10s in the world”.

These numbers show that not only is the Dutchman a more creative force for his team, but also someone capable of contributing more when it comes to the less glamorous defensive side of things, which we know is a trait loved by Arteta.

Non-Penalty G+As

0.67

0.52

Progressive Passes

5.86

3.37

Progressive Carries

3.56

2.40

Shots

2.09

3.48

Shots on Target

0.96

0.94

Passing Accuracy

78.6%

74.2%

Key Passes

2.13

2.01

Passes into the Penalty Area

2.51

1.35

Passes into the Final Third

3.31

1.70

Tackles Won

0.88

0.76

Shot-Creating Actions

4.52

4.69

Goal-Creating Actions

0.50

0.35

Successful Take-Ons

1.38

2.33

The second reason the Premier League runners-up should sign the Amsterdam-born ace is that he’s even more positionally versatile than the Eagles star, being capable of playing across the entire frontline as well as in the ten.

Finally, “superstar”, as he has been described by analyst Ben Mattinson, is also five years the Englishman’s junior, which means he has far more upside and, according to research carried out by The Athletic, could get far better as he likely won’t reach the peak of his powers until he’s 26 years old.

Ultimately, Eze and Simons are both extraordinary players and would be unreal signings for Arsenal.

However, due to his versatility, superb underlying numbers, and age, Arteta and Co. should opt for the latter if they can only get one.

He's a dream for Xavi Simons: Arsenal expect to sign £55m star "soon"

Arsenal could seal a dream partnership by signing Xavi Simons and this centre-forward.

1 ByJack Salveson Holmes Jul 21, 2025

Manchester United have been known to splash the cash over recent years, forking out £600m under the guidance of former boss Erik ten Hag, but more money looks set to be spent during this window.

Current manager Ruben Amorim has already spent nearly £100m since taking the reins back in November, with Patrick Dorgu and Matheus Cunha two of the additions made since his arrival.

However, there’s no denying that added funds will need to be spent this window if the club are to rise up the Premier League table and prevent a repeat of last season, which saw the side finish in 15th place.

The Red Devils have now gone over a decade without a league triumph, something that Amorim has been tasked with changing, but it’s safe to say it will be a long-term project to transform the side.

Money will need to be spent to back the 40-year-old in the market, leading to numerous names being mentioned as potential targets for the ongoing window.

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

Over the last couple of days, striker Ollie Watkins has emerged as a potential addition to the side, after United made contact with Aston Villa over a move for the England international.

He’s not the only forward who’s been on their radar in recent days, with talks also being held with Chelsea over a move for French forward Christopher Nkunku.

However, key work has also been done in the midfield department, with the Red Devils making huge strides in a deal for PSG’s Fabian Ruiz, according to one Spanish outlet.

The report claims that Amorim’s side has a €50m (£43m) offer ‘on the table’ for the Spanish international, who won the Champions League with Luis Enrique’s side at the end of last season.

It also states that the 29-year-old could be open to a potential move to Old Trafford, with the hierarchy seeing him as a crucial part of the puzzle in their quest for future success.

Why United’s £43m target would be perfect for Mbeumo

Bryan Mbeumo is a player who’s been firmly on their radar on United’s radar over the last few weeks, with the saga showing no signs of coming to an end soon.

The Brentford star has been the subject of two separate bids from Amorim’s side, with their latest offer of £55m plus £7.5m in add-ons being rejected by Keith Andrews’ men.

However, the Cameroonian, who scored 20 league goals last season, has previously stated his desire to move to Old Trafford, but he could end up staying at the GTEC beyond the summer window.

It’s expected that the Red Devils are to return with another offer, which could see them get closer to the Bees’ asking price, potentially putting an end to their summer-long pursuit.

Given his record in front of goal, he will likely hand the club the needed threat they’ve been hunting for, but he would certainly be aided in his attempts with a move for Fabian.

When delving into the Spaniard’s stats from the 2024/25 campaign in Ligue 1, he possesses a lot of talents that would see him star alongside Mbeumo at Old Trafford.

Fabian, who’s been labelled “phenomenal” by journalist Zach Lowy, has registered 9.6 progressive passes per 90, and 2.2 progressive carries per 90, showcasing his ability to take the ball into forward areas.

Games played

30

Goals & assists

9

Pass accuracy

91%

Progressive passes

9.6

Progressive carries

2.2

Key passes made

1.7

Passes into final third

7.3

He also notched 1.7 key passes per 90 and completed 7.3 passes into the final third, having the tools to provide the likes of Mbeumo ahead of him with the opportunity to thrive.

The Spaniard has also thrived without the ball, winning 1.7 tackles per 90, and making 1.3 clearances – handing Amorim the perfect box-to-box option within his 3-4-2-1 system.

It’s unclear if the French outfit would accept the rumoured proposal for the midfielder, but it’s clear that he has the tools to thrive under the 40-year-old at Old Trafford.

The prospect of Ruiz linking up with Mbeumo at the Theatre of Dreams is certainly an exciting one, potentially having the ability to catapult the club one step closer to the top end of the table.

A Bellingham & Bruno hybrid: Man Utd chasing 'one of the best no.8's alive'

Manchester United could be about to make a move for a top-level European talent.

1 ByEthan Lamb Jul 2, 2025

Liverpool are preparing for the 2025/26 campaign by packing Arne Slot’s squad with high-quality additions. After winning the Premier League last term, the Reds are looking to defend their title and challenge for silverware across other fronts.

As you will likely have seen, Liverpool have agreed a £116m deal with Bayer Leverkusen for the transfer of Florian Wirtz, who has been described as a “game-changer” with a skillset that is “dangerous for every opponent” by former Bayern Munich technical director Marco Neppe.

With Darwin Nunez’s sale expected at some point in the coming months, Anfield will surely welcome a new number nine through the gates, but there are other areas of the field that need attention too.

Indeed, the Reds have already tried to sign one of the best young centre-backs in the world in Dean Huijsen.

Why Liverpool wanted Dean Huijsen

Why did Liverpool want Huijsen? Well, for the same reason as everyone else: the Dutch-born Spain star was immense for Bournemouth after joining from Juventus for £15m, with analyst Ben Mattinson even declaring him “the most in-demand centre-back in the world.”

The problem, as ever, was that Real Madrid also wanted the 20-year-old, and when they came knocking, the youngster’s decision was set.

Activating his £50m release clause, Los Blancos have added one of the finest young defenders to their ranks, and Liverpool will now need to turn their attention elsewhere, for more depth is needed in the rearguard following a paucity of defensive signings in recent years.

Ah well, he’s not the only young defender worth their salt playing in one of Europe’s top five leagues right now. In fact, he might not even be the best up-and-coming centre-back from the recent Premier League season.

There’s another, albeit with a bit more experience, who is on Liverpool’s radar and could prove an upgrade on the Spain international.

Liverpool in race for new centre-back

As per transfer insider Graeme Bailey, Liverpool are still concerned about Ibrahima Konate’s contract situation, with the Frenchman entering the final year of his deal.

Transfer Focus

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

As such, FSG have stayed in the race for Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite. The 22-year-old has been fantastic over the past couple of years on Merseyside, taking another step in his development since David Moyes was appointed in January.

Liverpool are not alone in their interest. Tottenham Hotspur are also keen on the £70m-rated star, while Manchester United have a historic interest and would be certain to make their name known if more clarity were to be provided on the Englishman’s future in the coming weeks.

A move wouldn’t be made until Konate’s future is sorted, but if a breakthrough cannot be found, Branthwaite could become a hot topic on Merseyside this summer.

Why Liverpool want Jarrad Branthwaite

Standing at 6 foot 5, Branthwaite is a powerful and menacing defensive presence, protecting his backline with iron-clad resolve and steel-tipped challenges.

Though he’s less at home in a pass-heavy environment than Huijsen, there’s a strong case to be made that the Evertonian could have the brighter future ahead of him, with the Toffees actually valuing their prized possession at £75m when the Red Devils came calling last year.

Looking at the data from the English top flight last year, you can see that while Huijsen outperformed his positional peer from an attacking standpoint, Branthwaite was more confident in the duel and maintained a similar passing crispness despite his tactical deployment.

Matches (starts)

32 (26)

30 (28)

Goals

3

0

Assists

2

1

Touches*

63.9

51.9

Pass completion

84%

83%

Key passes*

0.5

0.1

Ball recoveries*

3.3

3.1

Tackles + interceptions*

2.7

2.1

Clearances*

6.1

6.3

Ground duels (won)*

3.6 (56%)

3.9 (63%)

It’s worth noting that more active defensive numbers don’t automatically qualify for superiority as a centre-back. In fact, Branthwaite’s ability to read the game like a scholar and act only when the situation demands is not too dissimilar to Virgil van Dijk’s approach.

Given the Everton man’s left-footedness, he might be the Dutchman’s perfect heir, albeit one who would arrive in contentious circumstances.

But no matter. Liverpool, after all, are currently dealing with a potential double swoop from the Toffees for two of their first-teamers: Ben Doak and Joe Gomez have been reported to be on their rivals’ radar.

And for Branthwaite’s part, there’s a subtle undertow to his actions this year that suggests he would be up for the cross-city switch. In March, the English defender expressed concerns after being overlooked by England manager Thomas Tuchel, who once again neglected to call him up for the recent (difficult) camp.

In all likelihood, Tuchel was wary about bringing a defender into the fold whose club-level tactics are at such variance to the on-the-ball style the Three Lions are looking to implement.

16th

Leicester

45.4%

17th

Crystal Palace

42.8%

18th

Nott’m Forest

41.2%

19th

Everton

40.9%

20th

Ipswich

40.6%

Huijsen, sure, has already established a ball-playing game to admire, but Branthwaite isn’t against the kind of tactical principles that would see him hit his stride at Liverpool.

Indeed, when out on loan at PSV Eindhoven in 2022/23, he completed 87% of his passes, averaged 0.3 key passes per game and also completed an impressive 64% of his long balls, as per Sofascore.

Of course, Branthwaite is also just an “absolute monster” of a central defender, as he was called by talent scout Jacek Kulig after his exemplary breakout campaign in 2023/24.

A major player for Everton once again over the past 12 months, Branthwaite has surely proved enough over the past couple of years to convince Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes, and the rest of the transfer team that he could be the perfect addition.

Perhaps not quite so attuned to a ball-playing style as Huijsen, the hulking defender may yet sharpen that element of his game, and under Slot’s wing, his overall ability would surely see him prove an upgrade on Real Madrid’s new recruit.

A bigger mistake than Diaz: Liverpool now in talks to sell £50m star

Liverpool should think twice about parting ways with this talented first-teamer.

1 ByAngus Sinclair Jun 12, 2025

A “world-class” player is “waiting” for Manchester United to sign him in the summer transfer window, according to an exciting new claim.

Man Utd still pursuing new striker

The Red Devils struggled all over the pitch last season, but they lacked a top-quality striker throughout the campaign, playing a part in them finishing 15th in the Premier League table.

With serious doubts over the long-term worth of Rasmus Hojlund, United continue to be linked with elite-level strikers, with Sporting CP superstar Viktor Gyokeres mentioned as a leading option to come in. In fact, the club have even reportedly spoken to his agents about a move to Old Trafford.

The Swede has enjoyed a stunning few years for the Portuguese giants, scoring an incredible 68 goals in the past two Primeira Liga seasons combined, as well as netting 11 times in Europe during that period.

Eintracht Frankfurt star Hugo Ekitike and Crystal Palace marksman Jean-Philippe Mateta have also been mentioned as alternative options to Gyokeres, as United look to nail their new striker choice ahead of next season. Now, a new transfer rumour has dropped at the other end of the pitch.

World Cup winner "waiting" for Man Utd

According to an update from TyC Sports [via Sport Witness], Emiliano Martinez is “waiting” for Manchester United to make their move and sign him this summer.

The 32-year-old World Cup winner has lots of interest, including from Galatasaray, but he likes the idea of moving to the Red Devils most, even though they can’t offer him Champions League football next season.

The £150,000-a-week Martinez could be a perfect signing for United this summer, at a time when there are genuine doubts over Andre Onana’s worth between the sticks.

The Argentine has proven to be one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League for Aston Villa in recent years, if not in Europe for that matter, having won the Best Fifa Men’s Goalkeeper award in 2024, beating Gianluigi Donnarumma, Ederson, Andriy Lunin, Mike Maignan, David Raya and Unai Simon to the prize.

Martinez possesses huge character, as shown during his heroics performances for Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, not least during the penalty shootout in the final, and he has been called “world-class” by Gary Neville, as well as being lauded by Nuno Espirito Santo for one stunning save against his Nottingham Forest side last season.

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.

ByEthan Lamb Jun 13, 2025

Martinez would immediately give United more presence between the sticks, and still has plenty of years left in him at the top. His personality would also make him a popular figure at a time where the club need characters, not least his ability to get under the skin of opposition players and fans.

Tottenham Hotspur chairman Daniel Levy is publicly on the hunt for a new manager to replace Ange Postecoglou following the controversial decision to sack him, which was officially confirmed on Friday afternoon.

Ange Postecoglou sacked after two years at Tottenham

Exactly two years to the day since Levy announced their decision to replace Antonio Conte with the Australian, Tottenham released a statement that Postecoglou would not be at the helm next term, despite having ended their 17-year wait for a piece of major silverware.

Tottenham pushing to sign £34m Inter Milan star with exit "increasingly close"

A Spurs player could even go the other way.

ByEmilio Galantini Jun 6, 2025

A lot of fierce debate has since surrounded the 59-year-old’s departure, with Spurs in a very healthy position after winning the Europa League and booking their place in next season’s Champions League draw.

On the flipside, Postecoglou led them to a record-breaking 22 Premier League defeats, finishing just one place above the relegation zone. The club suggested in their announcement that the whole picture must be considered, and Spurs cannot operate on raw emotion after a triumphant night in Bilbao against Man United.

Son Heung-min

7.00

James Maddison

6.98

Pedro Porro

6.95

Dominic Solanke

6.84

Dejan Kulusevski

6.83

via WhoScored

“We are extremely grateful to Ange for his commitment and contribution during his two years at the Club,” read the official statement on Postecoglou’s sacking.

“Ange will always be remembered as only the third manager in our history to deliver a European trophy, alongside legendary figures Bill Nicholson and Keith Burkinshaw.

“However, the Board has unanimously concluded that it is in the best interests of the Club for a change to take place. Following a positive start in the 2023/24 Premier League (PL) season, we recorded 78 points from the last 66 PL games. This culminated in our worst-ever PL finish last season.

“At times there were extenuating circumstances – injuries and then a decision to prioritise our European campaign. Whilst winning the Europa League this season ranks as one of the Club’s greatest moments, we cannot base our decision on emotions aligned to this triumph.”

Postecoglou was a charismatic and popular figure among the players in particular. Since his dismissal, credible media sources have reported that members of the Spurs squad are infuriated by Levy’s decision to part company, just over two weeks they won the Europa League final (Matt Law).

Whoever steps into Postecoglou’s shoes will be inheriting a difficult atmosphere, with £4.5 million-per-year Brentford boss Thomas Frank currently one of the lead contenders.

Daniel Levy "impressed" by Thomas Frank during Tottenham talks

According to journalist Graeme Bailey, the “class” tactician has already personally spoken to Levy about becoming the Lilywhites’ new head coach.

What’s more, Levy is said to be “impressed” by Frank after holding Tottenham managerial talks, with all signs pointing towards the Dane entering pole position to succeed Postecoglou.

“I can confirm that talks have been ongoing with potential replacements for weeks,” said Bailey.

“And our information is that Brentford’s Thomas Frank has emerged as the leading contender in the last couple of weeks. Daniel Levy has been impressed with Frank during conversations.”

The 51-year-old Dane can operate on both a shoe-string budget and work within a data-driven model of recruitment like Tottenham’s, as he’s displayed through years of excellent squad management at Brentford.

He could be tailor-made for Spurs, but Levy must take time and weigh up their next move carefully.

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta has placed a marquee forward at the “top” of his transfer target list ahead of the summer window, and the Gunners have responded by opening talks between all parties.

Arteta makes "clear" Arsenal transfer claim

Speaking ahead of their final Premier League game of the season against Southampton on Sunday, Mikel Arteta was asked about the club’s recruitment drive, Berta’s crucial role and the type of player he wants to see his club try and go for.

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Kai Havertz has returned to action already, after coming back from what was initially thought to be a season-ending hamstring injury blow, making his first appearance since February during Arsenal’s 1-0 win over Newcastle.

19/20 – winter

£0

20/21 – summer

£81.5m

20/21 – winter

£900k

21/22 – summer

£156.8m

21/22 – winter

£1.8m

22/23 – summer

£121.5m

22/23 – winter

£59m

23/24 – summer

£208m

23/24 – winter

£0

24/25 – summer

£101.5m

24/25 – winter

£0

The German, who’s still managed to score 15 goals in all competitions in spite of his injury woes, also looks physically transformed after months of work in the gym. However, while Havertz’s return ahead of next season comes as a boost for Arteta, he sent a “clear” message to the Gunners hierarchy that more firepower is required if they’re to mount a more successful title challenge.

“What is clear with the amount of injuries we had in the front line is that we need a goal threat, we need the firepower out there, and understanding that the context can change tomorrow,” said Arteta in a pre-match press conference.

“We cannot rely just on the numbers we had before. We have to add goals, we have to add creativity, we have to add numbers and that will be in different positions.”

Arteta was also asked about their links to Real Madrid star Rodrygo, following recent reports he could well join Arsenal.

The 43-year-old didn’t get drawn in to named targets, but categorically refused to rule out a move for the Brazil international either, who’s bagged 13 goals and a further 10 assists from the right-wing, left-wing and at centre-forward this term.

Rodrygo "top" of Berta list with Arsenal talks opened

Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg shared news of Arsenal working on a deal for Rodryho behind-the-scenes earlier this week, and that same reporter has now provided a further update.

Plettenberg reports that Rodrygo is actually at the “very top” of Berta’s transfer list at Arsenal too, and negotiations have begun at all avenues, presumably meaning that they’re in talks with both the £202,000-per-week forward and Real.

Arsenal are not without competition in the race for him, though, with Chelsea also reportedly holding talks with Rodrygo’s representatives ahead of the mini-transfer window from June 1 to June 10 – which would allow them to sign him before the Club World Cup.

Nottingham Forest are believed to have advanced interest in an “amazing” Premier League player this summer, according to a fresh transfer claim.

Nottingham Forest preparing for Chelsea showdown

Nuno Espirito Santo’s side’s 2-1 win away to West Ham last weekend has set up one of the Reds’ biggest matches in years this weekend, as they prepare to host Chelsea on Sunday afternoon.

Forest’s final Premier League game of the season is their most important, with victory over the Blues still giving them a chance of making it into the Champions League against all odds. But Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville believes they may just miss out, saying on Monday Night Football:

“They [Nottingham Forest] will give Chelsea a tough day, 100%. I’m not sure Chelsea can go there and win, I’ll be really honest with you. I think if Aston Villa win, they’ll get into the Champions League because I think Forest will take points off Chelsea.”

Champions League qualification would be absolutely huge for Forest, especially in terms of the calibre of player they could entice to the City Ground this summer, and a top-level footballer has now been linked with a switch there, amid some heavyweight competition for his signature.

Nottingham Forest prepare bid to sig £70m Eze

That’s according to Caught Offside, who state that Nottingham Forest have “advanced” interest in Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze and are even preparing a bid.

Tottenham are also in the same boat, with the England international having a £70m release clause in his contract, while Liverpool are also “long-standing admirers” of him.

Eze could be an incredible signing for Forest this summer, although missing out on the Champions League is likely to give other possible suitors an advantage in the race to snap him up.

The England international is still flying after his season-defining FA Cup final goal against Manchester City, as he wrote his name into Palace history, sealing a first-ever triumph in the competition in the Eagles’ history.

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Oliver Glasner is under no illusions as to how good his star player is, saying of him after a memorable goal in the semi-final victory over Aston villa: “The goal against Latvia and his first for England means a lot for him him. He always has the confidence, we know he’s an amazing finisher to cut inside on his right foot with an amazing finish. We need this quality, he helped us today massively.”

Eze’s flair and confidence on the ball, as well as his unpredictability, could make him an immediate hit at Forest, and if they did strike a deal for him, it would be a major statement of interest ahead of next season.

The 26-year-old could feel that now is the time for a new challenge in his career, feeling he has come as far as he can in a Palace shirt, and he could dovetail superbly with the likes of Morgan Gibbs-White and Chris Wood.

Granted, £70m is a lot of money, which could be a potential stumbling block, but Champions League qualification this weekend could help hugely in that respect.